Skip to Main Content

2019 Colleges with the Best Professors in CaliforniaAbout this List

The 2019 Colleges with the Best Professors ranking is based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Top-ranked colleges have diverse, accomplished, and well paid faculty members that are rated highly by students. Read more on how this ranking was calculated.

1 – 25 of 297
Best Professors
297 results

Best Programs

Students

Social Scene

Campus

Athletics

  1. Stanford University

    • 4 Year
    • Stanford, CA
    • 1,127
    1 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Alum: The campus is beautiful to start and provides many beautiful areas for studying or hanging out with friends. The campus is full of amazing resources including the libraries and professors. The academics are definitely challenging, but worth it. Go Card!
    Read 1,127 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 5% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,695 Net Price
    • 1380-1580 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  2. University of Southern California

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 3,491
    2 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: Coming to USC was one of the greatest decisions of my life! I'm a first-gen, low income minority coming from Texas who had never visited California before, so you can guess just how big of a difference California was from Texas. I thought I was going to feel overwhelmed and flunk out, but I didn't! In fact, I'm thriving here. The university is very beautiful, the brick and gothic sorta architecture is very pretty and really relaxing. There are so many opportunities and a lot of different majors, so I'm sure you will find what you are looking for. There are a lot of different activities to join, so you will definitely find your group of friends as long you get involved!
    Read 3,491 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • $32,932 Net Price
    • 1280-1500 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  3. Pomona College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 362
    3 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Sophomore: I'm only a sophomore, but I've gotten involved with research for all four semesters, received internship funding, had expenses for two conferences paid for, was actively involved in an award winning Mock Trial without any experience, and learned how to play the violin through free private music lessons. I've also been able to go to Los Angeles often for endless entertainment, natural beauty, and incredible eats. This place may be tiny, but it is bustling with opportunity. The academic experience is robust, with professors who love to teach and peers who love to learn. The Claremont Colleges add so much depth, and each is distinctive enough to venture out to and seek out new perspective. I had my choice of attending a world-renowned university over here, but I could see the difference in how the undergraduates were valued. The only thing I wish were different was the lack of name brand- Pomona is so unknown by most! Still, if you are willing to work hard, you can go anywhere from here.
    Read 362 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 9% Acceptance Rate
    • $18,140 Net Price
    • 1340-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  4. Sponsored

    Soka University of America

    • 4 Year
    • Aliso Viejo, CA
    • 186

    Sophomore: I am currently a sophomore at Soka. What I like the most about Soka is the small student body. Classes often involve small discussions, and professors are always willing to answer any questions from students both in and outside of classes. Because I come from a country where rote learning and limited discussions are typical education style, the classes at Soka are eye-opening experiences. In addition to the unique academic opportunities of Soka, I would like to emphasize student activities. Majority of students participate in club activities, and there are multiple school events where they can perform and enjoy a lot of performances by other clubs. I myself joined one of the dance clubs on campus without knowing any basic. But now I get to know the joy of dancing and have a lot of fun in this club! So far, I am satisfied with the campus life here and have no regret to have chosen this school :)
    Read 186 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 38% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,686 Net Price
    • 1070-1370 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  5. Scripps College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 433
    4 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Alum: I loved attending Scripps! An excellent environment in which to develop my whole self, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. As an alum, I am grateful every day for my time there.
    Read 433 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 30% Acceptance Rate
    • $37,860 Net Price
    • 1290-1440 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  6. University of California - Los Angeles

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 4,718
    5 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Junior: UCLA is definitely a place for all-rounded students to thrive and succeed. The campus offers beautiful scenery and classic lecture halls that enthralled me every time I walk to and between lectures. The school is safe and welcoming, and there are plenty of activities to be part of on-campus. In terms of classes, students do have to give it all since the professors do have high standards here. However, this is college, and learning and studying won't hurt you. Professors generally are really engaged in lectures, and if most likely students are going to succeed if they give their best. Dorms and the food are excellent and well maintained compared to others colleges I visited. I won't be surprise if more people decided to come here! GO BRUINS!
    Read 4,718 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 18% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,236 Net Price
    • 1160-1470 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  7. University of California - Santa Barbara

