20 Best Mfa Programs In San Diego, CA (2022 Updated)

As a current student at Platt, there have been two things that have really stuck out to me about this college. A big thing I've enjoyed and really noticed at Platt is how incredibly passionate about teaching and the subjects they teach the teachers are. They genuinely care about each and every student and only want what is best for each of us. The teachers also all have industry experience and are only want to teach the most up to date and important stuff to help students succeed after graduation. Another thing I have truly enjoyed about Platt is the family atmosphere the school has. Everyone is always willing to help everyone and the school has a very laid back atmosphere. Despite this though, the school finds ways to push you harder than you've probably ever been pushed. I've learned an incredible amount of valuable knowledge about not just what I'm studying, but also about the industry and life in general. I have attended community college, and a big state school (Ball State) besides Platt and of the three Platt is my favorite, the state school I felt like I was just another student, I meant nothing to the teachers, at community college, the teachers were passionate but they lacked the proper funding to provide us with the proper equipment necessary. Platt provides all the equipment I need to succeed, and the teachers all know my name and make me feel important. This is why I would recommend Platt to anyone interested in the fields of Digital Media and Design.Sean Hunsche

Filmmaking finally feels accessible to me because of Platt College!! I am a Digital Media major focused on video production. Platt took all of my previous credits and is a veteran friendly school that offers a full time, yet flexible schedule. Platt uses hands-on learning to teach editing software like Premiere Pro and After Effects, but also gives students access to industry standard production equipment like a sound recording booth, a green screen room, and an entire equipment room. Each class focuses on the student building a portfolio. I now know how to create amazing special effects and my own industry level sound. And let’s talk about the campus! It’s small, easy to navigate, and parking is ample around the school when the lot is full. The campus has a cool vibe, it’s comfortable, tons of bathrooms, vending machines, and an open door policy with an amazing staff that cares about each student. Seriously, the school director has come to the screening of all of my class’s films! Not to mention the school always does cool, fun little things for holidays. We had a costume contest where winners won ACTUAL CASH, and a Valentine’s Day raffle with doughnuts! I’m so glad I found Platt. It’s a good school that gives you the tools and knowledge to achieve your dreams. I’ll catch you in the credits. Kimmy JusticeKimberly Justice

I had a great experience at this school, taking home my Associate and Bachelor Degree in three years time! This review though isn't going to be about the school but about a very special person named Celi Yankajtis, Career Services Director. Celi, along with all my teachers, have helped me become successful. Celi, in particular though, has helped me land TWO jobs. One for a startup app company and another recently at a local web marketing firm. I cannot thank her enough for the dedication and care she has for the students and their success. She truly loves her job and truly cares, the proof is with Alumni like myself. She continuously posts job openings in the schools career services job board and always goes above and beyond to help students find work, especially for those students who show the desire to succeed. I warn you though, DO NOT WASTE this woman's time! She truly is there for all the students but if you don't show effort yourself then you are wasting her time which she could be spending on students who want to succeed. Thank you Celi for being an amazing student advocate!!!G

I saw The Messiah here on Sunday. Campus is unbelievable and it was wonderful to feel God's presence on a school campus again. The entire production was amazing and I could not have enjoyed it more. It's very worth finding out more about the story of how it was written first, so when you watch it live you'll have a deeper appreciation. Parking is an issue here and make sure you go early when you do. You'll be greeted by a friendly face who can direct you from there. Who could ask for anything more?Kyle Whelehon

A whole lot has changed since I was attending here. The name of the mascot has changed. Also this was called Point Loma Nazarene College. Speaking of changes, one thing that hopefully hasn't changed is the cafeteria food, most college cafeteria food SUCKS…NOT HERE…the food is/was catered by Marriot. What an incredible location to go away to school. The campus as a whole is unbelievable. I didn't attend to long, only have fond memories of this college.Peter Johnson

Parent perspective!…. What a welcoming. Totally personal. Sincere. Heartfelt. You're not just a number here. The campus…clean, safe, many places to study outdoors. The view..are you kidding me?! Makes me want to go back to college. The faith…AUTHENTIC AND INTENTIONAL not just "Christian" in name only. Rigorous academics = challenge, growth, sharpening! Can't help but humbly gratefully brag my daughter is a student.Arnold Argao

