Our History
Our Story
San Diego Global Knowledge University (SDGKU) was founded in December 2007 as a California S‑Corporation with a bold vision: to harness technology to deliver world‑class, globally oriented higher education. In 2008, SDGKU received degree‐granting approval from the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE), anchoring its legal foundation in higher education. SDGKU envisions a world where individuals from diverse backgrounds are empowered with the global knowledge and digital competencies necessary to succeed in a fast-changing, interconnected world. Through innovative, accessible, and bilingual education, SDGKU aims to break down borders; geographic, linguistic, and technological, and equip learners for leadership across industries and societies. The mission of SDGKU focuses on educating students in global knowledge and competencies through the effective use of technology. We design and deliver academic programs with an international and forward-looking perspective that enhances careers in technology, education, business, government, and civil society. Our goal is to develop ethical, multilingual, and tech-savvy professionals prepared to lead and collaborate in an increasingly globalized environment.
Early Growth: Graduate Foundations
From its inception, SDGKU launched two flagship graduate programs: the Master of Science in International Management (MSIM) and Master of Science in Communication and Technology (MSCT). These programs were purposefully designed to address the evolving interface among business, management, communication, technology, and networked systems, from human networks to digital infrastructures. Students can choose to study in English or Spanish, reflecting SDGKU’s bilingual institutional and academic design, as well as its proximity to Latin America and the U.S.–Mexico border region.
In 2016, SDGKU earned initial institutional accreditation from the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). In 2020, accreditation was renewed, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to academic quality, continuous improvement, and accountability.
Expanding to Undergraduate and Technology Pathways
In 2017, SDGKU expanded its offerings with the Bachelor of Science in Global Management (BSGM). This undergraduate program shares the same global orientation as the university’s graduate offerings and provides an articulated path into the MSIM for students who wish to continue their education. The BSGM is also offered in both English and Spanish, further supporting SDGKU’s mission to serve bilingual and international student populations.
Responding to the accelerating demand for tech talent, in 2018 SDGKU introduced the Full Stack Development Immersive (FSDI) certificate. This program was designed for rapid skill acquisition in web development and programming – disciplines central to the digital economy.
In 2024, SDGKU broadened its technology portfolio even further by proposing three new programs, Mobile Development Immersive 1 (MDI‑1), Mobile Development Immersive 2 (MDI‑2), and Associate of Science in Software Development (ASSD), all of which were approved and launched in 2025. These additions extend academic pathways for graduates of the FSDI and welcome new students into software development and mobile app development, building upon SDGKU’s strength in tech education.
Infrastructure, Support, and Mission in Action
To serve a diverse student base, SDGKU offers both 100 % online and hybrid modalities, enabling full flexibility and accommodating different learning preferences. For hybrid programs, proctored in-residence assessments are available, with no extra cost for students (though travel and lodging remain the student’s responsibility).
SDGKU’s faculty and instructional team bring a blend of academic credentials and practical experience, aligning with the university’s mission to blend theory and application in the development of global competencies. The university consistently allocates significant resources to academic services, technology infrastructure, and student support, ensuring learners receive the resources they need to succeed.
Administratively, SDGKU offers robust, bilingual support across admissions, enrollment, course navigation, registration, and graduation processes. This ensures that all students, whether domestic or international, English‑ or Spanish-speaking, receive responsive guidance throughout their academic journey.
Established, Accredited, and Forward-Focused
Today, SDGKU stands as a growing, mission‑driven institution with a track record of innovation and responsiveness to global workforce needs. It is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), a United States recognized accreditor, and listed in the CHEA directory.
Beyond accreditation, SDGKU participates in key government and educational programs. It is approved for Title IV federal financial aid, participates in California’s Cal Grant program, and is recognized for U.S. veterans’ educational benefits. The university also holds status as a Hispanic‑owned business and participates in SBA initiatives, demonstrating institutional credibility and stability.
Throughout its journey, SDGKU has remained true to its core purpose: equipping students with the global, technological, and management skills essential for thriving in the 21st-century economy. As it continues to evolve and expand, SDGKU invites prospective students to join a university that is rooted in innovation, committed to quality, and deeply connected to the global challenges and opportunities of our time.