    • 4 Year
    • Santa Barbara, CA
    • 4,232
    6 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Alum: I had a great experience attending UCSB! Professors, staff, and peers were all very supportive throughout my four years at this school. Courses were rigorous, but you learned a lot through the professors and the research being conducted. It is a very chill vibe considering you live next to the beach. Living on campus was great and made everything accessible, but living off campus in I.V. was great too since it's right next door to campus. The network created during undergrad and post graduation is amazing as well!
    Read 4,232 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 36% Acceptance Rate
    • $15,149 Net Price
    • 1120-1390 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  8. Find College Scholarships

  9. University of California - Berkeley

    • 4 Year
    • Berkeley, CA
    • 3,820
    7 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Sophomore: Berkeley is just perfect balance between academics and fun! I have amazing professors in all of my classes and they never stress me out too much. It's rigorous enough to get me going but not up to the point where it is not enjoyable. I have plenty of time to destress and go crazy on frat row. Berkeley also provides very unique experiences with a campus ripe with freedom of self-expression. You meet all sorts of people. Also, Berkeley is the number 1 public university in the world so you are definitely getting your money's worth!
    Read 3,820 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 17% Acceptance Rate
    • $17,160 Net Price
    • 1270-1540 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  10. Claremont McKenna College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 411
    8 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: Where do I begin, I have so much to say about how much I love this school. When I first came to Claremont McKenna, I feared that it would be difficult to make friends as it is such a small school. However, the first day shocked me completely. Everyone was so freaking nice, like unbelievably nice. In the last 3 months of being here, I know about 250/360 kids in my class, and of course a lot of upperclassmen. The party scene here is exactly what I want from a school ,inclusivity, but everyone definitely shares a work hard, play hard mentality. We know how to party, but we also know how to be the scholarly students we got in here for being. The party scene truly is spectacular. The dining hall food is amazing. Sports teams are great as 1/3 of the student body participates in sports There are pretty much a million ways to get involved on campus. I want to continue rambling about how much I love it here, but I also have an econ quiz tomorrow, but I hope that helps. S'GO STAGTHENAS!
    Read 411 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A+
      Professors
    • 9% Acceptance Rate
    • $30,527 Net Price
    • 1320-1490 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  11. University of California - Davis

    • 4 Year
    • Davis, CA
    • 4,242
    9 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Sophomore: Davis empowers its student body by encouraging cultural awareness by hosting International Week, providing study abroad programs (and financial aid), having gender-inclusive restrooms throughout campus and the Student Community Center with a Cross-Cultural Center and LGBTQIA Center, a safe place for all students to hang out or study. The campus also has a beautiful Arboretum with Putah Creek running through it for some relaxing vibes and nice strolls/picnic spot. UC Davis is one of the safest campuses with very little crimes, and people here are the friendliest, most welcoming and caring people!
    Read 4,242 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 42% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,039 Net Price
    • 1050-1330 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  14. Pitzer College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 606
    10 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: My dream school! Amazing location amazing academics and environment. I literally can’t stop talking about this school with friends and family haha i’m obsessed. The core values of course are really what set it apart from the other 5cs and I feel that pitzer deserves more of a personal identity apart from the other colleges. It deserves much more individual recognition because it really is such a unique educational establishment. I am so lucky I go here and recommend it to anyone who is really looking to go to school with passionate and brilliant peers. The food is incredible of course and they’re super accommodating to vegans (my personal dietary restriction). Claremont is an adorable charming city and a comfortable distance from LA. All in all, PZ is such a special school that I love so much
    Read 606 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 14% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,521 Net Price
    • 1300-1450 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  15. University of California - Merced

    • 4 Year
    • Merced, CA
    • 1,883
    11 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: UC Merced is a great university, but is in the middle of no where which tends to make weekends uneventful. As first year students, you’re not able to have a car on campus so you really have to make the best out of the campus. Lake Yosemite is walking distance from the campus, which is a plus because students can have a barbecue and relax there. The professors are always there to help you with anything. Food isn’t the best, unless food truck are on campus. Overall UC Merced is a beautiful campus and a great place to study!
    Read 1,883 Reviews

