Get Matched With California Programs

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. While there is no pure consensus, the frequently listed top California colleges include;

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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:

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 2012. The average salary in the state of California was about $52,000 in a scale that put the national average at $45,000. California ranked fifth in that survey among states and the District of Columbia. California salaries averaged about 15% above the national average.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national average salary for 2017 was $44,564. The BLS figure for California was $57,190. Using the 2017 BLS data, California workers averaged about 29% more than the national average. The national average increase in salary for persons with a bachelor’s degree over those without is 108%.

Education Level & National Average Median Compensation

NO FORMAL EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA ASSOCIATE DEGREE BACHELOR’S DEGREE MASTER’S DEGREE DOCTORAL DEGREE
$30,784* $38,792* $43,024* $64,896* $77,844* $96,772*

Compare Popular Online California Programs

Top 25 Best Associate Degree Programs in California


1

De Anza College

Score: 73.67

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,562
    • Out-of-State: $11,507
  • 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: $40,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 27:1
  • De Anza College
2

Foothill College

Score: 73.45

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,565
    • Out-of-State: $11,510
  • 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: $45,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 25:1
  • Foothill College
3

Asher College

Score: 72.07

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $29,110
    • Out-of-State: $29,110
  • 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: $36,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 26:1
  • Asher College
4

College of San Mateo

Score: 69.03

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,376
    • Out-of-State: $9,496
  • 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: $41,400
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • College of San Mateo
5

West Valley College

Score: 67.54

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,490
    • Out-of-State: $8,810
  • 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: $39,100
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • West Valley College
6

Las Positas College

Score: 66.94

  • 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: $38,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • Las Positas College
7

Casa Loma College

Score: 66.29

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $41,172
    • Out-of-State: $41,172
  • 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: $38,700
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Casa Loma College
8

Skyline College

Score: 65.79

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,362
    • Out-of-State: $9,508
  • 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: $41,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 27:1
  • Skyline College
9

Diablo Valley College

Score: 65.37

  • 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: $38,500
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • Diablo Valley College
10

Canada College

Score: 64.48

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,362
    • Out-of-State: $9,006
  • 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: $40,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • Canada College
11

Irvine Valley College

Score: 64.48

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,150
    • Out-of-State: $9,814
  • 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: $34,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 28:1
  • Irvine Valley College
12

Ohlone College

Score: 64.2

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,202
    • Out-of-State: $7,178
  • 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: $38,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 25:1
  • Ohlone College
13

Santa Ana College

Score: 63.56

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,180
    • Out-of-State: $8,788
  • Net Price: $4,700
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 10000%
  • Graduation Rate: 27%
  • Total Enrollment: 23,852
  • Undergrad Students: 23,852
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $33,400
  • Student-to-faculty: 31:1
  • Santa Ana College
14

Mission College

Score: 63.17

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,480
    • Out-of-State: $10,180
  • 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: $39,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Mission College
15

Saddleback College

Score: 61.92

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,150
    • Out-of-State: $9,814
  • Net Price: $6,940
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 46%
  • Total Enrollment: 16,660
  • Undergrad Students: 16,660
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $34,700
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • Saddleback College
16

MTI College

Score: 61.65

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,136
    • Out-of-State: $17,136
  • 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: $34,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • MTI College
17

Moorpark College

Score: 61.61

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,398
    • Out-of-State: $8,146
  • 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: $35,400
  • Student-to-faculty: 27:1
  • Moorpark College
18

Orange Coast College

Score: 60.97

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,202
    • Out-of-State: $8,762
  • Net Price: $6,744
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 45%
  • Total Enrollment: 16,614
  • Undergrad Students: 16,614
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $34,600
  • Student-to-faculty: 27:1
  • Orange Coast College
19

City College of San Francisco

Score: 60.64

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,696
    • Out-of-State: $12,244
  • 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: $37,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • City College of San Francisco
20

MiraCosta College

Score: 60.37

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,152
    • Out-of-State: $8,448
  • 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: $33,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • MiraCosta College
21

