Best Colleges in California 2024
Here are the best colleges and universities in California. Our list will help you find the right kind of school for you.
10 Best Colleges in California
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Southern California
- California Institute of Technology
- University of California, San Diego
- University of California, Santa Barbara
- University of California, Irvine
- University of California, Davis
- University of California, Santa Cruz
- 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
- California State University, Fresno 97%
- San Francisco State University 93%
- California State University, Los Angeles 91%
- California State University, Northridge 88%
- San Jose State University 84%
- University of the Pacific 79%
- University of San Francisco 71%
- University of California, Riverside 65%
- Chapman University 60%
- University of California, Santa Cruz 59%
- California State University, Northridge 28 to 1
- San Diego State University 27 to 1
- California State University, Fullerton 27 to 1
- University of California, Santa Cruz 25 to 1
- California State University, Los Angeles 25 to 1
- San Jose State University 25 to 1
- California State University, Long Beach 24 to 1
- California State University, Fresno 23 to 1
- University of California, Riverside 22 to 1
- San Francisco State University 22 to 1
- University of Southern California $61,503
- Harvey Mudd College $60,703
- Pepperdine University $59,702
- California Institute of Technology $58,680
- Chapman University $58,634
- Occidental College $58,426
- Claremont McKenna College $58,111
- Pomona College $56,686
- Stanford University $56,169
- Santa Clara University $55,860
- Claremont McKenna College $64,288
- University of Southern California $60,446
- Occidental College $57,830
- California Institute of Technology $56,364
- Stanford University $54,315
- University of the Pacific $50,128
- Chapman University $37,538
- Pepperdine University $37,300
- University of San Diego $27,936
- University of San Francisco $27,180
- California State University, Fresno
- Occidental College
- Loyola Marymount University
- California State University, Long Beach
- University of the Pacific
- University of San Diego
- California State University, Los Angeles
- California State University, Fullerton
- California State University, Northridge
- Claremont McKenna College
- University of San Diego
- California State University, Fresno
- Claremont McKenna College
- California State University, Long Beach
- Harvey Mudd College
- California State University, Fullerton
- Loyola Marymount University
- California State University, Los Angeles
- University of the Pacific
- California State University, Northridge
- Stanford University 4%
- California Institute of Technology 4%
- Pomona College 7%
- Harvey Mudd College 10%
- Claremont McKenna College 11%
- University of California, Los Angeles 11%
- University of Southern California 13%
- University of California, Berkeley 14%
- University of California, Santa Barbara 29%
- University of California, Irvine 29%
- California Institute of Technology 3 to 1
- Stanford University 4 to 1
- Pomona College 6 to 1
- Occidental College 8 to 1
- Claremont McKenna College 8 to 1
- Harvey Mudd College 8 to 1
- University of Southern California 9 to 1
- Loyola Marymount University 10 to 1
- Santa Clara University 11 to 1
- University of San Francisco 12 to 1
- California State University, Fresno $5,742
- San Diego State University $5,742
- California State University, Fullerton $5,742
- California State University, Long Beach $5,742
- San Francisco State University $5,742
- California State University, Los Angeles $5,742
- San Jose State University $5,742
- California State University, Northridge $5,742
- University of California, Riverside $11,442
- University of California, Los Angeles $11,442
- California State University, Fresno $7,176
- San Diego State University $7,176
- California State University, Fullerton $7,176
- California State University, Long Beach $7,176
- San Francisco State University $7,176
- California State University, Los Angeles $7,176
- San Jose State University $7,176
- California State University, Northridge $7,176
- University of California, Riverside $11,442
- University of California, Los Angeles $11,442
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?
- 29 Research Universities
- 84 Liberal Arts Colleges & Universities
- 97 Graduate Schools
- 47 Public Colleges & Universities
- 66 Private Colleges & Universities
- 32 Christian Colleges & Universities
- 51 Small Colleges & Universities (fewer than 5,000 students)
- 59 Affordable Colleges (below $20,000/year)
- 98 Community Colleges
- 35 Online Colleges
California’s Best Overall
Related: Differences between research universities and teaching colleges
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 2023
- #2 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #2 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #3 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #3 Best Universities in the World 2024
Other Rankings
- #4 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024
- #4 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #4 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #5 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #1 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #1 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in California 2024
- #1 Best Grad Schools California 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #2 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
- #2 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #9 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #22 The Fastest Traditional MBA Degree Programs Ranked for 2024
Tuition + fees
$56K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
96%
Student body
19K
Median SAT/ACT
1495/33
Career Outlook for degree at Stanford University
Cost of Degree: $58,416Expenses: $23,746Starting Salary: $141,300Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Stanford University known for?