    • B
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 74% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,805 Net Price
    • 870-1070 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  16. University of California - Riverside

    • 4 Year
    • Riverside, CA
    • 3,031
    12 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: If coming from the Bay Area, you'll be disappointed about the diversity of cuisine in the surrounding area of the campus. The residential hall food is alright and are always buffet style so there can always be something for you to eat. But once in awhile you'll get tired of it, but do not fret! There are dining dollars that you can use for on campus dining that is not in the dining halls. I have been told that the quality of food here has been better so if you are thinking about attending this school, do not expect much but do expect a growth in quality while you're here. If you do not wish to dine on campus, there is a university village that is a 15-20 minute walk away with more restaurants for you to experience. You will be given discounts at the theater there and coupons for being a student at UCR.
    Read 3,031 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 66% Acceptance Rate
    • $12,841 Net Price
    • 940-1190 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  18. University of California - Irvine

    • 4 Year
    • Irvine, CA
    • 3,536
    13 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Sophomore: UCI is a nice place in the sense that it's generally safe and easy to get around. Professors vary from each other; since the university is a research university (and they take pride over that), your professors will vary from individual to individual. It's not surprising if your professor is super smart but horrible in teaching. You really have to fight for yourself here in studying, but that's not saying there aren't good Professors at all - there are! Emphasis on Professors because sometimes that's just what'll make or break your happiness for that quarter or so.

    That being said, it's also not surprising to question your tuition here if it's worth it or not. UCI is a great place for connections, and if you learn well here and you connect well, then the money you put in here is pretty worth.
    Read 3,536 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 41% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,780 Net Price
    • 1060-1330 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  19. University of California - Santa Cruz

    • 4 Year
    • Santa Cruz, CA
    • 3,594
    14 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Sophomore: I love UCSC! I decided to come to this school because of it's beautiful campus and because it is a good school in a prime location for my major (marine biology). The campus is unlike any I've seen before; you practically forget that you're walking around a college campus because you get so immersed in the beautiful scenic redwood forest around you. UCSC is also very close to the ocean, making it a great location for those who love to frequent the beach. Aside from location, I have had great experiences academically with this school. All of my professors have been extremely kind and genuinely interested in the wellbeing and learning process of their students. Finally, UCSC is a school that is extremely accepting of people from all different backgrounds, sexual orientations, and cultures and strives to make all students feel welcome. Has always been my dream school, and still is.
    Read 3,594 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 58% Acceptance Rate
    • $16,261 Net Price
    • 1060-1290 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  20. University of California - San Diego

    • 4 Year
    • La Jolla, CA
    • 3,289
    15 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: My experience at UCSD was an unexpected, pleasant, surprise. Yes, i know you have heard a lot of "UC Socially Dead" or "lack of socialization", however, these are all wrong! The people here at UCSD are unlike any people I have met, they are social in their own way (its a very admirable and fascinating trait). Just because UCSD holds the reputation of no parties does not make the school socially dead, there are other ways people can socialize! There are campus events for everyone in any college and there are events that are specific to each individual college.
    The people here each have amazing distinct personalities in which anyone can find who they vibe with easily. In my personal experience, my favorite part of college is spending time with people in my residence halls and staying up late at night talking and watching vine compilations, going to the beach at 2 am in the morning and having deep conversations, or crashing at a strangers dorm
    Read 3,289 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 36% Acceptance Rate
    • $14,770 Net Price
    • 1170-1450 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  21. Chapman University

    • 4 Year
    • Orange, CA
    • 2,031
    16 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Senior: Overall I am very happy with the undergraduate program and my experience at Chapman. I’m working on a BA in digital arts/animation, finishing up my thesis, and I feel very well prepared for my future. Why? Because my professors, department chair and Student Career Center care about me. They motivated me to do my best, helped me get into high quality internships to improve my chances of getting a job in a highly competitive field hopefully before I even graduate, and gave me the self confidence to know that I am going to succeed. That’s why I love Chapman!
    Read 2,031 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 54% Acceptance Rate
    • $40,709 Net Price
    • 1110-1300 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  22. Harvey Mudd College

