Best Colleges in California 2025

Badge for BEST IN CALIFORNIA COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley

Updated: Nov 6, 2024

Key Takeaways

Over 100 schools in California meet our criteria for the best colleges and universities in the state.
Attending one of the best colleges in California will ensure that you will be taught by some of the most influential professors in the world.
When choosing which California college or university you want to attend, it is important to know what academic program you are interested in and if you want to study at a research university, a liberal arts college, or a Christian university.

Table of Contents

10 Best Colleges in California in 2025

University of California, Berkeley
Stanford University
University of California, Los Angeles
California Institute of Technology
University of Southern California
University of California, San Diego
University of California, Santa Barbara
University of California, Irvine
University of California, Santa Cruz
University of California, Davis

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

While there were no changes in the 2025 ranking of the best liberal arts colleges in California, a number of the top schools in our ranking made significant changes to their program for this school year.

UC Berkeley has launched the “L&S Futures” project, aiming to redesign general education requirements for students. The initiative focuses on integrating interdisciplinary approaches and fostering critical thinking skills.

Caltech has enhanced its liberal arts offerings by strengthening partnerships with 13 select liberal arts colleges through its 3/2 Dual Degree Program. This initiative allows students to earn two bachelor’s degrees in five years, combining a liberal arts education with Caltech’s rigorous science and engineering programs.

The “Dornsife Idea” at the University of Southern California reimagines the undergraduate experience by providing comprehensive advising for first-year students, encouraging exploration across diverse disciplines, and offering courses that teach valuable life and career skills, such as grant writing and personal finance management.

We’ve identified 113 colleges and universities in California that meet our criteria. This list of the top 30 colleges in California below focuses on schools that offer bachelor’s degrees. The ranking features fully accredited public and private colleges and universities in California.

