2024 Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in California

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  4,007 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 4,007 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 13%

• Net price $26,021

• SAT range 1410-1540

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  501 reviews

Junior: I think one thing that sets Oxy apart from other schools is the relationship you will build with your professors and peers in a class setting. My professors are always really accessible and encourage everyone to go to office hours and ask questions. Because of the small class size and collaborative setting where I am able to talk to my classmates, I've met some of my closest friends in my classes at Oxy. Everyone here is super involved and passionate about something they do on campus. This creates a really fun and supportive culture where we all go to everyone's club events, music performances, and sports games. Oxy really takes advantage of its location in Los Angeles. I've had field trips to Downtown LA and City Hall, and there are lots of opportunities to get off campus like free tickets to the Kings game last week! I chose Oxy because I wanted to be a part of a community that cares about what they are doing and that is exactly what I've found here.... Read 501 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $43,047

• SAT range 1340-1490

• Malibu, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,350 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 1,350 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 53%

• Net price $40,945

• SAT range 1260-1440

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  2,877 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 2,877 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 64%

• Net price $23,494

• SAT range 990-1210

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  2,322 reviews

Freshman: I am actually an incoming Freshman, so my review is of the family/student meet and greet weekend. The University of San Francisco pulled out all the stops. The students, staff, tours, mock classes, clubs - everything was amazing and informative. The speeches given were inspiring. The food and opportunities to meet other students were fantastic. There were tours of all the buildings by students who actually live in the dorms. The walkways were filled with clubs to join and prizes to win. And everyone I encountered was extremely knowledgable and supper friendly. They even had therapy dogs, which apparently they bring out during finals week - so cool. After sitting in on a few mock classes and speaking to the professors, I knew that University of San Francisco was where I wanted to spend my next four years studying. Any doubts I had about leaving my home state of Washington to become a USF student vanished - I commited to USF that day!... Read 2,322 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 71%

• Net price $39,825

• SAT range 1190-1390

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  4,227 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 4,227 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 29%

• Net price $11,633

• SAT range 1230-1430

• La Mirada, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  2,285 reviews

Senior: Biola's teachers are AMAZING! The online courses are well structured and provide exceptional content. I have grown so much in my faith, knowledge, and confidence in Christianity through the Bible, Theology, and Apologetics program. The only reason the school gets 4 stars instead of 5 is the administrative staff (Non- Academic advisors - my academic advisor was AWESOME!). This area of the school is severely lacking. They are unhelpful and even rude when trying to get confirmation on simple and important information. It soured my entire experience and ruled out any consideration of attending online for my master's degree.... Read 2,285 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $29,123

• SAT range 1080-1310

• Azusa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,782 reviews

Graduate Student: The opportunity to become a graduate student at Azusa Pacific University came at great time in my life. As we were all getting through the pandemic, I had a lot of time think about whether I should go back to school, or not. I ended up applying for the Music Industry & Entrepreneurship program, and I'm glad I did. It's really been a blessing to me and my family, as I've been able to really dive in to the music industry and begin building a music company of my own. APU has assisted me in reaching my goal, and that's something that shouldn't be taken for granted. I'm certainly grateful, and glad to be a Cougar!... Read 2,782 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $27,112

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Santa Barbara, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  569 reviews

Alum: The highlight of my time as a student at Westmont College were my Professors! Every single Professor of mine challenged me on a number of levels; academically, mentally, spiritually, etc. The level of education I received at Westmont was truly priceless. Each Professor of mine demonstrated incredibly high levels of expertise in their respective fields, but even more compelling was the passion they showed for both their subject and their students. They each did their best to cultivate in their students not only head knowledge, but heart investment, so as to help their students discern which educational path would most benefit them in the career paths of their dreams. I am also grateful to have had the privilege to attend a Christian school like Westmont as well, where I feel that my faith has been shaped and forged with as equal attention as my education.The Westmont Experience was far from flawless, but it was incredibly formative and I will forever be grateful for it!... Read 569 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $33,554

• SAT range 1110-1460

• Stockton, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  1,324 reviews

Sophomore: University of the Pacific in Stockton is a gem! I love the unwavering support I receive, making it feel like a second home. Being located in Stockton adds an extra layer of comfort, and the university's integration with the community is awesome. You can receive discounts from local restaurants! The friendly atmosphere creates a welcoming environment where I've made great connections. Pacific isn't just a campus; it feels like an amazing community to be part of. From the support to the tight-knit relationships formed, this university goes beyond academics, making it a comforting experience. Grateful to call Pacific and Stockton my academic and home haven!... Read 1,324 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $21,311

