2024 Best Colleges for Music in California

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  3,992 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 3,992 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.24 out of 5  86 reviews

Freshman: Positioned in the heart of downtown San Francisco, SFCM has a prime location and an amazing teaching staff. The highlight of my time at the school has been the time I've spent with the jazz faculty. The private teachers really care about helping each student find their own voice on their instrument. Overall, the facilities are great. The performance spaces, ensemble rooms, and studios are beautiful. The neighborhood is rough around the edges but the two buildings are secure. Even in the midst of the pandemic, there have been performance opportunities, recitals, and concerts in all departments.... Read 86 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $43,036

• SAT range —

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  5,511 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 5,511 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  84 reviews

Freshman: I wanted to study music in a professional yet non traditional way. Musicians institute was perfect for me! With all their live performances classes & unique programs, I’m so glad I’m studying here!... Read 84 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  4,215 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 4,215 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• Stockton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,315 reviews

Senior: I really enjoy my university! The student to professor ratio is small which is perfect for getting to know your professors one-on-one and asking for help. There are also many resources available on campus for various things from career services to therapy counseling. I have held three on-campus jobs and I have enjoyed them all. My supervisors were super understanding of my course load and would allow me to plan my work schedule around that. I am also involved in a sorority on campus as well as a couple clubs which has made my college experience that much better. As a STEM student, I did not think I would have enough time for fun and leisure, but joining organizations on campus has helped me make that time for myself and it has been great. I am also a commuter student so joining these organizations has also helped me in a social aspect.... Read 1,315 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $21,311

• SAT range 1120-1380

• 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  4,803 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 4,803 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  5,318 reviews

Freshman: Beyond the excellent academics, SDSU has a great social and school spirit atmosphere with amazing athletics and clubs. As an out-of-state freshman, the transition to college has been tough; however, the many welcoming communities between fun or academic clubs, intramural, club, and D1 sports, and various other excellent programs. There are countless wonderful opportunities, including those at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center (MBAC). Students (and others) can take classes for surfing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, and more! So far, the surfing class has been a major highlight for me. Getting around is also extremely easy, which is a big deal as a freshman without a car. The trolley and bus system is free to students under 20, which is a major bonus for getting around San Diego, going to the MBAC, and getting other important places in SoCal (like the airport)! I also feel that SDSU is a very safe campus, and has overall been a wonderful experience filled with growth and learning. Go Tecs!... Read 5,318 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $6,867

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  4,684 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 4,684 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $17,333

• SAT range 1230-1460

• 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

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  1,027 reviews

Graduate Student: Point Loma Nazarene University excels in both academics and personal connection. Not only with students be able to find like-minded people, they will also have continuous support from professors and faculty throughout their college journey. The small class sizes allow for students to become close with their professors and classmates, which helps in building their network. My professors have helped me drastically in finding jobs, connecting me with others in the field, and by giving me personal advice and guidance in life. From my time at Point Loma Nazarene University, I feel as though I have grown personally, academically, and spiritually. I contribute a great amount of being who I am today because of my experiences at Point Loma Nazarene University. I enjoyed my time so much that I chose to return for my master's degree as well!... Read 1,027 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,851

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Fullerton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  5,226 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 5,226 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $4,939

• SAT range 1000-1180

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  2,483 reviews

Freshman: Overall I want to say that I am very impressed with this school! I feel like I fit in with the other students where creating art is concerned! However, I am a little disappointed in the way this school treats transgender students. My best friend is transgender and she has deal with being dead named constantly by her professors. She has tried to correct them a countless amount of time for this, but to no avail. She said that only her French teacher used her correct pronouns and name, which is saying a lot since she has been in this school for over a year and the majority of her teachers misgender her. Personally, I would like there to be a little more understanding and respect towards LGBTQA+ students. As a university that claims to be diverse in their commercials on YouTube, there still seems to be some stigma towards trans students.... Read 2,483 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $32,593

• SAT range —

• Santa Cruz, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  3,986 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 3,986 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 59%

• Net price $19,615

• SAT range 1160-1360

• 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  4,986 reviews

Graduate Student: California State University Northridge was the first university that I attended and I absolutely loved it! They had numerous accessible resources for students such as mental health, financial aid, mentors, tutoring...etc. When I was attending there, the school had a brand new two story gym for students to utilize and it was incredible. Another aspect that I appreciated while at the university was a program where people would escort students to their cars for safety reasons. I had multiple night classes for my major and never felt comfortable walking alone at night, so naturally I would take advantage of their safety programs. I would say that the atmosphere of CSUN is very lively, friendly and vibrant.... Read 4,986 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $8,708

• SAT range 900-1110

• Sacramento, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  3,857 reviews

Alum: The campus at CSUS is gorgeous. So many beautiful trees and lush nature to get lost in and relax from the stress of studying. The theatre program is by far one of most prestigious programs in California. The professors teach with such detail that it's hard NOT to pay attention. I left with a Bachelor's Degree in Theatre Arts and I could not be happier with the level of education, student involvement and community I experienced while attending. The only negative remark I have is the parking situation... PLEASE build more efficient and spacious parking structures!... Read 3,857 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $7,778

• SAT range 930-1130

• San Jose, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  4,296 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at San Jose State University has been great. The majority of staff goes beyond expectations to help their students succeed in everything and anything they may need, although responses from the College of Science can take some time. The professors put their student's best interests at heart, and I have learned valuable lessons that will benefit my life well after I graduate from University. The professors always vocalize the help that they provide their students if assistance is needed to better comprehend subjects. The students are also a joy, and most of the students I encountered are super friendly. This factor makes my time at university enjoyable, and overall SJSU is a great school and I recommend it to anyone who is thinking of becoming a future spartan!... Read 4,296 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $14,603

• SAT range 1010-1240