
Best Engineering Colleges & Programs in California
How are the Top Engineering Programs Chosen in California
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Stanford University is a research institution located in the California town of the same name. The more than 8,000-acre campus features seven schools, the largest of which is the School of Humanities and Sciences, and 80 residential facilities. With...
The sheer diversity of classes is amazing and the quarter system means that you have the opportunity to take a lot of them without overloading youself
” – Charlene from Sandy, UT
Founded by Congregationalists in 1887, Pomona College is a private liberal arts school in the Los Angeles area and the founding member of the Claremont Colleges. Pomona confers bachelor’s degrees in 48 academic majors in the arts, social sciences...
Pomona College provides for an excellent education. Each semester there are hundreds of classes that are offered in pretty much every subject matter imaginable. The fact that Pomona is part of the five college Claremont Consortium only means that...
”
The California Institute of Technology is a 4-year private science and engineering university in Pasadena. Caltech confers undergraduate degrees in 28 scientific fields of study. In addition to classroom space, Caltech is home to several research...
You will learn more than you thought was possible. Sometimes it will seem impossible. It isn't.
” – Kimberly from Bloomington, IL
The University of Southern California is a high-research institution located in Los Angeles, California, where it’s been educating students since 1880. The university is comprised of two campuses, the main University Park and the Health Sciences...
University of Southern California is among the top universities in the country, and keeps getting better. The professors at the university are all at the top of their fields, and the extensive alumni list proves that the connections that you make...
” – Thomas from Houston, TX
Pitzer College is a 4-year liberal arts college in southern California and a member of the Claremont Colleges. Pitzer offers bachelor’s degrees in over 40 academic majors including the first Secular Studies program in the nation. To provide a...
Pitzer College as well as the entire Claremont Colleges offers many opportunities and resources including the Claremont Consortium, the Keck Joint Science Center, Student Health Services and others. Students also have the opportunity to create their...
” – Diamond from Los Angeles, CA
Founded in 1868, the University of California at Berkeley is the flagship of the University of California system of higher education, with a campus overlooking the San Francisco Bay. UC Berkeley is known for its academic excellence, student activism...
Berkeley is a great school chock full of award-winning, book-publishing, enthusiastic professors who really know their stuff. If you take classes you're really interested in, you'll learn more. Don't forget about office hours, tutoring sessions, and...
” – Karina from Los Angeles, CA
The University of California in Los Angeles, better known as UCLA, is one of 10 campuses in the UC system. With 109 academic departments and more than 125 majors offered, as well as an average of one billion dollars funded for research every year and...
The amount of knowledge you will gain during your first year at UCLA will be more valuable than any previous experiences. First, there is the academic aspect. Essentially, the material being taught in college is the same for any school, so self...
” – Joanna from Carson City, NV
Scripps College is the women’s college of the Claremont Colleges, located in sunny Southern California. Scripps students enjoy access to over 60 majors, small class sizes, and a collaborative learning environment with professors who value reciprocal...
There is definitely a specific type of student who does well at Scripps College. This student is nerdy (and not necessarily in the Big Bang Theory sense), curious, and--most importantly--open to new ideas and new experiences. The required courses...
” – Irina from San Rafael, CA
Claremont McKenna College is a 4-year liberal arts college in the greater Los Angeles area and a member of the Claremont Colleges. CMC confers bachelor’s degrees in 32 academic majors and students can also cross register to take classes in the other...
Claremont Mckenna College is an amazing community with wonderful students and professors. It's extremely difficult to not fall in love with the college, even students that consider transferring in the beginning change their minds. The education that...
” – Sarah
University of California in Santa Barbara is a leading research institution in the city and state of the same name. UCSB is a member of the Association of American Universities, home to the National Center for Ecological Analysis, as well as an...
- The quarter system allows you to take a wide variety of classes to figure out what you're interested in by experiencing different subjects in a short period of time.
- The environment, campus groups, and activities allow you to learn more about...

