University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs in California.
The idea of the best college or university is not an absolute scale that applies to every student or situation. For each student, the best school is one that meets their needs, preferences, and educational goals. When comparing schools, many educational experts and surveys use ranking factors including reputation to rate colleges. California, beyond doubt, has a wide range of schools that have high accreditation and excellent indicators of quality education. California schools are among the leading research universities in the world; they have produced historical achievements and graduates that have influenced the well-being of the entire nation.
The best colleges & universities should include large public institutions, well-established traditional private schools, and the emerging institutions that are part of a current wave of progressive education.
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What are the most popular bachelor's degrees offered in California?
The below-listed categories describe the most common majors in California colleges and universities. Some majors are vocational, as many students at state colleges take a utility view of education and hone-in on a degree that will equip them for a job or to start a career. Many popular majors seem more suited to further education or a non-vocational reward. The humanities or courses of study like literature or philosophy seem unrelated to career directions. It is interesting to note a trend in hiring in recent years for employers to look for graduates with majors that are unrelated subjects but that equip graduates with valuable skills. Philosophy majors that demonstrate critical thinking may be in demand with business employers just as students of finance.
The choice of major is an interesting piece of information for students when reviewing and selecting schools or colleges for a two or four-year degree. Across the US, the Department of Education listed the most popular bachelor’s degrees awarded in 2015. For California, the DOE listed the following:
- Business & Management
- Biological Sciences
- Computer Information Systems
- Education
- Health Professions
- Psychology
- Social Sciences and History
- Visual and Performing Arts
How Much Can You Make by Having a Degree in California
Salary data always lags a few years in the past as the collection process requires time after the close of a calendar year. One useful survey occurred for the calendar year 2023. The average salary in the state of California was about $76,900 in a scale that put the national average at $59,228. California ranked fifth in that survey among U.S. states. California salaries averaged about 23% above the national average according to the BLS California and National annual mean wage statistics.The national average increase in salary for persons with a bachelor’s degree over those without is 141%.
Education Level & National Average Median Compensation
NO FORMAL EDUCATION | HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA | ASSOCIATE DEGREE | BACHELOR’S DEGREE | MASTER’S DEGREE | DOCTORAL DEGREE |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
$36,816* | $46,748* | $55,016* | $77,636* | $90,324* | $109,668* |
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Most Popular Degrees and Careers in California
California has a large and diverse economy. It is the most populous state of the United States, and it has a large territory with global economic centers in San Francisco and Los Angeles. The state is a global leader in media, arts, entertainment, and technology with about 40 million residents who comprise around 12% of the US population. The workforce averages about 19.4 million workers. The unemployment rate hovers in the 4.1% range.
California has a robust education sector, a growing healthcare industry, and it is a global hub for technology. California has about 260 four-year colleges and universities and it has more than two million students. The levels of employment are high and rising in government, healthcare, education, transportation, trade, hospitality, and business services. Over the next ten years, the fastest-growing fields of study include healthcare, nursing, software development, health education, and operations research.
The California economy is large and has a wide range of activities. They include agriculture, metals and mining, logging, and fishing. The state has a vibrant services sector including business-to-business services. The major industries include hospitality, tourism, and transportation. The many aspects of the construction industry are on display in California; it has an extensive system of roads and building new housing is a constant activity.
The top careers in California reflect the policy and programs to promote healthcare, the investment in education, and the importance of higher education as an industry and as a source of supply for the talent needed to run businesses in the future.
Top Business Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Marketing Manager | 40,900 | $65,900 |
Finance | 92,060 | $63,900 |
Accounting | 148,500 | $51,600 |
Management | 103,970 | $87,700 |
- Marketing careers involve branding, sales, and digital information to reach general or specific audiences. Marketing professionals must examine data, plan strategies, and oversee campaigns to reach organizational goals.
- Finance careers help organizations manage funds and assets. Finance involves raising business capital and making efficient use of capital and capital assets.
- Accountants involves management, auditing, public finance, and public accountancy. All in some way connect business practices with tax compliance, bookkeeping, and proper reporting.
- Business Management careers help run organizations. Management concerns organizing structures, planning for the use of resources and developing a strategy to reach goals. Management is both long-term, and day-to-day; it is the role that bears responsibility for nearly every organizational activity.
