2023 Best Online Colleges in California

Concordia University - Irvine (CUI) is a private, Christian university that is guided by the Great Commission of Christ Jesus and the Lutheran Confessions. With an acceptance rate of 81% and a graduation rate of 65%, CUI offers online certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees. CUI's online degree programs include fields such as education, Christian ministry, healthcare, and more. At CUI, students can complete a bachelor’s degree in about four years with 120 credit hours.

At CUI, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is entirely online. Almost all the coursework is asynchronous. Online courses emphasize personal attention and mentorship from faculty, and there are four required synchronous online lectures for each course. Online students have access to tutoring services, the university library, academic advising, and more.

Golden Gate University (GGU) is a private institution with a graduation rate of 49%. GGU provides online degree programs at all levels in fields such as accounting, law, taxation, business, and related areas. The online bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours and usually take four years to complete. However, GGU’s online programs are all transfer-friendly and may be completed faster for students with an associate degree.

Students at GGU use eLearning to access their coursework, which is 100% online and may be synchronous or asynchronous, depending on the course. At GGU, the average online class size is 17 and teachers are available via Zoom for tutoring, office hours, and review sessions. Online students have access to the university library, academic advising services, and other student services. GGU’s online courses typically include discussion boards, multimedia content, and more. GGU does not support online students from AL, AK, DE, GA, MD, MN, NM, RI, DC, or WI.

Loma Linda University (LLU) is a private, Seventh-Day Adventist institution that is committed to continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. It has an online, faith-based health sciences center in California. LLU has a 90% graduation rate, and offers online programs at all levels. Students transferring with an associate degree may graduate with a bachelor’s degree in two years, and students beginning a bachelor’s degree from scratch typically graduate in four years. Online programs at LLU cover fields in healthcare and religion.

At LLU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. Online courses include activities such as discussion boards, office hours and tutoring on Zoom, group projects, prayers, and bible-centered videos. LLU has resource groups for several groups, including a monthly LGBT+ group, a Black student union, and a Latino/Hispanic student club.

West Coast University (WCU) is a private university with a 100% acceptance rate and a 74% graduation rate. WCU offers several online degrees within the nursing, healthcare, and business sectors. The online bachelor’s degree programs at WCU can be completed in 40 months with the accelerated track or 80 months in the working professional track. WCU’s online programs are created to work around students’ busy schedules and responsibilities.

At WCU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Coursework includes video lectures, audio books, simulations, quizzes, and on-the-go resources, all of which is available in a mobile-friendly format. Online students have access to academic advisors, tutorials, and comprehensive career services. WCU also offers students free access to LinkedIn Learning.

The University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global) supports working adults by offering online undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as credentialing and certificate programs in pursuit of career advancement. There are over 31 bachelor’s programs to choose from — in addition to 20 master’s, two doctoral, and several associate degrees and certificate programs. Majors include leadership, organizational/industrial psychology, legal studies, marketing, supply chain management, data analytics, and social work. Students can also earn online certificates in areas such as business writing, classroom literacy, Agile project management, digital marketing, and nonprofit management. UMass provides online access to its library services, tech support, tutoring, and academic advising.

As part of a state-wide university system serving a diverse student body of almost 500,000, California State University - East Bay (Cal State East Bay) has online programs accessible to students all over the Golden State. Students can earn online undergraduate and graduate degrees in addition to California’s Single Subject Credential authorizing teaching in one subject area. Online degree programs include a range of disciplines, such as hospitality and tourism, healthcare administration, ethnic studies, human development, and business administration. Cal State East Bay has several online academic support programs, including peer tutoring, tech support, library services, and writing assistance.

Pacific Oaks College (PO) is a private, Hispanic-Serving Institution that believes strongly in social justice, diversity, and inclusion. With a 13% acceptance rate and a 66% graduation rate, PO offers many online degrees in education, human development, business and management, social work, and teacher credentialing. Each course lasts seven weeks, and an entire 121-credit-hour bachelor’s degree program typically takes four years to complete.

At PO, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. PO emphasizes inquisition, self-reliance, collaboration, and problem-solving through its online degree programs. Online students have access to the university library, tutoring services, academic advising, and more.

The University of Southern California (USC) is a large, private university that offers several online graduate degree programs. These programs cover fields such as design, computer science, health care, social work, and more. An online master’s degree program typically takes 1-2 years to complete. USC focuses on preparing students for a successful career. For example, USC has a SkillUp program, which provides resources for career-related skill development. USC has a 13% acceptance rate and a 93% graduation rate.