Founded in 1960, the University of California of San Diego is a research institution located in La Jolla, CA. The 1,200 coastal woodland campus along the Pacific Ocean is home to six undergraduate colleges, five academic divisions, 5 graduate and...
Teachers can be great, but you must go to class to actually learn. I never thought I'd be skipping classes, but it happens and I learned the hard way that this is NOT smart. Discussions with TAs can be incredibly helpful as well. I had a math class...
” – Current Student from San Diego Area
Harvey Mudd College is a liberal arts institution in the greater Los Angeles area specializing in science, engineering and math. Harvey Mudd is home to seven STEM-related departments, six academic majors, and four joint majors. Furthermore, Harvey...
Mudd is extremely well known for its approach to learning, and for good reason. Each professor loves what they teach, and love to spread their knowledge and love for their subject. They are very open and willing to teach, and each class offers...
” – Thousand Oaks, CA
The University of California in Irvine was founded in 1965 in the town and state of the same name, and is the youngest member of the Association of American Universities. This high-research institution offers 92 majors and 86 minors and the campus is...
Being that I have only been at UCI for one year so far, I feel that I am really learning a lot from my professors and from the students that I have surrounded myself with. No matter where you are at, it is the people you are around that you can...
” – Emi from Temecula, CA
The University of California in Davis is a public institution in northern California and one of the largest universities by enrollment in the UC System. UC Davis is home to four colleges conferring undergraduate degrees and six professional schools...
If your looking for a great learning experience, there is something important that you have to know, it all depends on YOU. So if you are, the advice I would give you and stuff you've probably already heard is to get to know your professor, research...
” – Vianey from rancho cucamonga, CA
One of two polytechnics in the CSU System, the California Polytechnic State University, more commonly known as Cal Poly, has a competitive admissions process for its programs, which focus in arts, technology, and sciences. The university is located...
I LOVE CAL POLY!! The great thing about this school is starting from freshmen year you jump right into your Major courses instead of having to go through only GE's for your first year or two. Here, you start learning about your interest in the first...
” – Ashley from Sun City, CA
Founded in 1851 by the Society of Jesus, Santa Clara University is a Jesuit Catholic university in Silicon Valley and the oldest institution of higher education in California. SCU offers undergraduate degrees in more than 50 academic majors and...
The faculty offer much more than what textbooks can do. Not only that, but just seeing all different types of people from different backgrounds builds the social aspect as well as the classroom aspect. It's also very easy to get to know people since...
” – Bao from San Jose, CA
California State University-Long Beach is a public institution and the most applied-to campus in the 23 campus CSU system. The university is home to eight schools, with a majority of students attending the College of Business and the College of...
I had a great orientation group my freshman year which taught me all the ins and outs of this place. The teachers here seem to have a real passion for their subject area. They're always available during their office hours and attempt to make their...
” – K. Lamb from Huntington Beach, CA
Founded in 1965, the University of California-Santa Cruz is a public institution and part of the University of California System. UCSC offers undergraduate degrees in 65 academic majors within departments of Arts, Humanities, Physical Sciences...
After completing my first year at UCSC - and most of my GEs - I feel that I have learned a lot in many different areas of study. The classes offered as general education requirements are both interesting and informative. I have only taken two of my...
” – Shannon from Petaluma, CA
San Diego State University is a public research institution located in San Diego, California. What began as an all-female college for elementary school teachers now consists of 8 colleges that offer 95 undergraduate programs plus a variety of...
I have definitely learned new information and facts I did not know prior to attending SDSU. All professors are unique with their own way of helping students learn the material. Professor's office hours are so helpful and fitting to your schedule, and...
” – Lizette from Planada, CA
Formed by a merger between Marymount College and Loyola University, Loyola Marymount University is a private school affiliated with the Jesuit religion and one of the largest Roman Catholic universities on the West Coast. Spread across 142 acres in...
