The Best Online Colleges in California for 2018

Last Updated: July 3, 2018

Each year, thousands of students earn online degrees online colleges in California. Like the state itself, California's array of educational offerings is expansive, varied, and colorful. With more than 3.2 million students studying at the state's higher education institutions, California's college and university system is the largest in the U.S.

This list includes 30 of the best online colleges in California that boast robust distance learning programs. The public and private universities on this list offer many useful online services, which help to make the student experience easy and productive.

Four reasons to find online schools in California:

Guaranteed in-state tuition saves you money
Be a part of a university or college you know and love

Get a degree from a school employers know and trust
Be close enough to easily visit campus when desired

Ranking guidelines for the best online colleges in California:

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We selected the online colleges and universities here 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. Many of the schools on this list of the best online colleges in California were also listed in our overall ranking of the best online colleges in the United States.

Note: In ranking the best online colleges in California, giving attention to the variety of degree programs available at the institutions is of utmost importance. For this reason, a more prestigious school in California may offer one, or a few online degrees, but that may not be enough for that school to rank highly among the best online colleges in the state. In this ranking, we are dedicated to showing who's leading the way in delivering quality online degree programs in California.

The Best Online Colleges in California

1. Azusa Pacific University

Azusa, California

Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical Christian university founded in 1899. Over 10,000 students attend the university's seven campuses throughout southern California. The university is known for its extensive library, both in print and online. Key among the school's collections are a set of Dead Sea Scroll fragments and first-edition prints of the King James Bible.

The online branch of Azusa Pacific University launched in 2010 and was created in response to a growing number of diverse students who aspire to further their education, but are unable to attend a traditional physical campus institution.

One of the things that makes Azusa Pacific University one of the best online colleges in California is its wide variety of online programs in diverse areas of study. APU offers two online bachelor's degrees: business administration and RN to BSN. Master's degree make up the bulk of the university's online offerings with programs in business management, art education, healthcare administration and leadership, educational technology, and more. They also offer an online Doctor of Nuring Practice.

Passionate about student success, Azusa Pacific University provides each online student with a success coach so that each individual has a personalized, responsive support system. Online students are also granted access to a number of other resources, including extensive library services, 24/7 access to online tutors, and career advice.

Azusa Pacific University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Azusa Pacific University's top rankings on TBS

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2. California Baptist University - CBU Online

Riverside, California

California Baptist University, established in 1950, is a Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. The university has seven academic departments, teaches roughly 8,000 students and offers over 100 degree programs in topics including everything from music to kinesiology. The university's library holds the P. Boyd Smith Hymnology Collection, a massive 2,100-volume work containing hymns spanning 300 years and over 20 languages.

California Baptist University offers more than 30 bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs online with an excellent variety of majors. Online bachelor's degree offerings include graphic design, criminal justice, liberal studies and political science. Online master's degree options include accounting, business, communication and disability studies. Available online doctoral programs include public administration.

California Baptist University's online student resources include an online library, a scholarly article database and an online job board.

California Baptist University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of California Baptist University's top rankings on TBS

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3. Brandman University

Irvine, California

Brandman University, established in 1958 as part of Chapman University, has several campuses in California and Washington as well as an online campus. Between these, the university offers over 50 degree and certificate programs. The university originally served soldiers of the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station, and has since developed a military-friendly reputation.

Brandman University offers an impressive variety of associate, bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certification programs online. The university offers an associate's degree in general education. Brandman University focuses more on its bachelor's degree offerings, which include criminal justice and sociology. It also offers master's degrees online, including education and psychology. Doctoral options include nursing and organizational leadership, while certificate options include business and health administration.

Brandman University is one of the best online schools in California when it comes to military-friendly support services. The university offers many useful online services including an online library with a scholarly article database, career services, writing community, disability services, military community and technical support.

Brandman University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Brandman University's top rankings on TBS

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4. National University

La Jolla, California

National University is one of the largest non-profit universities in California with over 12,000 students enrolled. Founded in 1971, the university has more than 25 campuses both inside and outside of the United States, as well as a thriving online campus. The university offers over 130 degree programs, many of which are also available online.

