Discover What Makes GGU Different
Educating Working Professionals Since 1901
At GGU, our mission is to help you build a brighter foundation for your future through higher education. As one of California’s oldest private and nonprofit universities, Golden Gate University has been focused on providing practical, career-focused degrees to working adults for more than 120 years.
Over the past 25+ years, we’ve evolved to meet the needs of nontraditional students by offering flexible online and hybrid programs in the growing fields of business, finance, law, technology, taxation, and accounting.
Our location in the heart of San Francisco’s high-tech and financial district provides you with access to some of the world’s biggest companies — even as an online or hybrid student. Whether you’re ready to finish your degree, make a career change, qualify for a new job, or simply set yourself up for future success, Golden Gate University is here to help you make your goals a reality.
Our Mission
Golden Gate University prepares individuals to lead and serve by providing high quality, practice based educational programs as a nonprofit institution in an innovative and challenging learning environment that embraces professional ethics and diversity.
Education for Your Real World
Our History
As one of the oldest nonprofit universities in California, Golden Gate University traces its beginnings to a night school started by the San Francisco YMCA during the California Gold Rush in the early 1850s. It was officially established in 1901 as a place where working adults could acquire education and skills to advance their careers. For more than 120 years, GGU has been helping adults achieve their professional goals by providing world-class undergraduate and graduate education in accounting, law, finance, taxation, business, and technology.
At GGU, we have always understood and met the unique educational needs and demands of working adult students. We focus on providing our students with real-world knowledge from instructors who are practicing professionals in some of the Bay Area’s largest and most successful organizations. We’ve been a leader in online education for nearly three decades, and our programs offer maximum flexibility for modern students.
Why Choose GGU?
Industry-Experienced Faculty
At GGU, 80% of our faculty are scholar practitioners who currently work in the fields they teach. You’ll learn directly from experts who can share valuable insights into what today’s employers are looking for.
Small Class Sizes
With an average class size of 17 students, you’ll get a more personalized experience at GGU. Here, you’ll be able to collaborate with classmates and form lasting connections with your professors.
Flexible Lifestyle
We offer online and hybrid degree programs that are designed for busy adults. With 3 start terms per year and convenient 15-week courses, you’ll be able to manage your schedule the way you want while you balance school with work, family, and life.
World-Class Education
We’re committed to providing adult learners with the best education available. Our programs are accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), and GGU is consistently ranked as a top university for working professionals.
70K+
GGU Alumni Worldwide
98%
of Grads Recommend GGU
60+
Degrees Designed
for Working Professionals
