San Diego Christian College: $26,300 Tuition

$26,300Tuition

91Students

24%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$49,766Earnings

Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test BlindStudy AbroadData: 2023-24Undenominational

About San Diego Christian College

San Diego Christian College integrates biblical principles into every academic program at this small evangelical institution. With just 91 students enrolled, the college operates in Santee's suburban setting east of San Diego. The school maintains a 10:1 student-faculty ratio that allows for highly personalized attention. Founded in 1970, the college emphasizes faith-based learning across all disciplines rather than limiting religious study to theology courses.

The financial picture reveals both opportunity and challenge. Students pay an average net price of $7,871 after aid, below the $26,300 sticker price. Every student receives institutional grants averaging $15,300. However, graduates earn a median of $49,766 ten years after graduation with typical debt of $24,941. The 6-year graduation rate stands at 23.5%, suggesting many students struggle to complete their programs. Monthly loan payments average $264 for those who borrow.

Student retention tells a concerning story about campus fit. Only 12.7% of freshmen return for sophomore year, indicating significant challenges in student satisfaction or academic preparation. The Hawks compete in athletics despite the tiny enrollment. The student body splits nearly evenly between men and women, with Hispanic students comprising the largest ethnic group at 34%.

Academics & Faculty

San Diego Christian College weaves biblical principles into every academic program, from business to psychology. With just 91 students and a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, professors know each student personally and can provide intensive mentoring. The college emphasizes practical ministry training alongside traditional liberal arts education. However, the 23.5% six-year graduation rate and extremely low 12.7% retention rate suggest many students struggle to complete their programs or transfer elsewhere. The small size means limited course offerings and fewer research opportunities compared to larger institutions. Students who thrive here value the tight-knit Christian community and integration of faith with learning over academic prestige.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Full-Time Faculty: 18.2%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 29.0%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 23.5%
Retention Rate: 12.7%
Median Earnings (10 years): $49,766
Carnegie Classification: Master's University (Small)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Bachelor	$29,685

View all 20 programs →

Campus Life

San Diego Christian College sits in Santee, about 20 miles east of downtown San Diego. With only 91 students total, this feels more like a large family than a traditional college campus. The small size means you'll know most of your classmates by name within weeks.

Only 48 students can live on campus, so most commute from nearby areas. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio creates an intimate classroom environment where professors know your academic goals and spiritual journey. Campus life revolves around chapel services and small group Bible studies that integrate faith with academics.

The Southern California location means year-round sunshine and temperatures in the 70s. Students often head to nearby beaches on weekends or explore San Diego's Balboa Park and Gaslamp Quarter. The 12.7% retention rate suggests the intense Christian focus and tiny size aren't for everyone. However, those who stay find a tight-knit community where every student matters. Weekend activities center around church events, outdoor adventures in the surrounding hills, and small gatherings rather than large parties.

Setting: Suburb-Large
Housing Capacity: 48 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available
Founded: 1970

Campus Safety (2023)

No reported Clery Act crimes in 2023.

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 42°–69°F
July Avg: 63°–86°F
Annual Precipitation: 11.6"
Annual Snowfall: 0.0"

Student Demographics

Students at San Diego Christian College represent a diverse mix that reflects the school's commitment to accessibility and inclusion. The student body draws primarily from California, with two-thirds coming from in-state, suggesting strong local connections and community ties. Hispanic students make up over one-third of enrollment, while Black and white students each comprise significant portions of the campus. The gender split remains nearly even at this small institution of just 91 students. This diversity aligns with the college's mission to provide Christ-centered education to students from varied backgrounds and economic circumstances.

Men: 50.6%
Women: 49.5%
White: 30.8%
Black: 11.0%
Hispanic: 34.1%
Asian: 2.2%
In-State Students: 66.7%
Pell Grant Recipients: 16.1%

Location

San Diego Christian College sits in Santee, California, about 20 miles northeast of downtown San Diego. The campus occupies a suburban setting in East County San Diego, where rolling hills meet residential neighborhoods. Santee offers a quieter alternative to the bustling city while keeping students within reach of San Diego's beaches, job market, and cultural attractions. The 91 enrolled students benefit from small-town community feel while accessing internships and career opportunities in America's eighth-largest city. The location provides year-round mild weather and outdoor recreation opportunities in nearby mountains and desert areas. Students considering colleges in California may also compare San Diego Christian College with similar schools in the region.

Address: Santee, California 92071

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $49,766
Median Earnings (5 years): $46,316
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $31,000
Loan Repayment Rate: 45.1%
Monthly Loan Payment: $264/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $24,941

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the student body size at San Diego Christian College?

San Diego Christian College enrolls just 91 students, making it one of the smallest colleges in California. The intimate size means students get close attention with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio. This tiny Christian college emphasizes biblical integration across all academic disciplines.

How much does San Diego Christian College cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $7,871 annually despite the sticker price of $26,300 tuition. Every single student receives institutional grants averaging $15,300. Low-income families earning under $30,000 pay just $2,310 net price.

What are the graduation rates at San Diego Christian College?

Only 29% of students graduate within four years, and just 23.5% finish within six years. The college struggles with retention, keeping only 12.7% of students from freshman to sophomore year. These low completion rates reflect significant academic and financial challenges for this small institution.

How much do San Diego Christian College graduates earn?

Graduates earn a median of $49,766 ten years after enrollment, with an employment rate of 91.5%. Early career earnings start at $34,809 one year after graduation. The college focuses on preparing students for ministry and Christian service careers rather than high-paying fields.

Where is San Diego Christian College located?

The college sits in Santee, California, a large suburb in San Diego County. About 67% of the 91 students come from in-state. The campus houses only 48 students, so most Hawks commute from the surrounding area.

Is San Diego Christian College diverse?

The student body is 34% Hispanic and 31% White, with 11% Black students. Women make up 49% of enrollment while men represent 51%. This diversity stands out among Christian colleges, though the tiny enrollment of 91 students means actual numbers are very small.