- Business Administrator
- Business Development
- Entrepreneurs
- Economist
- Hospitality Manager
- Human Resource Managers
- International Business
- Operations Manager
- Organizational Leaders
- Project Managers
- Supply Chain Manager
Top Information Technology Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Software Developer | 249,620 | $71,900 |
Operations Research Analyst | 10,000 | $78,800 |
Computer Hardware Engineer | 19,940 | $84,900 |
Computer Systems Analysts | 64,260 | $69,500 |
Web Developers | 20,920 | $59,900 |
- Software Developers use programming skills and knowledge to develop applications and do system problem-solving.
- Operations Research Analysts use modeling and mathematical methodologies to analyze data and apply it to organizational management functions and decision-making.
- Computer Hardware Engineers manage computer systems from design to build and upgrade. The engineer develops hardware for the critical infrastructure for information systems.
- Computer Systems Analysts help manage systems by keeping them running smoothly and resolving problems and issues. The analyst relies upon a blend of hardware engineering, programming, and system engineering.
- Web Developers have the vital role in ecommerce and digital communications to develop and maintain websites, portals, and platforms.
- Cybersecurity Specialists help protect computer systems and networks from information leaks and theft from hackers for medium to large businesses.
- Database Administration is an information technology specialist responsible for directing and performing activities to maintain a successful database.
- Computer Information Specialists
- Information Technologist
Top Education Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Foreign Language & Lit Teachers | 3,040 | $51,800 |
Law Teachers | 1,540 | $131,400 |
Rec& Fitness Teachers | 2,030 | $44,200 |
Education Teachers | 3,380 | $51,200 |
- Foreign Language and Literature Teachers are post-secondary level teachers typically with bachelor’s or master’s degrees.
- Law Teachers are college-level instructors that specialize in law and pre-law subject areas.
- Rec & Fitness Teachers are certified teachers that specialize in nutrition and fitness.
- Education Teachers specialize in the teaching arts and sciences along with research on education. They also work in education administration.
- Preschool Teachers
- Teacher
Top Healthcare Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Occupational Therapists | 10,060 | $62,100 |
Speech-Language Pathologists | 14,980 | $62,200 |
Physician Assistants | 10,890 | $97,800 |
Nurse Practitioner | 13,900 | $97,500 |
Registered Nurses | 302,770 | $65,400 |
Athletic Trainers | 1,270 | $43,600 |
- Occupational Therapists provide physical rehabilitation services in support of medical care to restore pain-free movement after surgery or other medical treatment.
- Speech-Language Pathologists detect and diagnose diseases and conditions that interfere with speech. Often in short supply, speech therapists often work in teams with professionals to manage parts of complex cases such as the aftermath of a stroke, accidents, or severe illness.
- Physicians Assistants perform many functions of a general medical practitioner. These highly skilled professionals can be the first contact in managed healthcare settings. Physicians assistants get in-depth training that includes diagnosis, pharmacy, and specialized areas.
- Nurse Practitioner is a skilled nurse certified in general medical care. These skilled health professionals can function as general medical practitioners in managed healthcare (HMO or PPO) and rural area settings. Nurse practitioners can have a bachelor of science degree in some specialized areas of nursing.
- Registered Nurses are licensed professionals typically with a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN). RNs work in many practical and skilled care settings like hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes. Registered nurses supervise LPNs, LVNs, and Certified Nursing Assistants.
- Athletic Trainers work in health clubs and other training facilities. These locations are also used to provide long-term care and coaching to patients. Trainers also work in many medical settings including short-term healthcare, hospitals, and wellness programs.
- Healthcare Administrators work in many medical settings including short-term healthcare, hospitals, and wellness programs, long-term care facilities, hospice and many more. The primary function of a healthcare admin is to manage the healthcare facilities operations.
- Healthcare Management
Top Psychology Careers and Salaries
CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE |
---|---|---|
Psychiatrist | 3,560 | $211,800 |
Organizational Psychologist | 40 | $78,300 |
Neuropsychologist | 14,220 | $93,700 |
Engineering Psychologist | 40 | $98,900 |
Psychology Teacher | 4,340 | $45,000 |
-
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors with specializations in mental health and psychiatric medicine.
-
Organizational Psychologists work in corporate, commercial, and industrial settings. They form part of the advanced human resources process and help evaluate personnel, workplace stress, and related factors.
-
Neuropsychologists are specialists in the field of psychiatry that manage disorders and diseases with a neurological base or co-condition.