Best Colleges in California 2025

Last Year’s Ranking:
1. University of California, Berkeley
2. Stanford University
3. University of California, Los Angeles
4. California Institute of Technology
5. University of Southern California
6. University of California, San Diego
7. University of California, Santa Barbara
8. University of California, Irvine
9. University of California, Santa Cruz
10. University of California, Davis
11. University of California, Riverside
12. San Francisco State University
13. Pomona College
14. San Diego State University
15. Santa Clara University
16. Pepperdine University
17. San Jose State University
18. University of San Francisco
19. Chapman University
20. Harvey Mudd College
21. Claremont McKenna College
22. California State University, Northridge
23. California State University, Fullerton
24. California State University, Los Angeles
25. University of San Diego
26. University of the Pacific
27. California State University, Long Beach
28. Loyola Marymount University
29. Occidental College
30. California State University, Fresno
#1
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley , CA
#1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
11%
Graduation
94%
Student body
48K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Berkeley
Cost of Degree: $14,850
Expenses: $30,203
Starting Salary: $79,000
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, Berkeley, is the founding campus of the 10-member University of California System. It is also a founding member of the Association of American Universities and is regarded as one of the country’s best Public Ivies.
What we love about the University of California, Berkeley:
Its excellence in research in many areas.
University of California, Berkeley is ideal for students who:
Welcome diversity of opinions & perspectives.
University of California, Berkeley may not be ideal for students who:
Might find its large size overwhelming.
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#2
Stanford University
Stanford , CA
#3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #3 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #4 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
95%
Student body
20K
Median SAT/ACT
1540/34
Career Outlook for degree at Stanford University
Cost of Degree: $62,484
Expenses: $25,349
Starting Salary: $141,300
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Stanford University is intimately connected to the Silicon Valley area, with impressive alumni and a worldwide reputation for nurturing and launching successful startups and companies.
What we love about Stanford University:
Its unique campus architecture.
Stanford University is ideal for students who:
Want the best private education in the state.
Stanford University may not be ideal for students who:
Might prefer being in an equally top-notch public university.
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#3
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles , CA
#3 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #3 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #3 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
9%
Graduation
92%
Student body
49K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Los Angeles
Cost of Degree: $13,747
Expenses: $24,284
Starting Salary: $73,200
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, Los Angeles is the second oldest of the University of California campuses. It is one of the most applied-to universities in the country and offers 300 undergraduate and graduate programs.
What we love about the University of California, Los Angeles:
It has many cutting-edge research opportunities.
University of California, Los Angeles is ideal for students who:
Want an excellent education that can open many doors in terms of job opportunities.
University of California, Los Angeles may not be ideal for students who:
Might prefer a smaller, more tight-knit university.
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#4
California Institute of Technology
Pasadena , CA
#1 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #8 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #12 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #12 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
3%
Graduation
94%
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at California Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $63,255
Expenses: $23,631
Starting Salary: $106,300
Cost Recoup Time: 14 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
California Institute of Technology is a small but highly prestigious institution with a worldwide reputation in engineering and the sciences. CalTech has also produced more Nobel Prize laureates than almost any other university in the country.
What we love about the California Institute of Technology:
It’s right at the top for the engineering and tech-related fields.
California Institute of Technology is ideal for students who:
Value a high degree of collaboration.
California Institute of Technology may not be ideal for students who:
Might be looking to study in a non-engineering or science-related field.
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#5
University of Southern California
Los Angeles , CA
#9 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #14 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #14 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #17 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025
Tuition + fees
$65K
Acceptance
12%
Graduation
92%
Student body
54K
Median SAT/ACT
1500/33
Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern California
Cost of Degree: $68,237
Expenses: $22,216
Starting Salary: $88,800
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of Southern California is the oldest private research university in the state, being established in 1880. USC is known for being selective and prestigious and excels in a wide range of academic fields.
What we love about the University of Southern California:
Its film school is one of the best worldwide.
The University of Southern California is ideal for students who:
Want a school that fosters intellectual curiosity.
The University of Southern California may not be ideal for students who:
Might not like its rich-kid-school reputation, whether or not it’s true.
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#6
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla , CA
#8 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #9 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
24%
Graduation
88%
Student body
44K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, San Diego
Cost of Degree: $15,265
Expenses: $23,240
Starting Salary: $69,600
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, San Diego is the University of California’s southernmost campus, with its 2,000-acre grounds close to the Pacific coast. It also stands out for top-notch academics in many fields as one of the country’s top research universities.
What we love about the University of California, San Diego:
It is well-equipped for scientific research.
The University of California, San Diego is ideal for students who:
Are intellectually driven and curious.
The University of California, San Diego may not be ideal for students who:
Might benefit from greater student attention.
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#7
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara , CA
#13 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #14 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #14 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #4 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
26%
Graduation
86%
Student body
28K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Santa Barbara
Cost of Degree: $14,965
Expenses: $25,622
Starting Salary: $62,400