Mt. San Antonio College

Score: 60.17

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,352
    • Out-of-State: $10,096
  • 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: $33,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • Mt. San Antonio College
22

Golden West College

Score: 60.04

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,190
    • Out-of-State: $9,854
  • Net Price: $5,088
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 42%
  • Total Enrollment: 10,053
  • Undergrad Students: 10,053
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $33,600
  • Student-to-faculty: 26:1
  • Golden West College
23

Ventura College

Score: 59.19

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,398
    • Out-of-State: $8,146
  • 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: $32,500
  • Student-to-faculty: 25:1
  • Ventura College
24

Chabot College

Score: 59.03

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,150
    • Out-of-State: $8,158
  • Net Price: $8,213
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 35%
  • Total Enrollment: 10,736
  • Undergrad Students: 10,736
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $36,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • Chabot College
25

Santiago Canyon College

Score: 58.93

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $1,156
    • Out-of-State: $8,764
  • 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: $34,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 36:1
  • Santiago Canyon College

Top 25 Best Bachelor's Programs in California


1

California Institute of Technology

Score: 82.68

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,864
    • Out-of-State: $60,864
  • 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
  • California Institute of Technology
2

Stanford University

Score: 81.91

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $58,416
    • Out-of-State: $58,416
  • 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: $113,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 5:1
  • Stanford University
3

Harvey Mudd College

Score: 75.22

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $62,817
    • Out-of-State: $62,817
  • 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: $117,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 8:1
  • Harvey Mudd College
4

Pomona College

Score: 73.74

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $59,238
    • Out-of-State: $59,238
  • 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: $92,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 7:1
  • Pomona College
5

University of California-Berkeley

Score: 72.18

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,395
    • Out-of-State: $44,467
  • 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: $94,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • University of California-Berkeley
6

University of California-Los Angeles

Score: 70.22

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,401
    • Out-of-State: $43,473
  • 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: $87,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of California-Los Angeles
7

University of California-San Diego

Score: 68.19

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,906
    • Out-of-State: $44,978
  • 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: $86,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • University of California-San Diego
8

Claremont McKenna College

Score: 68.14

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,715
    • Out-of-State: $60,715
  • 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: $87,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 8:1
  • Claremont McKenna College
9

University of California-Irvine

Score: 67.85

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,939
    • Out-of-State: $44,011
  • 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: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of California-Irvine
10

University of Southern California

Score: 66.43

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $64,726
    • Out-of-State: $64,726
  • 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: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • University of Southern California
11

University of California-Santa Barbara

Score: 66.33

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,617
    • Out-of-State: $44,689
  • 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: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of California-Santa Barbara
12

University of California-Davis

Score: 65.97

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,858
    • Out-of-State: $44,930
  • 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: $85,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • University of California-Davis
13

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Score: 65.72

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,319
    • Out-of-State: $28,229
  • 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: $85,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
14

California State University Maritime Academy

Score: 62.37

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,116
    • Out-of-State: $18,996
  • 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 Maritime Academy
15

San Diego State University

Score: 62.09

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,174
    • Out-of-State: $20,054
  • 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: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 25:1
  • San Diego State University
16

California State University-Long Beach

Score: 61.68

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,884
    • Out-of-State: $18,764
  • 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: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • California State University-Long Beach
17

San Jose State University

Score: 61.53

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,899
    • Out-of-State: $19,779
  • 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: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • San Jose State University
18

University of California-Santa Cruz

Score: 61.33

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,240
    • Out-of-State: $44,312
  • 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: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 23:1
  • University of California-Santa Cruz
19

Soka University of America

Score: 61.12

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $35,544
    • Out-of-State: $35,544
  • 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
  • Soka University of America
20

Pitzer College

Score: 60.58

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,578
    • Out-of-State: $60,578
  • 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: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Pitzer College
21

Santa Clara University

Score: 60.1

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $57,534
    • Out-of-State: $57,534
  • 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: $92,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Santa Clara University
22