National University offers an extensive array of online bachelor's, master's and certificate programs. Some of the online bachelor's degrees available include finance, education, engineering and law. Master's degree options include journalism and psychology, while certification options include hospitality, marketing and criminal justice.

The university's library offers many services to its online students, including librarian live chat, an eBook collection, streaming video, a scholarly article database and a dissertation database. The university also offers writing center services as well as an online job board.

National University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of National University's top rankings on TBS

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5. Golden Gate University

San Francisco, California

Golden Gate University established in 1901, is a private non-profit university with approximately 5,000 students. The university's four colleges specialize in: law, business, accounting and taxation. Golden Gate University is one of the oldest online schools in California, as it began offering distance educations in 1993 in the form of correspondence.

Golden Gate University has a number of online bachelor's, master's and certificate programs. Bachelor's degree options include business, information technology and marketing. Master's degree offerings include financial planning and taxation. Available certificates include global supply chain management and public relations.

There are also many resources available to online students, including legal databases, access to multiple law libraries from around the state, and an online job board.

Golden Gate University – San Francisco is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College & University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Golden Gate University's top rankings on TBS

6. University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California

The University of Southern California (USC), a private, non-profit university founded in 1880, opened its doors with only 10 teachers and 53 students. The university has grown exponentially, and is now home to 44,000 students and 4,000 faculty members. With multiple campuses, programs, and centers, and degrees in everything from pharmacy to art to medicine, the University of Southern California serves a wide range of students.

Through their online platform, USC Online, the University of California provides distance education for professional and graduate students. With online programs covering a variety of disciplines, USC Online provides flexible education to students worldwide. USC Online offers information for students on specific tracks: Career Changers, Career Advancers, and Military Students. Their programs are designed to help students advance in their careers, reinvent themselves through education, and lead by building on previous military service and other leadership experiences.

As one of the leading online schools in California when it comes to digital innovation, the University of Southern California offers extensive support to their distance learners. Online students can access resources and support from the school's Career Center and library.

University of Southern California is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of University of Southern California's top rankings on TBS

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7. Biola University

La Mirada, California

Founded in 1980, Biola University is a private, non-profit, non-denominational Christian university located in La Mirada, CA. The university enrolls more than 6,000 students and serves its students with a variety of on-campus and online programs. With eight schools offering 150+ bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs, students at Biola University pursue a wide range of academic interests.

With programs in everything from Biblical Ministries to Education to Business Management, Biola serves a diverse population of students with its online offerings. Biola University incorporates its Christian worldview into these online degree programs, with an emphasis on spiritual development in addition to academic growth.

Online students at Biola University are well supported with a number of resources and learning tools, including library resources, disability services via the Learning Center, and support from the Online and Graduate Student Success department.

Biola University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Biola University's top rankings on TBS

8. Hope International University

Fullerton, California

Hope International University (HIU)—a private, Christian university active since 1928—offers bachelor's and master's degrees, as well as certificate and credential programs, to around 2,000 students. HIU is affiliated with the Churches of Christ and was founded as Pacific Bible Seminary. While the main Hope International University campus is located in Fullerton, CA, the school has other campuses in Anaheim, CA, Washington state, and Nebraska.

Hope International University's online branch, HIU Online, offers a variety of online programs and courses, some 100% online degree programs, and other blended degree programs. The university offers online bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs in fields including counseling psychology, education, and business administration.

Instructors at HIU are just as committed to their online students as their traditional students. Students in the online programs at Hope International University get one-on-one support from teachers, 24/7 classroom access, and other student support resources. HIU uses modern distance learning software that lets students download course materials, access library resources, submit assignments, interact with students and professors, and contribute to ongoing class discussions.

Hope International University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Hope International University's top rankings on TBS

9. California State University, East Bay

Hayward, California

California State University – East Bay, a public school, offers over 190 degree programs. Three of the university's academic departments, the business, education and music departments, have earned national respect and recognition. The university has won several awards for its advances in solar energy research.

California State University – East Bay provides online bachelor's degrees in areas such as hospitality and tourism, and business administration. Online master's degrees include education and health care administration. Available certificates include mathematics and cartography.

Online students at the university have access to plenty of resources, including an online library and academic article database, academic advising, career education, online tutoring, and an online writing lab.

California State University – East Bay is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of California State University – East Bay's top rankings on TBS

10. California State University, Fullerton

Fullerton, California

California State University-Fullerton (CSUF), also known as Cal State Fullerton, is a public, non-profit university located in Fullerton, California. CSUF, founded in 1957, offers a number of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as professional certifications, to a diverse student body. With eight degree-offering colleges—The Arts, Business and Economics, Communications, Education, Engineering and Computer Science, Health and Human Development, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Natural Science and Mathematics—as well as a department for University Extended Education, CSUF provides higher education to over 40,000 students.

California State University-Fullerton offers a variety of online courses and programs, including programs in business administration, sociology, and education. In addition to degree programs, CSUF offers several online certificate programs, such as data science, digital marketing, geographic information systems, professional fiduciary management, and user experience and customer-centered design. These flexible, affordable options are beneficial career boosters for many students.

Online programs at California State University-Fullerton offer the same degrees and certificates that students earn on-campus, with the flexibility and convenience of online learning. Students in online degree programs receive a variety of support and resources to assist their distance learning.

California State University-Fullerton is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of California State University-Fullerton's top rankings on TBS

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11. Fresno Pacific University

Fresno, California

Fresno Pacific University (FPU) is a private, Christian university founded in 1944 by the Pacific District Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches. With five locations in California's Central Valley, the school serves around 4,000 students. Fresno Pacific University offers 100+ areas of study and has five schools: the School of Business, the School of Natural Sciences, the School of Humanities, Religion and Social Sciences, the School of Education, and Fresno Pacific Biblical Seminary.

Fresno Pacific University offers several completely online bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs. With degrees in everything from athletic training to healthcare administration, FPU serves a wide variety of online students. In online classes at the university, students are encouraged to connect with their professors, classmates, and advisor for an enriched online learning experience.

As one of the online schools in California leading the charge in adult online education, FSU knows how to address the challenges that arise for many distance learns. As a result, the university offers a variety of support to its online students, including spiritual leadership and programming, career services, and IT services.

Fresno Pacific University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Fresno Pacific University's top rankings on TBS

12. Touro University Worldwide

Los Alamitos, California

Touro University Worldwide is a private, non-profit university, founded in 2008. The Touro College and University System in New York City, founded in 1970 in an effort to strengthen the Jewish heritage and serve the American and global community through education, is the parent organization to Touro University Worldwide. Though not officially religiously affiliated, Touro University Worldwide prides itself on its Judaic foundation and focuses on social justice, intellectual pursuit, and giving back to society. Touro University Worldwide serves a little over 1,000 students, with online associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in a variety of fields, including psychology, social work, and health sciences.

With all online programs, Touro University Worldwide is focused on accessible, effective distance learning. The school has associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs that students can complete 100% online. Focused on professional and academic growth, online degree programs at Touro University Worldwide work to prepare students for successful careers in today's professional world.

Since Touro University Worldwide offers only online degree programs, the school is focused and well-equipped to deliver high quality online learning. Online students at Touro University Worldwide receive support from the university's faculty and staff, as well as library access and financial aid.

Touro University Worldwide is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Touro University Worldwide's top rankings on TBS

13. California State University, Chico

Chico, California

Founded in 1887, California State University-Chico, commonly called Chico State, is the second oldest California State University school in the state. Chico State serves over 17,000 students with a variety of bachelor's and master's programs. The most popular majors at the school are Business Administration, Psychology, and Pre-Nursing. The university has seven colleges—College of Agriculture, College of Natural Sciences, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, College of Business, College of Communication and Education, College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Construction Management, and College of Humanities and Fine Arts—as well as five schools and 29 institutes and centers.

California State University-Chico offers several online bachelor's degrees, an online Master of Science in Nursing, and an online certificate. The online courses are fully web-based, but many offer live, synchronous video streaming of course lectures so that students get to experience the class in real-time.

Online students at California State University-Chico receive a variety of resources and support from the university. Students in the school's distance learning programs have access to the university bookstore, library, and advisors. California State University-Chico has also compiled an online database of workshops for online students that cover topics including time management, test preparation, and study skills.

