Best Christian Colleges in California 2024

Badge for BEST IN CALIFORNIA CHRISTIAN COLLEGES
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

For prospective college students looking for schools that align with their Christian faith and demonstrate academic excellence, here are the best Christian colleges and universities in California.

10 Best Christian Colleges in California

Sort by:
  1. Santa Clara University
  2. University of San Francisco
  3. Pepperdine University
  4. Chapman University
  5. University of San Diego
  6. Loyola Marymount University
  7. Biola University
  8. Azusa Pacific University
  9. Saint Mary's College of California
  10. La Sierra University
  1. Santa Clara University
  2. Pepperdine University
  3. University of San Francisco
  4. Chapman University
  5. Loyola Marymount University
  6. University of San Diego
  7. Biola University
  8. Saint Mary's College of California
  9. Azusa Pacific University
  10. Westmont College
  1. Holy Names University 100%
  2. Life Pacific University 94%
  3. La Sierra University 92%
  4. Saint Mary's College of California 88%
  5. Azusa Pacific University 87%
  6. California Lutheran University 87%
  7. Providence Christian College 86%
  8. Thomas Aquinas College 85%
  9. Point Loma Nazarene University 82%
  10. Westmont College 82%
  1. John Paul the Great Catholic University 18 to 1
  2. California Baptist University 18 to 1
  3. Vanguard University 16 to 1
  4. Concordia University Irvine 14 to 1
  5. California Lutheran University 14 to 1
  6. University of San Francisco 13 to 1
  7. The Master's University 13 to 1
  8. Pepperdine University 13 to 1
  9. Hope International University 13 to 1
  10. Biola University 13 to 1
  1. Pepperdine University $63,142
  2. Chapman University $60,672
  3. Santa Clara University $57,534
  4. Loyola Marymount University $55,926
  5. University of San Francisco $55,532
  6. University of San Diego $54,554
  7. Saint Mary's College of California $53,932
  8. Westmont College $50,066
  9. California Lutheran University $48,012
  10. Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles $46,740
  1. Pepperdine University $39,100
  2. Chapman University $37,603
  3. Pacific Union College $32,655
  4. Saint Mary's College of California $32,335
  5. University of San Diego $28,404
  6. University of San Francisco $27,990
  7. Santa Clara University $24,798
  8. Loyola Marymount University $20,468
  9. California Lutheran University $20,450
  10. Holy Names University $18,054
  1. Life Pacific University
  2. Providence Christian College
  3. Fresno Pacific University
  4. Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles
  5. Jessup University
  6. Vanguard University
  7. The Master's University
  8. San Diego Christian College
  9. Marymount California University
  10. Simpson University
  1. Jessup University
  2. Life Pacific University
  3. Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles
  4. Providence Christian College
  5. Simpson University
  6. San Diego Christian College
  7. John Paul the Great Catholic University
  8. Fresno Pacific University
  9. Holy Names University
  10. Hope International University
  1. Hope International University 32%
  2. Loyola Marymount University 41%
  3. Pacific Union College 48%
  4. Pepperdine University 49%
  5. Santa Clara University 52%
  6. University of San Diego 53%
  7. Biola University 57%
  8. Jessup University 66%
  9. Concordia University Irvine 69%
  10. University of San Francisco 71%
  1. Holy Names University 9 to 1
  2. Saint Mary's College of California 9 to 1
  3. Fresno Pacific University 10 to 1
  4. Westmont College 10 to 1
  5. Azusa Pacific University 10 to 1
  6. La Sierra University 10 to 1
  7. Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles 11 to 1
  8. Thomas Aquinas College 11 to 1
  9. Loyola Marymount University 11 to 1
  10. San Diego Christian College 11 to 1
  1. Life Pacific University $19,140
  2. San Diego Christian College $26,300
  3. Thomas Aquinas College $27,000
  4. John Paul the Great Catholic University $28,000
  5. The Master's University $32,870
  6. Pacific Union College $33,678
  7. Providence Christian College $33,884
  8. Fresno Pacific University $34,188
  9. La Sierra University $34,902
  10. Hope International University $35,700
  1. San Diego Christian College $7,440
  2. The Master's University $8,400
  3. Concordia University Irvine $8,528
  4. Life Pacific University $9,810
  5. Simpson University $11,160
  6. Point Loma Nazarene University $11,880
  7. Biola University $12,006
  8. Vanguard University $12,456
  9. Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles $13,296
  10. California Baptist University $13,680

Colleges and Universities in California

California’s higher education institutes span across the entire state, allowing students to study by the beach, in the forest, in small towns, and in large cities. There are over 30 high quality online programs that would allow you to earn a degree from literally anywhere in California, or the world.

