Best Grad Schools California 2024
Graduate school may be a critical step in your higher education, whether you are interested in expanding your knowledge, learning a specialization, or earning advanced credentials required by your profession. The best graduate schools in California offer advanced degrees, such as master’s and doctoral degrees, as well as opportunities for independent research, mentorships, and professional networking.
10 Best Grad Schools 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
- San Francisco State University 93%
- California State University, Los Angeles 91%
- University of the Pacific 79%
- University of San Francisco 71%
- University of California, Riverside 65%
- Chapman University 60%
- University of California, Santa Cruz 59%
- Santa Clara University 54%
- Pepperdine University 53%
- University of San Diego 53%
- San Diego State University 27 to 1
- University of California, Santa Cruz 25 to 1
- California State University, Los Angeles 25 to 1
- California State University, Long Beach 24 to 1
- University of California, Riverside 22 to 1
- San Francisco State University 22 to 1
- University of California, Davis 20 to 1
- University of California, Berkeley 19 to 1
- University of California, San Diego 19 to 1
- University of California, Los Angeles 18 to 1
- University of Southern California $61,503
- Pepperdine University $59,702
- California Institute of Technology $58,680
- Chapman University $58,634
- Stanford University $56,169
- Santa Clara University $55,860
- Loyola Marymount University $53,526
- University of San Francisco $53,472
- University of San Diego $52,864
- University of the Pacific $52,352
- University of Southern California $60,446
- California Institute of Technology $56,364
- Stanford University $54,315
- University of the Pacific $50,128
- Chapman University $37,538
- Pepperdine University $37,300
- Claremont Graduate University $35,640
- University of San Diego $27,936
- University of San Francisco $27,180
- Santa Clara University $25,170
- Golden Gate University
- Loyola Marymount University
- California State University, Long Beach
- University of the Pacific
- University of San Diego
- California State University, Los Angeles
- Naval Postgraduate School
- Chapman University
- Claremont Graduate University
- Pepperdine University
- Golden Gate University
- University of San Diego
- California State University, Long Beach
- Loyola Marymount University
- California State University, Los Angeles
- University of the Pacific
- Naval Postgraduate School
- Chapman University
- University of San Francisco
- Claremont Graduate University
- Stanford University 4%
- California Institute of Technology 4%
- 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%
- University of California, San Diego 34%
- San Diego State University 38%
- Loyola Marymount University 46%
- California Institute of Technology 3 to 1
- Stanford University 4 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
- Golden Gate University 12 to 1
- Chapman University 12 to 1
- Pepperdine University 13 to 1
- University of San Diego 13 to 1
- San Diego State University $5,742
- California State University, Long Beach $5,742
- San Francisco State University $5,742
- California State University, Los Angeles $5,742
- Golden Gate University $11,088
- University of California, Riverside $11,442
- University of California, Los Angeles $11,442
- University of California, Santa Cruz $11,442
- University of California, Berkeley $11,442
- University of California, Irvine $11,442
- San Diego State University $7,176
- California State University, Long Beach $7,176
- San Francisco State University $7,176
- California State University, Los Angeles $7,176
- University of California, Riverside $11,442
- University of California, Los Angeles $11,442
- University of California, Santa Cruz $11,442
- University of California, Berkeley $11,442
- University of California, Irvine $11,442
- University of California, Santa Barbara $11,442
Key Takeaways
- Many California institutions have elite academics, beautiful weather, and a wide range of recreational opportunities. The state is a clear choice for those interested in specific professional pathways, including technology or film.
- California is home to 23 colleges and hosts some of the country’s top colleges, including Stanford University, University of California Berkeley, Pepperdine University, and California State University.
- Tuition and fees in this state are high, with an average of $40,000 for graduate school. The cheapest on the list include California State University and San Francisco State University, with $7,000 per year.
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
Exploring California’s Top Graduate Schools
California is one of the most envied states in the education sector. California receives a lot of recognition and funding for their graduate programs and graduate certificate programs compared to other states such as Illinois, Ohio, and Maryland.
But it’s not enough for grad school students to randomly pick one of the best grad schools and assume it’s the best for them.
Knowing the facts will help you weigh the pros and cons of studying in California and help you to decide which graduate school is best for you.
Where should you attend graduate school in California?
Not all students are the same. Some may want to study in large urban areas while other students may want to study in a less populated area. Regardless of the setting, California has something for you.
