2024 Top Colleges for Protective Services in California

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  1,153 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 1,153 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 55%

• Net price $9,966

• SAT range 750-1170

• Livermore, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  602 reviews

Freshman: If you're considering attending a 2-year college after high school, I would definitely look into Las Positas. To begin, the campus is beautiful, as it's clean, tranquil, spacious, and near facilities for different needs. The environment presents itself to be healthy due to the fact that most professors at this campus are caring, very patient, and passionate about helping students. Besides the professors and staff playing an important role in the atmosphere of the community at Las Positas, there are countless opportunities offered and several different types of benefits. LPC's own mini-mart was made public on campus for students who can't struggle to pay for necessary things. How amazing is that! Besides this, there is always some time of even going on that helps students on their paths to success one way or another. Las Positas is a gateway to bettering your future, especially if you plan on transferring to a 4 year!... Read 602 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,675

• SAT range —

• Santa Rosa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  1,317 reviews

Junior: I love Santa Rosa Junior College! From the beginning, I immediately fell in love with the small classroom setting, the one on one help and the connection you develop with your teacher due to the class size. I admire the campus life, and have found a loving community that I can be a part of. I truly love SRJC for making all of their services easily available and allowing everyone from all backgrounds to get an education with the low cost of classes. Their library is open most hours of the day for easy studying and have computer chargers at every table. They hold fresh farmers markets almost every week for their students to come by, and provide snacks during finals weeks. I admire this school for being so great and allowing me to better myself and grow mentally. The only thing that I would change about the Santa Rosa Junior College would be more unperson classes. I miss the experience of being in a classroom with others. Most of the classes are online which is kind of a bummer.... Read 1,317 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,220

• SAT range —

• Sonora, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  181 reviews

Alum: This college is a hidden gem in the beautiful mountains of California. The campus is spread out in a serene forest setting with a reservoir in the center. Professors here are top notch and really care about their students. The facilities are state of the art, especially the science departments. Columbia College provides a personal, quality education with far less financial burden than a university. This is the perfect place to begin your college journey!... Read 181 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,735

• SAT range —

• South Lake Tahoe, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  69 reviews

Freshman: I love attending Lake Tahoe Community College! There is so much to do around Lake Tahoe wether that is outdoor adventures, going to school events, or finding new and fun places to eat. I wish the fires weren't so close to Tahoe, so I can enjoy the beautiful scenery. Absolutely love LTCC.... Read 69 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,867

• SAT range —

• San Francisco, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,012 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 1,012 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,261

• SAT range —

• San Mateo, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  480 reviews

Other: College of San Mateo really impressed me as a community college. I was a high school students a part of the middle college program there. The amount of resources that you have access to as a student is mind blowing. From Mental Health Resources, to Disability resources, to an abundance of interesting classes, any goal you have with going to college, CSM has got your back. As far as things that could be changed, I would say that a kind of student to administration communication line needs to be opened. While it is the nature of college that professors essentially get free reign on their classroom, when I did have a problem with a professor that they refused to work out with me, I did not have anywhere to lobby my complaint, at least, to my knowledge. Other than, I absolutely recommend CSM to basically everyone! There is something for you here, no matter what you are looking for.... Read 480 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,427

• SAT range —

• Santa Clara, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  366 reviews

Junior: I enjoyed my experience at mission college. I met professors that became my mentors and helped me when applying to internships by writing letters of recommendation. I’m grateful to be in a campus that here I feel supported by the staff and peers. The counselors also aided me when I was applying for universities and always answered my many questions. I would like to see the textbook requirement fee change since some students such as myself could not afford the textbook and I had to resort to borrowing from my classmates.... Read 366 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,727

• SAT range —

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  1,930 reviews

Sophomore: After I graduated high school I went straight to college, Mt. SAC. My freshman year was a little difficult to adjust to because of the way the class schedules are. For instance, the math class was only 2 days a week in person and the rest was online, so I was frustrated in having to teach myself the what was being recorded on lecture videos. However, Mt. SAC has specific tutor centers for each subject! Also, I am an athlete there so there is a WIN program that is very beneficial. The staff are always so helpful and supportive, so that really means a lot that I can count on having an encouraging environment go to when I need extra help.... Read 1,930 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,774

• SAT range —

• San Diego, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.9 out of 5  561 reviews

Sophomore: Throughout my many years of experience as a student at San Diego Miramar College, I have nothing terrible to say. I've had the best community college experience at this campus, as well as Miramar's sister campuses in San Diego. When I was a high school graduate, it was an easy transition into college life at this school. The professors and students are extremely helpful and encouraging! I will forever miss the professors at this college. The professors always have their students' best interest and do their best to be their for their students because they find fulfillment helping their students to succeed! The campus is well organized, very easy to navigate and find the correct building and class. The campus is great for older students and first time college students. I say this because it's easy to navigate your way as a student, not over whelming with many students and or events, and this campus has many resources to help you and your education.... Read 561 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,880

• SAT range —

• Glendale, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  675 reviews

Sophomore: I love this school! Overall it's been a great experience being a student at GCC. The professors are mostly good, the classes are engaging and I've learned a lot, and the school administrators are very helpful. I've worked with many counselors and I feel very supported by my school, and I'm always learning about new groups or scholarship opportunities. The transfer center is also great and offers many resources for students looking to transfer with an Associates degree.... Read 675 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,823

• SAT range —

• Torrance, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,548 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 1,548 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,296

• SAT range —

• Pittsburg, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  747 reviews

Sophomore: Los Medanos College is such an excellent school. The student programs they offer really help with the transferring process. LMC has so many resources such as clubs, tutoring, the library/computer access, bookstore, and the professors are remarkable. Student life at the campus is very lively! With program engagement, many students stay busy and get involved with the community. LMC offers so many activities and chances to promote your education.... Read 747 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,231