I heard that USD is an excellent private university. They have highly accredited teaching, law, technology, language, environmental and psychology schools, as well as a number of others. I also heard that their physical education school is quite good. USD is one of our nation's top rated colleges in regards to higher education and just to get admitted, you must score fairly high on the SAT ( Taking the ACT can always helps too ) and presenting the admissions evaluation committee with a high school GPA that shows that you were in the top percentile of your graduating class is very beneficial; it also helps to have done some volunteer work and to have been on at least one or two high school committees. All of these combined together should help you gain admission to USD. This college is quite competitive-as are most of our best colleges nowadays. Most of USD's professors are seasoned-the best in our country-and very demanding; graduating in four years means a lot of hard work and can be a wearisome task and often taking a couple of summer session classes or a class or two during Christmas break can help one graduate within this time scale. They do offer scholarships however, these are difficult to get and student loans ( Federal Educational Grants can easily surpass fifty-thousand dollars a year! USD's tuition is at the high end of the scale, especially if you live off of campus ( The City of San Diego is amongst the ten highest priced "cost of living" metropolitan areas in the USA ). There are hundreds of nice condominiums, townhouses and apartments within the surrounding area however, the rental rates for a one to four bedroom unit start at about $900 to $1200 per room ( living together ) per month or about $2200 for a two bedroom townhouse/apartment, to $3500+ for a three to four bedroom ; I'm just giving you a general idea…it's a might expensive to live anywhere in San Diego. USD has many of the most beautifully designed buildings in San Diego; architectural masterpieces. Tourists who come to visit San Diego often include this private university in their sightseeing itinerary, as the photographic opportunities around this campus are simply marvelous; especially on a clear winter day from about early afternoon to sunset. They have a small visitors center, as you drive through their main entrance center and if you get lost, you should stop and ask a couple of students and they may be able to help you? There's a lot to see, including San Diego's famed Tecalote State Park, which lies just below the north side of this university.charles chiles

The campus is pretty. The teachers, at least those who are fluent in English, are mediocre, and those whose English language skills are very poor, are token so this campus can brag about being diverse. The dorms are so noisy that it is impossible to do any work in one's own room or get any sleep before 3 a.m. The people responsible for policing the dorms are too lazy and callously indifferent to do anything, and no matter how many complaints are made, it is a nightmare to live in the dirty, smelly and horribly noisy dorms. The religious classes, which are mandatory, are a total waste of time and not based on any accurate facts or historical accuracy. The head of the Student Health Center is dishonest and harmful, willing to smear any student she takes a hatred to. There are no responsible administrative officers to be found if you have a problem. This is not the place if you care about getting a solid and admirable education.Susan Lea

The University accepted my son to the credential program August 2011. After 2 years and more than $32000 in tuition he is not being allowed to do his student teaching because, in the opinion of some professors, he lacks the skills they require. These professionals (who demand that the credential candidates be able to reach and teach all students no matter what their learning styles or disabilities) should be knowledgeable enough to bring out the best in a young man who has wanted to be a teacher since in the seventh grade he was chosen by his teacher to tutor other students in reading. The professionals who are standing in the way of his dream need to evaluate their own teaching. What did they do to ensure my son's success in their program? What can they teach others when they themselves have failed as teachers?Mark Leonard

I'd like to think that because of Covid, there is a lack of help from this college. I have been trying my very best for the last month to do everything myself without the help from any employees at this college. I have not been contacted regarding how to get enrolled, registered, what classes I need, financial aid, etc. I have been struggling since I have submitted my application to this college. You basically have to figure out everything on your own which isn't hard for me to do because I was walked through the steps from my previous college who actually took the time to help me out. While I understand quite a few things, there are some things that I don't understand and that I have questions about but getting into contact with anyone at this college is very difficult. Even through emails, no one responds. This college lacks the skill for helping their future students. I believe that I have done everything necessary in order to be a student but getting in touch with a counselor is the biggest problem. Making an appointment with a counselor via zoom, is quite a struggle and I have messaged quite a few employees at the college but yet, I still haven't received any responses. I am about to give up and just try somewhere else although this college is very convient for me, it's not worth the struggle and hassle at this point. 😔Mary McDonald

Great atmosphere. Their financial aid office needs help though. I started my fasfa around May and I'm trying to get in for the fall. I sat down with the students that help you with the fasfa form online so I don't do it wrong. I had to wait for them to approve it. They told me to bring my parents IRS info, even though I used the retrieval tool. I had to do a dependent verification form. Turned in copies of those. Then asked for my W-2. Then they asked for another verification form. Just constantly asking me for things I turned in. It sometimes takes them weeks to let you know what's next. So I learned the hard way the previous year that they ask for these forms every semester. They didn't tell me until I was applying for another semester. First year student trying to figure them out. I lived in El Cajon when they were asking for forms making this process extra annoying. Apparently they had to restart the process for the new semester. Don't ask me why but this is the most annoying part of school. I advise making multiple copies of whatever they ask for IRS FORMS, W-2, AND TAX INFO. They'll ask for it next semester and start it months before to avoid lines. I'm grateful there is a financial office though or school would be ROUGH! Thank you. EDIT: THEY MOVED TO A 270PERSONAL