For students who want to pursue graduate programs near large cities, the best schools for them include:
- University of Southern California
- University of San Diego
- San Francisco State University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of California, San Francisco
- San Diego State University
- California State University, Long Beach
- Loyola Marymount University
- University of San Francisco
Students who want to study in less populated areas should consider exploring other universities, including:
- California Institute of Technology
- University of California, Santa Barbara
- University of California, Davis
- University of California, Irvine
- University of California, Santa Cruz
- University of California, Riverside
- Pepperdine University
- Claremont Graduate University
- Santa Clara University
- California Institute of the Arts
- Naval Postgraduate School
- University of California, Merced
- Chapman University
Largest and Smallest Graduate Schools in California
Some students want to attend large universities because of the vast academic and social options available. There are generally more specialized majors and programs available to students at larger schools.
On the other hand, students may want to consider enrolling in smaller graduate schools where they can receive more individualized learning opportunities.
Here are the most populated graduate schools in California.
- University of California, Los Angeles (45K students)
- University of California, Berkeley (45K students)
- University of Southern California (49K students)
- University of California, San Diego (39K students)
- University of California, Irvine (37K students)
Here are the least populated graduate schools in California:
- Claremont Graduate University (1K students)
- Golden Gate University (2K students)
- California Institute of Technology (2K students)
- Naval Postgraduate School (2K students)
- University of the Pacific (6K students)
Lowest Average Graduate Tuition
Many prospective graduate students are pretty concerned about the cost of obtaining a graduate degree. To assist students in determining which program could be the most inexpensive, here are the least expensive graduate schools in California on the list that are below $15,000.
- San Diego State University ($3K)
- University of California, Riverside ($4K)
- California State University, Los Angeles ($8K)
- California State University, Long Beach ($8K)
- San Francisco State University ($8K)
- University of California, Santa Barbara ($11K)
- University of California, Berkeley ($14K)
- University of California, Santa Barbara ($11K)
- University of California, Santa Cruz ($14K)
There are 47 doctorate-granting graduate schools in California. Our ranking of the best graduate schools in the California is composed of both private and public schools. To be included, schools must be fully accredited non-profit institutions, and must offer doctoral degrees and a broad array of graduate degrees.
Best Grad Schools 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 Colleges in California 2024
- #1 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
- #1 Best Research Universities in 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 Colleges in California 2024
- #2 Best Research Universities in 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 Colleges in California 2024
- #3 Best Research Universities in 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 Colleges in California 2024
- #4 Best Research Universities in 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 Colleges in California 2024
- #5 Best Research Universities in 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 Colleges in California 2024
- #6 Best Research Universities in 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 Colleges 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 Colleges 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
- #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
- #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
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Claremont Graduate University
Starting Salary: $71,400What is Claremont Graduate University known for?
Claremont Graduate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Religious Studies
- Psychology
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Education
- Business
- History
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
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
- #6 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2024 #2 Best Online Master's in Organizational Psychology #2 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Online MBA Programs in California
- #4 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #5 Best Online Bachelor’s of Data Science and Analytics Degree Programs for 2024
- #5 Best Online Associate in General Studies
- #6 Best Online Master's in Project Management
- #7 Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Ranked for Students in 2024
- #8 Best Online MBA in Business Analytics Ranked for Students in 2024
- #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #8 Best Online MBA in Accounting Degree Programs
- #9 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
- #9 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Ranked for Students in 2024
- #10 Best Online MBAs in Finance
- #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
- #13 Best Online Master’s in Finance
- #14 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #18 Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration Degree Programs
- #19 Best Online Master's in Marketing and Advertising
- #19 Best Online Master's Degrees in Accounting
- #20 Best Online Master’s in Information Technology
Tuition + fees
$11K
Student body
3K
Career Outlook for degree at Golden Gate University
Cost of Degree: $11,343Starting Salary: $82,300What is Golden Gate University known for?
Golden Gate University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Most Influential Alumni
California’s Best Grad School for Your Area of Interest
Resources for Prospective Grad Students
Whether you’re just getting started on your college search, you’re looking for survival tips on your way to a bachelor’s degree, or you’re preparing for the transition into grad school, we’ve got guides, how to’s and tons of other valuable resources to keep you moving forward in your educational journey.
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.
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of California, San Diego
- University of Southern California
- California Institute of Technology
- University of California, Santa Barbara
- University of California, Davis
- University of California, Irvine
- University of California, San Francisco
- University of California, Santa Cruz
- University of California, Riverside
- San Francisco State University
- San Diego State University
- Pepperdine University
- Claremont Graduate University
- Santa Clara University
- California Institute of the Arts
- California State University, Long Beach
- Naval Postgraduate School
- California State University, Los Angeles
- Loyola Marymount University
- University of California, Merced
- University of San Francisco
- Chapman University