Academic Comparison between PLNU and Fresno State

Point Loma Nazarene University and California State University-San Marcos are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. PLNU is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in San Diego, CA and Fresno State is a four-year, public school located in San Marcos, CA.

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Point Loma Nazarene Universityvs.California State University-San Marcos
San Diego, CaliforniaLocationSan Marcos, California
Four-year, Private (not-for-profit)School Typefour-year, Public
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Master's College and University (larger programs)Carnegie ClassificationMaster's College and University (larger programs)
$46,2502025 Tuition & Fees
In-State$8,082
Out-Of-State$20,682
85%% Receiving Financial Aid63%
$19,348Average Amount of Financial Aid$11,025
83.68 %Acceptance Rates95.10 %
21.41 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)13.99 %
1,260SAT Score-
28ACT Score-
77 %Graduation Rate55 %
18 %Transfer-out Rate4 %
86 %Retention Rate79 %
4,757Student Population16,237
162Number of Faculties416
13 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio24 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement servicesOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycare