California offers many options for students seeking an online degree. Here, we outline top careers and schools in California.
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Best Colleges & Universities in California
Online colleges in California educate in- and out-of-state students. Admission requirements vary by school and degree. Applicants to bachelor's programs should hold a high school or GED diploma. Master's and doctoral programs usually accept only bachelor's degree-holders.
Census data indicate that a college education significantly benefits California residents. Good-paying California jobs help workers afford the state's high cost of living. A degree prepares learners for a career in one of the state's largest industries: education, finance, and professional services. The following sections detail possible careers and schools' costs of attendance (COA).
Prospective students choose from many public and private California online colleges. Community and junior colleges offer associate degrees. Four-year colleges and universities feature bachelor's and graduate programs.
Can California residents go to college for free?
Some in-state public schools offer free tuition to learners living in the same city. However, even these students pay for textbooks, fees, and related expenses.
Do I need to be a resident of California to attend an online college in California?
No. Many top programs accept out-of-state applicants. However, programs preparing students for licensure may limit enrollment to residents. Out-of-state learners should also avoid online colleges in California with on-campus graduation requirements.
AffordableCollegesOnline.org 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.
Featured Online Programs
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Online Colleges in California 2022
#1 Best Online Colleges In California
California State University, East Bay
Hayward, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students can pursue liberal arts and professional studies programs at California State University, East Bay, a nonprofit school. Students can conveniently earn accredited degrees from a distance while they work.
Degree-seekers traditionally complete a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in four years. A master’s program typically takes about two years to complete. Working students can view live and recorded classes. Online learners may complete programs that blend classroom instruction and experiential learning such as internships or practicums. Enrollees complete assignments within a set time frame.
Online learners can begin their education at the school with certificates or associate degrees. Students at the school benefit from online support services such as tutoring and career advising. Students pay affordable online tuition. Enrollees receive an average total aid of $9,752. Learners can expect a 76% admission rate.
California State University, East Bay has been accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
16,064
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
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
Alliant International University
San Diego, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
A ranking of the top U.S. online colleges includes Alliant International University. Graduate students choose from nine online master's programs. Currently, 1,507 distance learners enroll at the school.
Located in San Diego, California, the private school enrolls around 143 degree-seekers. Distance learners attend class virtually from across the country. Online enrollees at the institution get access to student services just for them. Students can take advantage of the academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services offered by the online school.
Degree-seekers wanting to pursue a degree in a top-choice major get their needs met at the online college. Distance learners graduate with an accredited degree that meets the requirements for diverse career paths. The institution prioritizes affordable educational options.
Average Tuition
In-state
$15,347
Out-of-state
$15,347
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
3,536
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
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
Humboldt State University
Arcata, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Working students at Humboldt State University receive an online education on par with that of their on-campus peers. A public institution, Humboldt State University enrolls distance learners in two online programs. Students can earn a top-ranked degree online. Learners prepare for a variety of careers with the school’s bachelor’s and graduate degrees. E-learners enjoy benefits such as recorded courses and at-your-pace learning.
The school’s online programs attract students who need flexibility. Transferring credits or an associate degree accelerates degree completion. Learners do not need to submit test scores for admission. Applicants can expect a 92% admission rate. Humboldt State University holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, an independent, regional accrediting agency.
Humboldt State University Fast Facts:
School Status: Public
Number of Distance Learners: 2,111
Online Programs Available: 2
Bachelor’s Degrees Available Online: 1
Tuition Rates for Undergrad: $5,742 in-state; $17,622 out-of-state
Rate of Admission: 92%
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
92%
Students Enrolled
7,180
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29%
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, Chico
Chico, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
California State University, Chico's top-ranked online programs make it one of the best online schools. Business, healthcare, STEM, and social science are fields that the public institution's distance learners can choose from. Completing a 100% online degree is an option with many programs. Remote enrollees complete course requirements from the comfort of home, rather than traveling to the campus.
Remote classroom spaces let distance learners interact with teachers and peers in their online programs. The institution's experiential learning opportunities prepare participants to enter the workforce. The school supports distance learners through academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling.
With undergraduate and graduate programs, the accredited online programs meet the needs of diverse students. Degree-seekers benefit from the flexible format, meeting graduation requirements more easily.
California State University, Chico Facts:
Online Students: 6,024
Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Online Master's Programs: 2
Students Awarded Financial Aid: 76%
Learners Receiving Student Loans: 44%
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
84%
Admission Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
17,110
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
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
National University
La Jolla, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
The nonprofit school National University offers a comprehensive catalog that includes liberal arts and professional studies degrees. Students can conveniently earn accredited degrees from a distance while they work.
The school offers 120-credit bachelor’s programs that students complete in four years or less. Graduate students complete a master’s degree in two years on average. The institution’s online format allows students to view live and recorded classes. Faculty blend classroom instruction and experiential learning such as internships or practicums. Degree-seekers view lectures and submit assignments on a schedule.
Students can begin their education with the school's certificates or associate degrees. Distance learners receive online support services such as tutoring and career advising. Students pay affordable online tuition. The school accepts 89% of applicants.
The school has received accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
Average Tuition
In-state
$13,320
Out-of-state
$13,320
Retention Rate
50%
Admission Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
16,670
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Online Colleges In California
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
California State University, Fullerton ranks among the top schools for offering in-person and online undergraduate and graduate degrees. The accredited college currently enrolls 15,479 students in its online programs. At the public institution, degree-seekers choose from two online bachelor's programs and five online master's programs.
Enrollees at the online school choose from programs in diverse fields, such as healthcare, business, and STEM. Remote learners complete classwork in a virtual learning environment to earn their online degree. Learners can tailor classes to their plan of study by working with academic advisors and faculty mentors. Tutoring services, financial aid counseling, and career services at the school support online degree-seekers in their educational pursuits.
Enrollees earn bachelor's and master's degrees with 120 and 30 credits, respectively. Learners enrolled online generally qualify for different types of financial aid, like scholarships or federal aid.
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
40,445
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
38%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#7 Best Online Colleges In California
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Ranking among the best online schools, San Diego State University is a public institution located in California. The accredited school enrolls 17,691 distance learners in its undergraduate and graduate programs. The institution offers two bachelor's programs and six master's programs for online degree-seekers.
Students interested in many different career paths get their needs met by the school's most popular majors, such as STEM, healthcare, and business. Online programs feature remote classroom settings to engage participants. Online learners can often do internships, practicums, clinicals, or other placements in their local area to fulfill in-person requirements. The school makes student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring available to online students.
Often, bachelor's programs take degree-seekers four years to finish. People can graduate faster by bringing in credits from previous college experience. Prospective enrollees can look at accelerated program options as well.
Average Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
34%
Students Enrolled
35,544
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#8 Best Online Colleges In California
Shasta Bible College
Redding, CA
4 years
Online
Online learning at Shasta Bible College provides the same education as on-campus programs. Online learners at the private school can pursue 13 online degrees. Many of the institution's online programs rank among the nation’s best. The school enrolls undergraduate and graduate students in a variety of programs. Students choose online degrees for various reasons, such as busy schedules.
The school’s online programs offer benefits such as asynchronous learning and affordability. Students studying online can also transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. Applicants may strengthen their applications with optional test scores. One of the nation’s best schools for e-learning, the school has a 100% admission rate. The school is accredited by the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, an independent accrediting body.
Shasta Bible College Numbers:
Status of School: Private
Students Pursuing Online Degrees: 29
Degrees Available Online: 13
Online Bachelor’s Programs: 3
In-State and Out-of-State Undergraduate Tuition: $12,000
Admission Rate: 100%
Average Tuition
In-state
$12,000
Out-of-state
$12,000
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
41
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
#9 Best Online Colleges In California
SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary
El Dorado Hills, CA
4 years
Online
Students can pursue liberal arts and professional studies programs at SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary, a nonprofit school. Nontraditional learners can conveniently earn accredited degrees while they juggle work and other obligations.
Degree-seekers traditionally complete a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in four years. Graduate students usually complete a master’s degree in two years. Students conveniently earn their degree with live and recorded classes. Degree-seekers learn through classroom instruction and experiential learning such as internships or practicums. Online learners submit assignments on schedule.
Working professionals can begin their education with the school's certificates or associate degrees. The school administers online support services such as tutoring and career advising. SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary charges affordable online tuition.
E-learners pay affordable online tuition. Applicants can expect a 95% admission rate.
The school is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,600
Out-of-state
$9,600
Retention Rate
53%
Admission Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
626
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
#10 Best Online Colleges In California
Bethesda University
Anaheim, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
A private institution located in Anaheim, Bethesda University offers some of the best online courses in the country. The institution's certificates and degrees meet high standards for quality. Classwork fosters critical thinking and analytical skills. Degree-seekers can add a minor to improve their chance of securing specialized roles after graduation.
Bethesda University offers online undergraduate degrees for students to begin their education. Nontraditional learners transfer credits to complete a bachelor’s in an accelerated time frame. Learners pay $7,875 in-state tuition for bachelor’s degrees. Students complete master’s degrees in two years on average. Those earning a doctoral degree often take four or more years to finish. Enrollees pursuing a graduate program pay $7,631 for in-state tuition.
The institution's website provides details about how to earn credit for internships. Programs help learners gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure positions in their field. Students can use entrance scores to bolster their application. Bethesda University holds accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, an independent accrediting agency.
Average Tuition
In-state
$7,875
Out-of-state
$7,875
Retention Rate
43%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
397
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
#11 Best Online Colleges In California
Golden Gate University
San Francisco, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
A San Francisco, California, institution, Golden Gate University offers degrees on campus and online as a private institution. The school enrolls students from all over the United States in its online programs. The college offers online programs in popular fields like business, STEM, and healthcare to meet the diverse needs and career goals of different graduates.
Virtual learners at the school enroll in undergraduate and graduate programs. Undergraduate degrees feature general education classes and foundational courses. Enrollees also take advanced classes for their chosen major. Online courses and seminar participation help graduate learners gain advanced skills.
Prospective students can contact the school to find out more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. To get connected to financial aid opportunities, enrollees can work with the accredited institution.
Golden Gate University At a Glance:
Total Online Students Enrolled: 1,631
Total Number of Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Average Tuition
In-state
$15,840
Out-of-state
$15,840
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,432
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#12 Best Online Colleges In California
World Mission University
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Situated in Los Angeles, California, World Mission University offers nine online programs. Online learners can choose from two bachelor's programs and three master's programs in various fields. Nontraditional learners attend online schools for flexible learning. Students can complete top-ranked programs at the school. Nontraditional learners earn a four-year bachelor’s degree faster with transfer credits. Working professionals can pursue master’s degrees in various subjects. Degree-seekers complete community field experiences in some graduate programs.
Students complete affordable degrees at the school. Degree-seekers must submit school transcripts. Distance learners earn degrees at World Mission University, accredited by the Association for Biblical Higher Education.
World Mission University Statistics:
Total Programs: 9
Bachelor’s Programs Available Online: 2
Online Associate Programs: 1
Master’s Programs Available Online: 3
In-State Tuition for Undergraduates: $6,240
Average Tuition
In-state
$6,240
Out-of-state
$6,240
Retention Rate
100%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
421
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton
#13 Best Online Colleges In California
Touro University Worldwide
Los Alamitos, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Online learning at Touro University Worldwide provides the same education as on-campus programs. Distance learners at Touro University Worldwide, a private school, can pursue 14 online degrees. Students can complete some of the country’s top-ranked online programs at the institution. The school offers bachelor’s and graduate degrees in many fields. The school's online programs offer various benefits.
The school's online platform appeals to learners who need flexibility and affordability. Transfer credits accelerate degree completion. Many schools no longer require admission tests. The school is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission, a third-party accrediting body.
Touro University Worldwide Facts:
School Status: Private
Total Online Students: 1,903
Online Programs offered: 14
Bachelor’s Available Online: 4
Undergraduate Students Pay: $14,400 a year
Average Tuition
In-state
$14,400
Out-of-state
$14,400
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,940
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#14 Best Online Colleges In California
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
One of the best colleges in California, The Chicago School of Professional Psychology administers 28 online programs in Los Angeles. E-learners receive a high-quality and flexible education at online schools. The school ranks among the best schools in the nation for its degrees. Learners finish a four-year bachelor’s degree faster with transfer credits. Students can complete master’s degrees in a variety of fields. Graduate programs may require students complete practicum or field experience in the community.
Degree-seekers complete affordable degrees at the school. Admission requires school transcripts. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology Numbers:
Number of Programs: 28
Total Bachelor’s Programs Online: 1
Number of Master’s Programs: 9
Average In-State Tuition for Undergrads: $10,992
Average Tuition
In-state
$10,992
Out-of-state
$10,992
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
13%
Students Enrolled
2,999
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#15 Best Online Colleges In California
Brandman University
Irvine, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Online learners can pursue affordable degrees at Brandman University. A comprehensive catalog of programs at the California school provides a variety of degree options. Online students prepare for entry-level jobs and career advancement. Working professionals can enroll on a full- or part-time basis. Degree-seekers watch lectures and complete assignments at convenient times. Hybrid programs blend online and traditional face-to-face instruction. Degree-seekers prefer small classes for individualized instruction.
Graduate students choose from 13 online master's programs and six online doctoral programs. Distance learners pay for their degrees with affordable tuition and generous financial aid.
Brandman University Fast Facts:
Status of School: private
Online Enrollment: 9,772
Number of Online Programs: 50
Bachelor’s Programs Available Online: 16
Average Cost Per Credit: 874
Degree-Seekers Awarded Aid: 89%
Average Tuition
In-state
$12,000
Out-of-state
$12,000
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
10,231
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#16 Best Online Colleges In California
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
A private institution, Azusa Pacific University offers in-person and online degrees from its main campus in California. The school's online programs attract students from all over the country. Healthcare, STEM, and business are some of the popular majors the college offers for its online programs, meeting the needs of graduates pursuing diverse career paths.
Undergraduate and graduate programs are available for the school's online learners. Undergraduate degree-seekers gain foundational knowledge in general education classes. Enrollees attend more in-depth classes for the major, as well. Participation in seminars and online classes help graduate learners build advanced skills.
To find out more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates, prospective students can reach out to the school. To get connected to financial aid opportunities, enrollees can work with the accredited institution.
Azusa Pacific University Fast Facts:
Online Enrollment: 2,750
Percent of Applicants Admitted: 67%
Graduation Percentage: 68%
Average Tuition
In-state
$39,640
Out-of-state
$39,640
Retention Rate
80%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
9,297
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
30%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#17 Best Online Colleges In California
Horizon University
Indianapolis, IN
4 years
Online
A private institution, Horizon University runs an Indianapolis, Indiana-based campus. On-campus and distance learners pick from a large offering of programs at the accredited school. The number of students enrolled online at the college totals 25. Degree-seekers pursue a bachelor's entirely online.
Learners at the school select from many of the top-choice fields for their college degree. Being able to fit earning a degree around other responsibilities and obligations is why many degree-seekers like the virtual learning environment of online programs. Many of the school's programs appeal to working professionals looking to advance their careers. The school offers a total of three online bachelor's programs to incoming students.
Degree-seekers usually complete a bachelor's program in four years. Transfer students finish their degree in less time by bringing in credits from previous higher education institutions. The school should list admission requirements and application deadlines on its website.
Average Tuition
In-state
$9,000
Out-of-state
$9,000
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
43
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Association for Bibical Higher Educaiton
#18 Best Online Colleges In California
Southern California Seminary
El Cajon, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Working professionals can earn affordable online degrees at Southern California Seminary. The California institution offers a robust catalog of programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Students receive preparation for entry-level jobs and career advancement. The school offers enrollment flexibility. Students complete online programs using a flexible asynchronous format. Students complete hybrid degrees with a blend of online and traditional face-to-face instruction. Online learners prefer small classes for individualized instruction.
Graduates can choose from two online master's programs. The institution's students pay for their education with affordable tuition and generous financial aid.
Southern California Seminary Statistics:
Institution Status: Private
Total Virtual Learners: 130
Degrees Available Online: 4
Online Bachelor’s Degrees: 1
Percent of Enrollees Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Tuition
In-state
$15,588
Out-of-state
$15,588
Retention Rate
100%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
176
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
#19 Best Online Colleges In California
Pacific Oaks College
Pasadena, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Ranking among the best online schools, Pacific Oaks College's online programs are top-ranked. Distance learners enroll in the private institution's programs in business, healthcare, STEM, and social science. Many programs allow students to earn a degree 100% online. Earning a degree from the comfort of home saves online enrollees from commuting to the Pasadena, California, campus.
For online degrees, remote learners use a virtual classroom space to interact with each other and their teachers. Participants transition to the workforce smoothly because of the knowledge and skills gained through the institution's many experiential learning opportunities. The school offers academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career counseling to support distance learners.
With undergraduate and graduate programs, the accredited online institution meets the needs of diverse students. The flexible format makes meeting graduation requirements more accessible for more degree-seekers.
Pacific Oaks College Numbers:
Distance Learners Enrolled: 786
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Number of Online Master's Programs: 4
Students Receiving Loans: 87%
Average Tuition
In-state
$13,689
Out-of-state
$13,689
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
5%
Students Enrolled
1,163
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#20 Best Online Colleges In California
Palo Alto University
Palo Alto, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
The country's best online colleges include Palo Alto University among their ranks. Students can also choose from three online master's programs. Online enrollment at the school totals 349.
Located in California, the private school enrolls about 35 online degree-seekers. Remote learners across the country attend their classes virtually. Several student services are available for the institution's online enrollees. Academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services are available to students at the online school.
Degree-seekers from all different backgrounds choose from programs in some of the most popular disciplines. Remote learners leave the school with an accredited degree that meets the requirements for many different career paths. Offering a low-cost education is one of the institution's top priorities.
