Most
Popular Colleges in Pasadena in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Pasadena, California combines management fundamentals with decision-making. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, finance, business law, human resources, operations, and organizational behavior. Students build communication, data analysis, teamwork, and leadership skills through projects or internships. Pasadena City College offers business administration study and transfer pathways, while Caltech provides a Business, Economics, and Management option. Graduates may pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, sales representative, or office manager across industries.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Pasadena, CA, can involve associate or bachelor's study at Pasadena City College or Pacific Oaks College, while Fuller Theological Seminary's School of Psychology offers graduate training. Typical courses include developmental, cognitive, social, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and counseling. Students examine behavior, mental health, and human development. Graduates may pursue roles including behavioral health technician, case manager, human resources assistant, or research assistant; clinical or therapy roles require degrees and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Pasadena, CA, combines programming foundations with practical problem-solving. Students typically study programming languages, data structures, algorithms, operating systems, databases, software engineering, and discrete mathematics. Popular local options include the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), known for rigorous computer science study, and Pasadena City College, which offers computer science coursework and degree pathways. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity analysts, or database administrators in technology industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Pasadena, CA can prepare students to support individuals, couples, and families. Coursework commonly covers counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural practice, and supervised clinical skills. Pasadena options include Pacific Oaks College, which offers counseling and marriage-and-family therapy study, and Fuller Theological Seminary, known for marriage-and-family therapy training. Graduates may pursue roles such as associate therapists, school counselors, behavioral-health counselors, or case managers, subject to degree requirements and state licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Pasadena, California, begins with coursework in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, nutrition, pharmacology, and nursing fundamentals, followed by clinical practice. Pasadena City College is a popular option offering an associate-degree nursing pathway that prepares students for registered-nurse licensure; verify admission and program details. Graduates pursue work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term-care facilities, and community health settings. Some continue to bachelor's study or specialize in areas such as pediatrics, emergency care, or geriatrics.

Best Colleges in Pasadena, CA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is $36,038.0, compared with $59,275.6 at schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 91.9% of students receive financial aid, compared with 60.0% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 60.0%. Schools receive an average of 3,170.2 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 8,898.0 applicants.
• The median number of applicants is 204.0 men and 210.0 women.
• The average number of enrolled students is 1,221.8. The averages for enrolled men and women are 56.4 and 76.6, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 58.5%, compared with 89.5% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 54.0% for men and 69.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 1 offers associate's degrees, 5 offer bachelor's degrees, 4 offer master's degrees, and 2 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 5 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare costs and financial aid alongside acceptance rates, applicant numbers, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median costs and applicant numbers, but also higher average graduation rates; weigh these factors against your budget and priorities.

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

For a student in Pasadena, CA, the reported average total cost of studying is about $42,043.20. This is the clearest benchmark for planning a degree, but the figures do not specify whether it represents one academic year or an entire program. Treat it as a typical study-cost estimate rather than a guaranteed all-in degree price.

Reported component averages are:

• Tuition and fees: $41,154.60
• Room and board: $19,092.75
• Books and supplies: $2,172.33

These category figures do not add up to the stated total, so treat them as separate benchmarks rather than a reconciled budget. Pasadena City College may be a lower-cost starting point; Caltech and ArtCenter College of Design are well-known choices. Compare program charges and aid, since scholarships, commuting, and housing affect bills. Ask each school whether its estimate covers one academic year or the full degree. Planning early can make your goal feel manageable.

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

Most students in Pasadena, CA, should plan for four years for a full-time bachelor's degree, while an associate degree commonly takes two years and a master's often adds one to two years. Pasadena options include Caltech, Pasadena City College (PCC), and ArtCenter College of Design; degree length depends on program, course load, and transfer credits.

The supplied figures show an average graduation rate of 58.5%, meaning many students earn their degrees, though timelines may stretch when students pause, repeat courses, or attend part time. The average is higher - 89.5% - for the top 10% of schools. Rates are 57.0% for men and 61.25% for women, illustrating different outcomes across the groups.

To finish sooner, ask PCC about transfer pathways, bring in AP or dual-enrollment credits, take summer classes, and map prerequisites with an adviser. Caltech or ArtCenter students should confirm program-specific sequencing; steady planning can make progress feel manageable and rewarding.

Salary

Graduates in Pasadena, CA can expect a median alumni salary of about $47,166. For graduates of schools in the top 10% of the data, the median rises to about $85,310 - an encouraging benchmark as you consider how a degree could support your career goals.

Pasadena offers several paths to a degree, including Caltech, Pasadena City College, and ArtCenter College of Design. Your earnings can vary depending on your field, degree level, experience, and employer, so compare programs and career opportunities that fit your interests when estimating your potential income.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Pasadena?

Pasadena City College (PCC) is generally the most attended college in Pasadena by student enrollment, with roughly 25,000 students in recent reporting. Its wide range of programs and accessible community-college setting make it a popular local starting point for higher education. For current enrollment figures, check PCC's latest official reports.

What is the richest university in Pasadena?

If "richest" means largest university endowment, the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is Pasadena's wealthiest university. Its multibillion-dollar endowment supports research, teaching, and campus resources. That figure is not the same as money available for tuition discounts, but Caltech's resources contribute to its distinctive science-focused learning environment.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Pasadena, CA Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Pasadena, California Institute of Technology offers a highly selective setting for students drawn to science, engineering, and research. Its 2,369 enrolled students form a notably small campus community, while the 3% acceptance rate signals intense competition. Caltech reports a 94% graduation rate and median alumni salary of $109,249. The listed total study cost is $63,402. For a Pasadena resident, studying locally may simplify campus access, though affordability and admission readiness deserve careful consideration and advance financial planning before applying.

Pacific Oaks College, based in Pasadena, provides an intimate learning environment with programs known for human development, education, and community-focused study. Its enrollment is 1,068, and its 34% acceptance rate offers a less selective entry point than some nearby institutions. Graduation-rate data are unavailable, so compare other completion measures when planning. The reported total study cost is $32,040, and median alumni salary is $47,166. For Pasadena students, local study can keep classes and community connections close to home, minimizing travel.

ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena is a creative-focused institution for students pursuing visual arts, design, and related fields. It enrolls 2,237 students, with a 75% acceptance rate and a 79% graduation rate. The listed total study cost is $53,086, while median alumni salary is $49,402. For a Pasadena-based applicant, its local setting may make campus visits and daily participation practical. Consider the cost alongside portfolio expectations and career goals when deciding whether this design-centered college fits your personal goals.

Los Angeles College of Music offers specialized study for aspiring performers, songwriters, producers, and music-industry professionals. Its 262 students create a small enrollment, while the 88% acceptance rate indicates broad access relative to highly selective colleges. The graduation rate is 41%; the listed total study cost is $25,650, and median alumni salary is $24,298. Located in Los Angeles rather than Pasadena, it may require a commute for a Pasadena student. Compare program offerings, travel time, and likely career pathways carefully.

Providence Christian College is a small Christian liberal arts institution in Pasadena, suited to students seeking faith-informed undergraduate study and a close-knit campus setting. It enrolls 173 students, and its 100% acceptance rate indicates open admissions in the reported data. Graduation rate is 20%. The listed total study cost is $36,038, with median alumni salary of $35,742. For a Pasadena resident, nearby study can reduce commuting demands; weigh the completion figure, academic fit, available support resources, and finances before enrolling.