The state’s largest university is the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). UCLA serves nearly 44,000 students and offers a tuition rate around $13,000. This isn’t the only school with a large student body though. California is home to 23 colleges and universities with student populations of over 20,000 students.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

However, more than half of the state’s schools serve smaller student populations, offering plenty of options for students who crave a more intimate campus experience. Additionally, California boasts 50 religiously affiliated schools. Many of these schools have high graduation rates. However, tuition costs can range greatly, from $8,000 at Bethesda University up to $54,000 at Pepperdine University.

Additionally, many of California’s colleges and universities boast influential faculty and alumni, including Neil Armstrong, Jerry Lewis, and Weird Al Yankovic. In addition to famous alumni and professors, California’s schools are also home to some of the country’s top degree programs, including nursing, business, religious studies, education, literature, and law. Many of these schools offer online courses and complete online programs in these same disciplines.

Though Hollywood has given us an inside look into California’s most popular landmarks and attractions, these one-of-a-kind places aren’t the only reason people flock to The Golden State. With hundreds of colleges and universities, as well as community and junior colleges, to choose from, students have countless opportunities to further their education in California.

Many of these opportunities are also accessible through online courses and online colleges. A growing number of online programs in California have received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools, which means online students have a higher level of quality assurance than ever before. It’s also worth noting that students who live in California can still get an in-state discount on their associate degree or bachelor’s degree even when completing online courses or online programs.

To learn more about earning your degree in California, check out some of the state’s top programs and career paths.


What are California’s Colleges & Universities?

California’s Best Overall

The following list of the best Christian schools consists entirely of colleges and universities that offer four-year undergraduate degrees. We’ve identified 30 Christian colleges in California. In order to be included in this ranking list of best Christian colleges and universities, a school must self-identify as Christian, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor degree programs.

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Best Christian Colleges in California 2023

  1. #1

    Santa Clara University

    Santa Clara , CA
    #12 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $58K

    Acceptance

    52%

    Graduation

    89%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1385/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Santa Clara University

    Cost of Degree: $57,534
    Expenses: $21,315
    Starting Salary: $85,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Santa Clara University known for?

    Santa Clara University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of San Francisco

    San Francisco , CA
    #15 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1310/29

    Career Outlook for degree at University of San Francisco

    Cost of Degree: $55,532
    Expenses: $22,322
    Starting Salary: $74,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of San Francisco known for?

    University of San Francisco’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Chapman University

    Orange , CA
    #24 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $61K

    Acceptance

    73%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1300/28

    Career Outlook for degree at Chapman University

    Cost of Degree: $60,672
    Expenses: $21,874
    Starting Salary: $56,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Chapman University known for?

    Chapman University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  5. #5

    University of San Diego

    San Diego , CA
    #8 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024 #18 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees #21 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics

    Tuition + fees

    $55K

    Acceptance

    53%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of San Diego

    Cost of Degree: $54,554
    Expenses: $21,213
    Starting Salary: $71,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of San Diego known for?

    University of San Diego’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    Loyola Marymount University

    Los Angeles , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $56K

    Acceptance

    41%

    Graduation

    82%

    Student body

    11K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1380/30

    Career Outlook for degree at Loyola Marymount University

    Cost of Degree: $55,441
    Expenses: $20,301
    Starting Salary: $71,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Loyola Marymount University known for?

    Loyola Marymount University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  8. #7

    Biola University

    La Mirada , CA
    #6 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies #2 Best Online Master's in Theology
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $44K

    Acceptance

    57%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/26

    Career Outlook for degree at Biola University

    Cost of Degree: $44,382
    Expenses: $15,514
    Starting Salary: $50,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Biola University known for?

    Biola University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Biola University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Relations
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Biblical Ministries
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    Azusa Pacific University

    Azusa , CA
    #9 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #18 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #6 Best Online MBA Programs in California #8 Best Online Master's in Art Education and Art Administration
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $42K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    9K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1110/24

    Career Outlook for degree at Azusa Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $42,330
    Expenses: $13,490
    Starting Salary: $55,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Azusa Pacific University known for?

    Azusa Pacific University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Azusa Pacific University’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Bridge to BSN
    • Required Credits: 40
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  10. #9

    Saint Mary's College of California

    Moraga , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $54K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Saint Mary's College of California

    Cost of Degree: $53,572
    Expenses: $20,256
    Starting Salary: $63,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Saint Mary's College of California known for?

    Saint Mary's College of California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  11. #10

    La Sierra University

    Riverside , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $35K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at La Sierra University

    Cost of Degree: $34,902
    Expenses: $17,561
    Starting Salary: $54,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is La Sierra University known for?

    La Sierra University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  13. #11

    California Baptist University

    Riverside , CA
    #24 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #25 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Doctoral Degrees #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Kinesiology Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $38K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    14K

    Career Outlook for degree at California Baptist University

    Cost of Degree: $38,058
    Expenses: $15,414
    Starting Salary: $47,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is California Baptist University known for?

    California Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    California Baptist University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Graphic Design and Digital Media
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 69
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Logistics and Operations
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Marketing
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Information Technology
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Network Administration and Management
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Early Childhood Studies
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Ministries
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication Studies
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Services
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Liberal Studies
    • Required Credits: 49
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Public Administration
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Public Health
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sociology
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration and Management
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Kinesiology
    • Required Credits: 50
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Sport, Recreation and Fitness Management
    • Required Credits: 49
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  14. #12

    Point Loma Nazarene University

    San Diego , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $41K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    76%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Point Loma Nazarene University

    Cost of Degree: $41,100
    Expenses: $16,004
    Starting Salary: $54,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Point Loma Nazarene University known for?

    Point Loma Nazarene University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  15. #13

    Westmont College

    Santa Barbara , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $50K

    Acceptance

    82%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1369/31

    Career Outlook for degree at Westmont College

    Cost of Degree: $50,066
    Expenses: $18,760
    Starting Salary: $58,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Westmont College known for?

    Westmont College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  16. #14

    Pacific Union College

    Angwin , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1095/20

    Career Outlook for degree at Pacific Union College

    Cost of Degree: $33,678
    Expenses: $13,476
    Starting Salary: $61,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Pacific Union College known for?

    Pacific Union College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  17. #15

    California Lutheran University

    Thousand Oaks , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $48K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    4K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/28

    Career Outlook for degree at California Lutheran University

    Cost of Degree: $48,012
    Expenses: $19,793
    Starting Salary: $60,200
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is California Lutheran University known for?

    California Lutheran University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  19. #16

    Concordia University Irvine

    Irvine , CA
    #16 Best Online Master's in Theology #22 Best Online Master's in Healthcare Administration #25 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration

    Tuition + fees

    $40K

    Acceptance

    69%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    5K

    Career Outlook for degree at Concordia University Irvine

    Cost of Degree: $40,180
    Expenses: $17,240
    Starting Salary: $50,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Concordia University Irvine known for?

    Concordia University Irvine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Concordia University Irvine’s Online Degrees

    BBA in Business Administration and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Townsend Institute: Leadership Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  20. #17

    Thomas Aquinas College

    Santa Paula , CA
    #8 15 Colleges with the Happiest Freshmen

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    85%

    Graduation

    85%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1315/29

    Career Outlook for degree at Thomas Aquinas College

    Cost of Degree: $27,000
    Expenses: $13,000
    Starting Salary: $45,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Thomas Aquinas College known for?
    Compare school
  21. #18

    Hope International University

    Fullerton , CA
    #9 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2024 #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024 #20 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $36K

    Acceptance

    32%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Hope International University

    Cost of Degree: $35,700
    Expenses: $17,253
    Starting Salary: $40,700
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Hope International University known for?

    Hope International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Hope International University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Teacher Preperation
    • Required Credits: 122
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Christian Ministry
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  22. #19

    John Paul the Great Catholic University

    Escondido , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $28K

    Acceptance

    80%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    <1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1092/19

    What is John Paul the Great Catholic University known for?

    John Paul the Great Catholic University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  23. #20

    Holy Names University

    Oakland , CA
    #21 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #22 Best Online Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $42K

    Acceptance

    100%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Holy Names University

    Cost of Degree: $42,115
    Expenses: $18,477
    Starting Salary: $57,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Holy Names University known for?

    Holy Names University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Holy Names University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Completion
    Degree Concentrations
    • Certified Personal Financial Planning
    • Finance
    • International Business
    • Management
    • Marketing
    • Sport Management
    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  25. #21

    Simpson University

    Redding , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Simpson University

    Cost of Degree: $37,480
    Expenses: $16,100
    Starting Salary: $39,900
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Simpson University known for?

    Simpson University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Simpson University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Psychology
    • Required Credits: 36
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  26. #22

    Marymount California University

    Rancho Palos Verdes , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Marymount California University

    Cost of Degree: $36,908
    Expenses: $20,583
    Starting Salary: $42,000
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Marymount California University known for?

    Marymount California University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  27. #23

    San Diego Christian College

    Spring Valley , CA
    #12 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2024 #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024 #21 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #21 Best Online Associate in General Studies

    Tuition + fees

    $26K

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at San Diego Christian College

    Cost of Degree: $26,300
    Expenses: $17,000
    Starting Salary: $42,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is San Diego Christian College known for?

    San Diego Christian College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    San Diego Christian College’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Management
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Leadership
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Christian Ministries
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communications
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Human Development
    • Required Credits: 123
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  28. #24

    The Master's University

    Santa Clarita , CA
    #9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Biblical Studies #14 Best Online Bachelor’s of Christian Ministry Degree Programs for 2024 #16 Best Online MBA Programs in California #21 Best Online Master’s in Biblical Studies

    Tuition + fees

    $33K

    Acceptance

    78%

    Graduation

    73%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at The Master's University

    Cost of Degree: $32,870
    Expenses: $16,452
    Starting Salary: $52,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is The Master's University known for?

    The Master's University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The Master's University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Biblical Counseling
    • Required Credits: 52
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Biblical Studies
    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  29. #25

    Vanguard University

    Costa Mesa , CA
    #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #16 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024 #18 Best Online Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $39K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Vanguard University

    Cost of Degree: $38,700
    Expenses: $14,450
    Starting Salary: $48,800
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Vanguard University known for?

    Vanguard University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Vanguard University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Early Childhood
    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Religion
    Degree Concentrations
    • Ministry and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 51
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in RN to BSN
    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  31. #26

    Jessup University

    Rocklin , CA
    #10 Best Online MBA Programs in California #20 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    66%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at Jessup University

    Cost of Degree: $37,150
    Expenses: $17,452
    Starting Salary: $45,100
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Jessup University known for?

    Jessup University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Jessup University’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Entrepreneurship
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Computer Science
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Healthcare Administration
    • Required Credits: 128
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  32. #27

    Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles

    Los Angeles , CA
    #17 The Best Catholic Colleges and Universities Ranked for 2024 #11 Best Online Associate in Health Science Degree Programs #16 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2024 #20 Best Online Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $47K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    60%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for degree at Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles

    Cost of Degree: $46,740
    Expenses: $22,605
    Starting Salary: $63,500
    Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles known for?

    Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Mount Saint Mary's University, Los Angeles’s Online Degrees

    BS in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    • Required Credits: 124
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 124-126
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  33. #28

    Fresno Pacific University

    Fresno , CA
    #9 Top 10 Best Online Business Management Bachelor's Programs #11 Best Online MBA Programs in California #19 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs #24 Best Online Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    50%

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for degree at Fresno Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $34,188
    Expenses: $12,927
    Starting Salary: $45,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Fresno Pacific University known for?

    Fresno Pacific University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Fresno Pacific University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Business Management
    • Organizational Leadership
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminology
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Early Childhood Development
    • Required Credits: 39
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  34. #29

    Providence Christian College

    Pasadena , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    36%

    Student body

    <1K

    What is Providence Christian College known for?
    Compare school
  35. #30

    Life Pacific University

    San Dimas , CA
    #23 Best Online Colleges in California 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $19K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    47%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at Life Pacific University

    Cost of Degree: $19,140
    Expenses: $14,403
    Starting Salary: $34,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Life Pacific University known for?

    Life Pacific University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Life Pacific University’s Online Degrees

    BA in Organizational Management
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Ministry and Leadership
    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
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California’s Best Christian Colleges in Your Area of Interest

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2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. Pepperdine University
  2. Santa Clara University
  3. University of San Francisco
  4. Notre Dame de Namur University
  5. American Jewish University
  6. Chapman University
  7. University of San Diego
  8. Loyola Marymount University
  9. Pacific Union College
  10. La Sierra University
  11. Biola University
  12. Thomas Aquinas College
  13. Westmont College
  14. Saint Mary's College of California
  15. Hope International University
  16. Concordia University Irvine
  17. John Paul the Great Catholic University
  18. Azusa Pacific University
  19. Holy Names University
  20. Point Loma Nazarene University
  21. Simpson University
  22. Marymount California University
  23. San Diego Christian College
  24. California Lutheran University
  25. The Master's University
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