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, Santa Barbara was initially established as a teacher’s college in 1891 before becoming part of the UC system in 1944. It offers 200 degree programs to over 26,000 students.
What we love about the University of California, Santa Barbara:
Its College of Creative Studies and its unique academic structure.
The University of California, Santa Barbara is ideal for students who:
Want an interdisciplinary approach to education.
The University of California, Santa Barbara may not be ideal for students who:
Aren’t focused and disciplined.
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#8
University of California, Irvine
Irvine , CA
#19 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #21 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #21 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
21%
Graduation
87%
Student body
39K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Irvine
Cost of Degree: $14,237
Expenses: $24,814
Starting Salary: $65,800
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, Irvine, is located within the Greater LA metropolitan area and was first established in 1958. Biology & computer science are two of its most popular undergraduate majors.
What we love about the University of California, Irvine:
The UC Irvine Medical Center is a top-notch teaching hospital.
The University of California, Irvine is ideal for students who:
Want good academics in a safe area with good weather.
The University of California, Irvine may not be ideal for students who:
Might want to be somewhere more vibrant, i.e., the big city campuses.
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#9
University of California, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz , CA
#25 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #6 Best Public Colleges in California 2025 #9 Best Grad Schools California 2025
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
47%
Graduation
77%
Student body
21K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Santa Cruz
Cost of Degree: $14,560
Expenses: $25,746
Starting Salary: $53,800
Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, Santa Cruz, was founded in 1965. It is known for its strength in the marine/ocean sciences, environmental studies, film & media, computer science, and engineering fields.
What we love about the University of California, Santa Cruz:
It has a large number of resources for student research and internships.
The University of California, Santa Cruz is ideal for students who:
Love the outdoors and being in nature.
The University of California, Santa Cruz may not be ideal for students who:
Might prefer somewhere with more housing and transport options.
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#10
University of California, Davis
Davis , CA
#7 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #7 Best Public Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools California 2025 #10 Best Research Universities in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
37%
Graduation
86%
Student body
43K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Davis
Cost of Degree: $15,247
Expenses: $25,808
Starting Salary: $68,100
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, Davis, covers a large number of fields of discipline but continues to be widely known for offering degree programs in agriculture. Its students, in fact, are known as the Aggies.
What we love about the University of California, Davis:
It is well-integrated with its host community.
The University of California, Davis is ideal for students who:
Are looking for reputable agriculture & veterinary programs.
The University of California, Davis may not be ideal for students who:
Might prefer smaller class sizes.
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#11
University of California, Riverside
Riverside , CA
#8 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #8 Best Public Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
76%
Student body
29K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Riverside
Cost of Degree: $14,170
Expenses: $26,115
Starting Salary: $55,300
Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of California, Riverside started as the UC’s Citrus Experiment Station in 1954, which is widely credited with developing the state’s agricultural industry. At present, it is a full-fledged research university with over 26,800 students.
What we love about the University of California, Riverside:
Research done here has a real & significant economic impact on the state.
The University of California, Riverside is ideal for students who:
Are focused & serious about their academics.
The University of California, Riverside may not be ideal for students who:
Don’t value a vibrant student life or community.
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#12
San Francisco State University
San Francisco , CA
#16 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
55%
Student body
30K
Career Outlook for degree at San Francisco State University
Cost of Degree: $7,424
Expenses: $23,032
Starting Salary: $54,700
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
San Francisco State University was established in 1857 and became part of the CSU System in 1960. It currently offers over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs and has its own set of decorated alumni.
What we love about San Francisco State University:
It is recognized as a minority-serving institution.
San Francisco State University is ideal for students who:
Are looking for good programs in communications and cinema arts.
San Francisco State University may not be ideal for students who:
Prefer a campus closer to the city center.
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#13
Pomona College
Claremont , CA
#20 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #21 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #2 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$59K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
95%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1520/34
Career Outlook for degree at Pomona College
Cost of Degree: $62,326
Expenses: $22,974
Starting Salary: $77,300
Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Pomona College is a liberal arts college within the Greater LA metropolitan area. Over 1,600 students call its suburban campus home and are enrolled in around 48 majors across various liberal arts fields.
What we love about Pomona College:
It has an engaging & challenging academic culture.
Pomona College is ideal for students who:
Are hardworking and academically driven.
Pomona College may not be ideal for students who:
Are wanting to go to a college with more name recognition.
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#14
San Diego State University
San Diego , CA
#10 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Public Colleges in California 2025 #16 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees 2025 #19 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
39%
Graduation
78%
Student body
39K
Career Outlook for degree at San Diego State University
Cost of Degree: $8,290
Expenses: $25,782
Starting Salary: $55,900
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
San Diego State University is an active part of the California State University System (CSU). It currently has over 300 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs and over 37,500 students.
What we love about San Diego State University:
There’s always something to do for students as the school fosters community well.
San Diego State University is ideal for students who:
Like being constantly engaged and productive.
San Diego State University may not be ideal for students who:
Might prefer somewhere cooler, climate-wise.
San Diego State University’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration

Required Credits: 49-55
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice

Required Credits: 51-60
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#15
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara , CA
#12 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
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: $59,241
Expenses: $23,901
Starting Salary: $85,300
Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Santa Clara University is the oldest operating college/university in the state (established in 1851). It is affiliated with the Catholic church and has a little over 9,100 students.
What we love about Santa Clara University:
It is an architecturally unique campus with an extensive heritage.
Santa Clara University is ideal for students who:
Value great career resources.
Santa Clara University may not be ideal for students who:
Might want to go somewhere more affordable.
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#16
Pepperdine University
Malibu , CA
#2 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #6 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
84%
Student body
13K
Median SAT/ACT
1382/30
Career Outlook for degree at Pepperdine University
Cost of Degree: $66,742
Expenses: $26,770
Starting Salary: $77,600
Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Pepperdine University is a private Christian research university affiliated with the Churches of Christ. It was founded by George Pepperdine, an entrepreneur and Christian philanthropist, and operates several international campuses.
What we love about Pepperdine University:
It has a beautiful campus and an great location.
Pepperdine University is ideal for students who:
Want a blend of spiritual development and academics.
Pepperdine University may not be ideal for students who:
Are looking for public-university-level affordability.
Pepperdine University’s Online Degrees
BS in Management

Required Credits: 60
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#17
San Jose State University
San Jose , CA
#22 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
68%
Student body
41K
Career Outlook for degree at San Jose State University
Cost of Degree: $7,992
Expenses: $24,318
Starting Salary: $63,800
Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
San Jose State University is the founding member of the California State University (CSU) System and is the oldest public university on the West Coast. It is organized into nine component colleges, with an enrollment of over 36,000 students.
What we love about San Jose State University:
It has an ideal location, being in San Jose & Silicon Valley.
San Jose State University is ideal for students who:
Want access to great and large number of opportunities.
San Jose State University may not be ideal for students who:
Dislike the hassle of being in a large university.
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#18
University of San Francisco
San Francisco , CA
#15 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #7 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
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: $58,222
Expenses: $23,204
Starting Salary: $74,000
Cost Recoup Time: 17 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
The University of San Francisco was established by the Jesuits in 1855, and it remains a Catholic institution to this day. It has over 120 undergraduate and graduate programs to offer and has over 10,600 students enrolled.
What we love about the University of San Francisco:
The signature Jesuit approach to a well-rounded education.
The University of San Francisco is ideal for students who:
Want a school that is both challenging and supportive.
The University of San Francisco may not be ideal for students who:
Might not prefer going to a Catholic university.
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#19
Chapman University
Orange , CA
#24 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #8 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
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: $62,784
Expenses: $22,296
Starting Salary: $56,600
Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Chapman University is a private research university, and while it has affiliations with the United Churches of Christ, it largely operates as a secular institution. It was founded in 1861 and currently has over 10,000 students enrolled.
What we love about Chapman University:
Its Dodge College of Film & Media Arts is highly reputed.
Chapman University is ideal for students who:
Want all-around good academics and research opportunities.
Chapman University may not be ideal for students who:
Are looking for a strong athletics program.
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#20
Loyola Marymount University
Los Angeles , CA
#5 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #9 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
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: $58,489
Expenses: $25,629
Starting Salary: $71,600
Cost Recoup Time: 18 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:

Literature
Law
Business
Social Work
Philosophy
Psychology
Education
Political Science
Engineering
Communications

Most Influential Alumni

Steven C. Hayes
David Mirkin
Greg Boyle
Gerald Uelmen
John Howard
Jessica Levinson
Paul Tiffany
Rick Adelman
James Gunn
Mila Kunis
Mike Rose
Carson Daly
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#21
California State University, Northridge
Northridge , CA
#4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #2 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Human Services #6 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
56%
Student body
43K
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Northridge
Cost of Degree: $7,095
Expenses: $17,176
Starting Salary: $49,700
Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is California State University, Northridge known for?

