2024 Top Colleges for Legal Studies in California

• Berkeley, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  4,426 reviews

Senior: It's a big school so it was a little difficult to transition into my freshman year, but once I looked at the different resources and organizations the university offered, I loved it! It's really important to get involved while you're there. I was involved in different pre-law organizations, ASUC, Cal Cheerleading, and others and it was a great experience. It's a little difficult getting classes especially in your first or second year, but once you declare your major it's a lot easier. My major advisor Lauri is the best. She's super helpful and has made my time at Berkeley a lot easier. I would like to see an easier way for students to enroll to classes they need easier. I would also like for the university to recognize cheer as a sport so cheerleaders can have access to academic accommodations, as they are at all the sports events and have hours of practice per week.... Read 4,426 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 14%

• Net price $17,652

• SAT range 1310-1530

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  1,158 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Narional has been good overall! The classes are set at a really good pace. The professors are super helpful and invested in the students. The only feedback for change that I have is the administration/financial aid side of things is kind of tricky once you are a student. I’ve been at National for 7 months now and still haven’t received my financial aid. Granted the school hasn’t been demanding I pay for my classes right now, I just have Large bill. And advisors don’t know much about that. They did just recently do something where they cross trained the admin team so that they are able to help with everything so that should be really helpful. I love Narional university and I would recommend them to anyone!... Read 1,158 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 55%

• Net price $9,966

• SAT range 750-1170

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  469 reviews

Junior: I'm mostly writing this because my experience of Scripps feels incongruent with my experience here, and I want perspective students to know that Scripps can be a really lovely place. A lot of reviews talk about Scripps as a really cliquey school, which could be true to some people's experience, but I've found that everyone here is so friendly and welcoming if you make an effort to get to know them--I feel like it's easy to find community here, especially if you join clubs/have a job/talk to people in your classes. Also, a lot of the reviews said you need to find friends right away--but not true. I didn't find my main friend group until my second semester, and friends and such naturally change over time. I've also found such community in my major--I'm in a smaller, humanities department here, and all the profs are lovely--but I know some of my stem friends have had similar experiences. Scripps is by no means devoid of problems, but I definitely think things are improving post-pandemic.... Read 469 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 30%

• Net price $44,770

• SAT range 1380-1520

• La Verne, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,239 reviews

Freshman: So far, my experience has been great! The campus is beautiful and filled with greenery everywhere. Everyone is really kind and professors, for the most part, really want to students to succeed and try to build a student/faculty bond. Furthermore, there is a lot of diversity which leaves little room for isolation and uncomfortableness. I am really happy that I attend this school and the only suggestion I would make is to have more precalculus professors available or more highly rated math professors here.... Read 1,239 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $22,538

• SAT range 930-1150

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.55 out of 5  4,004 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UC Santa Cruz has been fantastic! The campus is stunning, surrounded by nature, and I love exploring the redwood forests. The sense of community is strong, with approachable faculty and small class sizes for personalized attention. The diverse student body creates an inclusive learning environment. The academic programs offer a wide range of courses, allowing me to tailor my education. I appreciate the emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and research opportunities. While I'd like to see more resources for mental health and career support, overall, UCSC has contributed greatly to my growth.... Read 4,004 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $19,615

• SAT range 1160-1360

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  4,692 reviews

Junior: My experience at the University of California - Santa Barbara (UCSB) was truly incredible! From the moment I stepped foot on the beautiful coastal campus, I knew I was in for an amazing adventure. The combination of fun and learning at UCSB was beyond comparison. Academically, UCSB exceeded my expectations. The university is renowned for its rigorous programs across various disciplines, and the faculty members are top-notch. The courses were intellectually stimulating, challenging me to expand my knowledge and think critically.... Read 4,692 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $17,333

