How Metro works
Students take classes each semester with the same group of peers in their Academy, building strong connections and support. Based in the College of Ethnic Studies, Metro is a campus-wide program with academies in each college at SFSU— Science and Engineering, Liberal & Creative Arts, Health and Social Sciences, Lam Family College of Business and Ethnic Studies.
Students typically take two to four Academy courses per semester in their first year and one to two in their second year. These courses count toward general education requirements, focus on social justice and help keep students on track to graduate.
Metro is especially helpful for first-generation, low-income and historically underrepresented students who want to succeed in college and beyond.
Metro academies
Metro Academies are learning communities organized by major or career interest. When students join Metro, they are placed into an Academy that aligns with their goals — helping them stay focused, supported and connected.
How to join Metro
If you are a current high school senior, you can apply to Metro after submitting your SFSU application!
Please note: You must be enrolled in SFSU to be in the Metro program!
Questions? Email us at metro@sfsu.edu.
Ready to join the Metro College Success Program?
Metro transforms your college experience by connecting you with a supportive community. You’ll gain the skills to thrive in college — and prepare for a meaningful career that makes a difference.
Our impact
Metro’s mission is to advance equity and excellence in college completion through engaging, supportive and socially responsive education. We provide wraparound services and faculty “coaches” who guide students every step of the way.
Our faculty work together to create inclusive, student-centered classrooms that foster a passion for learning, social justice and academic success.
Hear from Metro Students
My community in Metro really helped me get through the first couple years. I felt like I belonged at SF State.
How do you describe Metro?
Hear what makes Metro unique through the voices of our students, faculty and staff as they share their personal experiences and what the Metro community means to them!
Voices of Metro: Arianna
Metro alum and faculty shares her experiences.
Voices of Metro: Ronny
Metro alum and staff member discusses being the first in his family to go to college.
Meet RonnyFrequently asked questions
Please look through our frequently asked questions! If you still have questions, contact us at metro@sfsu.edu or (415) 338-3034.
Any incoming freshman can join Metro in the fall semester of their freshman year. Admissions are ongoing and seats are available until filled.
Discover what Metro offers and join in a few easy steps.
Metro students are focused, dedicated and have the time and commitment to attend college full time.
Please check the SFSU website for entrance requirements, deadlines and application.
- Apply to SFSU
- Attend an online Metro info session
- Check your email with a link to join Metro
- Email metro@sfsu.edu with any questions!
Yes, many of our students are in EOP (and/or TRIO) and Metro at the same time. The criteria for being accepted into EOP differs from Metro’s.
Metro is open to all majors — including undeclared students — and offers extra support to help you succeed. As part of Metro, you’ll join a learning community focused on social justice and a discipline of your choice (such as health, business, ethnic studies or science).
You’ll move through your first four semesters with a supportive cohort, taking Metro classes that are linked to your general education courses. These classes are designed to strengthen core skills like writing, speaking and quantitative reasoning — while connecting them to real-world social justice issues.
Plus, you’ll receive personalized advising to help you stay on track and make the most of your college experience.