California State University-Chico is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of California State University-Chico's top rankings on TBS

14. University of La Verne

La Verne, California

University of La Verne is a private, non-profit school, founded in 1891 by members of the Church of the Brethren, a “peace church” similar to the Quakers or Mennonites. University of La Verne houses four colleges—the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business and Public Management, the LaFetra College of Education, and the College of Law—as well as eight regional campuses around Southern California and a wide variety of online programs. With more than 8,000 students, 55 undergraduate programs, 19 master's degrees, four doctoral programs, and eight credential programs, University of La Verne serves a variety of students in diverse fields of study.

La Verne Online, the online branch of University of La Verne, offers a number of online associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. With a focus on flexibility and convenience, online students receive individualized support in small distance learning classrooms. Online programs include degrees in business administration, education, and information technology.

With a dedicated team of La Verne Online staff members, the online learning department at University of La Verne offers students expertly designed online courses, advising, and technical support. La Verne Online students are also supported by their professors and instructors, and have access to school resources including the library and financial aid department.

University of La Verne is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of University of La Verne's top rankings on TBS

15. Pacific Oaks College

Pasadena, California

Established in 1958, Pacific Oaks College was created to train early childhood educators using a model of inclusion and self-discovery. The college was founded in conjunction with an early childhood school, Pacific Oaks Children's School, which itself was founded when World War II ended in 1945, based on religious Quaker principles of community, equality, and peace. Today, Pacific Oaks College offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Marriage and Family Therapy, Education, Human Development, and Organizational Leadership. Pacific Oaks College serves around 1,200 students.

Pacific Oaks College offers a number of online programs, in addition to their on-campus degree programs. Designed for students with a wide range of scheduling needs and learning styles, Pacific Oaks College's online offerings include bachelor's and master's degree programs, as well as teacher credentials programs in Education, Human Development, and Organizational Leadership.

Pacific Oaks College offers a number of student services designed to help students navigate the educational experience in and out of the classroom. Distance learning students access these same services, including library access and support from the Center for Achievement, Resources, and Enrichment.

Pacific Oaks College is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

16. Concordia University - Irvine

Irvine, California

Concordia University-Irvine (CUI) is a private, non-profit, Lutheran university founded in 1976. The school began with one building, 36 students, and five faculty members. Today Concordia University-Irvine serves over 4,000 students with an array of undergraduate and graduate degrees. CUI is committed to a Christian, Lutheran worldview, and educates its students from this perspective. With online and regional cohort options, CUI works to prepare its graduates for vocational success.

With a variety of online bachelor's and master's degrees, Concordia University-Irvine offers its online students convenience, flexibility, and affordability. Online classes at CUI are community-based, offering real-time, synchronous learning experiences and face-to-face interaction with instructors via online meetings. With programs in everything from Executive Coaching and Consultation to Nonprofit Leadership to Coaching and Athletics Administration, CUI gives online students a variety of opportunities to further their academic and professional careers.

Online students at Concordia University-Irvine have access to the same services and resources as traditional, on-campus students. Support for online students includes academic advisors, career services, and academic and community services. Focused on encouraging both professional and personal growth, CUI staff helps students with everything from writing a research paper to connecting with a spiritual community.

Concordia University-Irvine is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Concordia University-Irvine's top rankings on TBS

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17. California State University, Northridge

Northridge, California

Founded as San Fernando Valley College in 1958, California State University-Northridge (CSUN) is now a large institution, with nearly 40,000 students and a number of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. The school's nine colleges—Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, & Communication, David Nazarian College of Business and Economics, Michael D. Eisner College of Education, College of Engineering & Computer Science, College of Health & Human Development, College of Humanities, College of Science & Mathematics, College of Social & Behavioral Sciences, and The Tseng College—offer a diverse array of degree programs.

With a variety of online degree programs designed to serve the working adult, California State University-Northridge provides online students with programs designed to help them advance as skilled practitioners in their chosen fields. CSUN offers a variety of online bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and certificates. Programs include Social Work, Public Administration, and Humanities.