-
Engineering Psychologists are specialists that research and practice in the realm of man and machines. They study and treat conditions that relates to human-machine interactions.
-
Psychology Teachers must have a bachelor’s with certification, a teaching license, and a master’s degree. Some California schools require a subject certification in psychology.
-
Counselors must have a bachelor’s and in some cases a counseling master's degree in order to help clients identify goals and solutions to potential turmoil the patient has.
- Child Counselor
The top occupations with the highest growth rate forecast in California
The California state government using 2016 data projected growth occupations in California. Some larger patterns suggest that construction trades and related positions will have long-term high growth along with Web and software developers.
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Growth Occupation | Projected growth |
---|---|
Web Developers | 48.9% |
Floor layers | 45.2% |
Operations research Analysts | 42.2% |
Helpers-Electrician | 38.7% |
Interpreters and Translators | 35.7% |
Top 25 Best Associate Degree Programs in California
Foothill College
Score: 70.96
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,565
- Out-of-State: $12,320
- Net Price: $11,013
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 12,434
- Undergrad Students: 12,434
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $48,800
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
Casa Loma College
Score: 70.36
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $42,556
- Out-of-State: $42,556
- Net Price: $14,985
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 415
- Undergrad Students: 415
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $52,800
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
De Anza College
Score: 70.19
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,562
- Out-of-State: $12,317
- Net Price: $8,267
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 16,335
- Undergrad Students: 16,335
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $43,200
- Student-to-faculty: 27:1
College of San Mateo
Score: 69.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,332
- Out-of-State: $11,384
- Net Price: $6,344
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 7,512
- Undergrad Students: 7,512
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $50,300
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Shasta College
Score: 65.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,197
- Out-of-State: $8,277
- Net Price: $8,323
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: N/A
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 7,363
- Undergrad Students: 7,363
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $70,700
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
Irvine Valley College
Score: 65
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,156
- Out-of-State: $10,996
- Net Price: $5,550
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 10,464
- Undergrad Students: 10,464
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,300
- Student-to-faculty: 28:1
Las Positas College
Score: 64.9
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,168
- Out-of-State: $8,176
- Net Price: $5,342
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 6,724
- Undergrad Students: 6,724
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,400
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
West Valley College
Score: 63.56
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,490
- Out-of-State: $8,702
- Net Price: $5,468
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 6,513
- Undergrad Students: 6,513
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,200
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Ohlone College
Score: 62.24
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,202
- Out-of-State: $8,714
- Net Price: $14,247
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 8,358
- Undergrad Students: 8,358
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,600
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
Diablo Valley College
Score: 62.2
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,312
- Out-of-State: $9,012
- Net Price: $7,398
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 80%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 16,097
- Undergrad Students: 16,097
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $39,700
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
Canada College
Score: 62.08
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,332
- Out-of-State: $9,508
- Net Price: $4,420
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 5,388
- Undergrad Students: 5,388
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,700
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
City College of San Francisco
Score: 61.74
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,696
- Out-of-State: $14,656
- Net Price: $8,569
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 16,134
- Undergrad Students: 16,134
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $47,200
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Skyline College
Score: 60.61
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,332
- Out-of-State: $11,384
- Net Price: $5,161
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 8,523
- Undergrad Students: 8,523
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $41,500
- Student-to-faculty: 27:1
Santiago Canyon College
Score: 60.45
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,164
- Out-of-State: $9,612
- Net Price: $6,529
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 11,696
- Undergrad Students: 11,696
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,600
- Student-to-faculty: 36:1
Mt. San Antonio College
Score: 60.13
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,364
- Out-of-State: $10,212
- Net Price: $5,528
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 26,256
- Undergrad Students: 26,256
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $37,800
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Asher College
Score: 60.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $31,690
- Out-of-State: $31,690
- Net Price: $4,801
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 20%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 802
- Undergrad Students: 802
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,100
- Student-to-faculty: 26:1
Los Medanos College
Score: 59.88
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,312
- Out-of-State: $9,012