• SAT range 1230-1460

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,946 reviews

Sophomore: Mt. SAC has given me a sense of belonging in college, a newfound appreciation for education, and guidance for the rest of my life. The support programs and clubs gave me a community in higher education. The teachers, counselors, and fellow students gave me a newfound appreciation for education. And my guidance for the rest of my life came from the Mt SAC. events, counselors, student programs, and courses. I couldn't be more grateful!... Read 1,946 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,774

• SAT range —

• Cupertino, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,181 reviews

Sophomore: Attending De Anza was a great experience. I received my first AA in 1999. Since then, I have taken more classes, either as a fun learning opportunity or to help me advance in my career. During the lockdown, I went back to De Anza for another AA degree, which is great segue for my current educational experience-MBA (which is another review!). As a student at De Anza, at various points over the past 20 years I feel that I have a good perspective on the school - it is worth your time and energy! The education is top notch, the instructors care, and all the staff are ready to support yo uin all stages of your academic journey!... Read 1,181 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,236

• SAT range —

• Pasadena, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,789 reviews

Freshman: Pasadena City College while not a highly connected community, is a very pleasant and friendly one. Students tend to keep to themselves and professors are very eager to help their students succeed and are far more willing to communicate with their students than in my previous college experiences. It will not be easy! You will need to put in hard work, and utilize all resources available to you should you want to pull off those A grades. The campus is sweet and small, relatively quiet and nestled right next to many boba shops and fast food options for busier students who need a quick meal to tide them over. Be it working night shifts, day shifts, or anything in-between; if you are willing to communicate with professors they will do all in their power to accommodate you. Overall while students tend to keep to themselves, some of the best friendships I've made were through PCC. I discovered both my patience and my grit with the Pasadena Lancers, proud to have been apart of the family... Read 1,789 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,466

• SAT range —

• Stockton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,399 reviews

Freshman: I am happy to say that I have genuinely learned so much at Delta. Most of my courses are online so they have fit for my schedule and are able to be balanced with work. I enjoyed most the teachers, and it is because of the feedback that they provide to me. It helps me be aware of both my strengths and weaknesses. Honestly, can't think of anything that I would want to see change. The programs have aided me, courses have taught me, counselors and staff have guided me, and is overall a great experience. I am hoping to continue my passions for my education at University of the Pacific next year!... Read 1,399 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,503

• SAT range —

• Norwalk, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,331 reviews

Niche User: The best decision I have ever made was to attend Cerritos College for my summer courses. My teachers' and counselors' support throughout all of my classes helped me finish with excellent grades. The college environment in Cerritos is diverse and conveniently located. It is convenient for us students to grab a bite to eat before class because the campus is close to many restaurants. The level of safety is incredible, with constant security ensuring that all students are secure during class hours and during various important events. At Cerritos College, the students are approachable and make it simple to form relationships. Sports in Cerritos are exciting and enjoyable, especially football games. #GoFalcons!... Read 1,331 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,557

• SAT range —

• Torrance, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,554 reviews

Sophomore: I have had an incredible experience so far at El Camino College. I joined the First Year Experience program which introduced me to new people on campus who are now some of my closest friends. Something else I love about this program and the college itself is how active the student community is from all the events they have going on to the amazing environment they have in the different rooms of the library. Having not been an active student at my high school in any school related events, I have found it to be so fun and a really great college experience for me to have all of the resources they provide. Along with amazing people, the professors and classes that I have taken have been so supportive and helpful as well!... Read 1,554 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,296

• SAT range —

• Fullerton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,409 reviews

Sophomore: I liked the environment and campus. The school had a lot of resources that helped me in classes. I made a lot of friends and new people. I had the opportunity in multiple classes to communicate and get to know New people. The campus is close and small. Getting around classes was pretty simple. If I was ever lost, there was someone always willing to help me. The food on campus is great! They also had a Jamba Juice that was not open and still isn’t to this day. The idea of it is awesome though, I love Jamba Juice. They should open it. I do enjoy the life outside of school. We are so close to cal state Fullerton. There are a lot of fun things to do and places to visit where you will find students from all over. My professors here at Fullerton college are all very unique. Some very outgoing, some very calm and simple, some are even hilarious. The variety of personalities at this school is very unique. The diversity is beautiful. The education is great and simple. Lots of cool courses also... Read 1,409 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,191

• SAT range —

• Chula Vista, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,256 reviews

Sophomore: The faculty is professional and understanding. Most professors will offer alternatives to cheaper or will provide free texts for the course. Coursework is quite easy to understand and resources for tutoring and learning are advertised well around campus. Campus resources are easy to find. Classes are cheap compared to other local campuses in San Diego County. FAFSA will provide more aid when attending this school in comparison to City College. Really chill student life- laid-back people. Housing and transportation are necessary to thrive in this environment! Healthy food options are limited, I recommend eating at home. Snacks are everywhere for convenience on and around campus. Safe area, in the third safest city in California.... Read 1,256 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,789

• SAT range —

• Fresno, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.7 out of 5  970 reviews

Senior: Fresno city college is an Amazing School. While I can only speak from my experience, all the professors I’ve had were excellent, passionate about what they teach and extremely knowledgeable- so much so you wonder why they are teaching at a community college! But they genuinely want to help their students succeed in whatever field/career/path they choose. FCC is also extremely diverse and you meet so many different people from different walks of life, and everyone is really respectful and understanding of different kinds of people. I struggle with pretty intense mental health issues and I’ve always felt accepted and have been met with empathy and compassion from fellow students and professors alike.I’ve learned so much, and have met so many incredible professors and people. FCC has greatly impacted my life for the better and has shaped who I am for the better.... Read 970 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,391

• SAT range —

• San Marcos, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,252 reviews

Alum: Not exactly the ideal "college experience" for incoming college freshman/sophomores, but still a great community college experience! I am really glad I spent my first two years of college at Palomar Community College instead of going straight to a university. I had a great community college experience at Palomar. Lots of good, well-funded programs, mostly pretty good professors, the campus is recently rebuilt, the price to attend is very affordable, theres a decent amount of affordable parking, pretty diverse student body, and overall has a quality comparable to a university in terms of academics. Because it's a commuter community college, the social life is obviously lacking, but that is to be expected. I really liked Palomar and more people should attend community college especially at Palomar.... Read 1,252 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,659

• SAT range —

• San Francisco, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,014 reviews

Junior: City College of San Francisco was such a grounding and fulfilling experience as a community college student. I enjoyed every course taken because of the in-depth teaching and open-mindedness of professors. Growing up in the Bay Area, it was very comforting to know that there are educators out there who are willing to go above and beyond for their students as well as the institution itself that is close to home. Much heart, passion, and hard work has gone into CCSF, and I hope the administration is able to continue working with such great faculty in the future. I will always remember and cherish my time at City!... Read 1,014 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,261

• SAT range —

• Santa Clarita, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,008 reviews

Sophomore: I was blessed with the opportunity of Canyons Promise. I loved all of my professors and classes, they made me more passionate about what I want to do with my life and gave me new encouragement to continue with my creative abilities. I had certain professors who clearly were passionate about what they did and had a love for teaching! One professor I will remember was one of my childhood development teachers. She was always encouraging, loving and gave helpful feedback for anything I was struggling with. I would encourage every and anyone looking to start their college career here!... Read 1,008 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,400

• SAT range —

• Riverside, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,360 reviews

Freshman: What I like about Riverside City College, it has EOPS, Veteran needs, basic needs, health support service is free, cheap tuition, the best clubs with students in it, nice students, make friends, students seem nice, fun activities on campus, fees are not that high, good securities, security alarm if necessary, cal fresh, they give free food to students who need it some, good community, available study room, disability resource center, and there is a lot of support. If you tell your consumer that you struggling, they will support you. I'm going to call Riverside Community College, the number 1 and safest college to go to. Nothing in Riverside College, bad about it. Office hours or personal tutors are available to all students. Don't hesitate, to ask for help, they will know how to assist you. The professors, I would give them 4 or 5 stars, because they are on good behavior for all students. They treat students, like adults. No dorms!... Read 1,360 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,161