California State University-Northridge's programs are carefully designed with the following goals in mind: equipping graduates with a solid knowledge of the field, advanced conceptual skills, and refined professional abilities. CSUN educators work to provide online students with strong learning communities, and each online program is served by a faculty academic lead and a program support coordinator. Online students also have access to library services, academic advising, and more.

California State University-Northridge is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of California State University-Northridge's top rankings on TBS

18. Loma Linda University

Loma Linda, California

Loma Linda University (LLU) is a Seventh-Day Adventist, private, non-profit college that serves 4,500 students. Founded in 1905, the university was created with a goal of providing healthcare education inspired by LLU's religious worldview. Today the university is still focused on healthcare education, with eight schools for students to choose from: Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, Religion, and Behavioral Health. Loma Linda also has six hospitals, where students can gain real-world experience as they develop into healthcare professionals.

In addition to its on-campus offerings, Loma Linda University has a growing number of online courses. Recently, the provost of LLU created a digital education taskforce that will work to assess Loma Linda's distance education programs and work to further develop them. LLU currently offers a variety of online bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and certificate programs, housed within the Schools of Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing, Public Health, and Religion.

With a focus on training their instructors to teach effective online courses, Loma Linda University ensures that online students get a comprehensive, valuable classroom experience. Online students benefit from a number of services and supports from the university, including library access.

Loma Linda University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Loma Linda University's top rankings on TBS

19. California State University, Dominguez Hills

Carson, California

California State University-Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) was founded in 1960, and now serves over 14,000 students. With bachelor's and master's degree programs in a variety of subjects, CSUDH seeks to provide accessible and transformative education to a diverse student body. CSUDH is proud to welcome a multicultural mix of students, and is one of the nation's most ethnically diverse college campuses. In addition to traditional, on-campus programs, CSUDH also offers a number of online programs.

Most of the online programs offered at California State University-Dominguez Hills are master's degrees, with the exception of a couple of bachelor's degree programs. CSUDH has a fully online MBA program with specialties in Finance, General Business, Human Resource Management, Information Technology Management, International Business, Logistics Management, Management, and Marketing. Other programs include Nursing and Nonprofit Management.

California State University-Dominguez Hills offers a variety of student services to both its online and on-campus students. Services include academic support and advising, mental health services, and a career center.

California State University-Dominguez Hills is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

20. San Diego Christian College

Santee, California

San Diego Christian College (SDC) is a private, non-profit, non-denominational Christian college, founded in 1970 at Christian Heritage College. Today the school serves around 700 students and offers a variety of associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. SDC seeks to provide education for students according to its Christian mission and worldview.

San Diego Christian College changed to its current name and moved to the Santee campus in 2005. Additionally, that same year, SDC launched a variety of online degree programs. With several associate and bachelor's degrees available completely online, SDC is becoming a top online Christian college. Online programs include Business Management, Communication, and Psychology.

Online students at San Diego Christian College receive a variety of resources and support from the school. Advisors and other professionals are available to help online students in career development, financial aid, and more.

San Diego Christian College is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of San Diego Christian College's top rankings on TBS

21. California State University, San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California

California State University-San Bernardino (CSUSB) was founded in 1965 and is located in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. The university serves over 20,000 students with a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Continually growing, CSUSB added its first doctoral program and several MFA programs in recent years. In addition to its 70+ on-campus programs, CSUSB also offers a variety of online degree programs.

California State University-San Bernardino offers both 100% online degree programs and several hybrid degree programs. Offering both bachelor's and master's degrees, CSUSB online programs include Business Administration, Teacher Leadership, and Criminal Justice. Online distance learning at CSUSB makes it possible for students to access a number of the school's degree programs in a mode that fits their lives and schedules as adult, professional, and non-traditional students.

Students enrolled in online degree programs at California State University-San Bernardino are able to access a number of resources and services to aid their learning. Online students have access to the university library, advising, academic services and more.

California State University-San Bernardino is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of California State University-San Bernardino's top rankings on TBS

22. The Master's University and Seminary

Santa Clarita, California

The Master's University and Seminary first opened in 1927 with 24 students and no permanent campus. Then called Los Angeles Baptist Theological Seminary, The Master's University and Seminary has grown considerably and now serves just under 2,000 students. The school offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as a teaching credential and graduate and post-graduate seminary degrees.

