2024 Best Colleges for Public Policy in the Los Angeles Area

• Claremont, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.22 out of 5  419 reviews

Alum: Pomona College was a very transformative space for me. The small class sizes and strong sense of community among professors and students really helped me thrive. I was surrounded by intellectually curious peers and inspiring professors during my four years. Beyond academics, there were an abundance of research and work opportunities to help explore my passions and potential career interests that I would not have been able to do in a larger school. I was able to pursue athletics at the collegiate level, work as a teaching research assistant, and organize community events— the opportunities were endless if you really searched for them. I also cannot forget how beautiful the campus was and how amazing the dining hall food was! Beyond the Pomona College community, you also have access to a consortium of four more top undergraduate colleges (Claremont McKenna, Scripps, Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer) where you can take classes at and connect with a whole new network of students and professors.... Read 419 reviews

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 7%

• Net price $17,000

• SAT range 1470-1570

• 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 —

• 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

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,736 reviews

Senior: This university has contributed to the academic, social, and communal achievements. I have acquired during the course of my stay as a student here. Loyola Marymount University is the positive, namely, cause of not only my own achievements, but my family and siblings to come as well. As a first time generation student who was not exposed to diverse environments, independent environments; LMU has created a comfortable, easily accessible environment for us! I am thrilled that my siblings will be attending LMU next year, and joining the summer program this summer, 2023! Thank you LMU for being extremely welcoming, having positively supporting staff and support groups!... Read 1,736 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 46%

• Net price $40,180

• SAT range 1250-1420

• 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

• 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

• Azusa, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  2,778 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 2,778 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $27,112

• SAT range 1030-1260

• 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

• 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

• 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

• La Verne, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,231 reviews

Freshman: So far, my experience has been great! The campus is beautiful and filled with greenery everywhere. Everyone is really kind and professors, for the most part, really want to students to succeed and try to build a student/faculty bond. Furthermore, there is a lot of diversity which leaves little room for isolation and uncomfortableness. I am really happy that I attend this school and the only suggestion I would make is to have more precalculus professors available or more highly rated math professors here.... Read 1,231 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 72%

• Net price $22,538

• SAT range 930-1150

• 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

• Riverside, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  3,647 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 3,647 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 65%

• Net price $13,502

• SAT range 1080-1280

• Carson, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,925 reviews

Senior: My overall experience at Cal State Dominguez Hills has been fantastic! I am a first generation student about to achieve my dream of getting my Bachelor's degree and I am so happy I will be getting it from CSUDH! The professors are super helpful and incredibly smart. The Loker student union has some amazing activities for students to pass the time or relax until another class starts. There are board games, tv's and even a pool table! The parking is plenty, just expensive for a semester parking permit (over 200$) The bookstore is well organized and have lots of snacks. I do wish they had more food options but the options they do have are delicious. Finally I love how small the campus is! It makes it easier to connect with professors and it is much easier to make friends especially if you're in the same major. I am looking forward to graduation in the spring, overall my time at Dominguez Hills has been wonderful!... Read 1,925 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $4,500

• SAT range 760-940

• 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

• 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

• Whittier, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  789 reviews

Freshman: Whittier College has been receiving a lot of negative press recently, and I do acknowledge that much of it is warranted. However, all this detracts from what you do get out of being a student here. You will get much of what you get out of any small liberal arts college like Whittier: small classes, tight-knit community, etc. It is truly a pleasure to have personal relationships with professors and have small, discussion based classes. At Whittier specifically, I feel like I am valued as an individual, and I am surrounded by incredibly supportive friends, faculty, staff, and admin. If you work hard and earn a good reputation with professors, they will do all they can to use their connections in the academic/professional world to help you out. Another HUGE thing is financial aid. I was already leaning towards going here when I was making my decision, but the package they offered me was too good to refuse. If you apply, make sure to apply to secondary scholarships that they offer too!!... Read 789 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $22,091

• SAT range 1120-1340

• 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

• Pomona, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.66 out of 5  3,218 reviews

Senior: Cal Poly is an amazing school, there is a lot of problems with it when it comes to the size of the campus and the difficulty of the classes. However, I think overall going to CPP has been great and I have become a better person because I went here. Some professors are worse than others but I have met absolutely some of the best professors ever here and even some of them helped me get into the professional career. I think if you go to college seriously and want to really better your life this is a great school. Also the social life in Cal Poly is great too! lots of parties, and good times to be had here if you live on dorms or around the campus! I love it here and I have really grown since going to CPP. I recommend it to anyone especially in engineering or science fields.... Read 3,218 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 61%

• Net price $12,942

• SAT range 1010-1250

• 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

• Los Alamitos, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 4.68 out of 5  138 reviews

Graduate Student: TUW is an excellent school to complement both my current career as a leader and my academic level as an up and coming adjunct professor. I often wondered how the MA IOP program would benefit me, considering I already have a Doctoral Degree in Leadership. As it turns out, this program is a great fit. With my first class, I have already seen the difference on how valuable IOP is to organizations and how I can use the program to further organizational research, assessments, and recruitment tasks. they was so much more to learn how organizational theory and behaviors factor in organizational initiatives as well as implications for change management. To the developers at TUW of this program, well done!... Read 138 reviews

• grade unavailable

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $18,121

• SAT range —

• Long Beach, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  1,740 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 1,740 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,550

• SAT range —

• Norwalk, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  1,324 reviews

Niche User: The best decision I have ever made was to attend Cerritos College for my summer courses. My teachers' and counselors' support throughout all of my classes helped me finish with excellent grades. The college environment in Cerritos is diverse and conveniently located. It is convenient for us students to grab a bite to eat before class because the campus is close to many restaurants. The level of safety is incredible, with constant security ensuring that all students are secure during class hours and during various important events. At Cerritos College, the students are approachable and make it simple to form relationships. Sports in Cerritos are exciting and enjoyable, especially football games. #GoFalcons!... Read 1,324 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,557

• SAT range —

• Costa Mesa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.89 out of 5  1,149 reviews

Alum: OCC is one of the biggest and, arguably, one of the best community colleges in the nation. They boast a large variety of majors and programs for students to explore. My experience with the counselors have been amazing, as they helped me complete the credits I needed for transfer and discover the right major for me. As a two-year college, the classes offered are mostly lower division general education classes. OCC offers an associates degree or certification for almost every major available. The facilities on campus are well maintained with brand new buildings across campus, including the college center, student union, literature & language building, and (my favorite) the planetarium. You’ll be able to meet and learn along side a diverse population of students coming to study from across the country and the world. With a beautiful campus, a large variety of majors, and amazing staff, I couldn’t recommend OCC more!... Read 1,149 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,836

• SAT range —