• SAT range —

• Monterey Park, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,272 reviews

Alum: I attended ELAC for three years before I transferred to the University of California Santa Barbara. At this institution, I felt extremely supported by student personnel. Counselors assured me I was on the right track to transferring by explaining the general ed courses needed to transfer to my dream colleges. Within 3 years I was able to transfer with an outstanding GPA of 3.7. The counselors are easy to access and talk to, the professors are relatable and they are very empathetic to students and their struggles. One of the best community colleges in the area!... Read 1,272 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,028

• SAT range —

• Rancho Cucamonga, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  1,236 reviews

Alum: I was impressed with the level of education I received from Chaffey College! The professors are knowledgeable and passionate about their subject, which made learning pleasurable. They provided helpful feedback and great resources for studying. The school even offers free money to its student for books, supplies, food and other things at the bookstore. Chaffey offers a wide range of courses and majors. The college also provides a diverse set of extracurricular activities. There were also plenty of student services available, such as counseling and tutoring, which was very helpful. The campus itself was beautiful and well-maintained. There were a variety of amenities available. One thing I would recommend is bettering the student life. The college did not have too much of a priority regarding events and activities for students to participate in. Overall, I had a positive experience and would recommend Chaffey College for anyone looking for a quality educational experience.... Read 1,236 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,939

• SAT range —

• Sacramento, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  1,475 reviews

Sophomore: The resources at American River College are pretty good. The transfer pathway from here to UC is well planned, and you can transfer to most UCs with little to no issues. They have the Beaver Cares program which gives food to its students! In addition they have plenty of employment opportunities for students which help them to gain some upward mobility. Safety wise the campus could be better, because bikes often get stolen here and there are some crimes that happen here sparingly. I would also improve the selection of in person classes since there haven't been as many since COVID hit.... Read 1,475 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,101

• SAT range —

• San Jacinto, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  982 reviews

Sophomore: Anyone considering MSJC should keep this in mind: you will get back what you put in. MSJC can be a really boring and uneventful attendance, or a really useful and beneficial one if you get to know the people and know all the resources. Though, I think the biggest problem is simply the lack of not being given information at the right time. Especially for someone just out of high school, figuring out how to use the different MSJC websites and what classes to take for specific goals you have can be really difficult, so you should research extensively. Additionally, meet with/schedule an appointment with a counselor on Cranium Cafe! That being said, I am grateful for the classes and education here. The Honors Program has helped me reach better classes, so I do feel prepared for going to a 4-year, after Spring 2024. Lastly, I have only attended the SJ Campus, so I can't speak on how Menifee or Temecula is like. It has been a nice place, but always worried about safety at night.... Read 982 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,704

• SAT range —

• Visalia, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  779 reviews

Sophomore: College of the Sequoias is easily one of the best community colleges in the central valley! I love how many campuses, from Hanford, Visalia, to Tulare, there's a diversity of people and classes. The campus is always big and well taken care of. The professors take care of their rooms with so much care and love. I love how invested professors are to their students, even during covid I was able to reach out to my professors a lot an they seemed to care so much about me and my education. The student life is amazing, If College to the Sequoias was a 4 year college I would still be here!... Read 779 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,205

• SAT range —

• Moorpark, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,200 reviews

Junior: Moorpark is a great college with a lot of options for classes and great programs. I am currently enrolled in their radiologic technology program and it is so amazing. The professors are great and the program really makes you prepared to work in a hospital setting. I also did my pre requisites for the program at Moorpark and have received a Associates from Moorpark College. The only change I would like to see if counselors who are more helpful and caring. I had many poor experiences with the counselors there and know many students that agree with me. Overall it is a great school and I would highly recommend it to anyone, especially for radiology!... Read 1,200 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,856

• SAT range —