Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2024
Liberal arts colleges are a great option for students seeking a well-rounded education in an intimate campus setting. The best liberal arts colleges in California offer a diverse selection of degree programs with opportunities for a highly individualized educational experience.
10 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California
- San Francisco State University
- San Jose State University
- Pomona College
- Harvey Mudd College
- Claremont McKenna College
- California State University, Northridge
- California State University, Fullerton
- California State University, Los Angeles
- California State University, Long Beach
- Occidental College
- San Francisco State University
- Pomona College
- San Jose State University
- Occidental College
- California State University, Northridge
- California State University, Los Angeles
- California State University, Fullerton
- Harvey Mudd College
- California State University, Long Beach
- Claremont McKenna College
- Sonoma State University 94%
- California State University, Sacramento 94%
- San Francisco State University 93%
- Dominican University of California 93%
- California State University, Los Angeles 91%
- California State University, San Bernardino 91%
- California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt 91%
- California State University, Dominguez Hills 90%
- California State University, Northridge 88%
- California State University, Chico 85%
- Santa Monica College 30 to 1
- California State Polytechnic University, Pomona 29 to 1
- Foothill College 28 to 1
- California State University, Northridge 28 to 1
- California State University, San Bernardino 27 to 1
- California State University, Fullerton 27 to 1
- California State University, Dominguez Hills 27 to 1
- California State University, Sacramento 26 to 1
- California State University, East Bay 26 to 1
- California State University, Los Angeles 25 to 1
- Harvey Mudd College $60,703
- Scripps College $58,442
- Occidental College $58,426
- Claremont McKenna College $58,111
- Pitzer College $57,978
- Pomona College $56,686
- University of Redlands $54,066
- Saint Mary's College of California $51,768
- Whittier College $49,514
- Dominican University of California $47,910
- Claremont McKenna College $64,288
- Occidental College $57,830
- Scripps College $46,774
- Mills College at Northeastern University $34,833
- Saint Mary's College of California $33,357
- University of Redlands $23,360
- Golden Gate University $19,620
- Dominican University of California $16,048
- National University $15,480
- Whittier College $14,742
- Foothill College
- California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
- Dominican University of California
- California State University, San Bernardino
- California State University, Dominguez Hills
- Saint Mary's College of California
- National University
- Whittier College
- Santa Monica College
- Sonoma State University
- California State University, Dominguez Hills
- Dominican University of California
- California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
- California State University, San Bernardino
- National University
- Foothill College
- Mills College at Northeastern University
- Saint Mary's College of California
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
- Santa Monica College
- Pomona College 7%
- Harvey Mudd College 10%
- Claremont McKenna College 11%
- Pitzer College 18%
- Scripps College 30%
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo 33%
- Occidental College 38%
- California State University, Long Beach 47%
- National University 55%
- California State University, Fullerton 59%
- Pomona College 6 to 1
- Occidental College 8 to 1
- Mills College at Northeastern University 8 to 1
- Claremont McKenna College 8 to 1
- Harvey Mudd College 8 to 1
- Pitzer College 9 to 1
- Scripps College 9 to 1
- Saint Mary's College of California 9 to 1
- Dominican University of California 10 to 1
- Whittier College 11 to 1
- Santa Monica College $1,104
- Foothill College $1,395
- California State University, San Bernardino $5,742
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo $5,742
- California State Polytechnic University, Pomona $5,742
- California State University, Sacramento $5,742
- California State University, Fullerton $5,742
- California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt $5,742
- California State University, Dominguez Hills $5,742
- California State University, East Bay $5,742
- California State University, San Bernardino $7,176
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo $7,176
- California State Polytechnic University, Pomona $7,176
- California State University, Sacramento $7,176
- California State University, Fullerton $7,176
- California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt $7,176
- California State University, Dominguez Hills $7,176
- California State University, East Bay $7,176
- California State University, Long Beach $7,176
- San Francisco State University $7,176
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
A liberal arts college is a school that puts a premium on undergraduate studies and offers a broad range of subjects for students to study. A college of liberal arts typically provides smaller class sizes, more direct engagement with professors, and, most importantly, the opportunity to sample a wide range of subject areas on the way to a bachelor’s degree. We’ve identified 84 liberal arts colleges in California. To be ranked among the 30 best liberal arts colleges in California, schools must fully accredited institutions.
