Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
With a 46.8% admission rate, University of San Diego represents a moderately selective option where qualified students have reasonable prospects for admission. However, students seeking additional options should consider alternatives that offer similar career outcomes.
These schools offer higher acceptance rates while delivering comparable career outcomes.
For similar post-graduation outcomes with improved admission prospects, consider Saint Joseph's University in Pennsylvania, which admits 86.4% of applicants while producing graduates earning $86,881—nearly identical to University of San Diego's $86,522. Saint Mary's College of California offers 88.6% admission rates with graduates earning $78,812, representing strong outcomes with significantly better admission odds.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
Students preferring to remain in California should consider University of Redlands, located 89 miles away with 80.9% admission rates and graduates earning $72,690. Chapman University sits 80 miles north with 55.6% admission rates and $70,070 median earnings. California State Polytechnic University-Pomona offers 73.7% admission rates 96 miles away with graduates earning $71,902 and substantially lower net costs.
Schools with comparable admission profiles — useful for building a balanced list.
For comparable admission selectivity, California State University-Long Beach admits 47.1% of applicants—nearly identical to University of San Diego—with graduates earning $64,403 and located just 88 miles away. Both institutions maintain similar competitive admission standards while offering different program emphases and cost structures.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber
