2024 Best Colleges for Music in the Los Angeles Area

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  3,993 reviews

Sophomore: So far I have not started my sophomore year as I am transferring from Pepperdine University. However, from what I have heard, seen, and experienced from USC is that it gives students the opportunity to explore their creative and intellectual sides simultaneously. I recently attended a transfer orientation session and it was filled with school spirit and gave us transfer students an opportunity to connect with the school as well as with other transfers. This orientation was packed with exciting events that truly made each person who attended eager to get on campus in August. USC offers many different programs along with a variety of specific classes and clubs. I am excited to see how this year goes and I am looking forward to joining the many opportunities that USC offers their students!... Read 3,993 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  5,513 reviews

Junior: I came into UCLA as a transfer student and immediately joined the transfer summer program. The support I received from the program was incredible. I was able to form a community, make new friends, and explore the seemingly endless opportunities UCLA has to offer. Within the first month, I had an opportunity to join a physics lab. This is something that I wanted to do since I began my college journey. To be able to have this opportunity at UCLA is something that I have only dreamt of until now. Additionally, the people that you meet here at UCLA are all incredible and smart in their own ways. I have met tons of ambitious students with their own unique goals and career aspirations. It seems like this is a place filled with endless opportunity!... Read 5,513 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 11%

• Net price $13,393

• SAT range —

• Valencia, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  284 reviews

Senior: I transferred from Los Angeles Mission Community College to California Institute of the Arts in 2020. Since, I have been studying Music Technology and Digital Arts and am set to graduate this upcoming Fall! With my time at Calarts coming to a close, I am incredibly sad to leave my Calarts family behind. I love the Music Technology faculty, the amazing courses I have taken such as; Interface Design, Creative Producing for music, Advanced Electronic Ensemble, and Visual Programming (the list goes on)! These classes are some of the few that left me inspired and motivated to continue learning and pursuing my artistry after college. Nonetheless, these are classes that were very specific to my learning goals, that I would not have commonly found at any other university. My mentor, Madeline Falcone, has done an OUTSTANDING job of supporting me in my academic goals, while also pushing my artistry to the next level. I would love if the tuition was lower, because I am currently 120k in debt.... Read 284 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $53,916

• SAT range —

• Pasadena, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.94 out of 5  31 reviews

Senior: LACM is a great school with amazing faculty! The pacing is a bit rigorous, but it is exciting to see how quickly you can grow with your craft. Any major/program can also benefit from LACM's amazing Music Business classes. Overall, a very realistic school with great connections.... Read 31 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $37,187

• SAT range —

• Hollywood, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.02 out of 5  85 reviews

Freshman: While Musicians Institute can be financially demanding and has posed a significant challenge for me to afford independently, I wholeheartedly endorse it for those who possess the financial means. This institution offers outstanding facilities, a dedicated staff, and creates a truly inspiring learning environment.... Read 85 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $36,686

• SAT range —

• La Mirada, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  2,284 reviews

Junior: I am about to enter my third year at Biola, and so far I have enjoyed my experience. I have learned valuable and practical knowledge and skills to apply to the business world, have made connections that exposed me to amazing opportunities, and have received a biblically based education which was one of my top priorities back when I was looking for schools. Although, If I could change one thing, it would be the option to opt out of meal plans regardless of housing status. I would love to save money by cooking my own food. This way, I could have more money go towards my tuition. Overall, I have had a great experience and am looking forward to returning this fall!... Read 2,284 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $29,123

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  4,216 reviews

Junior: The campus community thrives on inclusivity and support, with individuals eager to engage in meaningful conversations and lend a helping hand. UCI has a myriad of club opportunities available. No matter your interests, there is an organization that caters to your passions that provide avenues for personal development and also serve as platforms for making lifelong friendships with like-minded individuals! The campus boasts a wide array of support resources aimed at ensuring the success and well-being of every student. Academic support centers, tutoring programs, and career services are readily available, empowering students to excel in their studies and prepare for their future endeavors. A big plus is that within a short walking distance there is a lot of dining options. Additionally, the convenience of nearby grocery stores and transportation to them ensures that students can easily access the essentials they need, making life on campus incredibly convenient.... Read 4,216 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Orange, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.69 out of 5  2,261 reviews

