Best
Value Colleges in San Francisco in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in San Francisco, CA combines management fundamentals with the entrepreneurial and technology economy. Typical courses include accounting, finance, marketing, economics, business law, operations, organizational behavior, and data analytics. Students pursue internships with companies and startups. Graduates work as business analysts, marketing coordinators, operations managers, account executives, or human resources specialists. Colleges in San Francisco include the University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and Golden Gate University, which offer business administration programs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in San Francisco offers access to diverse communities and research opportunities. Students at San Francisco State University, University of San Francisco, and City College of San Francisco can explore programs. Typical courses include statistics, research methods, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Graduates pursue roles as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources specialists, research assistants, or outreach coordinators; some continue to further graduate study for counseling or clinical careers.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in San Francisco, CA, offers access to a vibrant technology community and hands-on learning. Typical courses include programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects and collaborate with organizations. Popular local options include San Francisco State University, the University of San Francisco, and City College of San Francisco. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, data analysts, systems administrators, cybersecurity specialists, or web developers.

Counseling

Studying counseling in San Francisco, CA, typically combines psychology foundations with supervised practice. Courses often cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural counseling, group work, and field placements. Popular local options include San Francisco State University, University of San Francisco, and California Institute of Integral Studies. Depending on degree and licensure, graduates may work as mental health counselors, school counselors, career counselors, or substance-use counselors in clinics, schools, community agencies, and private practice settings.

Nursing

Studying nursing in San Francisco, CA offers associate, bachelor's and graduate pathways. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, medical-surgical care, pediatrics and community health with clinical rotations. Popular options include the University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, City College of San Francisco, and UCSF for graduate study. Graduates become registered nurses, nurse educators or clinical specialists.

Best Colleges in San Francisco, CA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 22,618.0, compared with 59,490.8 at schools in the top 10% - a substantially higher median cost among the top-ranked schools.
• An average of 98.5% of students receive financial aid, compared with 67.83% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.83%. Schools receive an average of 11,132.17 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 26,554.5 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 2,839.5 men and 3,732.0 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,290.0, and the average ACT score is 29.0.
• The average number of enrolled students is 5,530.5. The average numbers of enrolled men and women are 303.8 and 352.5, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 57.8%, compared with 72.4% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rates are 57.0% for men and 63.0% for women.
• By degree offering, 2 institutions offer associate's degrees, 9 offer bachelor's degrees, 10 offer master's degrees, and 5 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 8 coeducational schools. The number of schools for men is 0, and the number of schools for women is 0.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with financial aid, and consider how each school's acceptance rate and applicant volume relate to your application plans. Also weigh admissions score averages, enrollment figures, degree offerings, and graduation rates - including differences between overall and top-10% schools and between men's and women's graduation rates - to identify the factors that best match your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in San Francisco, CA cost?

The reported average total cost of getting a degree in San Francisco, CA, is $32,164.67. For a local student, treat this as a broad benchmark rather than a guaranteed bill: your actual cost depends on the college, program, enrollment, and housing choices. San Francisco State University and the University of San Francisco are familiar options, but their individual charges can differ substantially.

The available averages also report:

• Tuition and fees: $32,912.89.
• Room and board: $20,772.67.
• Books and supplies: $1,163.17.

The categories are separate reported averages, so don't add them as if they reconcile to the total.

Choose confidently: request a cost-of-attendance estimate from SFSU or USF and compare aid offers using the same enrollment and housing assumptions. In a high-rent city like San Francisco, deciding whether to live with family, share an apartment, or commute can materially shift your budget. Also ask about grants, scholarships, payment plans, and program fees.

How long does it take to finish college in San Francisco, CA?

In San Francisco, CA, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. At San Francisco State University or the University of San Francisco, your timeline can vary with major requirements, course availability, and attendance pace. City College of San Francisco offers associate pathways and transfer routes that may lead to a bachelor's degree, so allow time for further study after transferring.