California State University, Northridge’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Sociology
Anthropology
Communications
Business
Criminal Justice
Engineering
Social Work
Political Science
Earth Sciences
History

Most Influential Alumni

Robert Hilburn
Jeffrey Beall
Bill Handel
Ana Kasparian
Merrill Singer
Don Hahn
Mark Watson
Ralph Larkin
Carolyn Porco
Rodolfo Acuña
Andy Summers
Robert R. Davila
California State University, Northridge’s Online Degrees
BA in Liberal Studies

Required Credits: 60
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Public Sector Management

Required Credits: 60
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#22
Occidental College
Los Angeles , CA
#3 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Private Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
39%
Graduation
83%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1440/32
Career Outlook for degree at Occidental College
Cost of Degree: $63,446
Expenses: $21,354
Starting Salary: $59,400
Cost Recoup Time: 20 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is Occidental College known for?

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

Physics
Chemistry
Literature
Economics
Earth Sciences
Biology
Political Science
History
Mathematics
Psychology

Most Influential Alumni

Robinson Jeffers
Terry Gilliam
Barack Obama
Ben Affleck
J. P. Mallory
Mark Dery
Fred Lawrence Whipple
Lewis Sargentich
Eqbal Ahmad
Gordon Hanson
Rosalind Wiseman
Eleanor F. Helin
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#23
University of the Pacific
Stockton , CA
#4 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs) #6 12 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Speech Pathology #7 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
74%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1271/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of the Pacific
Cost of Degree: $55,340
Expenses: $21,176
Starting Salary: $84,200
Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is University of the Pacific known for?

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

Law
Political Science
Mathematics
Medical
Biology
Earth Sciences
Business
History
Engineering
Chemistry

Most Influential Alumni

Raymond Smullyan
Dolores Huerta
Pete Carroll
Dave Brubeck
Jamie Lee Curtis
Scott Boras
George Moscone
Susan B. Neuman
Chris Isaak
Janet Leigh
Tom Flores
Lloyd Bryan Molander Adams
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#24
California State University, Los Angeles
Los Angeles , CA
#6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
51%
Student body
30K
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Los Angeles
Cost of Degree: $6,818
Expenses: $26,527
Starting Salary: $49,900
Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is California State University, Los Angeles known for?

California State University, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Economics
Philosophy
Sociology
Psychology
Criminal Justice
Political Science
Literature
Mathematics
Business
History

Most Influential Alumni

Walter E. Williams
Eugene Landy
Billie Jean King
Charles Plott
Richard E. Ladner
Ralph W. Hood
Carolyn See
Octavia E. Butler
Leana Wen
Antonia Darder
Lixia Zhang
Samuel T. Durrance
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#25
Harvey Mudd College
Claremont , CA
#5 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #4 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$63K
Acceptance
13%
Graduation
92%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1520/35
Career Outlook for degree at Harvey Mudd College
Cost of Degree: $66,255
Expenses: $23,910
Starting Salary: $104,200
Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
Harvey Mudd College, a small liberal arts institution, largely focuses on engineering and science. It is named after mining engineer and entrepreneur Harvey Seeley Mudd. Harvey Mudd College is part of the Claremont Colleges consortium and has almost 1,000 students.
What we love about Harvey Mudd College:
It holds its own academically, especially in the engineering fields.
Harvey Mudd College is ideal for students who:
Can handle intense academic workloads.
Harvey Mudd College may not be ideal for students who:
Aren’t very driven and focused.
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#26
California State University, Fresno
Fresno , CA
#7 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #8 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025 #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2025 #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
56%
Student body
27K
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Fresno
Cost of Degree: $6,980
Expenses: $16,770
Starting Salary: $48,500
Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is California State University, Fresno known for?