Graduate Student: Chapman was the first time I ever had a truly positive educational experience. One of the things I enjoyed about the school was how the student body is incredibly friendly, open to new experience, and almost always will lend a helping hand. For the most part, classes are smaller and professors are engaging. Almost all professors I had were really passionate about the subjects they taught and were more than willing to assist any students with questions. If you are a student with a disability, this school office of disability services is one of the best I have ever dealt with. The school's disability services goes above and beyond to make sure students feel accommodated. Aslo, Chapman is the first school that I ever had positive interactions with admin. They always wanted to see me succeed and almost always had to time to interact if you just dropped in. Overall, everyone is very kind and really just wants to see you succeed! I liked the school so much I stayed on for Grad School!... Read 2,261 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 60%

• Net price $40,451

• SAT range 1210-1410

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,804 reviews

Alum: This school is full of wonderful people. There a lot of students from all over the world with a brilliant personalities. If you don’t fit in, they will help you to fit in and succeed. A lot of students from economically successful social groups in the third college generation. I witnessed freshmen who drive Maserati and Tesla. Some professors are incredible, polite and have a tendency to like all of their students and treat them like if they were their kids. The parking lots are great. You be late for 30 minutes before classes and always find a free spot. I’m so glad I graduated from that place. Beaches are nearby and it’s a beach life. If I will ever have kids, I will send them to CSULB instead of sending them to an expensive private college where they can experience bad influence from spoiled classmates or toxic environment of faculty and administration. Don’t hesitate and Go Beach!... Read 4,804 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Hollywood, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  413 reviews

Freshman: Although I’m a just in my first year working on my Bachelors’ of Science, I’m absolutely having a ball. When I say making the decision to go back to school after 15 years & 5 children. I can truly say: AWESOME decision. I’ve got a way to go, but their support team is hands down the best and I have no worries that I’ll have no problems getting through. Where do I start? In January, my family and I took a trip out to see what I was getting myself into. And oh my sweet hickory barbecue; I was impressed. Everything is so subtly organized and beautiful. Everyone we came in contact with were pleasant and friendly. Academically, yeah tuition fees are not for the meek let’s just say. But the way the academic advisors stay on your heel and foot every step of the way. Let me tell you, without them, I would be nothing! But seriously, these guys are amazing! So yeah… no need to sell me because moment I set foot on campus, I was buying all in. And one day, I hope you find a love of your own too!... Read 413 reviews

• grade C minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $33,990

• SAT range —

• Redlands, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  914 reviews

Junior: I enjoy being a student at the University of Redlands in general. The tiny class sizes at the institution were one of my favorite aspects of it. It made it simpler to ask for help or participate in class discussions because it allowed for more one-on-one encounters with teachers. The campus environment was wonderful; it had the atmosphere of a close-knit family with everyone being helpful and friendly. Another noteworthy aspect of the academic offerings was their variety.The campus itself was very lovely, with its well-kept grounds and peaceful ambiance. It produced a setting that was good for both studying and unwinding. The availability of greater resources and money for particular academic areas or extracurricular activities, however, is something I would like to see changed. Additional money could improve the entire university experience because it occasionally seemed that some departments some tools.... Read 914 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 83%

• Net price $21,578

• SAT range 1110-1280

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  2,862 reviews

Junior: All throughout high school my teachers would try to hammer this perception that in college, I would be truly independent and nothing more than a number in a classroom. This couldn't be further from the truth regarding CBU. The professors here generally care for their students and show teaching is their passion. Professors remind us on the regular that they're available during their office hours and are even willing to make themselves available for us whenever we had questions. Every Professor I've had thus far has prayed for us before we take an exam, this helped me feel less stressed. Campus life is fun. Dorm life is a great way to make connections. If you're an incoming freshman, I recommend you try and live in Smith/Simmons hall. Campus always has a lot of events going on all the time. Make sure you get involved! The on-campus food is fantastic. I highly recommend El Monte. If you want something different than on-campus food, there's a great selection of food nearby campus.... Read 2,862 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $23,494

• SAT range 990-1210

• Fullerton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  5,228 reviews

Senior: My first year was all online due to COVID. I had extremely supportive and accommodating professors. The workload was very doable, just make sure to communicate with your professors whenever you miss something or do not understand. In my second year, I lived in the on-campus apartments. It is fairly regulated on campus, and people can be shy but is a very safe and healthy environment. Everyone loved their RA's because they were so sweet. My third year was living in campus-affiliated apartments, which was amazing. You have more freedom, but can still walk to school. The campus is very large which means there are endless opportunities for students. We have some of the best departments regarded in the state with some of the most reputable professors. Join clubs as well! Being part of clubs with your interests and meeting new people that way completely changes your college experience. It is the easiest way to connect with people! There are several food places on campus and the gym is big!... Read 5,228 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $4,939