The professors are all very down to earth. Professors here understand what information and knowledge is needed in the real world and wont try to fill your head up with unnecessary jargon.
” – Maribel from Los Angeles, CA
The University of San Diego is a private research university affiliated with the Roman Catholic church. USD offers 42 different bachelor's degrees and 54 minors, in addition to various study abroad programs, and more than half of the student body...
great academics
small class sizes will work with me (20-30)
professors care about their students

Nestled in the Santa Barbara foothills, Westmont College is a Christian liberal arts college in southern California. Westmont confers bachelor’s degrees in 26 fields of study and is also home to 11 pre-professional academic programs. As a Christian...
Westmont has a really talented, engaging body of faculty members. They are willing to engage with students and strike a really good balance between sharing their expertise and letting students expand and share their ideas. Of course, a lot of this...
”
The University of California-Riverside is a public institution on 1,200 acres of land in Southern California’s Inland Empire. A part of the UC system, UCR is home to colleges of Humanities, Engineering, and Natural Sciences conferring undergraduate...
Academics at UCR is fast paced because it is on the quarter system, but that doesn't make it easier. Students are expected to learn the material and learn it fast. There are several ways to get help and to further understanding in a subject...
” – Kimberley from Tracy, CA
San Jose State University is the oldest public university on the west coast, and is the founding campus of the 23-campus California State University System. Located on 154 acres in downtown San Jose, SJSU offers more than 145 areas of study with an...
I have taken English 1A, Latino Identity (psycology), Remedial Math, and Intro to Sociology. English 1A is the GE English class required for undergrad students. My teacher, Mr. Mujal, was amazing. It was a small class of 25, and he made sure everyone...
” – Tatiana from San Francisco, CA
California State University-Fullerton is a 4-year public research institution in Orange County and a campus of the Cal State system. Cal State Fullerton has the largest student body out of any California State University school and has been...
The classes at Cal State University, Fullerton are fairly easy. I had expected college to be a lot more difficult, but CSUF has proved otherwise. Although the classes are not difficult, they have allowed me to grow intellectually. The professors...
” – Janet
Founded in 2005, the University of California-Merced is a 4-year public research institution in northern California and the first American research university opened in the 21st century. UC Merced is home to colleges of Social Sciences, Engineering...
Obviously, just like any other school, if you put your mind to it, study, and do the work, you'll learn. Putting in effort to what you want to accomplish is the key. I am currently a freshman and am about to finish my 1st semester here. I'm taking...
” – Gabriel from Hercules, CA
Founded by Jesuits in the mid-nineteenth century, the University of San Francisco is a private Catholic university and the first university established in the city. The 55-acre urban campus located near Golden Gate Park is home to 49 academic majors...
Considering the fact that USF has different types of students from different areas, I feel strong to say that I will definitely learn a lot throughout ethnicity, religion, and culture.
” – Laura from Tustin, CA
Founded as the first west coast Bible college, Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical Christian institution in southern California based on the Wesleyan holiness tradition. APU is home to 10 academic schools and colleges and the Azusa Pacific...
The courses at APU are amazing classes that stretch your intellect. I've learned so much over the course of the past year because my professors are wonderful people who know what they're teaching and are there for their students. APU is a Christian...
” – Audrey from Azusa, CA
The University of the Pacific is the oldest, private university in California and has admissions that are more selective. The main campus is located in Stockton, and the university operates two satellite campuses in Sacramento and San Francisco...
Most universities/colleges don't allow students to get started on their majors until Sophomore or Junior year of college. As a Freshman at UOP I've already gotten a feel for what I will be doing as a sports medicine or Athletic Training major. Four...
” – Hayley from San Jose, CA
California State Polytechnic University-Pomona is a public university in southern California and one of two polytechnic institutions in the Cal State system. Cal Poly Pomona is home to nine colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees. In...
