Best Online Colleges in California 2024

The best online colleges in California offer a number of programs to meet your career goals. Discover why you should attend college in the Golden State.
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Updated on January 12, 2024
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Best Online Colleges in California

California has it all — the Golden State has one of the largest economies in the world and is an epicenter for agriculture and entertainment. But even if you don't want to bask in Cali's sunshine, you can still attend college there. Students living anywhere in the United States can get a foot in the door through online colleges in California.

While California's cost of living ranks higher than most other states, online learning gives you relatively affordable access. This guide explores how the best online colleges in California can meet your educational needs.

Featured Online Bachelor's Programs

Online Colleges in California Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
$5,742 $17,622 38%
#2 Humphreys University
Stockton, CA
$14,580 $14,580 Not provided
#3 California State University-Chico
Chico, CA
$5,742 $17,622 85%
#4 University of La Verne
La Verne, CA
$44,700 $44,700 72%
#5 California State University-San Marcos
San Marcos, CA
$5,742 $17,622 93%

Best Online Colleges in California

We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 Best Value

San Diego State University

  • San Diego, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $278
Out-of-State | $396

Credits to Graduate: 120

Founded in 1897, San Diego State University hosts a diverse student body of about 35,000 learners. Its alumni network includes more than 400,000 graduates, including basketball superstar Kawhi Leonard and actress Raquel Welch. 

The SDSU Global Campus offers more than a dozen fully online degree programs. Online bachelor's programs include business administration, communication, criminal justice, economics, and public health. SDSU also supports hybrid learning in multiple other subject areas.

In 2021-22, SDSU conferred 8,750 degrees. Those who entered the school as first-time first-year students graduated with an average GPA of 3.35.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
38%
Students Enrolled
36,484
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#2 Best Online Colleges in California 2024

Humphreys University

  • Stockton, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $410
Out-of-State | $410

Credits to Graduate: 181

As a student at Humphreys University, you'll have a great deal of flexibility in earning your associate, bachelor's, master's, or law degree. 

Humphreys University students can choose to take on-campus classes in Stockton or Modesto, enroll in some online courses, or get a more immersive experience through virtual learning.

Humphreys University lets you progress through your education at your own pace. The 11-week quarter system allows you to enroll in new courses throughout the school year.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,580
Out-of-state
$14,580
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,503
Out-of-state
$10,503
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
352
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#3 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 Best Value

California State University-Chico

  • Chico, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $ 471
Out-of-State | $867

Credits to Graduate: 120

California State University, Chico offers 100% online programs in eight subject areas — business, humanities, liberal arts, sociology, social science, religious studies, and multicultural or gender studies. 

Chico State also has an online RN-to-BSN program for registered nurses. The school is a designated Hispanic-serving institution with a long history of supporting education access for underserved communities.

Data published by Chico State indicates a six-year graduation rate of 63.2% (2017) and a retention rate of 82.8% (2022). Both metrics are in line with the national averages.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
15,702
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#4 Best Online Colleges in California 2024

University of La Verne

  • La Verne, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $250-$665
Out-of-State | $250-$665

Credits to Graduate: 128

University of La Verne may be an attractive option if you want a fully online degree. The school offers nine undergraduate and eight graduate degrees, in addition to three certificates and credentials. The MBA and bachelor's programs are top-ranked not just in the state, but also among online schools across the U.S. Active military personnel receive a tuition rate reduction.

Keep in mind, the bachelor's in nursing and bachelor's in child development programs are only available to California residents. Also, the master's in teaching and the three certificates are unavailable to out-of-state online students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$44,700
Out-of-state
$44,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,340
Out-of-state
$14,340
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: Medium

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
Medium
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
6,201
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
27% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Colleges in California 2024 Best Value

California State University-San Marcos

  • San Marcos, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $239
Out-of-State | $396

Credits to Graduate: 120

As a student at California State University, San Marcos, you can design your curriculum by enrolling in online, on-campus, and hybrid courses that suit your schedule. The school offers an extended learning program with online bachelor's degrees in the following fields:

  • Criminology and justice studies
  • Cybersecurity
  • Nursing
  • Sociology
  • Wildlife science

College graduates and working professionals can choose from five online master's or nine certificate programs to further their education or advance their careers. The school's outreach programs include extended learning, which is designed to promote continuing education and lifelong learning. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
ROI Score

ROI Value Score: High

We’ve reviewed hundreds of schools to find the ones that give you the best bang for your buck.

We compared how much you could earn in 10 years with a degree from this school versus only having a high school diploma. Then we compared that amount against school costs and financial aid opportunities. A higher return for your investment results in a higher score for this school.

Our Methodology
High
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
93%
Students Enrolled
16,255
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

Ranking Methodology Summary

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To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

  • Affordability (30%)
  • Student outcomes (30%)
  • Reputation (20%)
  • Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we looked at schools that offer a minimum of five online bachelor's programs and three online master's programs.

How Much Does Online College Cost in California?

Attending college isn't cheap, but public universities and online colleges in California can be an investment. Students in California paid an average of $8,559 in in-state tuition in 2021-2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Comparatively, out-of-state students paid $34,454 for the same programs. Some colleges waive out-of-state charges for online learners, so online colleges in California might cost less than on-campus programs.

Additionally, you can save money on expenses such as transportation and childcare if you study online.

Cost of College in California (2021-2022)
Institution Type Avg. Tuition & Required Fees
Public Four-Year (In-State) $8,559
Public Four-Year (Out-of-State) $34,454
Private Four-Year $39,068
Source: NCES

Highest-Paying Jobs in California

Many of California's highest-paying jobs require at least a bachelor's degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the top jobs in California are in IT, engineering, and business.

The highest-paying jobs in California pay well above the median annual wage for all workers in the U.S., which stood at $46,310 as of May 2022. Other high-paying careers in California include fields such as nursing, public relations, and HR management.

5 High-Paying Jobs in California
Job Mean Annual Salary (May 2022)
Computer and Information Systems Managers $215,130
Architectural and Engineering Managers $193,600
Financial Managers $187,410
Marketing Managers $186,550
Software Developers $182,570
Source: BLS

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in California

How many online colleges are in California?

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California is home to more than 250 four-year colleges and universities, many of which have online programs. In 2021, 40% of the state's students were enrolled exclusively in online programs. Degree-seekers in the California State University system — the largest university system in California — have access to 170 fully online and 140 hybrid programs at the 23 colleges.

What is the cheapest online college in California?

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Schools within the CSU system offer relatively affordable tuition. CSU Fresno and CSU Los Angeles offer the lowest in-state tuition and fees for the 2022-2023 school year at $6,663 and $6,805, respectively.

NCES data shows that CSUs charge between $18,500-$19,600 in out-of-state tuition and fees. Tuition at schools outside of the CSU system also varies. Be aware that some online colleges in California may charge affordable per-credit tuition and exorbitant fees that make your education more expensive.

Can you attend online college in California for free?

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If you are a California resident, you can reduce the cost of your college education by attending community colleges for free if you qualify. You can then transfer an associate degree or a block of credits to a four-year online college in California, lowering the cost of your tuition.

Alternatively, students living in any state can explore student aid options such as scholarships and grants that offer free money for college.

Is attending online college in California worth it?

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Attending college in California gives you access to some of the best online schools in the country. California ranks in the world's top five largest economies, providing college graduates with a wealth of job and entrepreneurial opportunities that many other communities may lack.

But make sure to do your research on the cost of attending online colleges in California, and explore career options and salary projections to see what path is right for you.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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