Most
Popular Colleges in San Francisco in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in San Francisco, CA combines management, accounting, finance, marketing, economics, business law, and analytics. Programs often include teamwork, case studies, and internships, helping students apply concepts to the region's industries. Popular options include the University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and Golden Gate University. Graduates pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, operations managers, human resources specialists, account executives, or financial analysts, with opportunities in technology, healthcare, hospitality, and nonprofits.

Psychology

Studying psychology in San Francisco, CA, combines scientific study of behavior with the city's diverse communities. Students typically take courses in research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Popular local options include the University of San Francisco and San Francisco State University. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, or human resources specialist. Clinical and counseling careers usually require graduate education and relevant licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in San Francisco, CA, offers access to a major technology hub and hands-on learning. Typical coursework includes programming, algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects, collaborate, and may pursue internships with local employers. Graduates commonly work as software developers, data analysts, systems engineers, cybersecurity specialists, or web developers. Popular choices for computer science study include University of San Francisco and San Francisco State University.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in San Francisco, CA can prepare you to support individuals, families, and communities through mental health challenges. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, human development, multicultural counseling, ethics, assessment, group therapy, and clinical practice. Graduates may work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, marriage and family therapists, or behavioral health specialists, depending on degree and licensure. Options include the University of San Francisco and San Francisco State University, which offer counseling programs.

Nursing

Studying nursing in San Francisco, CA offers pathways from associate to bachelor's and graduate degrees. Typical coursework includes anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, community health, and supervised clinical practice. Popular options include the University of California, San Francisco's School of Nursing, San Francisco State University, University of San Francisco, and City College of San Francisco. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.

Best Colleges in San Francisco, CA Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 38,015.0, compared with 59,663.0 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure 21,648.0 higher.
• On average, 98.8% of students receive financial aid, versus 67.83% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 67.83%. Schools receive an average of 11,132.17 applicants, compared with 26,554.5 applicants at top 10% schools.
• The median number of applicants is 2,839.5 men and 3,732.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,290.0 on the SAT and 29.0 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 6,741.6, with averages of 303.8 enrolled men and 352.5 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 63.75%, compared with 72.8% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 60.5% for men and 68.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 6 offer bachelor's degrees, 5 offer master's degrees, and 2 offer doctor's degrees; 0 offer associate's degrees.
• There are 5 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, test scores, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation outcomes. The figures show that top 10% schools have higher median costs and applicant volumes, while the overall group reports higher financial-aid participation; consider which factors best match your academic goals and financial needs.

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

Based on the supplied figures, the average total cost of studying in San Francisco is $37,673.33. This is best treated as a typical annual estimate - not the full price of completing a degree. Your actual bill will depend on the school, program, residency status, and how long you study.

For planning, the reported category averages are:

• Tuition and fees: $38,275.67
• Room and board: $21,541
• Books and supplies: $1,172.25

These numbers may reflect different samples or accounting methods, so check each campus's current cost-of-attendance estimate before deciding. San Francisco State University, the University of San Francisco, and City College of San Francisco are local options to compare. At each, ask about aid, housing, commuting, and whether your intended program adds lab or course fees. A scholarship, living at home, or using public transit can make the path feel more manageable and help you focus on the exciting parts of earning a degree.

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

In San Francisco, 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 may vary with major requirements, course availability, transfer credits, and part-time study. City College of San Francisco provides associate pathways and transfer preparation.

You may finish faster by bringing in AP or IB credit, transferring completed college courses, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated program when offered. Meet with an academic adviser early to map prerequisites and confirm credits count toward your degree. Keep your workload manageable; seek support early.

The average graduation rate reported is 63.75%, compared with 72.8% among the top 10% of schools. Average rates are 60.5% for men and 65.5% for women. These figures remind students that graduation is achievable, and planning, support, and progress can help you reach your goal.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in San Francisco can expect a median alumni salary of about $43,438; at schools in the top 10%, the median is about $56,500. These figures offer a useful starting point, though your own earnings will depend on your field, degree, experience, and employer.

San Francisco offers opportunities across areas such as technology, health care, business, and the arts. Students at institutions including San Francisco State University, the University of San Francisco, and the University of California, San Francisco may find it helpful to build local connections through internships, campus career services, and professional networks. Your major and the experience you gain while studying can make a real difference in the roles and pay you pursue after graduation.

• Median alumni salary: $43,438
• Median alumni salary at top 10% of schools: $56,500.40

Since San Francisco is a high-cost place to live, consider comparing likely entry-level pay in your intended career with housing, transportation, and other expenses. Planning ahead can help you make the most of the city's educational and career opportunities.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in San Francisco?

By recent fall enrollment, San Francisco State University is generally the city's largest four-year university, with roughly 22,000 students. City College of San Francisco also serves a large student population, but comparisons can vary depending on whether figures count one term or an entire year. For an undergraduate, SF State offers a broad campus community.

What is the richest university in San Francisco?

If "richest" means the value of its endowment and research resources, the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is the strongest answer. UCSF is a public, research-focused graduate university with substantial medical and scientific resources. It is not a typical undergraduate campus, so prospective undergraduates may find SF State or the University of San Francisco more relevant.

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

Located in San Francisco, the University of San Francisco is a private Jesuit university offering students an urban campus and academic fields. It enrolls 8,796 students, with a 70% graduation rate and 62% acceptance rate. Listed total study cost is $59,950, while median alumni salary is $59,984. For a student living in San Francisco, studying close to the city's neighborhoods, employers, and cultural institutions may be appealing; compare the cost with your program and financial aid options.

California College of the Arts is a San Francisco institution focused on art, design, architecture, and creative disciplines, making it an option for students seeking studio-centered study in the city. Enrollment is 1,308; its graduation rate is 61%, and its acceptance rate is 91%. The listed total cost is $59,376, and median alumni salary is $34,508. Local students can explore San Francisco's creative communities while comparing program expenses, portfolio expectations, and aid before deciding whether this education fits their goals.

San Francisco State University is a public university in the city, providing a large-campus alternative for students who want academic choices while remaining close to San Francisco's communities and workplaces. It has 22,579 enrolled students, a 50% graduation rate, and a 96% acceptance rate. The total cost of study is $18,684, the lowest among these five schools, and median alumni salary is $48,372. Consider how its programs, campus experience, and transportation needs align with your plans as a local applicant.

San Francisco Conservatory of Music is a music school in the city, suited to students pursuing musical training in a environment. It enrolls 439 students; its graduation rate is 74%, and its acceptance rate is 55%. The listed total cost is $54,400, with median alumni salary of $38,504. Studying in San Francisco can place aspiring musicians near a cultural scene, but applicants should examine degree offerings, performance opportunities, and costs to determine whether the conservatory matches their artistic ambitions.

Minerva University offers a globally oriented approach to higher education, with students learning across multiple locations rather than following a conventional single-campus model. Its San Francisco presence gives local applicants an opportunity to study in the city while considering an internationally minded experience. Enrollment is 586, acceptance rate is 3%, and no graduation rate or median alumni salary is available. The listed total study cost is $21,630. Applicants should verify current program structure, costs, and outcomes directly before making plans.