Why Choose a Public College or University in California?
California is the most populous state in the U.S., so it is no surprise that it is home to a sizable list of public colleges and universities. Whether a community college or part of the California State University (CSU) or University of California (UC) systems, the best public colleges in California offer standout academics at an affordable price.
Along with their affordability, some of the best colleges in California include prestigious institutions like UC Berkeley and UCLA, which have a reputation worldwide as elite research universities. But whether a student applies to an elite school like UCLA or a STEM-centric school like Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, California, students have access to top-notch academics.
On the following page, we explore the pros and cons of attending public colleges and universities in California, how much students can expect to pay, and the benefits of attending a nonprofit college. Keep reading to see if a public college or university in California is the right choice for you.
Pros and Cons of Attending a Public College or University in California
Pros
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When compared to private institutions, public colleges and universities in California offer affordable tuition. Students also have access to a wider variety of on-campus employment.
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Public institutions in California are home to a diverse student population, with students from varying backgrounds.
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Public institutions tend to offer a wide variety of academic majors and minors. Students also have greater access to internships and career training.
Cons
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The larger size of public institutions might turn off students who thrive in small classes. Some students feel anonymous in large classes.
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Some students may feel intimidated by the large size of public colleges. The transition can feel challenging, especially for those living away from home for the first time.
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Due to their larger size, communication with professors is often challenging. Some students perform better when they have easy access to instructors.
Nonprofit vs. For-Profit Colleges and Universities in California
For-profit colleges and universities in California advertise high acceptance rates and flexible programming, but the best public colleges in California are nonprofit institutions. Whether through the UC or CSU system, nonprofit institutions in this state offer standout academics with an affordable price tag. Public, nonprofit institutions in California also hold accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Most public institutions in California derive the majority of their funding through tax dollars. As a result, these schools can maintain relatively low tuition rates year over year. Conversely, for-profit institutions must consider the needs of investors and stakeholders, often prioritizing profits over the needs of faculty, staff, and students.
How Much Does It Cost to Attend a Public College or University in California?
The cost of college in California can vary between schools and even more dramatically between public and private institutions. A learner’s status as an in-state or out-of-state student can also impact their tuition rate.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average tuition rate for in-state learners in California exceeds $8,000 annually. Including room and board, the total cost is about $23,000 per year. Out-of-state students in California can expect to pay around $32,000 per year, while students enrolling at private schools can anticipate the total cost to exceed $50,000 per year.
When evaluating potential colleges, prospective students should consider the actual cost of studying and living in California. Having clear financial expectations can help dismiss some misconceptions about paying for college.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Public Colleges and Universities in California
How many public colleges and universities are there in California?
California is home to a sizable list of public institutions through the CSU and UC systems. The CSU system includes 23 campuses all over the state, in places such as Bakersfield, Los Angeles, and Sacramento. The CSU system is also home to California Polytechnic schools in San Luis Obispo, Humboldt, and Pomona.
The UC system has ten campuses and is home to elite institutions such as UC Berkeley and UCLA. California also oversees 115 accredited community colleges that enroll over 2 million students.
What is the most expensive public college or university in California?
The best public colleges in California provide students with standout academics at a relatively affordable price. That said, the more prestigious UCs cost more than Cal State schools. The UCs have an average tuition of $13,100 for in-state students for the 2022-23 academic year.
College is expensive, and when evaluating potential schools, financial considerations are paramount. Prospective students in California should consider costs beyond tuition to understand the real cost of college. Public colleges and universities in California offer a wide variety of financial aid opportunities.
What is the least expensive public college or university in California?
CSUs have lower tuition rates compared to UCs. The average CSU tuition for the 2022-23 academic year is $5,740.
When determining the cost of studying and living in California, the location may also impact the cost of living. Students in places like San Bernardino and Chico inevitably have a lower cost of living than those living in Los Angeles or San Francisco. Before enrolling at a four-year school, students can complete many general education requirements at community colleges at a lower cost.
What is the biggest public college or university in California?
California is home to many large public institutions. While UCLA is the largest public institution in the state, schools like UC Berkeley and Cal State Fullerton are only slightly smaller. Many public institutions in California have enrollment numbers that exceed 30,000 students.
Degree-seekers wanting public tuition rates with fewer students can consider schools like Cal State-Monterey Bay, Humboldt State University, and Cal State-Channel Islands — these public schools have fewer than 8,000 students.
Is a public college or university right for me?
Selecting the best college is an individual choice, and prospective students should consider several factors. Financial considerations are important, but academic, social, and other personal concerns also play a role in this decision. A public institution is a solid choice for students wanting a college experience with a large student body, Division I sports, and an active Greek life.
For the student wanting smaller class sizes and a more personalized experience, a private school is a better fit. And while private institutions tend to cost significantly more than public schools, applicants with a strong academic record often receive scholarships. Students can also offset the cost of private school if they complete general education requirements at a community college.
