The Best Online Colleges in California 2024
Online Universities and Colleges in CA
Online colleges in California allow students in the nation’s most populated state to pursue the college experience that best suits their needs. Approximately 80% of college students in California attend one of its public colleges and universities each year, according to the state’s Public Policy Institute. Community colleges and private institutions also see strong numbers, and have begun to broaden their distance offerings, allowing students to attend a California college online.
California is home to a variety of popular schools as well as a few lesser-known options that offer quality programming. California’s workforce is both strong and competitive, meaning that learners need to set themselves apart by acquiring additional skills and credentials.
Selecting the best school and program goes a long way in this regard, but the sheer number of available opportunities can make the decision difficult. Our guide to the best online colleges in California is designed to help prospective learners assess their options and select the program that best meets their needs. It also answers a few common questions about online college in California and offers a ranking of 25 of the best schools and programs in California.
Featured Online Schools
Best Online Colleges in California
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
San Diego State University is a leader in online education. Remote programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels are available at this public institution. Distance learners often choose this school because it has a proven track record in online education and a reputation for academic strength.
Online learners can receive assistance from career and academic service associates located at the school's physical campus in California. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
San Diego State University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 17,691
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 6
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 4%
Admission Rate: 34%
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate89%
- Acceptance Rate34%
- Students Enrolled35,544
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
California State University, Chico
- Chico, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Anyone interested in pursuing a degree online should consider California State University, Chico. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have five options through this public institution. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
All learners, including those studying online, can take advantage of the academic and career services professionals hosted at the school's Chico, California, campus. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. The school also emphasizes hands-on learning through its internship programs. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.
California State University, Chico at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 6,024
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 5%
Admission Rate: 72%
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate72%
- Students Enrolled17,110
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
William Jessup University
- Rocklin, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
William Jessup University is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Both undergraduate and graduate programs are available through this private institution, which hosts a total of five online degree programs. Distance learners benefit from the school's track record in online education and its strong academic reputation.
Academic and career preparation services are available to all students, even those far from the Rocklin, California, campus. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs and other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. The internship program that the school offers helps many students prepare for their future careers. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
William Jessup University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 678
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 16%
Admission Rate: 65%
- In-State$34,200
- Out-of-state$34,200
- In-State$11,976
- Out-of-state$11,976
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled1,743
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
California State University, East Bay
- Hayward, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
California State University, East Bay is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. Remote degrees at graduate and undergraduate levels are available to enrollees at this public school. Distance learners often choose to study at this school because of its experience with online education and reputation for academic quality.
The physical campus in Hayward employs academic and career service professionals that are also available to assist online learners. Degree-seekers who choose to connect with academic advisors can participate in virtual job fairs and other career-planning events. Internship programs are also available to students, helping them gain valuable field experience. Graduates receive an accredited degree upon completion of their program.
Ask the school directly for more information about online degree options and how to apply.
California State University, East Bay at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,361
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 4
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 10%
Admission Rate: 76%
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled16,064
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Fresno Pacific University
- Fresno, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Online degree-seekers should consider Fresno Pacific University. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose between 12 online offerings at undergraduate and graduate levels. Distance learners appreciate the way the school brings its reputation for academic success to its online programming.
Career and academic service associates located at the California campus also assist online learners. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. The school also facilitates internship opportunities that help students gain real-world experience. Completing their program grants graduates an accredited degree.
Additional details regarding program availability and application processes are available by contacting the school.
Fresno Pacific University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,738
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 8%
Admission Rate: 66%
- In-State$32,458
- Out-of-state$32,458
- In-State$14,940
- Out-of-state$14,940
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled4,300
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment40%
- AccreditationYes
Hope International University
- Fullerton, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Hope International University is a fantastic choice for online learners. Remote students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels have 19 options through this private institution. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics lead many distance learners to apply.
Career and academic service associates located at the Fullerton, California, campus also assist online learners. Degree-seekers connect with academic advisors and participate in virtual job fairs and career-planning events. Hands-on learning through internship programs helps many students prepare for work in the field. Completing all requirements results in graduates receiving an accredited degree.
Prospective applicants can contact the school to learn more about online program options and admission requirements.
Hope International University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 564
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 9
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 59%
Admission Rate: 37%
- In-State$32,250
- Out-of-state$32,250
- In-State$13,764
- Out-of-state$13,764
- Retention Rate72%
- Acceptance Rate37%
- Students Enrolled1,130
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment50%
- AccreditationYes
Brandman University
- Irvine, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Those looking for an online college program should consider Brandman University. The private institution offers 50 online programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
Online learners are also able to work with academic and career services professionals located at the Irvine, California, campus. Degree-seekers can get help planning their academic and professional futures with offerings such as academic advising and virtual career fairs. The school also helps facilitate internships to help students gain hands-on experience. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.