Graduation rates show that earning a degree takes persistence: the average graduation rate is 57.8%, compared with 72.4% among the top 10% of schools. The averages are 53.2% for men and 61.0% for women. These figures describe completion outcomes, not a guaranteed timeline, but support and planning can help you stay motivated.

• Apply eligible AP, IB, or transfer credits to satisfy requirements sooner.
• Consider summer classes or a heavier course load, if manageable.
• Ask an academic adviser about accelerated course sequences and credit-by-exam options.

Salary

Graduates in San Francisco, CA can expect a median alumni salary of about $45,941. Alumni of schools in the top 10% earn a median of about $67,873. These figures are not necessarily starting salaries, and your own earnings can vary based on your field, experience, and employer.

As you compare options such as the University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and the University of California, San Francisco, consider how each program connects to careers you're excited about. San Francisco offers opportunities across fields such as technology, health care, business, and the arts, but pay differs substantially between occupations.

• Median alumni salary: $45,941
• Median for graduates of top 10% schools: $67,873.20
• What to keep in mind: Check salary outcomes for your intended major and weigh them against tuition and living costs in San Francisco.

People also ask

How many universities are there in San Francisco?

There isn't one universally agreed count, because it depends on whether specialized colleges, branch campuses, and community colleges are included. A practical estimate is about 8-10 university-level institutions within San Francisco, including San Francisco State University, the University of San Francisco, UCSF, and Golden Gate University. City College of San Francisco is a separate community college.

What is the largest university in San Francisco?

San Francisco State University is generally the largest university in the city by student enrollment. It offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with the lively campus experience many students hope to find. Its size can mean plenty of opportunities to explore interests, meet people, and get involved beyond the classroom.

How many universities are there in San Francisco?

The same estimate applies: around 8-10, depending on what you count as a university. For a prospective student, the more useful next step may be comparing the institutions' focus areas: San Francisco includes large public universities, private universities, and specialized schools in fields such as health sciences, art, music, and business.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Value Colleges Ranking in San Francisco, CA Ranking in 2026-2027

University of San Francisco is a Jesuit university set in the city, offering an urban campus and access to San Francisco's cultural and professional communities. It enrolls 8,796 students, and its 70% graduation rate and 62% acceptance rate provide useful context for applicants. Total study cost is $59,950, while median alumni salary is $59,984. For a San Francisco resident, compare tuition and living expenses and consider whether city-based internships, transit access, and the school's mission fit your academic goals.

San Francisco State University is a public university in the city, known for broad undergraduate study and a diverse campus community. Its 22,579 enrolled students, 50% graduation rate, and 96% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking a large, accessible institution. The total study cost is $18,684, and median alumni salary is $48,372. For San Francisco students, living nearby can make commuting practical, though housing and transportation still affect budgets. Explore programs and support services to assess academic fit.

San Francisco Conservatory of Music is a specialized music institution whose intimate scale centers training in performance and related musical disciplines. It enrolls 439 students; its 74% graduation rate and 55% acceptance rate describe a small, selective learning environment. Listed study cost is $54,400, and median alumni salary is $38,504. For a San Francisco applicant, the city offers access to concert venues and an arts scene, while local housing costs deserve close attention. Compare curriculum and aid for fit.

California College of the Arts is an art and design college in San Francisco, with creative programs and a studio-centered educational focus. It enrolls 1,308 students; the graduation rate is 61%, and the acceptance rate is 91%. Total study cost is $59,376, while median alumni salary is $34,508. For students already in San Francisco, nearby galleries, design studios, and cultural organizations can enrich learning, but compare fees with aid and living costs. Check majors and career support before applying.

Minerva University is a small, highly selective institution known for an innovative global undergraduate model and an emphasis on active, seminar-style learning. It enrolls 586 students and reports a 3% acceptance rate; graduation-rate data are unavailable. The listed total study cost is $21,630, and no median alumni salary is available. For a San Francisco applicant, investigate how its city-based arrangements and any travel expectations affect housing, commuting, and your preferred campus experience. Ask about student services and outcomes before deciding.