The Master's University and Seminary offers several online degrees that serve a diverse student population. High school juniors and seniors can enroll in the school's dual enrollment program. The university also offers online bachelor's and master's programs in fields that include biblical counseling, business management, and education.

Distance learning students at The Master's University and Seminary are given several forms of student support. Resources include the Student Finance Center and the IT Helpdesk.

The Master's University and Seminary is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of The Master's University and Seminary's top rankings on TBS

23. Pepperdine University

Malibu, California

Founded in 1937 by its namesake, George Pepperdine, Pepperdine University was created with the mission to be equally committed to academic excellence and Christian values. Today, Pepperdine University, a private, non-profit, Christian university affiliated with the Churches of Christ, serves over 7,000 students. With undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, Pepperdine University offers degree programs with courses taught according to its Christian values and worldview.

With a variety of online degree programs to choose from, students can earn Pepperdine University degrees from anywhere in the world. Pepperdine University has online undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Business, Education, and more.

Students in Pepperdine University's online programs can access school support and resources. Resources include several departments devoted to spiritual life, financial aid, and academic advising.

Pepperdine University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Pepperdine University's top rankings on TBS

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24. Mount Saint Mary's University

Los Angeles, California

Founded in 1925, Mount Saint Mary's University (MSMU) is a private, non-profit, Catholic, women's college. With two campuses and an array of online programs, Mount Saint Mary's University serves 3,500 students. Popular programs include Nursing, Business, and Liberal Arts. Mount Saint Mary's offers associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in traditional, accelerated, weekend, and online formats to meet the needs of its diverse body of students.

MSMU Online offers flexible programs designed for busy, motivated students. The online segment of Mount Saint Mary's offers associates degrees in business administration, pre-health science, computer science, and liberal arts, as well as bachelor's degrees in business administration, criminology, and gerontology. Engaged faculty members work closely with online students to help them develop the necessary skills for college and career success.

Each distance learning student at Mount Saint Mary's University is connected with a personal Success Coach. In addition, online students have access to other university resources, including library resources and academic support services.

Mount Saint Mary's University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

25. Simpson University

Redding, California

Founded in 1921 as Simpson Bible Institute, Simpson University is a private, non-profit, Christian university. Originally located in Seattle, WA, Simpson University moved to San Francisco, CA in 1955 and then to its current location in Redding, CA in 1989. Today the school serves just over 1,000 students with a number of associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. With a focus on global service and Christian mission, Simpson University's degree programs educate and equip students from a Christian worldview, though students are not required to identify as Christians to attend the university.

With several online bachelor's and master's degrees, Simpson University offers its students the opportunity to pursue higher education with convenience and flexibility. Simpson University professors and instructors emphasize communication, and students in online courses at the university have many opportunities to interact with their teachers and peers in an online setting. Online programs at Simpson University include Psychology and Organizational Leadership.

Simpson University is committed to rich learning opportunities for its online students. Students in distance learning programs at Simpson University have access to the library and other academic resources.

Simpson University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

26. Humboldt State University

Arcata, California

Founded in 1913, Humboldt State University is a public, non-profit college that is a member of the 23-campus California State University system. Located near redwood forests, mountains, and beaches, Humboldt State University prides itself in offering degree programs where professors know their students' names, learning goes outside the classroom with real-world projects, and the university community is committed to social and environmental responsibility. Founded as a teacher's college, Humboldt State University now has three colleges, 60+ degree programs, and serves over 8,000 students with on-campus and online programs.

Through their Extended Education department, Humboldt State University offers several online degree and certificate programs. With affordable, flexible programs, students in Humboldt State University's online programs have the freedom to work on a degree or certificate in a way that works for them. Online programs at Humboldt State include Applied Anthropology, Leadership Studies, and Social Work.

Humboldt State University is committed to helping their online students find success. The school offers a variety of resources for distance learners, including library access, technology tools, and an eLearning 101 course.