City College is represented by the San Diego transit people, MTS, as City College Trolley Station, a cave, possibly Plato's, remarkable for grime and an expansive range of social behaviors not common in the quiet halls of ivy and higher education. The City College Trolley Station, is, of course, the gateway of San Diego's always expanding skidrow that could be seen as starting here and continuing to 25th and Commercial. San Diego and the real estate community promotes skidrow as being the East Village, but it's not really so much a village as it is a refugee camp. And it is getting bigger every day and will one day engulf all of downtown and possibly as far into the neighborhoods as Hillcrest and North Park. City College Trolley Station is what San Diego is becoming, or is, and what could a college want more than to be so inextricably tired to the dramatic representation of San Diego's future , the (San Diego) City College Trolley Station?Range Cow

I've been a at USU for a year now working on my Masters in Nursing and my FNP, and I really love the whole experience ( well, except the lack of sleep from working full-time and staying up late to do homework!). There is no slacking! These professors are on top of it! The curriculum is challenging, and every class is laid out in such an organized structured way so you know what to expect. I received my Bachelors in Nursing from Clemson University and I have to say, I much prefer the close friendships, and friendly caring teachers at USU. Even though we are from all over the United States, I feel more connected than I ever did sitting in a classroom once a week and missing work. This program is definitely doable while working full time. Did I mention challenging? But the professors are truly the VERY BEST!! The system is user friendly, and I encourage anyone sitting on the fence, to get off and get your degree! We have a major nursing shortage which is projected to worsen over the next few years, we need you!!!Cynthia Strader

PLEASE STEER CLEAR and opt for a non-profit institution instead. The application process was absolutely terrible. I was working with Troy to apply to the teaching credential program. He gave me a list of items to complete, and was unable to have my transcripts reviewed to waive the CSET (I have an undergrad degree in the subject better before turning them in. I finally completed my application and was told I’d get a decision within two days. Two days later I checked in and still no decision and was also given false information about financial aid by an enrollment officer. I checked in again and still no decision made. I check in again and they tell me there’s a glitch in the system and my application was never processed even though Troy told me it was being processed. Even after the semester has started, I’ve yet to receive any decision. This has NEVER happened to me in the past but I’ve also only attended non-profit institutions.Beliuye

OMG…please run far and away from this school. They are disorganized. They mess up on your student accounts and you ending up owning more than what you signed up for. They screwed up my student loan and now they left me with a $15,000 bill left to pay on my own. I've had nothing but headaches from this school. They don't try to help. Your better going to a state funded university or a real university that has better organization. Don't waste your time or money here.Jer Lightrings

This school is terrible. Their customer service and refund department is one of the worst I've dealt with.I had to drop classes and requested a refund but they changed their policies and it's been over two months and I still have not received my refund they keep changing their policies to avoid refunding my fees. I've asked to speak to the financial department supervisor and they say they only communicate via email. If you are planning on attending this school.. you may want to try somewhere else. These people are definitely not doing good business .maria Ramirez

I attend classes for the Business of Craft Beer and couldn't be happier with the instructors, the classes and not to mention that the campus is gorgeous.Donovan Alcantara

Very professional and enthusiastic! Theresa has helped me grow in both skill and confidence when it comes to singing. She tailors her lesson plan in a direction that fits with the style that I want to focus on, while also exploring new ideas, techniques and methods. Rather than tearing you down, Theresa is a great cheerleader that will make you feel inspired. I guess I never thought I could sing lead with confidence and fire, but through her guidance I'm finding an inner diva I never knew I had. Thank you Theresa for helping me find my voiceLorraine Perrin

There is no one I know who is more passionate about music and teaching than Theresa. Her dedication shines through in each lesson where she provides direct and supportive feedback. She believes in her students and with each lesson I can see myself improving!Micah Graczyk

I improved a ton after her coaching. She always shines with enthusiasm and commits herself to get you where you want to be. Would definitely recommend!jshyper 777

A valuable top notch University located in the heart of San Diego! SDSU provides excellent higher education programs covering a wide spectrum of disciplines to educate tomorrow's future and make the world turn! This University puts the student first. A ton of programs, clubs, organizations and support to assist the student all the way through their stages of education, graduation and into employment. Countless administrative support and staff to assist incoming students, SDSU dining, research assistance, campus book store, employment on campus, financial aid, amazing SDSU Dining through out the campus and professional staff to help you with all your needs. Future professionals are created here.BRIAN PEREYRA

My daughter graduated from High School with a 3.8 GPA / Cum Laude and is now currently a freshman attending San Diego State and living on campus. She absolutely loves it and has had nothing but wonderful things to say about the classes, the teachers, the campus and the dorms. She is currently an undecided/undeclared major and the teachers have been nothing but exceptional in helping her find her way. If you ask her she wouldn't change a thing. She is excited about her future – ahead in her classes and scheduled to graduate in four years. The campus is beautiful, always clean with lots of energy and activities from the students and teachers. Everyone is always friendly.Claudine M