Average Tuition
In-state
$17,454
Out-of-state
$17,454
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,075
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Why Get an Online Degree in California?
Public higher education in California features research universities, public state universities, and community colleges. Colleges in California offer online and hybrid degrees at different levels. Distance learners complete the same coursework as on-campus peers and earn an identical degree.
Earning a degree results in a big return on investment, especially for members of a minority group. Recent data show that African American degree-holders make about 10% more annually than their peers without a degree. Latino/a and Indigenous Americans experience even greater financial benefits. As of Dec. 2021, California actively invests in these groups' education.
Cost of Attending an Online College in California
A California degree-seeker's COA depends on many factors, including school, residency, and living arrangements. Some public and private schools attract online learners with a lower per-credit tuition rate. Others attract students with reduced fees. In-state students attending a public school save significantly on tuition. Private institutions charge more, but all degree-seekers pay the same rate, no matter their residency.
The details in the following sections reflect the latest data as of Jan. 2022. Consult a school's tuition or financial aid website for more information.
In-State Tuition in California
Prospective students must establish California residency for 366 days before qualifying for in-state tuition. They do so by changing their voter registration and driver's license. As of the 2019-20 school year, the average in-state California student paid $8,190 in annual tuition. California residents save on a degree compared to Illinois and New Hampshire learners at an in-state school.
Out-of-State Tuition in California
Out-of-state students pay a premium to attend public four-year colleges in California. In 2019-20, these degree-seekers paid $32,180 in annual tuition. This exceeds the average U.S. out-of-state tuition rate by about $5,000. These figures should not discourage out-of-state students from considering public schools. Some schools may offer in-state tuition to students earning a degree entirely online.
Public College Tuition
As of Jan. 2022, in-state learners at the University of California (UC), Berkeley pay $14,250 annually. Out-of-state students pay an additional $29,750 in nonresident supplemental tuition. Other UC institutions, such as UC Davis, use a similar tuition formula. UC Davis undergraduates living at home or earning an online degree enjoy COA about $8,000 lower.
Private College Tuition
In 2019-20, the average California student attending a private school paid $37,010 in annual tuition. Stanford University undergraduates pay more. However, online learners save over $14,000 annually by not living on campus. These degree-seekers do not pay for a meal plan or specific on-campus fees.
Prospective students researching online colleges in California should consider how other fees and expenses impact COA. California online colleges' technology requirements mean some degree-seekers must purchase a new computer or better internet connection. Other technology costs may include course-specific software. Learners in a hybrid program should save money for commuting to campus or a practicum site.
Online students approaching graduation should budget for a graduation fee. Some upcoming and recent graduates also spend out of pocket for a professional certification. These certifications can increase their career potential. Fortunately, many organizations awarding certifications offer student members a discount.
The fastest-growing California jobs offer a median salary exceeding the U.S. average by 25% or more. Some of these professions, including solar photovoltaic installer, do not require a four-year degree. However, remember that projected growth may rise or fall due to changing economic conditions.
Solar photovoltaic installers must hold a high school or GED diploma. Some employers provide training or an apprenticeship program. Others limit job applicants to those with electrical or general construction experience. The position involves installing solar panels, performing maintenance, and applying weather sealing. The career requires many hours working outdoors.
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Occupational therapy assistants teach patients therapy exercises, record patients' progress, and follow other healthcare professionals' instructions. Other job responsibilities include assessing patients' unique needs. Most employers consider applicants with an associate degree or higher. New workers may need on-the-job training or a professional certification.
Statisticians
Statisticians analyze data and make conclusions. Many fields need their expertise, such as healthcare, manufacturing, and marketing. Job titles for these workers include biostatistician and clinical data manager. These and other statisticians publish peer-review articles, make reports to stakeholders, and evaluate different statistical methods' effectiveness.
Physician Assistants
Physician assistants work alongside doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers. They interpret test records, review patients' medical histories, and prescribe medication. Individuals enter the profession by completing an approved physician assistant program. The programs take about two years for bachelor's degree-holders. Graduation requirements include supervised clinical experiences.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts use their computer science expertise to encrypt data and create security systems. They also research the latest information on security trends. Most analysts work in an office setting during regular business hours. Requirements may include a bachelor's in computer science or an MBA in information systems. Significant computer science work experience makes applicants more competitive.
Top-Paying Jobs in California
The table below introduces the top-paying California jobs in 2021. Please note that it provides median salaries. Workers living in large cities often earn more than those in suburban or rural areas. Other factors affecting pay include degree, years of experience, and professional certifications. Click the embedded links to learn more about each career.
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