• SAT range 1000-1180

• Thousand Oaks, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,167 reviews

Sophomore: California Lutheran University is a private institution that has much to offer students of all types! I love that the community is small, just as the class sizes are. Its the perfect opportunity to make friends and make good close connections with amazing professors. Office hours are always easy to come by and there is always help at CLU for those who ask for it. And although this institution is affiliated with the Lutheran faith, CLU is accepting of all religions and backgrounds. I myself am Catholic, and nevertheless CLU has always felt like home. In addition, although tuition is very expensive, I have funded my entire education through the many scholarships they have. In this way, I view this institution as promising, and exciting no matter if your parents can fund your education or not, anything is possible. Right now for instance, I am only 8,000 in debt and I promised my parents I would fund my own education. All I can say is, come to CLU and meet the amazing community!... Read 1,167 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $24,065

• SAT range 1090-1290

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  699 reviews

Sophomore: Concordia feels like a family. It is a small campus, which makes it easy to get around and arrive to classes on time. I also am a student-athlete so it was important that my professors accommodate and make reasonable allowances for time away due to matches. I found this to be true of all my professors at Concordia. This university is known for having strong athletic programs as well as being academically challenging. I felt I was able to find academic support whenever I needed it. As far as the location is concerned, it can't be beat. There is another large university nearby, so you get the college-town feel. It is also just 15 minutes from one of the most beautiful beaches around. As a freshman last year, I felt the school really went above and beyond to have activities that helped us get acclimated and to feel comfortable. It truly is a beautiful, safe, welcoming environment to be in. I highly recommend Concordia!... Read 699 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $25,640

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Northridge, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  4,987 reviews

Freshman: Walking into Cal state Northridge brought me out with so many levels of confidence. Everybody here is so nice, and they really care about you. I can tell. Also, when I walk into the classrooms the teachers are kind. If a student in the class does not get something they will say "Please let me know if you have any questions, there are no right and wrong question to ask" which I loved and made me comfortable. I am doing well in classes because most of my teachers are taking the time to go step by step to make sure we are understanding the lecture because they know were transioning from high school to college. So, they are sharing different ways and their experience on what helped them, which helped me tremendously! I love it here in Cal State Northridge. It just makes me so happy! Especially with all the events they put out here to make every gender, race, religion feel welcome! That what I truly love because where I used to live none of this stuff, I am talking about was existent.... Read 4,987 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $8,708

• SAT range 900-1110

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  3,176 reviews

Freshman: My experience in going to CSULA was completely eye-opening and definitely gave me a change of heart. When getting rejected and waitlisted by my other options, it became detrimental to my mental state and discouraged me because I did not get into my top five schools. My first day of school was so exhilarating because of how welcoming students and faculty were; suddenly it changed my aspect of this school. I absolutely love the environment of CSULA, it gives a sense of individuality, simplicity, and diversity; it gives a physical sense of belonging. What I love most about campus is when the farmers market is stationed right at the main walkway along with canopy's that preview what El Mercadito would look like. Overall, this school is my home now, Go Eagles!... Read 3,176 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $2,695

• SAT range 870-1060

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,648 reviews

Freshman: My experience at UCR has been great so far. First, I love the diversity we have here on campus! I was able to meet people from everywhere, and everyone is very friendly, so it was really easy to make a few friends along the way. Most of my professors have been great, and I could tell that they were really passionate about what they were teaching. Although I am not the biggest fan when it comes to long lectures, I feel like I am actually learning something, rather than when I was in high school. I also love the abundance of events that occur daily. The organizations/clubs are really awesome too, with most of them sounding very interesting to join. I am currently in two clubs and they are really fun. My only critique would probably have to be some professors not actually teaching, making it a less fun experience. But overall, I am happy I chose to be a student here, and I can't wait to see what the future holds!... Read 3,648 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $13,502

• SAT range 1080-1280

• San Bernardino, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  2,766 reviews