CPP's staff is unmatched in many ways. Being an architecture major, I've met some of the best in the field and have been taught by professors who have been in the business a long time. Some classes can be frustrating if you have a teacher who doesn't...
” – Beau from Napa, CA
Founded as a teachers college in 1887, California State University-Chico is a 4-year public school in northern California and the second oldest campus in the California State University system. Chico State is home to 10 colleges and schools...
Every class that I have taken at Chico State has taught me something I am able to refer to in other classes. The professors teach you above and beyond the class subject you picked including subject material and how that material can be applied to...
” – Jessica from Victorville, CA
Founded by the Church of the Nazarene in 1902, Point Loma Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts college in San Diego. PLU offers undergraduate degrees in over 60 fields of study and the university’s Office of Strengths and Vocation provides...
The school has a great academic atmosphere. Because of the policy prohibiting drugs or alcohol on campus, students can focus on learning and enjoy their studies in a healthy environment. The school provides great opportunities for extra-curricular...
” – Adam Corfman from San Diego, CA
With a campus nestled in the San Joaquin Valley, California State University-Bakersfield is a 4-year public school in southern California and part of the CSU system. CSUB is home to schools of Arts & Humanities, Natural Sciences, Business, and Social...
This university is very small which is extremely beneficial, because it allows the professors to be able to work very closely, and often on a one-on-one basis, with their students. All of the professors that I've had know me by name, and this has...
” – Carolina
Founded by the local archbishop, Saint Mary’s College of California is a Catholic liberal arts college in the Bay Area administered by the De La Salle Christian Brothers. Saint Mary’s is home to schools of Economics, Liberal Arts, and Science...
The Seminar Program is eye-opening and challenging. It pushes you to develop your own ideas and beliefs and challenge other students to do the same. The professors know you by name and have abundant office hours if you need help in class or just need...
” – Julianne from Yakima, WA
The Master’s University is a conservative, Christian, liberal arts university located in Santa Clarita, CA. The tree-filled, 95-acre campus offers 14 undergraduate majors and 4 graduate degrees, as well as teaching credentials and dual-enrollment...
The Master's College has already taught me so much and I have not started my semester. Their teachings have reached me through their networking of other brothers and sisters in Christ and that is just a taste of what would happen once I finally start...
” – Vincent from Long Beach, CA
California State University-Los Angeles is a 4-year public university and part of the CSU System. Cal State LA is home to seven colleges granting undergraduate degrees in 57 academic majors. A federally designated Hispanic-serving institution, Cal...
I am learning a lot. Many of teachers are helpful and enjoy having students take advantage of their office hours.
” – Ivette from Los Angeles, CA
California State University-Fresno is a 4-year public school and the second largest university in the Cal State system. Fresno State encompasses eight colleges and schools offering undergraduate degrees. In addition, Fresno State has been designated...
Even when taking my general ed. classes, I've learned more than what I've expected. The teachers that I've had this semester all seem thrilled about teaching and hearing student responses.
” – Zachary from Fresno, CA
Originally founded as a teacher training college, San Francisco State University is a 4-year public institution and a Bay Area-based campus of the California State University System. SF State offers bachelor’s degrees in 77 fields of study and...
I have enjoyed all but one teacher in my first year here at SF State. My teachers are committed to giving me the best education they can and that's a lot to ask for from a state school.
” – Liza from Bolinas, CA
California State University-Sacramento is a 4-year public institution and a member of the Cal State system in California’s state capital. A Native American Pacific Islander, Asian American, and Hispanic-Serving institution, Sac State is home to seven...
You can say I've learned quite a lot since I've been here.
” – Judy from Sacramento, CA
Originally founded as The State College for Alameda County, California State University East Bay is a 4-year public university and a Bay Area-based campus in the Cal State system. Cal State East Bay is home to four colleges of Business, Science...
