One of the goals of SDSU is to “create a genuinely global university”.  Central elements of a global university are to have students studying abroad and an internationally oriented faculty.

• The Office of International Programs (OIP) was established in 1999 to coordinate and facilitate international programs at SDSU, and is especially focused on increasing the number of students gaining an international experience.
• In 1999, only about 230 students had any international experience as part of their SDSU education. 2005-2006 data shows 1,440 students going abroad on approved programs.
• SDSU aims to have 30 percent of the graduating class studying abroad by 2007-2008.