Best Liberal Arts Colleges in California 2023
- #12 50 Best Liberal Arts Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students #10 Best Public Colleges California 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in California 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Social Work Degrees
Other Rankings
- #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 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #15 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Criminal Justice Degrees #16 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree
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
- #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 #7 Best Private Colleges in California 2024
Other Rankings
- #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
- #16 Best Colleges and Universities by Academic Stewardship #3 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #9 Best Private Colleges in California 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2024
Other Rankings
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 #10 Best Private Colleges in California 2024 #1 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #2 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
Other Rankings
- #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
- #2 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #5 Best Online Master’s in Human Services #6 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024 #10 Most Affordable Online Master's of Speech Pathology Programs
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 #4 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #7 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024 #8 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 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
- #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 #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering 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
$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
- #5 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #7 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #9 Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranked for 2024 #11 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
85%
Graduation
65%
Student body
18K
Median SAT/ACT
1070/21
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Chico
Cost of Degree: $7,972Expenses: $18,756Starting Salary: $55,400Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State University, Chico known for?
California State University, Chico’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Nursing
- Engineering
- Criminal Justice
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Biology
- History
Most Influential Alumni
California State University, Chico’s Online Degrees
BA in Liberal Studies
- Required Credits: 17 courses
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Religious Studies
- Required Credits: 34
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Multidisciplinary Studies Option
- Specialization Studies Option
- Required Credits: 36-42
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social Work
- Required Credits: 70
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
- #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
Golden Gate University’s Online Degrees
BS in Accounting
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Business
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Data Analytics
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Management
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Organizational Leadership and Human Skills Development
- Required Credits: 123
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #6 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #14 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
57%
Student body
36K
Median SAT/ACT
1030/20
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Sacramento
Cost of Degree: $7,484Expenses: $21,242Starting Salary: $54,200Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State University, Sacramento known for?
California State University, Sacramento’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Political Science
- Economics
- Education
- Earth Sciences
- Sociology
- Communications
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
California State University, Sacramento’s Online Degrees
BS in Criminal Justice
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Child Development
- Required Credits: 50
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BA in Arts & Letters
- Required Credits: 36
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
BS in Career and Technical Studies
- Required Credits: 48
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
AD to BNS in AD to BNS
- Required Credits: 33
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees #11 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degree #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Chemistry Degrees
Other Rankings
- #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Computer Science Degrees 2024
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Physics Degrees
- #20 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #22 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for a Biology Degree
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
33%
Graduation
85%
Student body
23K
Median SAT/ACT
1315/29
Career Outlook for degree at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Cost of Degree: $10,319Expenses: $19,599Starting Salary: $74,300Cost Recoup Time: 9 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo known for?
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Education
- Business
- Sociology
Most Influential Alumni
- #7 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #5 Best Online MBA Programs in California #15 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024 #16 Best Online MBAs in Finance
Tuition + fees
$54K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
69%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1140/22
Career Outlook for degree at University of Redlands
Cost of Degree: $55,678Expenses: $20,178Starting Salary: $57,700Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is University of Redlands known for?
University of Redlands’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Political Science
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Physics
- Philosophy
- Business
- Biology
- Education
- Mathematics
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
61%
Graduation
70%
Student body
32K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/23
Career Outlook for degree at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Cost of Degree: $7,439Expenses: $20,670Starting Salary: $58,000Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State Polytechnic University, Pomona known for?
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Engineering
- Earth Sciences
- Education
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Mathematics
- Political Science
- Physics
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
- #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Human Development Degree Programs for 2024 #6 Best Online Bachelor's of Finance Degree Programs for 2024 #7 Best Online Bachelor’s of Gender Studies Degree Programs for 2024 #8 Best Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs for 2024
Other Rankings
- #10 Best Online Bachelor's in Hospitality and Tourism Degree Programs for 2024
- #11 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
- #12 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Child Development Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #17 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
48%
Student body
19K
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, East Bay
Cost of Degree: $6,995Expenses: $20,964Starting Salary: $58,200Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State University, East Bay known for?
California State University, East Bay’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Mathematics
- Earth Sciences
- Literature
- Business
- Political Science
- Communications
Most Influential Alumni
California State University, East Bay’s Online Degrees
BS in Business Administration
Degree Concentrations
- Accounting
- Finance
- General Management
- Human Resources Management and Organizational Behavior
- Information Technology Management
- Operations and Supply Chain Management
- Required Credits: 75
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Hospitality and Tourism
- Required Credits: 60
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Ethnic Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Comparative Ethnic Studies Concentration
- Genders and Sexualities in Communities of Color Concentration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Human Development
Degree Concentrations
- Adult Development and Gerontology Concentration
- Early Childhood Development Concentration
- Women’s Development Concentration
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #8 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Education Degrees
Tuition + fees
$31K
Acceptance
80%
Graduation
64%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1165/25
What is Mills College at Northeastern University known for?