Stanford University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #1 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #1 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #2 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online
- #4 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #5 Best Universities in the World 2024
- #16 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #18 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
- #1 Best Public Colleges California 2024
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
- #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in California 2024
- #2 Best Grad Schools California 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #3 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #4 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #6 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #1 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #1 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #2 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
- #2 Most Affordable Online Computer Science PhDs (Doctorates) 2024
- #2 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #2 Top 8 Best Online Public Health PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #3 Top 6 Best Online Clinical Nutrition PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Guide to Free Online Courses for MBA Students in 2024
- #6 Best Schools in the World for Earning an MBA Degree Ranked for 2024
- #9 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
14%
Graduation
93%
Student body
46K
Median SAT/ACT
1420/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Berkeley
Cost of Degree: $14,395Expenses: $28,648Starting Salary: $79,000Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Berkeley known for?
University of California, Berkeley’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Physics
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- Anthropology
- Engineering
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #3 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #3 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #3 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
Other Rankings
- #10 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges
- #13 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #17 Best Universities in the World 2024
- #2 Best Public Colleges California 2024
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities in California 2024
- #3 Best Grad Schools California 2024
- #6 Best Research Universities for Nursing Degrees
- #8 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #14 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #4 Best Online History Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #4 Top 3 Best Online Economics PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Top 5 Best Online English PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #4 Top 5 Best Online Sociology PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates) 2024
- #14 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
11%
Graduation
92%
Student body
47K
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Los Angeles
Cost of Degree: $13,401Expenses: $23,579Starting Salary: $73,200Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Los Angeles known for?
University of California, Los Angeles’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Earth Sciences
- Social Work
- History
- Chemistry
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Mathematics
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #13 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024 #18 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024 #19 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
- #4 Best Research Universities in California 2024
- #4 Best Grad Schools California 2024
- #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #5 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
- #13 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #15 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for Psychology Degrees
- #16 Best Research Universities for English Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Religious Studies Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Political Science Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Sociology Degrees
- #17 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Anthropology Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for History Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #20 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
- #21 Best Research Universities for Philosophy Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #1 Top 7 Best Online Social Work PhDs (DSW Programs) 2024
- #1 The Best Online MBA Degree Programs in 2024 Ranked for Students
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Communications
- #1 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
- #1 Top 8 Best Online Applied Behavioral Analysis PhDs (Doctorates)
- #1 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs)
- #1 Top 20 Best Online Accredited Doctorate Degree Programs (PhDs) 2024
- #1 Best Online Doctorate in Education Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #1 Best Research Universities with Online Doctorates (PhDs) 2024
- #1 Best Data Science Online Master’s Programs
- #1 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #1 Best Online Master's in Social Work MSW
- #1 Best Online Master's in Project Management
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #1 Best Online Master's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #1 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
- #1 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
- #1 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Public Relations Ranked 2024
- #1 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Health Informatics
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Sustainability and Green Technologies
- #2 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
- #2 Best Online MBA Programs in California
- #2 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management
- #2 Top 18 Most Affordable No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs
- #2 Best Online Master's in Criminal Justice
- #2 Fastest Online Doctoral Degree Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
- #2 Best Online Master’s in Engineering
- #3 Best Online Master's in Management
- #3 Best Online Master's in Nursing MSN
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs 2024
- #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Computer Science Doctorates (PhDs)
- #5 Top 10 Best Online Communications PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #5 Top 15 Most Affordable Online Social Work PhDs (Doctorates)
- #5 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024
- #6 Top 50 Best No GRE Online PhD Degree Programs (Doctorates)
- #12 The Best Traditional MBA Programs Ranked for Students in 2024
Tuition + fees
$62K
Acceptance
13%
Graduation
92%
Student body
52K
Median SAT/ACT
1435/32
Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern California
Cost of Degree: $64,726Expenses: $20,338Starting Salary: $88,800Cost Recoup Time: 16 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Southern California known for?
University of Southern California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Engineering
- Criminal Justice
- Business
- Communications
- Medical
- Education
- Computer Science
- Law
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2024 #1 50 Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #1 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #1 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges
- #14 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2024
- #15 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #19 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #23 Best Universities in the World 2024
- #25 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship
- #1 Best Small Colleges in California 2024
- #3 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
- #4 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
- #5 Best Research Universities in California 2024
- #5 Best Grad Schools California 2024
- #5 Best Research Universities for Physics Degrees
- #5 Best Research Universities for Chemistry Degrees
- #9 Best Research Universities for Math Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for Engineering Degrees
- #10 Best Research Universities for Earth Sciences Degrees
- #11 Best Research Universities for Computer Science Degrees
- #12 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #18 Best Research Universities for Business Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Economics Degrees
Tuition + fees
$59K
Acceptance
4%
Graduation
93%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1555/35
Career Outlook for degree at California Institute of Technology
Cost of Degree: $60,864Expenses: $22,734Starting Salary: $106,300Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California Institute of Technology known for?