At USC, students use Blackboard to access their coursework. Most coursework is online, but certain programs require one week of on-campus residencies or in-person practical hours. Classwork may be asynchronous or synchronous through live classes via Zoom. Online students at USC have access to tutoring, career services, video content made in the Marshall campus’ in-house studio, and USC’s digital library.

San Jose State University (SJSU) is a large, public institution with an 84% acceptance rate and a 75% graduation rate. SJSU offers online bachelor’s degree programs in anthropology, business administration, economy, information science, and education. There are three rolling admission cycles and terms last eight weeks. The university is committed to diversity and inclusion as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution.

At SJSU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is 100% online and mostly asynchronous. Online students also use Zoom to connect with instructors and other students. SJSU offers online students access to LinkedIn Learning and Adobe Creative Cloud. Online student resources also include the career center, counseling and psychology services, the university library, and the writing center.

National University (NU) provides convenience and flexibility to remote learners across the U.S. through its 45 online degrees, including associate, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, and certificate programs. Areas of study at the bachelor's level include business, education, cybersecurity, public health, psychology, and many more. NU’s four-week online courses start every month, allowing students to enroll multiple times throughout the year and complete programs at their own pace. NU supports online students by providing remote access to its bookstore, career services, the Center for Student Engagement and Activities (CSEA), the Student Academic Success Center, and wellness resources.

Alliant International University (AIU) is a small, private university that offers several online degree programs at all graduate levels. With a 100% acceptance rate and a 62% graduation rate, AIU’s online degree programs cover fields such as psychology, education, business, and more. The online master’s degree programs at AUI require 60 credit hours and may require clinical, or practical, in-person hours. AIU knows that its students are professionals who need flexibility and support as they earn their degrees.

At AIU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is mostly online and asynchronous. Online students have access to the university library, tutoring services, accessibility services, the student assistance program, and more. AIU believes in the importance of inclusion, mentorship, passion, communication, accountability, and teamwork (IMPACT).

Pepperdine University (PU) is a private, Christian institution that integrates service, worship, and social responsibility with rigorous academic study. PU is committed to inclusion and diversity, as shown by their statements supporting both informal and official LGBT student organizations. Several online master’s degree programs are offered at PU, including business, education, law, and psychology. These programs take between one and two years to complete and require an average of 30 credit hours. Pepperdine also requires Convocation Credits, which are earned through attending services, mentorship with spiritual guidance counselors, and student-led bible groups. PU accepts 53% of applicants and 84% of their students graduate.

At PU, students use Courses, which is a learning management system, to access their coursework. Most coursework is online and asynchronous, but some online programs may require a short on-campus residency. Distance learners have access to all university resources, such as the library, tutoring services, and advising, as well as LinkedIn Learning and Coursera.

The University of San Diego (USD) is a private institution with a 53% acceptance rate and an 80% graduation rate. USD offers several online graduate degree programs in technology, engineering, management, theology, and healthcare. Online courses have an 18:1 student-faculty ratio, require 15-20 hours a week, and last seven weeks. USD’s online master’s programs require 30 credit hours and typically take students 20 months to complete.

At USD, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. Courses include multimedia presentations, discussion forums, chats with other students, and optional office hours with instructors. Online students have access to academic advising, the university library and databases, tutoring services and more.

Azusa Pacific University (APU) is a private, Christian university, as well as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. It has an acceptance rate of 94% and a graduation rate of 71%. APU offers online degrees at all levels, covering fields such as healthcare, criminal justice, education, and art. Several degree programs have built-in certificates and badges.

At APU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Online coursework includes discussion forums, video conferencing, group projects, and more. APU’s online students have access to the university library, the writing and speaking center, and the academic success center.

The University of Redlands (UR) is a private, Hispanic-Serving Institution with an 83% acceptance rate and a 76% graduation rate. UR offers online degree programs in education and business, which typically take 2-3 years to complete. At UR, students should be motivated, dedicated, organized, and determined. UR believes that these traits lead to success in its students, both in their education and careers.

At UR, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online and synchronous. Remote students must attend a weekly live class via Zoom, and they are expected to log into Canvas several times a week. Coursework includes assignments, discussion forums, in-class activities, and more. Online students have access to the university library, tutoring services, counseling, and more.

California State University - San Marcos (CSUSM) is a public, Hispanic-Serving Institution that offers several online degree programs at all levels. Online bachelor’s degree programs take about four years to complete, unless a student already has an associate degree. In that case, a bachelor’s degree program can be completed in two years, requiring 57 credit hours. CSUSM’s online degree programs cover fields such as criminology, wildfire science, and reading, to name a few. CSUSM has a 95% acceptance rate and a 66% graduation rate.