Mills College at Northeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Computer Science
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Literature
- Chemistry
- Nursing
- Biology
- Psychology
- Business
Most Influential Alumni
- #9 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #8 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #12 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees
Other Rankings
- #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earth Sciences Degree
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Anthropology Degrees
- #17 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Religious Studies Degrees
- #18 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Engineering Degrees
- #21 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Psychology Degrees
- #25 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Math Degrees
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
18%
Graduation
88%
Student body
1K
Career Outlook for degree at Pitzer College
Cost of Degree: $60,578Expenses: $22,254Starting Salary: $51,500Cost Recoup Time: 21 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Pitzer College known for?
Pitzer College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Literature
- Anthropology
- Chemistry
- Earth Sciences
- Psychology
- Economics
- Physics
- Education
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
- #10 Best Small Colleges in California 2024 #13 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Earning Business Degrees in 2024 #14 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Communications Degree #24 Best Liberal Arts Colleges for Sociology Degrees
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
30%
Graduation
82%
Student body
1K
Median SAT/ACT
1400/31
Career Outlook for degree at Scripps College
Cost of Degree: $60,712Expenses: $22,618Starting Salary: $61,800Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Scripps College known for?
Scripps College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Literature
- Economics
- Biology
- Earth Sciences
- Psychology
- Computer Science
- Religious Studies
- Mathematics
- Political Science
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
94%
Graduation
60%
Student body
9K
Median SAT/ACT
1050/20
Career Outlook for degree at Sonoma State University
Cost of Degree: $8,060Expenses: $19,292Starting Salary: $53,200Cost Recoup Time: 10 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Sonoma State University known for?
Sonoma State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Physics
- Biology
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Literature
- Business
- Political Science
- Computer Science
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$1K
Graduation
32%
Student body
36K
Career Outlook for degree at Santa Monica College
Cost of Degree: $1,150Starting Salary: $40,200What is Santa Monica College known for?
Santa Monica College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Computer Science
- History
- Psychology
- Communications
- Mathematics
- Medical
- Education
Most Influential Alumni
Tuition + fees
$50K
Acceptance
82%
Graduation
64%
Student body
2K
Career Outlook for degree at Whittier College
Cost of Degree: $49,864Expenses: $17,623Starting Salary: $50,900Cost Recoup Time: 19 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Whittier College known for?
Whittier College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Literature
- Sociology
- Religious Studies
- Education
- History
- Political Science
- Biology
- Economics
Most Influential Alumni
- #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2024 #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity
Other Rankings
- #3 Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor's (Online, On-Campus)
- #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Construction Management Degree Programs
- #4 Best Online Master’s in Forensics Degree Programs
- #5 Top 10 Best Online Master's of Psychology Degree Programs 2024
- #5 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs
- #6 Top 10 Fastest Accelerated Online PhD in Criminal Justice (Doctorates)
- #7 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #7 Best Online MBA Programs in California
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best Online Bachelor’s of Electrical and Computer Engineering Degree Programs for 2024
- #10 Best Online Associate in Business Administration
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity
- #11 Best Online Bachelor's in Math Degree Programs Ranked for Students
- #11 15 Fastest Accelerated Online Master's of Psychology Programs
- #12 Best Online Master's in Behavior Analysis Degree Programs
- #13 Best Online Colleges in California 2024
- #14 Best Online Bachelor's in Computer Science Degree Programs
- #14 Best Online Bachelor’s of Elementary Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #15 Best Online Bachelor's of Healthcare Administration Degree Programs for 2024
- #15 Best Online Bachelor’s of Digital Media for 2024
- #15 Best Online Master's in English
- #16 Best Online Bachelor's in Law and Legal Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #17 Best Online Master’s in Emergency Management
- #17 Best Online Bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies Degree Programs for 2024
- #20 Best Online Bachelor’s of Early Childhood Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Marketing and Advertising Degree Programs for 2024
- #20 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
- #20 Best Online Master's in Cybersecurity
- #21 Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting
- #22 Best Online Master’s in Human Resources
- #22 Best Online Master’s in Educational Administration
- #23 Best Online Master's in Organizational Leadership
- #24 Best Online Bachelor’s of Education Degree Programs for 2024
- #9 Best College Majors that Offer Accelerated Degree Programs
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
55%
Graduation
47%
Student body
30K
Career Outlook for degree at National University
Cost of Degree: $13,320Starting Salary: $59,000What is National University known for?