California State University, Fresno’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Psychology
Economics
History
Earth Sciences
Literature
Engineering
Communications
Anthropology
Sociology
Social Work

Most Influential Alumni

Lee Cronbach
Daniel Levitin
Timothy P. White
Steven R. Nagel
Roger Fouts
Wendell Bell
Safiya Noble
Todd Beamer
Ray Fair
John Christy
Sam Peckinpah
Atif Mian
California State University, Fresno’s Online Degrees
BBA in Accelerated Business Administration

Required Credits: 61
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BS in Criminology

Degree Concentrations
Law Enforcement

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Liberal Arts

Required Credits: 120
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#27
California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach , CA
#8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2025 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
40%
Graduation
73%
Student body
44K
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Long Beach
Cost of Degree: $7,008
Expenses: $21,408
Starting Salary: $53,000
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is California State University, Long Beach known for?

California State University, Long Beach’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Earth Sciences
Sociology
Communications
History
Engineering
Criminal Justice
Literature
Political Science
Biology
Business

Most Influential Alumni

The Undertaker
Stan Winston
Howard Goldblatt
Agnes de Mille
Richard Delgado
Vern Bullough
Robin Kelley
Bruce Lipton
Betye Saar
Roger Fouts
George Gervin
Frank Pooler
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#28
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton , CA
#9 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #4 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #7 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2025
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
67%
Graduation
69%
Student body
46K
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Fullerton
Cost of Degree: $7,073
Expenses: $23,567
Starting Salary: $51,800
Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is California State University, Fullerton known for?

California State University, Fullerton’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Psychology
Computer Science
Anthropology
Mathematics
Chemistry
Engineering
History
Communications
Earth Sciences
Nursing

Most Influential Alumni

Michael Shermer
Edward Feser
Gwen Stefani
Tim Powers
Tracy Caldwell Dyson
Adam Lambert
Victor Reppert
James Blaylock
Robert G. Picard
Dana R. Carney
Bruce Bowen
James F. Woodward
California State University, Fullerton’s Online Degrees
BA in Business Administration

Required Credits: 54
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Humanities and Social Sciences

Required Credits: 51
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
BA in Sociology

Required Credits: 51
Completion Time: None Reported
Format: Online
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#29
University of San Diego
San Diego , CA
#6 Best Christian Colleges in California 2025 #8 Best Online Christian Colleges and Universities for Master's Degrees 2025 #10 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2025 #14 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics 2025
Tuition + fees
$55K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
83%
Student body
10K
Career Outlook for degree at University of San Diego
Cost of Degree: $56,444
Expenses: $23,000
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:

Law
Sociology
Nursing
Criminal Justice
Economics
Political Science
Philosophy
Engineering
History
Religious Studies

Most Influential Alumni

Jonny Kim
Philippa Marrack
Jim Parsons
Pat Quinn
Sandra Schmid
Mike Brown
Eric Musselman
Wendy Mackay
Matthew Brouillette
Brian Matusz
Paul Sewald
Maggie Dixon
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#30
Claremont McKenna College
Claremont , CA
#5 Best Small Colleges in California 2025 #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2025 #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degrees 2025
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
10%
Graduation
91%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1495/34
Career Outlook for degree at Claremont McKenna College
Cost of Degree: $64,150
Expenses: $22,350
Starting Salary: $93,200
Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
Paid back at 15% of annual salary
What is Claremont McKenna College known for?

Claremont McKenna College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

Economics
Literature
Political Science
Business
Philosophy
Religious Studies
Sociology
Computer Science
Psychology
Mathematics

Most Influential Alumni

Tibor Machan
Robin Williams
Craig A. Evans
Don Daglow
Orley Ashenfelter
George S. Day
Ronald J. Pestritto
Philip Clayton
Thomas B. Coburn
Patrick T. Riley
Gary S. Lawson
Beck A. Taylor
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