Academics
As you consider your options to study in California, what interests you most?
- Large public universities
- Small private colleges
- English language programs
No matter what you envision, you can find the perfect California school to build your future.
Read on for what you’ll find at each type of school.
More academic resources to help you along your journey.
Public Higher-Education System
California is home to a unique, three-tiered education system that includes three sectors of educational institutions.
California Community Colleges System:
Encompasses 110 colleges in 72 community college districts across the state. The system educates a whopping 2.9 million students statewide and can provide learners with the first two years of a four-year university’s coursework.
The University of California public university system:
Houses 10 campuses, educates more than 200,000 students, and is often regarded as one of the top public university systems in the world.
California State University (CSU):
One of the largest public university systems in the United States. Home to 23 campuses, 47,000 staff members, and over 400,000 students. Fun fact: Approximately half of the Bachelor’s degrees and a third of the Master’s degrees awarded each year in California are from CSU.
Private Schools
In addition to its expansive public education network, California also has hundreds of private colleges and universities, including religious and special-purpose schools.
Several highly noted, world-renowned private schools in California include Stanford University, the University of Southern California, the California Institute of Technology, and the Claremont Colleges.
English Language Programs
If you choose English language instruction at your college, you are offered a wide range of English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. These are designed to help you reach your personal, academic, and career goals. Many of California’s schools offer ESL programs, from community colleges to large public universities.