Humboldt State University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of Humboldt State University's top rankings on TBS

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27. San Diego State University

San Diego, California

Founded in 1897, San Diego State University is the oldest higher education institution in the city of San Diego. Originally a training facility for elementary school teachers, San Diego State University is now a leading public research university, serving nearly 35,000 students. With seven colleges—the College of Arts and Letters, the College of Education, the College of Engineering, the College of Health and Human Services, the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts, the College of Sciences, and the Fowler College of Business—San Diego State University provides its students with a diverse array of learning opportunities.

San Diego State University offers a variety of online degree and certificate programs. With online programs in fields including Education and Business, San Diego State University offers students the opportunity to learn in a convenient, flexible distance learning format.

Online students at San Diego State University are eligible for an array of support and services. Students in distance learning programs can access library resources, academic advising, and more.

San Diego State University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of San Diego State University's top rankings on TBS

28. San Jose State University

San Jose, California

Founded as Minns' Evening Normal School to train teachers for California's frontier in 1857, San Jose State University is the oldest public university in the state of California. Today the school offers 145+ programs and serves over 32,000 students. San Jose State University has eight colleges: the College of Applied Sciences and Arts, the College of Humanities and the Arts, the College of Science, the College of Social Sciences, the Connie L. Lurie College of Education, the Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering, and the College of International and Extended Studies.

San Jose State University offers a number of online programs through its Extended Studies department. With online degrees in Business & Management, Engineering & Technology, Library & Info Science, and Biotech & Healthcare, distance learning students at San Jose State University have a wide variety of educational pathways to choose from. Students can choose to pay yearly tuition or by credit hour, making online education at San Jose State University affordable and accessible.

Students enrolled in online degree programs at San Jose State University can take advantage of many of the same resources as traditional, on-campus students. Online student supports include library access, academic advising, and financial aid.

San Jose State University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of San Jose State University's top rankings on TBS

29. William Jessup University

Rocklin, California

William Jessup University (WJU) is a private, non-profit, evangelical Christian university. Founded in 1939 as San Jose Bible College, the university began with just 14 students. Today William Jessup University serves over 1,000 students and offers a variety of associate, bachelor's, and master's degree programs. The school has a variety of options for its students, including on-campus, evening, and online classes. Classes are taught from an evangelical Christian worldview,

William Jessup University offers several online degree programs, in fields like Criminal Justice, Leadership, and Sports Management. The online programs are based around three pillars: academic excellence, relational community, and faith integration. Small online class sizes ensure that distance learning students at WJU have the opportunity to interact closely with professors and peers.

Online programs at the university offer a variety of resources to their students. Supports include library access, the WJU Success Center, the Writing Center, Career and Life Planning, and the Jessup Job Board.

William Jessup University is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

30. University of San Francisco

San Francisco, California

University of San Francisco is a private, non-profit university that offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, via seven physical campuses and an online learning platform. Founded in 1855, this Jesuit Catholic university is is the tenth-oldest member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities, the eighth-largest Jesuit university in the United States, and the second-oldest institution for higher learning in California. The school serves around 11,000 students and houses five colleges and schools: the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Education, the School of Law, the School of Management, and the School of Nursing and Health Professions.

Through their online education platform, University of San Francisco offers two completely online master's degree programs: in public administration and public health. The programs are modeled after the school's successful on-campus programs, with the added flexibility of online learning. Online classes at University of San Francisco are small, allowing students to closely interact with their professors and classmates. New students can begin online programs in the spring, summer, and fall semesters.

Online students at University of San Francisco receive the same resources as those who attend on-campus programs, and graduates will earn the same diploma as their on-campus colleagues. Student services include counseling and psychological services, access to the Career Services Center, library resources, help through the Learning and Writing Center, and accommodations through Student Disability Services.

University of San Francisco is regionally accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

See some of University of San Francisco's top rankings on TBS

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The schools on this list vary in a multitude of ways. Some of them are small, serving around 1,000 students, while others are large organizations, with tens of thousands of enrolled students. Some of the institutions are public, while others are private; some are religiously affiliated while others are secular. We know that students are diverse in their identities, backgrounds, goals, and needs, so we created a list to help you find an online degree program at a school in California that is the perfect fit for you. Each of the schools on this list offers a number of strong online degree and certificate programs, so that you can be sure to find a distance learning program that's right for your goals.