- Net Price: $7,459
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Total Enrollment: 7,791
- Undergrad Students: 7,791
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,300
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
MiraCosta College
Score: 59.55
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,152
- Out-of-State: $9,120
- Net Price: $7,281
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 10,860
- Undergrad Students: 10,860
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $35,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
College of Marin
Score: 59.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,558
- Out-of-State: $10,828
- Net Price: $9,564
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 4,283
- Undergrad Students: 4,283
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $44,100
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Moorpark College
Score: 59.12
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,416
- Out-of-State: $8,179
- Net Price: $3,978
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 12,484
- Undergrad Students: 12,484
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,300
- Student-to-faculty: 27:1
Mission College
Score: 58.95
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,438
- Out-of-State: $12,220
- Net Price: $8,395
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- Total Enrollment: 5,747
- Undergrad Students: 5,747
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $42,100
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Ventura College
Score: 58.88
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,416
- Out-of-State: $8,179
- Net Price: $3,111
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 10,559
- Undergrad Students: 10,559
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $36,200
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
College of the Canyons
Score: 57.91
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,176
- Out-of-State: $11,232
- Net Price: $6,185
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 18,075
- Undergrad Students: 18,075
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $35,900
- Student-to-faculty: 26:1
Pasadena City College
Score: 57.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,180
- Out-of-State: $10,756
- Net Price: $4,420
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 21,923
- Undergrad Students: 21,923
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $32,400
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
MTI College
Score: 57.39
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,000
- Out-of-State: $17,000
- Net Price: $20,788
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 952
- Undergrad Students: 952
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $29,400
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in California
Stanford University
Score: 92.63
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,484
- Out-of-State: $62,484
- Net Price: $18,279
- Acceptance Rate: 4%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 18,283
- Undergrad Students: 8,049
- Graduate Students: 10,234
- Grads Salary: $116,000
- Student-to-faculty: 5:1
California Institute of Technology
Score: 92.38
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $63,255
- Out-of-State: $63,255
- Net Price: $20,755
- Acceptance Rate: 3%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Total Enrollment: 2,401
- Undergrad Students: 982
- Graduate Students: 1,419
- Grads Salary: $117,000
- Student-to-faculty: 3:1
Harvey Mudd College
Score: 84.48
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $66,255
- Out-of-State: $66,255
- Net Price: $39,850
- Acceptance Rate: 13%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 922
- Undergrad Students: 922
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $116,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Northwestern Polytechnic University
Score: 84.21
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,775
- Out-of-State: $8,775
- Net Price: $12,510
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Retention Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 164
- Undergrad Students: 24
- Graduate Students: 140
- Grads Salary: $110,000
- Student-to-faculty: 3:1
Pomona College
Score: 83.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,326
- Out-of-State: $62,326
- Net Price: $19,962
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 1,716
- Undergrad Students: 1,716
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $94,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
University of California-Berkeley
Score: 82.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,850
- Out-of-State: $45,627
- Net Price: $19,257
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Total Enrollment: 45,307
- Undergrad Students: 32,479
- Graduate Students: 12,828
- Grads Salary: $97,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
University of California-Los Angeles
Score: 80.5
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,747
- Out-of-State: $44,524
- Net Price: $16,999
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 46,430
- Undergrad Students: 32,423
- Graduate Students: 14,007
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Claremont McKenna College
Score: 79.36
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $64,150
- Out-of-State: $64,150
- Net Price: $28,701
- Acceptance Rate: 10%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 1,389
- Undergrad Students: 1,386
- Graduate Students: 3
- Grads Salary: $92,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
University of California-Irvine
Score: 78.56
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,237
- Out-of-State: $45,014
- Net Price: $14,033
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 35,937
- Undergrad Students: 28,662
- Graduate Students: 7,275
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
University of California-San Diego
Score: 78.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,265
- Out-of-State: $46,042
- Net Price: $16,111
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 42,006
- Undergrad Students: 33,096
- Graduate Students: 8,910
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
University of Southern California
Score: 77.06
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $68,237
- Out-of-State: $68,237
- Net Price: $36,808
- Acceptance Rate: 12%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 48,945
- Undergrad Students: 20,699
- Graduate Students: 28,246
- Grads Salary: $92,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of California-Santa Barbara
Score: 76.46