California Institute of Technology’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #9 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #14 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024
Other Rankings
- #17 50 Best Graduate Schools Ranked for Prospective Students in 2024
- #3 Best Public Colleges California 2024
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
- #6 Best Research Universities in California 2024
- #6 Best Grad Schools California 2024
- #21 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Biology Degrees
- #16 Top 20 Best Business Schools for MBAs Ranked for Students
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
34%
Graduation
89%
Student body
42K
Median SAT/ACT
1375/31
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, San Diego
Cost of Degree: $14,906Expenses: $22,134Starting Salary: $69,600Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, San Diego known for?
University of California, San Diego’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Biology
- Psychology
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
- #15 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #15 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #4 Best Public Colleges California 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
29%
Graduation
85%
Student body
28K
Median SAT/ACT
1345/31
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Santa Barbara
Cost of Degree: $14,617Expenses: $23,285Starting Salary: $62,400Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Santa Barbara known for?
University of California, Santa Barbara’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Physics
- Earth Sciences
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
- #23 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #25 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
29%
Graduation
84%
Student body
38K
Median SAT/ACT
1330/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Irvine
Cost of Degree: $13,939Expenses: $23,350Starting Salary: $65,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Irvine known for?
University of California, Irvine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Biology
- Literature
- Earth Sciences
Most Influential Alumni
- #17 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024 #9 Best Research Universities in California 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$15K
Acceptance
49%
Graduation
87%
Student body
42K
Median SAT/ACT
1280/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Davis
Cost of Degree: $14,858Expenses: $23,698Starting Salary: $68,100Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Davis known for?
University of California, Davis’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Biology
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Earth Sciences
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Psychology
- Economics
- Anthropology
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #25 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #7 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in California 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
59%
Graduation
78%
Student body
21K
Median SAT/ACT
1260/29
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Santa Cruz
Cost of Degree: $14,240Expenses: $24,472Starting Salary: $53,800Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Santa Cruz known for?
University of California, Santa Cruz’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Biology
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Communications
- Mathematics
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$14K
Acceptance
65%
Graduation
76%
Student body
29K
Median SAT/ACT
1180/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of California, Riverside
Cost of Degree: $13,874Expenses: $23,352Starting Salary: $55,300Cost Recoup Time: 13 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of California, Riverside known for?
University of California, Riverside’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #12 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #1 Best Christian Colleges in California 2024 #4 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$56K
Acceptance
54%
Graduation
91%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1360/30
Career Outlook for degree at Santa Clara University
Cost of Degree: $57,534Expenses: $21,315Starting Salary: $85,300Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Santa Clara University known for?
Santa Clara University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Psychology
- Business
- Mathematics
- Law
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #9 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024 #17 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees #17 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
- #4 Best Online Master's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs
- #4 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
- #6 Best Online Master's in Public Administration Degree Programs
- #6 Best Online Master’s in Counseling
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
38%
Graduation
76%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1195/25
Career Outlook for degree at San Diego State University
Cost of Degree: $8,174Expenses: $23,936Starting Salary: $55,900Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is San Diego State University known for?
San Diego State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice
- Business
- Earth Sciences
- History
- Psychology
- Biology
- Engineering
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
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
- #12 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #10 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
- #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2024
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees
- #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees
- #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Nursing Degrees
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
54%
Student body
31K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/19
Career Outlook for degree at San Francisco State University
Cost of Degree: $7,524Expenses: $21,601Starting Salary: $54,700Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is San Francisco State University known for?
San Francisco State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Communications
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Social Work
- Political Science
- History
- Mathematics
Most Influential Alumni
- #17 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
84%
Graduation
69%
Student body
40K
Median SAT/ACT
1125/22
Career Outlook for degree at San Jose State University
Cost of Degree: $7,899Expenses: $22,951Starting Salary: $63,800Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is San Jose State University known for?
San Jose State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Education
- Engineering
- Sociology
- Business
- Political Science
- Nursing
- Literature
Most Influential Alumni
- #15 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in California 2024 #5 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$53K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
76%
Student body
12K
Median SAT/ACT
1235/27
Career Outlook for degree at University of San Francisco
Cost of Degree: $55,532Expenses: $22,322Starting Salary: $74,000Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of San Francisco known for?
University of San Francisco’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Business
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Law
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- History
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #2 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #17 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #3 Best Christian Colleges in California 2024 #6 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
Other Rankings
- #1 Best Online MBA Programs in California
- #3 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
- #3 Most Unusual Doctoral Degrees You Can Earn Online (PhDs)
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #5 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
- #6 Top 8 Fastest Accelerated Online Psychology Doctorates (PhDs)
- #11 Fastest Online Bachelor's Degrees Ranked for 2024
- #23 Best Online MBA Degree Programs for 2024 with No GMAT Required
Tuition + fees
$60K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
83%
Student body
12K
Median SAT/ACT
1305/28
Career Outlook for degree at Pepperdine University
Cost of Degree: $63,142Expenses: $22,060Starting Salary: $77,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Pepperdine University known for?