    • 4 Year
    • Claremont, CA
    • 129
    17 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Junior: Academics at Harvey Mudd are exceptional. It is rigorous and not always rewarding, but at the end of the day, you learn a lot. Plenty of exciting classes to take, both at Mudd and at the other 5Cs. Mudders are easy to get along with. Only major issue with Mudd is the lack of grade inflation which can hurt your chances of getting into a top Grad school program. Getting a job after graduating from Mudd is easier and very rewarding.
    Read 129 Reviews

    • A+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 13% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,460 Net Price
    • 1420-1580 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  25. Loyola Marymount University

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 1,549
    18 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: This university campus is beautiful! I've stopped by here on and off throughout the years, and now I have had a chance to come here and I have many friends who came here. Notably, many of my buddies that play basketball. This school is private and tuition is high, yes, but the quality is great. The facilities are clean, modern, and pleasing to the eye. The students here are pretty cool too. If you're looking for a private school, and want more of a quiet suburban feel, then LMU might be your place.
    Read 1,549 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 54% Acceptance Rate
    • $40,946 Net Price
    • 1120-1330 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  26. Occidental College

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 427
    19 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Alum: Occidental College is one of the most underrated colleges out there. It has excellent faculty who are committed to seeing their students realize their fullest potential and succeed in whatever they are passionate in. Great facilities, beautiful campus, great location, excellent weather year-round. I have formed lifelong friendships and gained great faculty and professional mentors and I am proud to call myself an alum there. Thanks to Oxy, I was able to get connected to many great opportunities such as study abroad, and now I am a Fulbright grantee. It is definitely a very liberal campus so may be difficult for conservative students but this climate definitely challenges conservative students to clearly think through their opinions and convictions, ultimately molding everyone to be a more careful thinker, more articulate speaker and writer, and better global citizen.
    Read 427 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 46% Acceptance Rate
    • $31,990 Net Price
    • 1200-1420 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  27. University of the Pacific

    • 4 Year
    • Stockton, CA
    • 1,149
    20 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Sophomore: I like that the classes are generally small, even for freshmen GE classes. All of the professors I've had so far except one, are very helpful, and you are able to establish a more personal relationship with your professors due to the small class sizes. All of your professors will know your name, and they really care about helping you individually, how you are doing, and care about making sure you succeed, especially in SIS (department of International Studies). Another pro is that since its a small school, everybody knows everybody for the most part, and everybody is very friendly. For this reason, its also easy to make and find friends, and you'll see the usual students you see around the usual times you see them when you go to the cafeteria, the lair, the gym, or the library.
    The Freshmen dorms, the walls are VERY thin, you literally could hear everything so it could get annoying if your floor or neighbors are loud and you want to sleep, study, or just want some peace and quiet.
    Read 1,149 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A
      Professors
    • 66% Acceptance Rate
    • $33,794 Net Price
    • 1030-1300 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  28. University of San Francisco

    • 4 Year
    • San Francisco, CA
    • 2,027
    21 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Junior: So far in my time at the University of San Francisco, I have been blown away by the professors. They are all passionate, smart, experts in their fields, and although some styles of teaching may clash I have never felt afraid to go and ask a professor for help. The small class sizes definitely help the close atmosphere one can develop with professors. The number of extracurriculars you can apply yourself to are also amazing. There's a club for everything. And I will plug a little about the theater group the College Players as I am a part of that! We have the second oldest student-run college theater group in the USA, second only to Harvard. How cool is that!
    What could be improved is the cafeteria food. It's rather expensive, and not all that good for what you pay for.
    Read 2,027 Reviews

    • A-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Professors
    • 71% Acceptance Rate
    • $35,054 Net Price
    • 1030-1250 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  29. Azusa Pacific University