Representatives at the school can provide additional information about application and program specifics.
Brandman University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 9,772
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Online Master's Programs: 13
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 91%
Admission Rate: 89%
- In-State$12,000
- Out-of-state$12,000
- In-State$11,880
- Out-of-state$11,880
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled10,231
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment96%
- AccreditationYes
California Baptist University
- Riverside, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
California Baptist University is one of the best options available to online degree-seekers. The 39 online programs offered by this private institution consist of both undergraduate and graduate offerings. The school has a track record in academic success through online coursework.
The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its Riverside campus. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their programs, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Hands-on learning through internship programs help many students prepare for work in the field. Those who complete all program requirements receive an accredited degree upon graduation.
Anyone interested in learning more about available online programs and how to apply should contact the school directly.
California Baptist University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 6,112
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Online Master's Programs: 13
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 31%
Admission Rate: 78%
- In-State$32,942
- Out-of-state$32,942
- In-State$12,830
- Out-of-state$12,830
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled11,045
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Concordia University Irvine
- Irvine, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A quality online college education is available at Concordia University Irvine. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have 20 online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's substantial track record in online education and good academic reputation attract many distance learners.
Academic and career service professionals are available to help online learners. Degree-seekers benefit from virtual job fairs and other career-planning services, as well as academic advising. Many students also prepare for future careers by gaining hands-on experience during internships. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
Concordia University Irvine at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 2,478
Online Bachelor's Programs: 5
Online Master's Programs: 11
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 42%
Admission Rate: 71%
- In-State$35,990
- Out-of-state$35,990
- In-State$7,953
- Out-of-state$7,953
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate71%
- Students Enrolled3,911
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
University of La Verne
- La Verne, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of La Verne is a popular choice among those seeking a degree online. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have four online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school's proven track record in online education and reputation for quality academics leads many distance learners to apply.
Career and academic service associates located at the California campus also assist online learners. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Students can also take advantage of internship programs to gain hands-on experience. Upon completing their program, graduates receive an accredited degree.
Those interested in applying to these online degree programs should contact the school directly for more information.
University of La Verne at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,743
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 5%
Admission Rate: 55%
- In-State$43,440
- Out-of-state$43,440
- In-State$14,256
- Out-of-state$14,256
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled7,396
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment24%
- AccreditationYes
San Diego Christian College
- Santee, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
San Diego Christian College offers online programming that ranks highly among similar offerings. Those who choose to enroll at this private college can choose from 10 different programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. The school's experience with online education and strong academic reputation make it a great choice for distance learners.
Online learners can benefit from the academic advisors and career services professionals at the Santee, California, campus. These advisors facilitate career-planning events like virtual job fairs for interested degree-seekers. Hands-on learning through internship programs helps many students prepare for work in their field. The degree that graduates receive upon completing their program is fully accredited.
Contact the school directly to receive more information about online program opportunities and application procedures.
San Diego Christian College at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 456
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Online Master's Programs: 2
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 48%
Admission Rate: 55%
- In-State$23,030
- Out-of-state$23,030
- In-State$10,260
- Out-of-state$10,260
- Retention Rate62%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled551
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment83%
- AccreditationYes
Loma Linda University
- Loma Linda, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Loma Linda University offers online programming that ranks highly among similar programs. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have 20 online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.
The academic and career advisors located at the California campus are also available to assist online learners. Academic advisors and virtual job fairs help set degree-seekers up for long-term success. Many degree programs include an internship, helping students gain experience in their field. Graduates are awarded a fully accredited degree upon completing their program.
For more information on how to apply and what programs are available online, contact the school directly.
Loma Linda University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,227
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 11%
- In-State$31,680
- Out-of-state$31,680
- In-State$26,880
- Out-of-state$26,880
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,462
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Touro University Worldwide
- Los Alamitos, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Touro University Worldwide is a fantastic choice for online learners. Those who enroll at the private institution remotely have 14 online degree opportunities to choose from at the graduate and undergraduate levels. The school has experience facilitating online classes and a reputation for strong academics, attracting many remote students.
The school's main campus in Los Alamitos, California, hosts academic and career services offices that are available to online learners. Virtual career fairs, academic advising, and other programs support the long-term success of degree-seekers. The school's internship programs give students a chance to gain hands-on field experience. Program graduates are awarded a bachelor's degree with full accreditation upon completing all requirements.
Additional information about how to apply and what programs are available can be obtained by contacting the school directly.
Touro University Worldwide at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,903
Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 8
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 93%
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,940
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
National University
- La Jolla, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
National University is a leader in online education. Students who enroll at the private institution can choose between 98 online offerings at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.