At CSUSM, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Some programs, however, may require an internship or capstone project that requires in-person activity. Online students have access to the university library, academic advising, tutoring, and more.

California State University - Sacramento (CSUS) is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, with a 94% acceptance rate and a 69% graduation rate. CSUS (also known as Sac State) offers online degrees in nursing, education, criminal justice, and psychology. The online bachelor’s degree programs at CSUS are made for returning students who have already completed credit hours and work experience. CSUS offers credit hours for work experience and prepares students for graduate programs. CSUS’ online bachelor’s degrees can be completed in 2-4 years.

At CSUS, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. CSUS provides online students with access to the university library, academic advising, and tutoring services. The online degree programs at CSUS are designed to allow students flexibility and self-regulation.

California Baptist University (CBU) is a faith-based, military-friendly institution offering online degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Students can finish many of these degrees faster than traditional programs and save some money in doing so. For example, CBU students may complete an online bachelor’s degree in two years, an online master’s in one, and an online doctorate in three. Online majors include graphic design and digital media, education, kinesiology, public administration, and strategic communication. Distance learners can access online veterans’ services, buy their textbooks through CBU’s partnership with Amazon, access career services and the library online, and receive text support remotely.

Trident University International (TUI) is a private, for-profit institution that is part of the American InterContinental University System (AIU). With an acceptance rate of 49% and a graduation rate of 11%, TUI offers online degree programs at all levels in fields such as IT management, homeland security, computer science, and more. Online bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours and can typically be completed in four years. However, TUI offers credit for previous work experience and allows students to transfer any previous credit hours. Through the Trident Fastrac accelerated schedule, students can graduate in as little as one year.

At TUI, students use the Trident Learning Community system to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Online students have access to the university library, tutoring services, academic advising, and more. TUI believes that an online degree program is just as valuable and impressive as an in-person degree.

Located in Northern California, California State University - Chico (Chico State) offers online undergraduate and graduate programs in disciplines such as nursing, liberal studies, religion, and sociology. For example, registered nurses can earn an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an online Master of Science in Nursing. These programs can help accommodate work schedules while helping those seeking career advancement. Similarly, students interested in earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) can attend online and finish in as few as 18 months through Chico State’s accelerated program. Chico State’s distance learners have online access to library services, tutoring, tech support, and purchasing supplies through Wildcat Computing Support.

The University of La Verne (ULV) is a private institution with a 72% acceptance rate and a 63% graduation rate. ULV offers online degree programs at all levels in fields such as education, nursing, information technology, and criminal justice. These online programs are only available in 29 states, but the university is working on becoming available everywhere. ULV’s online bachelor’s degree programs are aimed at students who have already completed an associate degree. The bachelor’s degree programs consist of 44 credit hours and are typically completed in 1-2 years.

At ULV, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is entirely remote and asynchronous. Online students have access to academic advising, the university library, study abroad programs, and more. ULV has a 12:1 student-faculty ratio and fosters its students’ creativity, communication, and integrity.

California State University - Fullerton (CSUF) is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, with a 59% acceptance rate and a 78% graduation rate. CSUF offers online certificate programs, online degree-completion programs, and online degree programs for educators, covering fields such as technology, education, business, and the humanities. The online bachelor’s programs take around three years to complete with a full-time schedule.

At CSUF, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. Online students have access to the university library, tutoring services, academic advisors, and more. CSUF also uses Zoom for student-instructor communication. Online coursework includes discussion boards, video lectures, group activities, reading, and writing assignments.

California State University - Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) is a public, Hispanic-Serving Institution. CSUDH has an acceptance rate of 90% and a graduation rate of 65%. The university offers several online master’s degree programs, including public administration and nursing, along with a Bachelor of Science completion program. CSUDH also has a connection with Southwestern University Law that allows students to earn an online JD.

At CSUDH, students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is 100% online and asynchronous. However, students may use Zoom and Microsoft Teams to speak with instructors and other students. Coursework also includes discussion boards, assignments, and recorded lectures. Online resources include access to the university library, academic advising, career services, and tutoring.

The Academy of Art University (AAU) is a private, for-profit institution with a 100% acceptance rate and a 28% graduation rate. AAU offers online degree programs at all levels in fields such as advertising, media, fashion, design, and music. Online bachelor’s degree programs require 120 credit hours and typically take approximately four years to complete. At AAU, students build a portfolio, network with professionals, and gain experience with current trends and tools. Online coursework includes on-demand demonstrations, lectures, writing, recorded audio, interactive slideshows, and hands-on experience.

