Governance at SFSU

Shaping SFSU’s Future Together

At San Francisco State University, we believe in shared governance — a collaborative system that unites students, faculty, staff and administrators to shape policies and guide decision-making. By working together, we strengthen our community and ensure that every voice contributes to a more inclusive and effective university.

As part of the California State University (CSU), the nation’s largest and most diverse public university system, SFSU also operates within CSU policies while maintaining its own campus-based governance structure. Within this framework, the University President provides final approval for all policies that affect the campus, ensuring alignment between local priorities and CSU-wide goals. Together, we create a culture of dialogue, shared purpose and collective vision for the University’s future.

Want to see an org chart for SFSU governance? Go to the Administration and Finance page on Campus Governance. Or read on to learn more about SFSU’s shared governance partners.

SFSU's Shared Governance Partners

Academic Senate

SFSU’s Academic Senate develops policies and procedures regarding faculty and administrative appointments, curriculum, business and fiscal matters, campus development, academic standards and University goals.

Student Government

All SFSU students are members of Associated Students, the University’s student government. Students can get involved by running for the board, voting in elections or serving on committees.

Staff Council

The Staff Council brings staff perspectives to policy matters, advocates for staff members’ interests and works to support the University’s mission.

The Strategic Plan

The University’s Strategic Plan articulates the mission, vision and values of SFSU and establishes a set of priorities guiding day-to-day decision making and long-term design.

Institutional Policies and Procedures

A variety of policies and procedures guide how SFSU operates, ensuring accountability, equity and compliance across all areas of the University.

Accreditation

SFSU is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and recognized for excellence in academic quality, diversity and student support, with more than 40 programs holding specialized accreditation in fields such as business, nursing, engineering, education and the arts.