• SAT range —

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  3,174 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 3,174 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $2,695

• SAT range 870-1060

• Rocklin, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,193 reviews

Sophomore: I think that Sierra College as a Community College is absolutely great. The work load is 100% comparable to a 4 year, and the professors are actually pretty great! I will say that the campus itself is always under construction but that is because they are simply trying to update the looks of everything. The college itself is quite old but the efforts in making the scenery and the overall energy better is quite nice! I love the new additions and can see Sierra college becoming a beautiful place with great education for people of any age and demographic.... Read 1,193 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,921

• SAT range —

• Santa Clarita, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  1,002 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 1,002 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,400

• SAT range —

• San Marcos, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,841 reviews

Junior: My experience at California State University San Marcos was pretty fun. I had amazing professors who actually loved to teach their subjects and were always so helpful when I needed it. The professors are usually very flexible and provide office hours to provide more help on assignments or just questions in general. Dorm life is a bit tricky, finding the right roommates can be tough and sometimes you go through processes of trial and error to find what is most comfortable and best for you. Campus food was very tasty! They had new types of food places added in the middle of campus. I loved the fact that there is a Starbucks on campus, I would always get a quick pick-me-up before my longest classes. Sometimes the lines can be long but that's expected! In general, San Marcos is a very nice area and there is so much to see and do. When you need a stress-free break from school, most students will take beach trips and relax. San Marcos is a very peaceful city.... Read 1,841 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $14,296

• SAT range 950-1130

• Hayward, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  579 reviews

Sophomore: My time at Chabot College was truly incredible. The teachers were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly kind and always willing to assist me in any way they could. One standout aspect of Chabot was the TAG program, which played a pivotal role in helping students gain admission to the school. The TAG program, in particular, stood out as a unique opportunity for prospective students. It exemplified Chabot's commitment to making education accessible. By assisting students in navigating the admissions process and ensuring they met the requirements Overall, my experience at Chabot College was nothing short of amazing. The combination of excellent educators, a supportive atmosphere, and innovative programs like TAG made my time there both fulfilling and impactful. I am truly grateful for the opportunities I had and the knowledge I gained during my time at Chabot.... Read 579 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,576

• SAT range —

• Glendora, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  785 reviews

Freshman: I personally feel there are a lot of resources at Citrus college and that they are truly there to help you achieve your goals. I hardly ever ran into a bad professor and the school genuinely felt like a community while I was attending. I highly recommend attending for General Education courses however there are a wide range of certificates available to earn there as well. Online learning was not a problem either as there were many accommodations made for me— a student with a disability. The professors all did seem to be doing their part with their students’ best interests in heart. I recall never being nervous to ask for an extension or popping in for their office hours because I was always met with a smile and welcoming aura. For anyone unsure of whether Citrus College is the right fit for them, I would say to give the school a chance because it just might be exactly what they are looking for! Furthermore, Citrus College is a place where you get back double of what you put into it.... Read 785 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,852

• SAT range —

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  7,062 reviews

Senior: My experience has been only positive so far! When I decided to go back to school, it was easy to talk to someone and get everything figured out. They really worked with me every step of the way and talked out the best options for my future. When I needed to take leave after having my child, they made it smooth and stress-free. Additionally, all my teachers have been great with flexibility, and my classes have taught me so much! It is because of them I am going to graduate in less than a year, and I would recommend this school to anyone.... Read 7,062 reviews

• grade D minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,585

• SAT range —

• Cupertino, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,175 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 1,175 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,236

• SAT range —

• Long Beach, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,739 reviews

Sophomore: Long Beach City College (LBCC) is widely recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and inclusive environment. The college offers diverse programs and courses, supported by knowledgeable and supportive faculty members. LBCC's emphasis on practical experience through internships and hands-on learning opportunities is commendable. The college fosters a sense of belonging and encourages students from different backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue. However, some students have expressed a desire for improved technology and modern facilities on campus. Additionally, streamlining administrative processes and enhancing communication channels could further improve the student experience at LBCC. Overall, LBCC provides a quality education with dedicated faculty and a diverse community, and with continued efforts to upgrade infrastructure and improve administrative procedures, the college can further enhance the student experience.... Read 1,739 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,550

• SAT range —

• Pasadena, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  1,782 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 1,782 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,466

• SAT range —

• Stockton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  1,385 reviews

Freshman: As a first generation college student , my experience is very good. I was always hesitant on starting college and I did Put it off for a few years after I graduated in 2019. Seeing Friends and family members in school just made me gain that confidence to over come my fear and apply . Its never too late to get into college to start your path to a good future. Counselors were super helpful to me to choose classes and to also make sure I am comfortable with the timing schedule . I will be majoring in Psychology & have a minor in Gerontology. I'm genuinely happy and relived that I never gave up on school , I cant wait to get my future started! There are so many opportunities out there just waiting.... Read 1,385 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $17,503

• SAT range —

• Bakersfield, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  1,276 reviews

Freshman: I recently started at Bakersfield College after being out of school for 20 years. To say I was nervous to return to college would be a huge understatement. On my first day on campus, I immediately felt welcome. Student services and staff were set up at tents welcoming new and returning students to the campus. The enrollment process and every other facilitator or staff member have been beyond helpful. They make the process very easy. The amount of opportunities are endless. The school has a strong athletics department and they are proud of their accomplishments. I also have been impressed to learn about the large amounts of work opportunities, clubs available, programs in place to help a student succeed, tutoring services, and online class opportunities. Bakersfield College has several wonderful campuses. I'm proud to be a Renegade!... Read 1,276 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,989

• SAT range —