National University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Psychology
- Business
- Political Science
- Biology
- Law
- Engineering
- Education
- History
Most Influential Alumni
National University ’s Online Degrees
BA in Digital Media Design
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Accountancy
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BBA in Business Administration
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Construction Management
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Financial Management
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Integrated Marketing Communications
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Management
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Organizational Leadership
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Strategic Communications
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Computer Science
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Cybersecurity
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Systems
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Information Technology Management
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Criminal Justice Administration
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Pre-Law Studies
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Early Childhood Development
Degree Concentrations
- Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Multiple Subject Teaching Credential California
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Early Childhood Education
Degree Concentrations
- BAECE
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Elementary Education
Degree Concentrations
- Nevada Elementary Licensure
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in English
Degree Concentrations
- Single Subject Matter Preparation and ITL Single Subject Credential California
- Single Subject Matter Preparation and ITL Single Subject Credential California
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in English Education
Degree Concentrations
- Nevada Secondary Licensure
- Nevada Secondary Licensure
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Mathematics Courses
Degree Concentrations
- Single Subject Credential
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Social Science
Degree Concentrations
- Inspired Teaching and Learning Preliminary Single Subject Credential California
- Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential California
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in General Studies
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Global Studies
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in History
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BPA in Public Administration
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Sociology
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BA in Spanish
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Healthcare Administration
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Public Health
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Construction Engineering Technology
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Manufacturing Design Engineering
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$52K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
73%
Student body
4K
Median SAT/ACT
1161/24
Career Outlook for degree at Saint Mary's College of California
Cost of Degree: $53,572Expenses: $20,256Starting Salary: $63,600Cost Recoup Time: 18 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Saint Mary's College of California known for?
Saint Mary's College of California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Literature
- Psychology
- History
- Business
- Economics
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- Communications
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
- #3 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #15 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #15 Best RN to BSN Online #21 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
53%
Student body
20K
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, Dominguez Hills
Cost of Degree: $7,060Expenses: $20,531Starting Salary: $48,500Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State University, Dominguez Hills known for?
California State University, Dominguez Hills’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- History
- Business
- Political Science
- Social Work
- Psychology
Most Influential Alumni
California State University, Dominguez Hills’s Online Degrees
BS in Applied Studies
Degree Concentrations
- Public Sector Management
- Strategic Communications
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
RN to BSN in RN to BSN
- Required Credits: 50-53
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
BS in Quality Assurance
Degree Concentrations
- Measurement Science
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
- #12 Best Online MBA Programs in California #17 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 #22 Best Online Master's Programs in California 2024
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
57%
Student body
22K
Median SAT/ACT
995/17
Career Outlook for degree at California State University, San Bernardino
Cost of Degree: $7,486Expenses: $18,215Starting Salary: $48,800Cost Recoup Time: 11 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State University, San Bernardino known for?
California State University, San Bernardino’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
- Earth Sciences
- Political Science
- Mathematics
- History
- Engineering
- Sociology
- Communications
- Philosophy
Most Influential Alumni
California State University, San Bernardino’s Online Degrees
BA in Criminal Justice Degree Completion
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
RN-BSN in RN-BSN
- Required Credits: 180
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: None Reported
Tuition + fees
$48K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
77%
Student body
2K
Median SAT/ACT
1160/23
Career Outlook for degree at Dominican University of California
Cost of Degree: $49,426Expenses: $19,763Starting Salary: $63,600Cost Recoup Time: 17 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is Dominican University of California known for?
Dominican University of California’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
48%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/21
Career Outlook for degree at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
Cost of Degree: $7,864Expenses: $16,992Starting Salary: $40,100Cost Recoup Time: 12 yearsPaid back at 15% of annual salaryWhat is California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt known for?
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Sociology
- Physics
- Nursing
- Communications
- Political Science
- Engineering
Most Influential Alumni
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt’s Online Degrees
BA in Leadership Studies
- Required Credits: 120
- Completion Time: None Reported
- Format: Online
Tuition + fees
$2K
Graduation
58%
Student body
27K
Career Outlook for degree at Foothill College
Cost of Degree: $1,565Starting Salary: $58,300What is Foothill College known for?
Foothill College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Psychology
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Sociology
- Economics
- Engineering
- Business
- Medical
Most Influential Alumni
California’s Best Liberal Arts 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.
- Pomona College
- Harvey Mudd College
- Claremont McKenna College
- Occidental College
- Pitzer College
- Scripps College
- Golden Gate University
- Mills College at Northeastern University
- Whittier College
- University of Redlands
- San Francisco State University
- Dominican University of California
- Westmont College
- Woodbury University
- Pacific Union College
- San Jose State University
- La Sierra University
- Notre Dame de Namur University
- California State University, Los Angeles
- California State University, Northridge
- California State University, Long Beach
- California State University, Monterey Bay
- California State University, Fullerton
- Saint Mary's College of California
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Check out our directory of liberal arts colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top liberal arts schools in every state.