California State University-Fullerton

Score: 59.71

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $7,007
    • Out-of-State: $18,887
  • 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: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • California State University-Fullerton
23

University of California-Riverside

Score: 59.43

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,874
    • Out-of-State: $43,946
  • 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: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • University of California-Riverside
24

University of San Diego

Score: 59.23

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $54,554
    • Out-of-State: $54,554
  • 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: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • University of San Diego
25

University of the Pacific

Score: 58.42

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $53,682
    • Out-of-State: $53,682
  • 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: $86,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • University of the Pacific

Top 25 Best Master's Programs in California


1

California Institute of Technology

Score: 92.13

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $58,479
    • Out-of-State: $58,479
  • 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
  • California Institute of Technology
2

Stanford University

Score: 91.4

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $56,487
    • Out-of-State: $56,487
  • 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: $113,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 5:1
  • Stanford University
3

University of California-Berkeley

Score: 81.09

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $94,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • University of California-Berkeley
4

University of California-Los Angeles

Score: 79.44

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $87,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of California-Los Angeles
5

Claremont McKenna College

Score: 77.52

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $65,574
    • Out-of-State: $65,574
  • 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: $87,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 8:1
  • Claremont McKenna College
6

University of California-San Diego

Score: 76.95

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $86,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • University of California-San Diego
7

University of California-Irvine

Score: 76.55

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • University of California-Irvine
8

University of Southern California

Score: 75.66

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $63,468
    • Out-of-State: $63,468
  • 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: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • University of Southern California
9

University of California-Santa Barbara

Score: 75.13

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • University of California-Santa Barbara
10

University of California-Davis

Score: 74.5

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $85,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • University of California-Davis
11

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Score: 74.45

  • 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: $85,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
12

University of California-San Francisco

Score: 74.16

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • Net Price: $52,472
  • Acceptance Rate: 70%
  • Retention Rate: 83%
  • Graduation Rate: 92%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,140
  • Undergrad Students: N/A
  • Graduate Students: 3,140
  • Grads Salary: $124,000
  • Student-to-faculty: N/A
  • University of California-San Francisco
13

Soka University of America

Score: 70.84

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $33,218
    • Out-of-State: $33,218
  • 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
  • Soka University of America
14

San Diego State University

Score: 70.23

  • 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: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 25:1
  • San Diego State University
15

California State University-Long Beach

Score: 69.63

  • 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: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • California State University-Long Beach
16

University of California-Santa Cruz

Score: 69.3

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 23:1
  • University of California-Santa Cruz
17

San Jose State University

Score: 69.07

  • 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: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • San Jose State University
18

Santa Clara University

Score: 68.31

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $24,798
    • Out-of-State: $24,798
  • 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: $92,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Santa Clara University
19

California State University-Fullerton

Score: 67.62

  • 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: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • California State University-Fullerton
20

University of San Diego

Score: 67.61

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $28,404
    • Out-of-State: $28,404
  • 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: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • University of San Diego
21

University of California-Riverside

Score: 67.4

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $11,700
    • Out-of-State: $26,802
  • 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: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • University of California-Riverside
22

University of the Pacific

Score: 66.51

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $51,382
    • Out-of-State: $51,382
  • 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: $86,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • University of the Pacific
23

Cal Poly Pomona

Score: 66.22

  • 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: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 25:1
  • Cal Poly Pomona
24

Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto

Score: 66.1

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,360
    • Out-of-State: $9,360
  • Net Price: $18,306
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 100%
  • Graduation Rate: 75%
  • Total Enrollment: 393
  • Undergrad Students: 159
  • Graduate Students: 234
  • Grads Salary: $67,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 7:1
  • Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto
25

Saint Mary's College of California

Score: 64.27

  • Graduate Tuition
    • In-State: $32,335
    • Out-of-State: $32,335
  • 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: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Saint Mary's College of California

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.

Search Programs Offering California Majors

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/

Best Scholarships for California


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-logo

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-logo

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-logo

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.