The physical campus in La Jolla, California, employs academic and career service professionals that are also available to assist online learners. Career-planning events like virtual job fairs are available to degree-seekers who connect with these advisors. Internships help students gain hands-on experience. Upon completion of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an accredited degree.
Representatives at the school can provide additional information about application and program specifics.
National University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 8,769
Online Bachelor's Programs: 40
Online Master's Programs: 41
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 72%
Admission Rate: 89%
- In-State$13,320
- Out-of-state$13,320
- In-State$15,480
- Out-of-state$15,480
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled16,670
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Golden Gate University
- San Francisco, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
For many online degree-seekers, Golden Gate University is an attractive choice. The school, a private institution, hosts 62 programs for remote learners at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Many distance learners choose to study at this school because of its track record in online education and reputation for academic quality.
The school offers additional support to online learners through the academic and career services offices at its San Francisco, California, campus. Academic advisors help degree-seekers complete their program, while virtual job fairs and career planning events prepare them for success after graduation. Many students also gain hands-on field experience through the school's internship programs. A degree with full accreditation is awarded to all enrollees upon completing their program.
Representatives at the school can provide additional information about application and program specifics.
Golden Gate University at a Glance:
Online Student Enrollment: 1,631
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Online Master's Programs: 22
Percent of Programs Offered Online: 85%
- In-State$15,840
- Out-of-state$15,840
- In-State$19,620
- Out-of-state$19,620
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,432
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Colleges
California
2024
Online Colleges in California Ranking Guidelines
We selected the online schools in California based on the quality of their programs, types of courses and degrees offered, and faculty strengths, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation, including a strong reputation for online degree programs.
Rankings MethodologyQuestions About College in California
Is Online College Cheaper in California?
California is not the most expensive state for college, but median tuition rates do exceed the national average. The National Center for Education Statistics provides a handy table with recent expense figures.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Degree in California?
This depends on prior academic experience and current work commitments. Those with transfer credits finish faster, while those beginning study from the ground up take longer. Most undergraduate students graduate in 3-5 years.
Does an Online Degree Have the Same Value as an On-Campus Degree?
Yes! Most of the online schools in California listed in our ranking use the same faculty, share the same learning objectives, and award the same diplomas as on-campus offerings.
Is California a Good State for Higher Education?
It is. California is home to a number of reputable institutions, including one of the largest public university systems in the country (California State University). It continues to expand financial aid opportunities as well as distance learning options.
Employment in California
Educational attainment and gainful employment go hand in hand. Understanding which job sectors enjoy the most demand can help prospective learners choose a major that will pay off. According to the California Employment Development Department, trade and transportation, education, healthcare, and business and professional services are the top industries in the Golden State.
These sectors see the most localized demand, employ the highest concentration of workers, and promise industry growth in coming years. As the table below indicates, these industries also support some of the highest-paying and fastest-growing occupations in California. Those interested in medicine and nursing in particular will continue to see especially favorable conditions.
Aspiring professionals should weigh these trends against additional factors, like cost of living and unemployment rates. While recent BLS data lists California’s unemployment rate at just 5.3%, its cost of living exceeds the national average by nearly 49.9% due to housing expenses. This means that while incoming learners and recent graduates should fare well in the workforce, they need to make smart and informed decisions in order to take advantage of job opportunities that do not jeopardize their finances.
| Career | Salary | Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|
| Anesthesiologists | $452,930 | 27.1% |
| Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons | $221,820 | 40.4% |
| Psychiatrists | $288,270 | 8.4% |
| Chief Executives | $281,030 | 2.4% |
| Surgeons | $340,260 | N/A |
| Career | Salary | Projected Job Growth (2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Medicine Physicians | $212,300 | 47.9% |
| Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians | $56,900 | 44.9% |
| Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School | $66,880 | 43.8% |
| Physicians, Pathologists | $264,450 | 43.6% |
| Neurologists | $194,000 | 41.8% |
Associate and Graduate Degrees
Associate programs help prepare learners for more focused study and often act as stepping stones to bachelor’s degrees. Graduate programs work similarly: After baccalaureate graduation, some degree-seekers proceed to further advanced study. This route hones existing skills, develops additional areas of expertise, and qualifies learners for a broader, more lucrative set of job opportunities.
Most colleges and universities in California now offer online options at every level of educational attainment. This means that prospective students can feasibly complete their entire education using more convenient methods. Many schools extend associate degrees by offering built-in pathways to undergraduate and graduate study. Learners who take full advantage of these benefits may be able to reduce their total time spent in school.
Business management, nursing, and criminal justice are among the most common fields of study in this regard. Many online colleges in California offer associate and graduate programs in these areas. Unlike traditional on-campus programs, these opportunities do not involve travel or relocation and administer most if not all requirements online. Some schools may even offer opportunities for internships or field placements within degree-seekers’ own communities.
