Most
Popular Colleges in California in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in California combines coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business analytics, and organizational behavior. Programs often emphasize communication, leadership, entrepreneurship, and projects. Popular choices include the University of California, Berkeley; University of Southern California; California State University, Long Beach; San Diego State University; and Santa Clara University. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, sales representative, or business consultant across California's diverse economy.

Psychology

Studying psychology in California offers coursework in research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, cognition, social behavior, and abnormal psychology. Students build skills through labs, internships, and community projects. Popular choices include Stanford University, the University of California, Los Angeles, UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, and California State University, Long Beach. Graduates with bachelor's degrees often pursue roles in human resources, case management, research assistance, or social services; clinical counseling typically requires graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in California offers access to innovative technology communities and diverse academic programs. Typical coursework includes programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as software developer, systems analyst, data scientist, cybersecurity analyst, or web developer. Popular California colleges offering computer science degrees include Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Los Angeles, California Institute of Technology, and University of Southern California (USC).

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in California typically combines psychology and practical training. Courses often cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group work, and supervised clinical practice. Graduates may pursue licensure as professional clinical counselors or work as school counselors, college advisors, rehabilitation counselors, or community mental-health providers, depending on their degree and credentials. Popular California colleges offering counseling-related degrees include USC, San Diego State University, California State University, Fullerton, and Pepperdine University.

Nursing

Studying nursing in California combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, health assessment, pediatrics, mental health, and adult care. Programs may prepare students for registered nurse licensure or practical nursing roles. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses, public health nurses, or nurse educators after further study. Popular California schools include UCLA, University of California San Francisco, and University of San Diego.

Best Colleges in California Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 36,038.0, compared with 62,429.2 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 26,391.2.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 66.52% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is also 66.52%.
• Schools receive an average of 16,891.53 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 57,398.2 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 1,028.5, compared with 2,134.0 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,277.94 and 27.87, respectively.
• The average number of enrolled students is 8,924.01; the averages reported for enrolled men and women are 554.08 and 708.31, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 65.52%, compared with 92.0% for top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 64.0% for men and 71.0% for women.
• There are 26 institutions offering associate's degrees, 116 offering bachelor's degrees, 101 offering master's degrees, and 53 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 111 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions figures, test-score averages, and graduation rates. Also consider the degree level offered and the reported enrollment figures, since these statistics vary across the ranking and may help you assess which schools fit your priorities.

How much does studying at a college in California cost?

The average reported total cost of studying for a degree in California is $36,044.17, a useful planning benchmark when comparing options such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, San Diego State, and community colleges with transfer pathways.

Your actual bill depends on the institution, program, residency status, and whether you live at home or on campus. Average reported tuition and fees are $33,474.19, while room and board average $17,786.73 and books and supplies average $1,163.61. These category averages do not fit within the reported total, so treat them as separate planning figures rather than a combined bill.

For a realistic estimate, check each California campus's current cost-of-attendance page and compare aid, housing, transport, and fees before choosing. A student at a UC campus may face a different budget from one attending a CSU or community college, and scholarships or grants can lower out-of-pocket costs; that flexibility can help students.

How long does it take to finish college in California?

In California, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree at a community college usually takes about two. Your timeline can stretch if you attend part time, change majors, or need prerequisite courses; at schools such as UCLA, UC Berkeley, and San Diego State, course availability and major requirements also affect pace.

Finishing faster is possible: bring in AP/IB or dual-enrollment credits, take summer classes, choose an accelerated program, or transfer eligible community-college credits toward a four-year campus. California's community-college transfer pathways can make a bachelor's degree more affordable while keeping progress moving, but confirm credit rules with your intended university.

• Graduation rates show completion varies: the reported average is 65.52%, compared with 92.0% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 62.21% for men and 68.75% for women; these figures are rates, not a promise about your individual timeline or final outcome.

Salary

After graduating from college in California, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $45,509. Graduates from schools in the top 10% by alumni salary earn a median of approximately $71,432 - an encouraging benchmark as you plan your education and career.

Your own earnings will depend on factors such as your major, experience, and where you work. Popular options including UCLA, UC Berkeley, and the University of Southern California offer different academic and career pathways, so comparing programs and opportunities in your field can help you find a strong fit.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in California?

By total student enrollment at a single campus, UCLA is a strong answer: it enrolls roughly 47,000 undergraduate and graduate students. That scale brings a lively campus atmosphere, extensive academic offerings, and many opportunities to meet people from across California and beyond. Enrollment totals can shift from year to year.

What is the most popular school in California?

If "popular" means receiving the most applications, UCLA is typically California's leading choice. Its combination of strong academics, a broad range of majors, spirited campus life, and location in Los Angeles draws enormous interest. That enthusiasm also means admission is highly competitive, so California applicants should build a balanced college list.

What is the most famous university in California?

Fame is subjective, but Stanford is arguably California's best-known university internationally, with a prominent profile in research, technology, and entrepreneurship. UC Berkeley and UCLA are also widely recognized. For students, that visibility can be exciting - but the best fit depends just as much on academic interests, campus culture, and everyday experience.

What is the hardest university to get into in California?

Caltech is among California's hardest universities to enter, especially when judged by its very low admission rate. Its small entering classes and demanding focus on science and engineering make selection intense. Stanford is also exceptionally selective. Applicants can improve their experience by choosing schools that match their interests as well as their ambitions.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in California Ranking in 2026-2027

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is a Pasadena-based research university known for science, engineering, and a highly focused academic environment. With 2,369 enrolled students, it offers a small community in California despite its global reach. Its 94% graduation rate and 3% acceptance rate indicate strong outcomes and selectivity. Total study cost is $63,402, while median alumni salary is $109,249. For Californians seeking intensive STEM study and close faculty contact, Caltech merits consideration alongside Pasadena's location and opportunities across Southern California.

Stanford University sits in California's Silicon Valley, connecting students with a region shaped by technology, entrepreneurship, and research. Its 18,121 enrolled students create a larger campus community than many selective colleges. Stanford's 92% graduation rate and 4% acceptance rate show strong completion and intense competition. Total study cost is $65,127, and median alumni salary is $71,958. For California-based applicants, its location offers access to Bay Area internships and networks, while students should weigh cost against their educational and career goals.

Pomona College, located in Claremont, is a small liberal arts college within Southern California's Claremont Colleges consortium. Its 1,721 enrolled students and 93% graduation rate suggest a close-knit campus with strong completion outcomes. Admission is selective, with a 7% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $65,000, and median alumni salary is $55,134. California students may value its broad undergraduate education, access to neighboring college resources, and sunny inland setting. Prospective students should consider both its collaborative environment and overall cost.

The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is a public research university in Los Angeles, offering students a large campus and access to the cultural and professional life of Southern California. It enrolls 47,432 students, the largest figure among these five schools, and reports a 93% graduation rate with a 9% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $44,148, lowest in this group; median alumni salary is $43,810. For Californians, UCLA combines city opportunities, broad academic choices, and lower cost overall.

Claremont McKenna College, in Claremont, is a small liberal arts college known for emphasis on leadership, government, economics, and public affairs. Its 1,380 enrolled students make for a compact California campus community. The college reports a 91% graduation rate and a 10% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $67,630, highest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $72,618. For California students interested in policy, business, or civic engagement, its academics and access to the Claremont Colleges may appeal.