San Diego State University is a major public research institution providing transformative experiences and a rich campus life, both inside and outside of the classroom, for its 36,000 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students. SDSU is committed to student success and life-changing opportunities for students, such as study abroad, undergraduate research, internships and entrepreneurial experiences. SDSU is the oldest higher education institution in the San Diego region, and these deep community roots provide access to internships, mentoring relationships, and volunteer opportunities that complement and enhance the classroom experience.Jefri Tamba

As a student of this school I would say that they are not accommodating of students and the area. First, the location is good and bad as it is in a nice location but what comes with that is insanely outrageous rent prices for student trying to live near campus. Secondly, there is almost no on campus living and as a commuter school it has unreasonable parking standards as there are no spots on campus near the center of campus so you must park 15-20 minutes away from campus and walk. You will still be paying 100+ for parking a month plus the extra time needed to walk. The other option would be to come to campus at 7am when nothing is open and wait until your class whenever that may be. Lastly, they are building more classrooms despite the housing and parking crisis as a “not for profit” school they are more ruthless and cutthroat than any private school and it teaches their students to be the same way. They claim to teach their students to be diverse and inclusive but the environment only builds selfishness. The professors and content of learning is great but it would work better as an online school as there is no need to go to campus.Ethan Wong

What a beautiful campus! Came to watch my daughter play softball against UCSD, parking was convenient and easy to get to. Softball complex was a short stroll from the parking. Plenty of restroom facilities and spectator seats were all stadium style seats with enough room to cross your legs. Only downside is that seating is limited; but no worries because you are able to stand around the perimeter and still watch the games without any visual obstructions 🙂Adriana Arriaga

Our daughter hospitalized for serious condition and her care was outstanding. UCSD LA JOLLA seems to be on the cutting edge of modern medicine. From what I saw the food was a far cry from any hospital food I have ever been served when I was hospitalized years ago. A great medical center.Rick Kirby

The best college at UCSD – Pros: GE requirements aren't difficult and there aren't as many vs other colleges; prime location; caring administration and RAs; new dining hall; late night food options; mission (scholar and citizen) and general vibe. Cons: the marshall "uppers" & "lowers" (apartments) aren't great. The "lowers" especially have had bug and animal problems for a few years now and the age of the buildings definitely shows. Marshall is an awesome college to be in, but try to actually live somewhere else.Google Account

Beautiful campus, even 20 years later. In summertime it was a pleasant homecoming, reminiscent of tough challenges, good friendships.Rg Pascual

This school does not seem like a community college at all. It feels like a university and you feel like you're in a college City / town. It's very fun, you can tell that people are in good spirits in this area. Everybody is busy and active I absolutely love it here and I recommend this school highly!Heather Tenison

Go somewhere that cares and wants to help you succeed. This district makes it hard to get in contact with them and provides no real help. In the three years I’ve attended classes at sdccd campuses, I’ve never been able to meet with a counselor. They DO NOT care about your academic success.laura09mm

Service during the COVID 19 pandemic has been abysmal. Have received no help for clearing a prereq. I’ve called and sent emails to different people for a month with no luck. Due to my horrible experience during these times I will take my business elsewhere next semester.anonyperson

With the exception of UNC Chapel Hill (Go Heels!) no university is a 5-star university. However, the more time I spend at UCSD, the more I realize the subtle intricacies that make this place rock. First off, I'm a graduate student, so I interact differently with the campus than undergrads. Since I'm in a doctoral program, the two bars on campus are probably the first places to note! Loft, located in the Price Center, and Porter's Pub, located by the international center / old student union. These bars are both top-notch, and offer a great place to socialize with peers after a long day. I'm a huge fan of the gym, the OLD student center (though Price is pretty sweet), and the sculptures on campus. It may not be the most social, rocking school out there, but it has a vibrant underbelly of student culture and shows this through the myriad of organizations. I'm a proud member of Japanese Students Association as well as an intramural volleyball team, ('Sets on the Beach') and am finally feeling at home in San Diego. Check this school out! If for nothing else than for the Inception-inspiring Geisel Library 🙂Anish Thakkar (Doc Thakkar)

Brilliant, dedicated professors. Building is getting a little dated, but doesn't distract at all from the quality of the instruction.Gary Recker

The Department of Theatre & Dance consistently ranks among the top graduate performing arts programs in the world, and their MFA candidates receive professional residencies at La Jolla Playhouse. Their shows are of top-notch, influencing the academic and professional theater worlds both in the U.S. and abroad. Check them out!Jon Reimer

I did not visit the Music Dept. I simply called for some information on the department. First, no one picked up on any of the administration phone lines. I left message, and no one ever returned my call. Perhaps they have a good program, buy low marks for communication.Antonio Barata