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,965
- Out-of-State: $45,742
- Net Price: $16,874
- Acceptance Rate: 26%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 26,420
- Undergrad Students: 23,459
- Graduate Students: 2,961
- Grads Salary: $85,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of California-Davis
Score: 76.11
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $15,247
- Out-of-State: $46,024
- Net Price: $17,385
- Acceptance Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 39,679
- Undergrad Students: 31,532
- Graduate Students: 8,147
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,075
- Out-of-State: $30,995
- Net Price: $19,184
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- Total Enrollment: 22,000
- Undergrad Students: 21,026
- Graduate Students: 974
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
San Diego State University
Score: 72.27
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,290
- Out-of-State: $20,170
- Net Price: $13,017
- Acceptance Rate: 39%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- Total Enrollment: 37,402
- Undergrad Students: 32,194
- Graduate Students: 5,208
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
Pitzer College
Score: 71.78
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $62,692
- Out-of-State: $62,692
- Net Price: $39,809
- Acceptance Rate: 18%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- Total Enrollment: 1,212
- Undergrad Students: 1,212
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
University of California-Santa Cruz
Score: 71.75
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,560
- Out-of-State: $45,337
- Net Price: $17,975
- Acceptance Rate: 47%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 19,478
- Undergrad Students: 17,502
- Graduate Students: 1,976
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
California State University-Long Beach
Score: 71.12
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,008
- Out-of-State: $18,888
- Net Price: $9,346
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Total Enrollment: 38,973
- Undergrad Students: 32,931
- Graduate Students: 6,042
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
San Jose State University
Score: 70.63
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,992
- Out-of-State: $19,872
- Net Price: $14,219
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 35,751
- Undergrad Students: 26,863
- Graduate Students: 8,888
- Grads Salary: $91,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Santa Clara University
Score: 70.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,241
- Out-of-State: $59,241
- Net Price: $50,551
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- Total Enrollment: 9,178
- Undergrad Students: 6,115
- Graduate Students: 3,063
- Grads Salary: $96,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Soka University of America
Score: 70.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $37,450
- Out-of-State: $37,450
- Net Price: $17,928
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 455
- Undergrad Students: 445
- Graduate Students: 10
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
California State University Maritime Academy
Score: 69.6
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,672
- Out-of-State: $19,552
- Net Price: $17,566
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 849
- Undergrad Students: 808
- Graduate Students: 41
- Grads Salary: $96,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
California State University-Fullerton
Score: 69.25
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,073
- Out-of-State: $18,953
- Net Price: $7,925
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 40,386
- Undergrad Students: 35,432
- Graduate Students: 4,954
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
University of San Diego
Score: 69.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $56,444
- Out-of-State: $56,444
- Net Price: $36,008
- Acceptance Rate: 53%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 8,815
- Undergrad Students: 5,669
- Graduate Students: 3,146
- Grads Salary: $85,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto
Score: 68.87
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,760
- Out-of-State: $14,760
- Net Price: $18,306
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 393
- Undergrad Students: 159
- Graduate Students: 234
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
Top 25 Best Master's Programs in California
Stanford University
Score: 93.76
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $58,746
- Out-of-State: $58,746
- Net Price: $18,279
- Acceptance Rate: 4%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Total Enrollment: 18,283
- Undergrad Students: 8,049
- Graduate Students: 10,234
- Grads Salary: $116,000
- Student-to-faculty: 5:1
California Institute of Technology
Score: 93.52
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $60,816
- Out-of-State: $60,816
- Net Price: $20,755
- Acceptance Rate: 3%
- Retention Rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Total Enrollment: 2,401
- Undergrad Students: 982
- Graduate Students: 1,419
- Grads Salary: $117,000
- Student-to-faculty: 3:1
University of California-Berkeley
Score: 83.32
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $19,257
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Total Enrollment: 45,307
- Undergrad Students: 32,479
- Graduate Students: 12,828
- Grads Salary: $97,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
University of California-Los Angeles
Score: 81.23
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $16,999
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 46,430
- Undergrad Students: 32,423
- Graduate Students: 14,007
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Claremont McKenna College
Score: 80.23
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $68,525
- Out-of-State: $68,525
- Net Price: $28,701
- Acceptance Rate: 10%
- Retention Rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 1,389
- Undergrad Students: 1,386
- Graduate Students: 3
- Grads Salary: $92,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
University of California-Irvine
Score: 79.29
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $14,033
- Acceptance Rate: 21%
- Retention Rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 35,937
- Undergrad Students: 28,662
- Graduate Students: 7,275
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
University of California-San Diego
Score: 79.07
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $16,111
- Acceptance Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 42,006