At AAU, students use Brightspace to access their coursework, which is fully online. Distance learners can choose either a synchronous or asynchronous version of the degree programs. AAU offers a virtual live path, which functions the same as an in-person course, and a traditional online path, which is self-paced. Online students have access to the university library, the music library, tutorials, and accessibility services.

The California State University - Northridge (CSUN) is a large, public university that offers several online degrees. The school has an 88% acceptance rate and a 70% graduation rate. At CSUN, several online master’s programs are offered in fields such as communicative disorders, diversity community development, and public health, and typically take two years to complete. CSUN also offers an online bachelor of arts in public sector management that requires 60 credit hours and expects students to have already completed 60 transferable credit hours. Some programs may also require in-person practical hours.

At CSUN, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online and synchronous. Instructors use Zoom to host classes, and online students can review recordings of previous lectures. Online students have access to the university library, the learning resource center, and academic advising. CSUN prides itself on inclusion and flexibility.

Fresno Pacific University (FPU) is a private, Christian institution rooted in Mennonite Brethren Anabaptist beliefs. With an acceptance rate of 78% and a graduation rate of 67%, FPU offers several online bachelor’s degree completion programs, such as business management, organizational leadership, and psychology, as well as several online graduate degrees. Students can complete these online degree programs in around two years if they maintain a full-time pace.

At FPU, students use the digital platform Moodle to access their coursework, which is 100% online and may be either synchronous or asynchronous, depending on the course. Online students have access to all university resources, such as the library, tutoring services, and career services. FPU is an evangelical and ecumenical institution.

The Master’s University (MU) is a private, Christian university that is committed to Christ, biblical fidelity, moral integrity, intellectual growth and lasting contribution to the Kingdom of God worldwide. MU has a 67% acceptance rate and a graduation rate of 63%. MU offers online degree programs at all levels, including bachelor’s degree programs in fields such as biblical studies, journalism, and finance. Core courses for the bachelor’s degree programs can typically be completed in 16 months, but completing general requirements may take longer.

At MU, students use Canvas to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. In order to pursue an undergraduate degree, students must provide a clear profession of faith in Jesus Christ as their personal savior. Online students have access to the university library, tutoring, and academic advising.

It's important to note that MU is not an LGBT-friendly school. MU believes that "homosexuality… is subject to God’s wrath of abandonment ... and epitomizes man’s ungrateful rebellion against God."

Touro University Worldwide (TUW) is a small, private university with an acceptance rate of 100% and a graduation rate of 43%. TUW is a Jewish-sponsored institution that focuses on social justice, integrity and purpose, and philanthropic duty. An entirely online university, TUW offers online degree programs at all levels in fields such as business, psychology, health, and human services. The online bachelor’s degree programs typically take students around four years to complete, but transferring previously earned credits allows students to graduate sooner.

At TUW, remote students use Blackboard to access their coursework, which is entirely online and asynchronous. Students participate in discussion boards, group activities, and more. Online students can also access the university library, tutoring services, and academic advising.

San Diego State University (SDSU) is a public university offering online degrees at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. SDSU is an Asian American, Native American Pacific Islander, and Hispanic-Serving Institution. Popular online bachelor’s degrees at SDSU include business administration, criminal justice, and computer engineering. Online bachelor’s degrees at SDSU typically require a minimum of 30 credit hours to be completed at the university, which can take full-time students one or more years to complete. SDSU’s acceptance rate is 38%, with a graduation rate of 79%

At SDSU, online students complete courses delivered asynchronously on Canvas. The student-to-faculty ratio at SDSU is 26:1. Potential financial aid opportunities for online students are scholarships, loans, veteran benefits, and grants. Online student resources are career services, a student accessibility center, financial aid support, and a veteran’s center. Online students who work for Amazon can use the company’s Career Choice to earn’s bachelor’s degrees free of charge.

Biola University (Biola) is a Christian private nonprofit institution that offers online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. Biola is undenominational and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. According to Biola’s policies on sexuality, gender, and relationships, they do not support students who identify as part of the LGBTQ community. Some of the online bachelor’s degree programs available are psychology, bible, theology, and apologetics, and business management. At a minimum, online students can expect to take 60-64 credit hours, lasting four or more years, with a full schedule of classes. The university accepts 61% of applicants, with 72% graduating.

Biola facilitates asynchronous online learning on the learning management system Canvas. The student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1. Online students may be eligible for financial aid such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Online student support includes tutoring, a career center, academic advising, disability services, a writing center, counseling, and spiritual services. Biola’s online bachelor’s degree programs are offered year-round in seven-week formats and are one-third the tuition of the school’s traditional programs.