• SAT range 1120-1380

• Costa Mesa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  920 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 920 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $20,427

• SAT range 980-1200

• 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

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  5,346 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 5,346 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 38%

• Net price $6,867

• SAT range 1090-1300

• Moraga, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.59 out of 5  1,100 reviews

Freshman: Saint Mary’s has a unique energy unlike any other campus. The students are positive, inclusive, connected and yet very serious about their studies. There is a lot of fun on campus. There is not much drinking since you have to be over 21 and really there is more for us to do. Greek life is non existent. But that just means we create our fun by way of pool parties, BBQs, games, day trips, etc. There is a “party” scene here but a very safe and clean one - which is fantastic. I cannot thank Saint Mary’s enough, I love it! They check all the boxes of a fantastic school and a home away from home.... Read 1,100 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 70%

• Net price $25,022

• SAT range 1070-1240

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,831 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 4,831 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• Fresno, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  568 reviews

Freshman: After 3 weeks as a freshman, it’s been a great experience so far, especially meeting new people. Before starting school, we went on a weekend retreat to Hume Lake where I met students and enjoyed 2 days of activities. It was fun and we all bonded well, making friends and getting to know each other. My new chapter started the following Monday, and at each new classroom I found my new friends I had met at the lake. What a breakthrough moment, no awkwardness because we immediately sat next to each other to enjoy our 1st day. The professors all have PHDs and an open door policy for face to face interaction after class. The lines are short or non existent so you get in and out quickly. I’ve already built strong friendships with other students and we already study together when necessary. And, we’ve had our first dinner outing too just for fun, shopping included! I am happy and feeling good about my college choice so far. I wouldn’t change a thing so whats not to like.... Read 568 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $15,350

• SAT range 970-1240

• San Diego, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,032 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 1,032 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $34,851

• SAT range 1170-1350

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  759 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 759 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 66%

• Net price $25,230

• SAT range 880-1140

• Thousand Oaks, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,173 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 1,173 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $24,065

• SAT range 1090-1290

• Rocklin, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  435 reviews

Junior: I'm an online student, but even though I'm not on campus, I feel very much a part of the school. It's about a two hour drive, so I was able to go and visit and attend some events on campus and felt so comfortable and welcome there. The professors are very available and present in the online forum and are ready to answer questions and just pray over each individual. The success coach is awesome and I feel so supported, encouraged and lifted up. The education received is at such a high standard as well and I feel ready to go into my career with the tools and skills I need. I feel very encouraged in my Christian life and spiritual walk with God. I 100% recommend this school!... Read 435 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $27,823

• SAT range 950-1210

• Whittier, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  793 reviews

Sophomore: As a sophomore business major at Whittier College hailing from Brazil, I've cherished my time on this welcoming campus. The tight-knit community fosters a sense of familiarity, allowing me to easily connect with both my peers and professors. My academic pursuits have been rewarding, providing me with a strong foundation in business, while the cozy campus environment ensures that I'm familiar with nearly everyone around. However, there are moments when I find myself yearning for more activities to engage in. To combat this, I've explored extracurricular clubs, ventured into nearby attractions in Los Angeles, and built strong relationships with my professors and fellow students, all of which have added depth and excitement to my college journey.... Read 793 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,091

• SAT range 1120-1340

• Irvine, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  700 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 700 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 81%

• Net price $25,640

• SAT range 1030-1260

• Chico, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  2,557 reviews

Freshman: Chico State is an experience like no other. Enrolling here, I've made meaningful relationships, and met many people I am proud to say are my friends. The dorm life is lively, it always seems like people are always busy with something. Chico State also offers great on campus recourses, whatever you can think of, there's probably a building or office dedicated to it. The campus does a great job at not only advocating for successful students, and high marking grades. But also makes sure to put mental health and individual well-being right alongside that in terms of importance. I do not regret enrolling in Chico State, and I'm confident that my following years at this school will uphold the same praises that I have expressed so far!... Read 2,557 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $13,749

• SAT range 970-1170

• Turlock, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,223 reviews

Senior: I love the school. The staff, teachers, and everything about their Turlock campus was amazing! The campus was beautiful and everyone I had encountered with was very nice and helpful. If I hadn't had to move away further from the campus due to person reasons, I would still attend classes in person because of the energy and atmosphere it provided.... Read 1,223 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 95%

• Net price $7,230

• SAT range 810-1030

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,197 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 3,197 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $2,695

• SAT range 870-1060