- Undergrad Students: 33,096
- Graduate Students: 8,910
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
University of California-San Francisco
Score: 78.4
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: 18%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 93%
- Total Enrollment: 3,140
- Undergrad Students: N/A
- Graduate Students: 3,140
- Grads Salary: $119,000
- Student-to-faculty: N/A
University of Southern California
Score: 77.73
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $66,640
- Out-of-State: $66,640
- Net Price: $36,808
- Acceptance Rate: 12%
- Retention Rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
- Total Enrollment: 48,945
- Undergrad Students: 20,699
- Graduate Students: 28,246
- Grads Salary: $92,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of California-Santa Barbara
Score: 77.18
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $16,874
- Acceptance Rate: 26%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 26,420
- Undergrad Students: 23,459
- Graduate Students: 2,961
- Grads Salary: $85,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of California-Davis
Score: 76.62
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $17,385
- Acceptance Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Total Enrollment: 39,679
- Undergrad Students: 31,532
- Graduate Students: 8,147
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
- Net Price: $19,184
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 85%
- Total Enrollment: 22,000
- Undergrad Students: 21,026
- Graduate Students: 974
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
San Diego State University
Score: 72.64
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
- Net Price: $13,017
- Acceptance Rate: 39%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- Total Enrollment: 37,402
- Undergrad Students: 32,194
- Graduate Students: 5,208
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
University of California-Santa Cruz
Score: 72.06
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $17,975
- Acceptance Rate: 47%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 19,478
- Undergrad Students: 17,502
- Graduate Students: 1,976
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
California State University-Long Beach
Score: 71.64
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
- Net Price: $9,346
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Total Enrollment: 38,973
- Undergrad Students: 32,931
- Graduate Students: 6,042
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Soka University of America
Score: 71.57
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $34,382
- Out-of-State: $34,382
- Net Price: $17,928
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 455
- Undergrad Students: 445
- Graduate Students: 10
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
San Jose State University
Score: 70.92
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
- Net Price: $14,219
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 35,751
- Undergrad Students: 26,863
- Graduate Students: 8,888
- Grads Salary: $91,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Santa Clara University
Score: 70.78
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,873
- Out-of-State: $25,873
- Net Price: $50,551
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 89%
- Total Enrollment: 9,178
- Undergrad Students: 6,115
- Graduate Students: 3,063
- Grads Salary: $96,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto
Score: 69.87
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,070
- Out-of-State: $11,070
- Net Price: $18,306
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 393
- Undergrad Students: 159
- Graduate Students: 234
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 7:1
California State University-Fullerton
Score: 69.66
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
- Net Price: $7,925
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 40,386
- Undergrad Students: 35,432
- Graduate Students: 4,954
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
University of San Diego
Score: 69.62
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $28,854
- Out-of-State: $28,854
- Net Price: $36,008
- Acceptance Rate: 53%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Total Enrollment: 8,815
- Undergrad Students: 5,669
- Graduate Students: 3,146
- Grads Salary: $85,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
University of the Pacific
Score: 69.26
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,924
- Out-of-State: $52,924
- Net Price: $28,164
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 74%
- Total Enrollment: 6,277
- Undergrad Students: 3,294
- Graduate Students: 2,983
- Grads Salary: $91,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of California-Riverside
Score: 69.1
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,264
- Out-of-State: $27,366
- Net Price: $14,487
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Retention Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 26,809
- Undergrad Students: 22,911
- Graduate Students: 3,898
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
Cal Poly Pomona
Score: 68.62
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,176
- Out-of-State: $16,680
- Net Price: $12,480
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 27,503
- Undergrad Students: 25,181
- Graduate Students: 2,322
- Grads Salary: $82,000
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
Saint Mary's College of California
Score: 66.91
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $33,900
- Out-of-State: $33,900
- Net Price: $32,129
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 72%
- Total Enrollment: 2,765
- Undergrad Students: 2,003
- Graduate Students: 762
- Grads Salary: $86,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Cost of California College Education & Salaries
California private schools such as Pepperdine or Stanford charge the same rate for in-state students as out-of-state students. The schools in the University of California system and the California state university system charge different rates for out-of-state students. The typical tuition for in-state students may be about $15,000 in 2019. The typical rate for out of state students might average $40,000. The difference in tuition costs is remarkable.
California schools sometimes require on-campus housing for first-year students. The costs of on-campus housing, room, and food expenses are vital factors for nearly all students. In some areas of the state, off-campus housing is significantly more expensive than on-campus.
