Nearly three million students choose to study at one of California's many private and public colleges. The state is a top destination thanks to its location and the wide array of prestigious schools available.
As more learners look to online learning as a way to meet their higher education aspirations, California colleges provide many opportunities to learn at a distance. We'll walk you through California's job market, cost of living, and potential scholarships.
From UCLA to Berkeley, keep reading to learn about top online colleges in California and get answers to commonly asked questions.
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Online Colleges in California
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The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
#1 Best Online Colleges in California
University of California, Los Angeles
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of California, Los Angeles offers 342 online degrees that benefit working students. At the school, students receive a rigorous education and earn top-ranked degrees. Enrollees typically complete bachelor's degrees in four years, or less if they have transfer credits. Graduate students can pursue a master’s degree in various majors. Learners in some graduate programs develop expertise during field experiences.
The university offers an affordable education for distance learners. Students submit their school transcripts for admission. Degrees offered at University of California, Los Angeles hold regional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
University of California, Los Angeles Statistics:
Total Programs: 342
Number of Master’s Programs Available Online: 1
Average Cost of Undergraduate Tuition: $11,442
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
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
University of California, Berkeley
- Berkeley, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in distance education, the University of California, Berkeley offers 315 online programs. Working professionals can continue their careers as they attend online programs. Students often complete a four-year bachelor’s degree faster with transfer credits. Busy students with a bachelor's degree can earn a master’s from the school’s comprehensive catalog. Some graduate programs offer field experiences, which learners complete in their community. The university requires school transcripts for admission.
The University of California, Berkeley holds regional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
University of California, Berkeley Facts:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 315
Number of MA/MS Degrees Available Online: 2
Average Price Per Credit: 2,712
Price of Tuition for Undergraduates: $11,442
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
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
University of California, Davis
- Davis, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of California, Davis offers 311 online undergraduate and graduate programs. Many students enjoy the flexibility of online learning. Online students can transfer previous credits to accelerate completion of a bachelor’s degree. Some graduate degrees include field experiences, which online students complete in their community.
Students often choose the school to earn affordable degrees. Online learners submit school transcripts to qualify for admission. The University of California, Davis maintains regional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
University of California, Davis Statistics:
Total Programs: 311
Master’s Degrees Available Online: 1
Cost of Tuition for Undergraduates: $11,442
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
California State University, Fullerton
- Fullerton, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
At California State University, Fullerton, online learners receive a rigorous education, just like on-campus students. The public school offers seven online bachelor's and graduate degrees.
Online programs offer benefits, such as flexible learning and affordability. Transferring credits or an associate degree often accelerates degree completion. Applicants may strengthen their applications with optional test scores.
Applicants can expect a 68% admission rate. California State University, Fullerton has received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent, regional accrediting agency.
California State University, Fullerton Numbers:
Institution Status: Public
Online Students: 42,003
Number of Online Programs: 7
Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 2
Tuition for Undergraduate Programs: $5,742 in-state; $17,622 out-of-state
Admission Rate: 68%
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
#5 Best Online Colleges in California
California State University, Long Beach
- Long Beach, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students learning online receive the same high-quality education as on-campus students at California State University, Long Beach. The public institution enrolls distance learners in two online programs.
Online learners enjoy scheduling flexibility and affordable tuition rates at California State University, Long Beach. By transferring credits into their program, students can finish their degree faster. The school's test-optional policy facilitates easier admission, and the university has a 42% admission rate. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
California State University, Long Beach Statistics:
School Status: Public
Distance Learners Enrolled: 40,063
Available Online Programs: 2
Annual Undergraduate Tuition In State: $5,742; Annual Undergraduate Tuition Out Of State: $17,622
Admission Rate: 42%
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
Price Check
In-state students paid an average of $8,401 in tuition at public California colleges in 2020-2021, compared to $34,398 for out-of-state students.
Cost of Living in California
California consistently ranks among the states with the highest cost of living in the United States. The cost of living for students in California varies dramatically, with the urban centers of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego costing considerably more.