Graduate Student: I went into Cal State San Bernardino as an undergrad in 2019 and I majored in Kinesiology and minored in Psyc. In the beginning, I was upset about going here because I'd never seen the campus, and growing up I would hear bad reviews about it. On my orientation day, I was so surprised walking on campus because the campus was just mouth-dropping! I could not believe that the campus was so beautiful. The staff is amazing and the professors for the kinesiology apartment go above and beyond. They say in college that no one holds your hand and that it's your responsibility to push yourself. And yes that is true but here my professors hold my hand and guided me to be a better student and a better studied. I enjoyed every minute of my college life here. When covid hit, it was a challenge but once again the staff just went above and beyond to still make it the best experience. I enjoyed the campus so much that I became a student mentor for incoming freshman and transfer students.... Read 2,766 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $3,254

• SAT range 910-1080

• Malibu, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  1,341 reviews

Alum: Pepperdine University is incredible. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there - I loved my professors, loved the location, and loved the stunning campus. Everyone there was remarkably friendly, and when I switched my major to Art History, I felt very welcomed by the department and encouraged in the pursuit of my goals. My professors were eager to offer help and advice, and it was clear that they enjoyed their careers and loved teaching and mentoring students. The other classes that I took outside of my major (as part of Pepperdine's liberal arts curriculum) were also excellent. I found my religion classes (three required) especially fascinating; given that I was not a Christian student, all the material was new for me and quite enlightening. The classes I took for my minor - Creative Writing - were also fantastic, particularly my Spiritual Writing class (taught by an outstanding professor). I had an amazing time at Pepperdine, and in all honesty, wish I could go back!... Read 1,341 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,945

• SAT range 1260-1440

• Costa Mesa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  918 reviews

Junior: Vanguard University provides students with exceptional support. With every upcoming semester every major meets in some form with their individual advisors allowing there to be opportunities for any questions/concerns. The advisors make sure that every student is on track for their intended graduation date. Professors/staff are also really open about providing students with the necessary help. There is a great loving and close knit community on campus which allows students to enjoy their time there. Vanguard University also provides students with food resources/clothing resources as well as emotional support resources if students are in need of them. Commuters however, may have a difficult time getting involved due to the event dates and traveling time. Due to this fact, Vanguard is always open to improving the school and the events occurring which is why they provide students with the opportunity to offer feedback at the end of each semester. Great school!... Read 918 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $20,427

• SAT range 980-1200

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,166 reviews

Senior: While at Mount Saint Mary's University, I have had a phenomenal experience. Faculty and staff are easy-going and care tremendously about students' success. I enjoy how there is an inclusive atmosphere where everyone helps each other grow and become their ultimate best self. I like how the professors are easily accessible to go over course material and provide you with insight into assignments. Additionally, I enjoy how knowledgeable and sophisticated the professors are. In all honesty, there is nothing that I see that I would like to change as I have grown fondly over the school.... Read 1,166 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $24,508

• SAT range 900-1110

• Wilmington, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  542 reviews

Sophomore: Throughout my time at Harbor College, I have encountered both good and bad experiences. There were times where I felt overwhelmed and lost, but I was able to persevere thanks to the support of my teachers. Despite the difficulties, I had some amazing teachers who believed in me and pushed me to reach my full potential. They have inspired me and helped me grow into the person I am today. I have been blessed with teachers and staff who have gone above and beyond to provide me with the resources and support I needed to succeed. They have been incredibly patient with me when I had difficulty understanding the material and have always been encouraging to me. I am grateful for their dedication and commitment to my success. Graduating from college is a milestone I've been working towards for a long time, and I'm proud to be able to say that I'm finally here. I'm immensely excited to take the next step in my life and pursue the career that I've always dreamed of.... Read 542 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,787

• SAT range —

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  755 reviews

Freshman: La Sierra University has a very peaceful campus, it’s very beautiful! The counselors at La Sierra University make you feel like they are friends more then they are counselors. It’s nice to always have someone to go to.... Read 755 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $25,230

• SAT range 880-1140

• Santa Clarita, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.12 out of 5  500 reviews

Other: My experience at Master's has been overwhelmingly positive, despite never setting foot on campus! I was enrolled in the Masters' Online Dual-Enrollment program where I took selected university classes. This program has been instrumental in preparing me for when I attend the university. I highly recommend taking these online classes as they not only helped me adapt to the rigors of university studies but also helped me earn high school credits for graduation. Also, as a homeschooled student, it was amazing to share a class with other students my age even though the class was online.... Read 500 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 67%

• Net price $30,748

• SAT range 990-1250