San Diego State, founded in 1897, is a public, multipurpose university. It is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego area and is among the top 20 largest universities in the nation. Since its 1897 founding as the San Diego Normal School, the institution evolved from a teachers'' college, to a liberal arts college and finally to a major comprehensive university. The first doctoral degree was awarded in 1966. San Diego St U currently offers bachelor''s degrees in 76 majors, 58 master''s degrees and 11 doctorates. 1997 marked SDSU''s centennial year, and its national reputation for excellence continues to grow. Yet it still remains one of the most affordable comprehensive universities. Students from all levels benefit from working alongside faculty as they conduct scholarly and cutting-edge research and community service in their disciplines. A variety of special programs help new freshmen and transfer students achieve both academic and personal success. The school''s main quadrangle of the 300-acre campus, located in San Diego, is still surrounded by the original seven mission-styled buildings.