Pepperdine University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Business
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Economics
- Law
- Religious Studies
- Education
- Literature
- History
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
Pepperdine University’s Online Degrees
BS in Management
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #16 50 Best Small Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #18 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #2 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024
Other Rankings
- #7 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degree
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2024
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees
- #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees
Tuition + fees
$57K
Acceptance
7%
Graduation
93%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Pomona College
Cost of Degree: $59,238Expenses: $21,958Starting Salary: $77,300Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Pomona College known for?
Pomona College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Religious Studies
- Biology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
- #24 50 Best Christian Colleges and Universities 2024 #4 Best Christian Colleges in California 2024 #8 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$59K
Acceptance
60%
Graduation
80%
Student body
10K
Median SAT/ACT
1260/27
Career Outlook for degree at Chapman University
Cost of Degree: $60,672Expenses: $21,874Starting Salary: $56,600Cost Recoup Time: 20 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Chapman University known for?
Chapman University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #16 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #3 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2024
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
Tuition + fees
$61K
Acceptance
10%
Graduation
94%
Student body
<1K
Median SAT/ACT
1530/34
Career Outlook for degree at Harvey Mudd College
Cost of Degree: $62,817Expenses: $22,079Starting Salary: $104,200Cost Recoup Time: 14 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Harvey Mudd College known for?
Harvey Mudd College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Engineering
- Biology
- Sociology
- Economics
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
Most Influential Alumni
- #4 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #5 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #10 Best Private Colleges in California 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024
Other Rankings
- #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #3 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
- #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Economics Degree
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Political Science Degrees
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degree
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Philosophy Degrees
- #10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for History Degrees
- #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for English Degrees
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
11%
Graduation
93%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1415/32
Career Outlook for degree at Claremont McKenna College
Cost of Degree: $60,715Expenses: $21,412Starting Salary: $93,200Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #6 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #2 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Human Services #6 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
54%
Student body
43K
Median SAT/ACT
1005/19
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Northridge
Cost of Degree: $7,069Expenses: $16,638Starting Salary: $49,700Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
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
- #10 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #4 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #7 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
59%
Graduation
71%
Student body
47K
Median SAT/ACT
1090/20
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Fullerton
Cost of Degree: $7,007Expenses: $20,824Starting Salary: $51,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
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
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
52%
Student body
29K
Median SAT/ACT
965/17
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Los Angeles
Cost of Degree: $6,805Expenses: $23,884Starting Salary: $49,900Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #5 Best Christian Colleges in California 2024 #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
$53K
Acceptance
53%
Graduation
80%
Student body
10K
Career Outlook for degree at University of San Diego
Cost of Degree: $54,554Expenses: $21,213Starting Salary: $71,100Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #9 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024 #15 Top 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Counseling Doctorates (PhDs)
Tuition + fees
$52K
Acceptance
79%
Graduation
69%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/26
Career Outlook for degree at University of the Pacific
Cost of Degree: $53,682Expenses: $18,623Starting Salary: $84,200Cost Recoup Time: 15 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of the Pacific known for?
University of the Pacific ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
47%
Graduation
75%
Student body
43K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/23
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Long Beach
Cost of Degree: $6,884Expenses: $19,298Starting Salary: $53,000Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
46%
Graduation
79%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1300/29
Career Outlook for degree at Loyola Marymount University
Cost of Degree: $55,441Expenses: $20,301Starting Salary: $71,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
38%
Graduation
83%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1365/30
Career Outlook for degree at Occidental College
Cost of Degree: $60,566Expenses: $20,070Starting Salary: $59,400Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
- #7 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #10 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024 #17 Best Online Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Humanities Degree Programs for 2024 #23 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
97%
Graduation
57%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
995/18
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Fresno
Cost of Degree: $6,663Expenses: $16,226Starting Salary: $48,500Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat 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
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
California’s Best Colleges in Your Area of Interest
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.
- California Institute of Technology
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- Pomona College
- Harvey Mudd College
- Claremont McKenna College
- University of Southern California
- University of California, Los Angeles
- Occidental College
- Pitzer College
- University of California, San Diego
- Pepperdine University
- Scripps College
- University of California, Santa Barbara
- University of California, Santa Cruz
- Santa Clara University
- University of California, Davis
- Golden Gate University
- Mills College at Northeastern University
- University of California, Irvine
- University of California, Riverside
- Loyola Marymount University
- Whittier College
- University of California, Merced
- University of Redlands