But even in the face of higher-than-average cost of living, students can lower expenses in both obvious and creative ways. By sharing housing, utilizing student discounts for food, entertainment, and travel, and taking advantage of campus services — college in California can become relatively affordable.
Average Cost of Living in California
| Cost of Living Category |
Average Price |
| Monthly Mortgage |
$2,548 |
| Monthly Rent |
$1,750 |
| Monthly Electricity Bill |
$124 |
| Monthly Grocery & Food Costs |
$322 |
| Annual Transportation Costs |
$5,316 |
| Annual Healthcare Costs |
$8,501 |
Source: SoFi
California Scholarships
Even with rising tuition rates and higher-than-average cost of living, the Golden State is home to a long list of scholarships that can help you cover the cost of your college degree.
These financial awards cover an expansive list of fields, qualifications, and eligibility criteria, effectively ensuring there's a scholarship for every type of student, including online learners.
We've found five scholarships for California students to get you started. You can also explore our full guide of 30+ scholarships for California students.
- CAC Educational Scholarship Foundation: Up to $2,500 for high school juniors and seniors. Applicants must submit an essay on the importance of establishing good financial credit during college.
- California Scholarship Federation: The California Scholarship Federation considers high school seniors nominated by CSF chapters. Applicants are chosen based on academic performance, community engagement, and letters of recommendation.
- Middle Class Scholarship: Offered through the California Student Aid Commission, eligible undergraduate students must pursue a teaching credential and have a family income and assets not exceeding $217,000.
- National Hispanic Business Women Association Educational Scholarship: Earmarked for students living in Southern California, applicants must demonstrate financial need and hold a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Professional Businesswomen of California: This generous financial award is ideal for women graduating from a California-based high school with plans to attend an accredited institution.
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in California
California tops the list of most populous states. It also has a strong influence on tech and entertainment, so it's no surprise that jobs in many industries are growing in California.
California is home to a long list of fast-growing careers, including fields like software development, healthcare management, business management, and event planning.
As many of the growing jobs in the Golden State require a degree, online college expands access to higher education while allowing students to balance the responsibilities of school, work, and home.
Fast-Growing Careers in California 2020-2030
| Job |
Projected Growth |
Median Annual Wage |
| Logisticians |
39.1% |
$83,845 |
| Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers |
36.1% |
N/A |
| Medical and Health Services Managers |
35.5% |
$129,646 |
| Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists |
34.3% |
$79,331 |
| Operations Research Analysts |
32.4% |
$87,922 |
| Coaches and Scouts |
31.8% |
N/A |
| Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes |
29.7% |
$102,128 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners |
29.4% |
$62,150 |
| Interpreters and Translators |
28% |
$73,611 |
| Financial Managers |
27% |
$161,262 |
Source: California Employment Development Department
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in California
What is the cheapest online college in California?
With an average annual net price of just over $5,000, California State University-Dominguez Hills ranks as the most inexpensive online college in the state.
Still, when considering the right school for you, look further than price. Scholarships and various financial aid opportunities can help you pursue your goals while making school more affordable.
What is the easiest online college to get into in California?
San Diego's National University boasts a 100% acceptance rate while simultaneously offering a deep roster of flexible online programs. Popular majors include teaching, business, nursing, and social sciences.
How much does online college cost in California?
On average, students in California pay $8,401 for in-state tuition at four-year public colleges.
The cost of online college in California varies by school, with in-state students at public colleges paying the least. Typically, online colleges charge the same tuition as on-campus programs. Students can help cut costs by securing scholarships or various financial aid options, including work-study programs and loans.
Is online college free in California?
Many community colleges in California have free tuition programs for online students and on-campus programs. Due to their affordability, cost-conscious students can complete a two-year associate's degree at a community college before transferring to a four-year institution.
Do I need to be a resident of California to attend an online college in California?
No, you do not need to be a resident to attend online college in California. While there are often tuition benefits to attending an in-state school, California is home to numerous online programs that happily enroll students from all over the world.
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