Enrolling in an online college in California offers a flexible and convenient way to pursue higher education while accommodating busy schedules and personal commitments.
While enrolled, students are exposed to a limitless number of degree programs that cover numerous areas and subjects.
In addition, online students can also benefit from the same campus features as on-campus students.
Learn.org identifies the best online colleges in California and informs readers about the many different career opportunities for students.
Featured Online Colleges in California
The following list contains the 10 best online colleges and universities available in the state of California.
1. California State University Fullerton
California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) is a public university located in Fullerton, California.
The college offers various undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines.
In total, the university has eight colleges, including the College of:
- Business and Economics
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Health and Human Development
- Humanities and Social Sciences
Among its on-campus programs, the institution offers three online degree programs:
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
- Bachelor of Arts in Humanities and Social Sciences
The online programs are degree completion programs that are designed for students who have already completed lower-division coursework or have an associate’s degree.
2. California Baptist University
California Baptist University (CBU) is a private, Christian university located in Riverside, California.
The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on integrating faith and learning.
The institution offers over 40 online degree programs, including degrees in:
- Accounting
- Criminal Justice
- Cybersecurity
- Computer Information Technology
- Kinesiology
- Marketing
For more than a decade, CBU online has helped more than 7,500 graduates and has awarded more than six million dollars in tuition scholarships.
3. National University
National University is a private, nonprofit university with its headquarters in La Jolla, California.
The institution is known for its innovative approach to education and its commitment to providing accessible and flexible learning options for students.
The university offers online degree programs in many areas of study, including:
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Psychology
- Criminal Justice
The college is heavily involved in a student’s progress through offered academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and other resources to assist students throughout their educational journey.
In addition, the institution is highly committed to providing affordable education costs by offering financial aid resources, scholarship opportunities, and tuition discounts.
4. Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University is a private Christian university located in Azusa, California.
This college is another Christian-based institution that is known for its strong emphasis on integrating Christian faith and learning.
APU is organized into several colleges and schools, including:
- College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- School of Business and Management
- School of Education
- School of Nursing
- School of Behavioral and Applied Sciences
Overall, the college offers more than 100 undergraduate programs and over 50 graduate programs.
The institution also offers flexible online degree programs for students who are interested in distance learning.
5. Touro University Worldwide
Touro University Worldwide (TUW) is a non-profit online university that was established in 2008.
The institution’s mission is to provide accessible and affordable higher education options for adult learners.
TUW offers a variety of online undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business administration, health sciences, psychology, education, and public administration.
Through online degree programs, students are exposed to a quality education as well as plenty of hands-on learning experiences.
6. Golden Gate University
Golden Gate University is another great choice that offers plenty of online degree programs for residents in California.
The university is a private non-profit university located in San Francisco, California.
The institution is known for its focus on professional education and its commitment to providing practical, industry-relevant knowledge.
The online programs at GGU cover a range of disciplines and degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
Popular areas of study include programs in:
- Accounting
- International Business
- Finance
- Marketing
- Information Technology
7. San Diego State University
San Diego State University (SDSU) is a public research university located in San Diego, California.
It is part of the California State University (CSU) system and is the third-oldest university in the CSU system.
The university is organized into various colleges and schools and is known for its programs in business, engineering, public health, education, and the arts.
The university also provides flexible and accessible online education options for students who prefer or require the convenience of distance learning.
8. San Jose State University
San Jose State University (SJSU) is a public university located in San Jose, California, and is the oldest public institution of higher education on the West Coast.
SJSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
- Business
- Engineering
- Arts and Humanities
- Science
- Social Sciences
- Education
The university’s online learning system is designed for students to complete their coursework on their own time and schedules and are scheduled on five and eight-week terms.
9. University of La Verne
The University of La Verne is another viable option for students who are interested in an online degree program.
The college was founded in 1891 and is affiliated with the Church of the Brethren, a Christian denomination.
The university provides online degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate degree levels and consists of experienced scholars and professionals who are dedicated to teaching and mentoring students.
Possible areas of study include:
- Public Administration
- Psychology
- Business Administration
- Health Administration
- Education
- Law
In addition, the university offers a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations for students to get involved in.
10. Jessup University
Jessup University, also known as William Jessup University, is a private Christian university located in Rocklin, California.
The university offers online undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study.
Common programs of study include:
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Education
- Criminal Justice
- Ministry
While enrolled, students can pursue their education from anywhere while still benefiting from the university’s Christian values and academic excellence.
Additionally, the university offers a variety of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations for students to get involved in.
How Much Is Online College in California?
On average, undergraduate tuition for online programs at public universities in California can range from around $300 to $500 per credit hour for in-state students.
Out-of-state students often pay higher tuition rates, which can range from $500 to $800 per credit hour.
Financing Options for Online College in California
When it comes to financing your online college education in California, there are several options available to help you manage the costs.
Here are some common financing options:
Financial Aid
Online college students in California are eligible to apply for financial aid programs, including college grants, scholarships, and student loans.
The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid.
Scholarships
Many online colleges offer scholarships specifically for their online students. Additionally, there are external scholarships available from private organizations, nonprofits, and businesses.
Employer Tuition Assistance
If you are currently employed, some employers provide financial support for employees pursuing higher education, including online degree programs.
Career Opportunities for Online Graduates
Online graduates in California have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, covering various industries and fields. Some of these career paths include:
- Technology and Software Development
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Healthcare
- Education
- Creative Arts and Media
- Social Services
Find an Online College Today
The state of California offers a wide range of online colleges and universities for residents to take advantage of.
If any of these programs resonate, please reach out to your program of choice for further information on its enrollment process.