    • 4 Year
    • Azusa, CA
    • 2,554
    22 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Alum: As a small liberal arts college, Azusa Pacific University is like a hole-in-the-wall college that's a hidden gem. More specifically, the department of biology and chemistry is vastly experienced and well organized, though most others are not as well maintained. The facilities management is not always on par and some policies unnecessarily hinder your learning and social life. Cumulatively, however, I am very happy with my education and look forward to applying all I've learned in medical school next year!
    Read 2,554 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Professors
    • 61% Acceptance Rate
    • $28,506 Net Price
    • 900-1130 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  32. University of San Diego

    • 4 Year
    • San Diego, CA
    • 1,768
    23 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Alum: I just graduated from USD, and man I miss it so much! The campus is stunningly beautiful, the professors actually care about you and know your name, the food is fantastic, and San Diego is such an amazing city. I know some people may think only rich snobby people go here, but I could not disagree more. Although there is wealth present on campus due to the fact that it is a private school in southern CA, there are plenty of down to earth individuals. I myself was given a large scholarship to USD, and I know many others are in the same position. Additionally, so many opportunities were available to me through USD. I am pre-med, and I was able to work in a lab for 3 years and publish my work, have an internship in the trauma department at Scripps Hospital, and SO much more. Greek life is very present on campus as well and I highly encourage going Greek. I chose USD over a top UC for the personalized education and never regretted my decision.
    Read 1,768 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Professors
    • 51% Acceptance Rate
    • $38,596 Net Price
    • 1100-1310 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  33. Whittier College

    • 4 Year
    • Whittier, CA
    • 700
    24 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Freshman: I think I made the right choice coming to Whittier. I am absolutely in love with the campus and overall atmosphere of the school. I was worried about the size at first (it is quite small), but after attending my first semester I enjoy the fact that it allows for a more community-like experience. Everyone is so kind and welcoming. I also feel secure yet free. The food at the CI is amazing, there are so much options to choose from. I loved all my professors and classes so far. Also, uptown Whittier it just a close walk! It’s my favorite place to just Rome around when I’m bored!
    Read 700 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Professors
    • 69% Acceptance Rate
    • $25,638 Net Price
    • 920-1130 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?

  34. Humboldt State University

    • 4 Year
    • Arcata, CA
    • 1,768
    25 Colleges with the Best Professors in California

    Senior: From Humboldt State University, it has a great outdoors experience. Our school is known for its high recommendations for any science majors and math majors. I am a Zoology major and my best part of the university is the class where I go out of school with my class to field trip and identify different invertebrate animals near our shores. It was fun and a good leg work out too! Also, the local areas for food is quite amazing. When needing to eat besides campus food, there is a wide variety of different ethnic food here. What I like to see a change in Humboldt is to give a more housing chances for students that are from far away. More housing in the campus for everyone to be. It is tough to find an apartment or house near the school and have the housing costs to be low, for future students coming from different parts of California or an out of state transfer, they should have the opportunity to have a low-cost housing and a secure home to be in.
    Read 1,768 Reviews

    • B-
      Overall Niche Grade
    • A-
      Professors
    • 77% Acceptance Rate
    • $13,147 Net Price
    • 870-1090 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  35. Sponsored

    Loyola Marymount University

    • 4 Year
    • Los Angeles, CA
    • 1,549

    Freshman: This university campus is beautiful! I've stopped by here on and off throughout the years, and now I have had a chance to come here and I have many friends who came here. Notably, many of my buddies that play basketball. This school is private and tuition is high, yes, but the quality is great. The facilities are clean, modern, and pleasing to the eye. The students here are pretty cool too. If you're looking for a private school, and want more of a quiet suburban feel, then LMU might be your place.
    Read 1,549 Reviews

    • A
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 54% Acceptance Rate
    • $40,946 Net Price
    • 1120-1330 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  36. Sponsored

    California Lutheran University

    • 4 Year
    • Thousand Oaks, CA
    • 1,036

    Graduate Student: In my profession, I have heard employers and districts will only hired those from this university because they know when the students graduate, they are prepared for the workforce.

    Great school and amazing professors. Excellent opportunities!
    Read 1,036 Reviews

    • B+
      Overall Niche Grade
    • 64% Acceptance Rate
    • $29,038 Net Price
    • 993-1200 SAT Range
    Will You Get In?
  • 1 of 12