California residents can also benefit from the Cal Grant program that provides state grants to students based on need. Like the federal Pell Grants, these subsidies are not loans, and students do not have to repay them. California also offers tuition-free education at several community colleges, and the combination of federal grants, state grants, and state scholarships based on need can cover a large percentage of the in-state tuition costs in the University system.
California is a cost-friendly state. It is one of only three states that offer higher levels of student grants that the federal Pell grant program. Students that can demonstrate need can get substantial coverage of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses. Students in California have low rates of student loan debt. The state subsidizes tuition and direct costs leaving relatively low tuition for the high-quality level of education from the University system and the state college system in California.
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College Cost Analysis - California vs. National
Average California Tuition & Fees versus National Averages at Four-Year Public Schools
In-State Tuition - $8,118
National Average – $9,580
Out-of-State – $31,423
National Average – $27,437
Average California Tuition, Room, Board, & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools
In-State Tuition - $22,664
National Average – $25,864
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid
The state of California ranked second out of 51 for the average amount of federal aid per student. The definition of federal aid includes grants, scholarships, and student loans. Across the US, about two-thirds of all students get some form of student financial aid. In recent years, grants made up most of the financial aid with federal loans providing about one-third.
California is an unusual state in that it has consistently increased aid to students and provided increased support to the robust California University and state college system. The results are significantly lowered in-state tuition costs than most other states.
Most students get some type of financial aid that includes loans from commercial sources. In the federal financial assistance programs, the FAFSA review uses need as the primary determinant of financial aid. The best forms of aid are in federal and California grants. These need-based funds do not require repayment.
Of the total national group of federal loan recipients, 1,025,600 reside in California. Of the California students who applied for federal assistance through the FAFSA process only 40% qualified for federal grants. These one million California recipients received federal grant funds that reduced their college expenses but also reduced their need to take on debt to finance their four-year degree.
Financial Aid | California | Nationally |
---|---|---|
Received Federal Grants Estimated | 40% | 37.7% |
Average $ per Recipient | $13,371 | $10,927 |
* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a postsecondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only. https://nces.ed.gov/search/
Scholarships for California Students
California students receive substantial grant assistance from the state of California. Residents must take advantage of every scholarship opportunity. Students must start early and research scholarships that may become available to them.
HAA
Horatio Alger California Scholarship
Amount: Up to $7,000 (92 Awards)
Deadline: October 25
https://scholars.horatioalger.org/scholarships
The annual program has ninety-two (92) awards up to $7,000 total per recipient. Eligible applicants must be California residents, US citizens, and enrolled full-time as a high school senior. Students can use awards at two or four-year schools. Applicants must write and submit a themed essay and demonstrate financial need. The overall theme of the program is to recognize and support students that have overcome barriers.
LGBM
L. Gordon Bittle Memorial Scholarship for Student CTA
Amount: $5,000 (Split between 1-3 students)
Deadline: February 1
https://www.cta.org/sctascholarships
The program awards up to three scholarships in the total of $5,000 to student CTA recipients. The application deadline is Friday, February 1, 2019. The award criteria use demonstrated need and outstanding academic performance. The top-rated recipients get the Pacific Asian American scholarship established in honor of Philip Vera Cruz.
CCNMA
CCNMA Scholarships
Amount: Varies
Deadline: April 2
https://www.ccnma.org/scholarships
The Latino journalists of California offer the Joel Garcia Memorial Scholarship along with a series of scholarships to promote diversity in the news industry. The awards support students pursuing careers in journalism. The organization seeks to develop educational programs for Latino journalists and to promote better portrayals of Latinos in the news and media.
ESA
ESA Youth Scholarship Program
Amount: $3,500 and $7,500
Deadline:
https://esaweb.org/programs/youth-scholarship/ysapply/
The Electronic Security Association offers scholarships to support the children of first responders. Eligible applicants must be graduating high school seniors; must have a parent or guardian that is an active police officer, firefighter, paramedic, EMT in California duty; and reside in participating states. California is a participating state and students in California can apply to the California ESA.
HACS
The Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: February 20
https://www.siliconvalleycf.org/scholarships/johnson
The program awards up to seven single issue scholarships. Students must be in good standing with a GPA of 2.5 out of 4.0 or higher. Students must graduate from a school in the Greater San Francisco Area. Eligible students must intend to enter a career in criminal justice, law enforcement, or corrections in a two-year or four-year school. Previous applicants can reapply.