I have learned a lot in the 10 weeks that I have attended so far. The class sizes are nice, and I haven;t had much trouble getting the classes that I want. I have done well my first quarter, and I think I owe credit to CSUEB for that,
” – Brittni from Riverside, CA
Sonoma State University is a public school in California’s wine country and one of the smallest campuses in the California State University system. Sonoma State grants bachelor’s degrees in 46 academic programs including the only Wine Business...
I am planning to major in Criminal Justice and minor in psychology and they have really good programs for both of them. The classes are small (about only 20-30) with some classes as big as 80. I like that the classes are small enough for me to get...
” – Cassie From San Francisco, CA
California State University Maritime Academy is located on a waterfront campus in Vallejo, one of seven degree-granting maritime academies in the US and the only one on the west coast. All students are part of the Corp of Cadets and are required to...
I think the school deserves at least a nine for two main reasons. One being that the campus is beautiful and enjoyable, especially considering it is right on the water but also close to other cities such as San Francisco. The other reason is that...
”
California Baptist University is a private, Christian institution. With over 11,000 students, the 160-acre campus in Riverside, CA, features 10 schools and colleges that offer 80 bachelor’s degrees with Christ-centered curriculum in majors ranging...
Two of my favorite things about California Baptist University are the class sizes and the professors. You will have small classes and will have the opportunity to get to know your professors. I have only been at CBU for a semester but my largest...
” – Rebecca from Riverside, CA
California State University-Northridge is a public university in Los Angeles and one of the largest single-campus universities in the nation. CSU Northridge encompasses nine colleges and schools conferring 68 bachelor’s degrees. Additionally, CSUN...
The activities and parties are a lot of fun to participate in and the people are really fun to hang out with.
” – Kirk from Northridge, CA
ArtCenter College of Design is a conservatory of visual arts and design principles in the greater Los Angeles area. ArtCenter confers undergrad degrees in 11 artistic fields of study including Entertainment Design, Fine Art, and Film. To display...
Art Center has provided me with not only the skills to excell in my profession, but more of a life lesson. Our school takes pride in simulating the real world. Currently working professionals to state of the art equipment, this is the place to not...
” – Daniel from La Crescenta, CA
National University is a private not-for-profit institution with multiple locations throughout California and one campus in Nevada. NU provides concentrated programs aimed at adult learners with courses scheduled on weeknights and weekends. The...
National University has a wide range of courses. Their instructors are quite diverse in knowledge and experience. Ever since I transferred here I stopped screwing around and got my academic path together, you kind of have no choice but to succeed...
” – Andrew from La Quinta, CA
Founded in 1955, Cerritos College is a 2-year community college in the greater Los Angeles area and one of the five largest community colleges in LA County. Cerritos is home to 87 associate degree and certificate-granting programs in over 180...
Cerritos is a great place to start off if you dont really know where you want to go or what you want to do for your future. The professors are nice and help you as much as they can, they want you to learn and will not make you feel dumb. They treat...
” – Gloria from Maywood, CA
Glendale Community College is a public, 2-year institution established on a 100-acre campus in southern California, with three satellite centers throughout the region. GCC offers over 80 associate degree and certificate programs, many of which are...
Glendale Community College is one of the oldest, yet popular community college for locals living in Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank as well as for international students. They offer many courses depending on the major you plan to pursue or...
” – The Wise Student
Moorpark College is a 2-year community college with open admissions based in Ventura County, California. The school operates an on-site zoo for the Exotic Animal Training and Management program, the only one in the nation, and is also home to the...
Great teachers! Most of whom have been in the professional world. There are tons of interesting classes as well!
” – Zachary from Moorpark, CA
Cuesta College is a public 2-year community college based in San Luis Obispo County and serves the Central Coast of California. Cuesta offers associate degrees as well as technical and professional certifications. Noted programs include health...
Cuesta College is one of the top community colleges in California, located just outside of Beautiful San Luis Obispo, CA. If you are interested in Nursing, Music and the Arts, History, or Engineering, Cuesta college is a great great place to start...
” – Jacob from Atascadero, CABy State
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