San Diego City College students and staff are back for a new academic year

With more students signed up for classes this year compared to last, San Diego City College opened its doors officially this past Monday on the 2025-26 academic year.

According to City College’s information officer Cesar Gumapas, more than 13,500 students were to be enrolled by the time classes started this week. That represents a 1.44 percent increase in headcount compared to the same time last year.

Downtown//Uptown News caught up with Gumapas recently for an email Q&A.

DTN//UTN: Are there any notable renovations to the campus over the summer that students and staff recognize as they return to classes?

Gumapas: Over the summer, the college created the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Connections Center located in our Business & Technology Building.

The new space serves as a hub for academic, cultural, and community resources. It provides students with a welcoming environment to connect, study, and take part in programs that celebrate and support the AANHPI community. The center will also host workshops, events, and leadership opportunities throughout the year.

DTN//UTN: Have there been any changes to the curriculum, classes added or dropped, etc., since last school year?

Gumapas: San Diego City College continues to grow and strengthen its academic offerings. Our Nursing program was recently ranked #1 in San Diego by NursingProcess.org for its high National Council Licensure Examination – Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) pass rates, strong clinical partnerships, and inclusive learning environment.

We also offer a Bachelor of Science degree in Cyber Defense and Analysis, a program that prepares students for careers in cybersecurity and information systems protection. Recently, City College was ranked #4 in the state for return on investment in a comprehensive study by the College Futures Foundation and the HEA Group.

This ranking reflects the value of a City College education and how quickly our students see a return on their educational investment.

DTN//UTN: For students taking part in their first-ever semester on campus, what are some tips?

Gumapas: It helps to get familiar with the campus before the first day of class. Try to find your classrooms ahead of time and check out the library and key student service areas. If you need help navigating the campus or resources, stop by the Welcome Center to receive peer support.

DTN//UTN: How is SDCC utilizing technology to help students learn and staff do their jobs in the best way possible?

Gumapas: Students have access to online learning platforms, virtual counseling, and digital library resources that support learning from anywhere. Classrooms are equipped with smart technology to encourage interactive learning, and the college offers a variety of online and hybrid classes to give students more flexibility.

DTN//UTN: For individuals considering a future education at SDCC, what advice do you have?

Gumapas: Come visit the campus and see what we offer in person. Your first stop should be the Welcome Center, where you can take a campus tour, get help with registration or adding classes, and connect with someone who can point you in the right direction. You belong here!