2024 Best Colleges for Sports Management in California

• San Luis Obispo, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.77 out of 5  3,963 reviews

Alum: My experience at Cal Poly was overall amazing! My major was liberal studies, which was an amazing program. I feel more prepared and excited than ever to go into education, especially with the variety of classes Cal Poly has within each of their majors. Cal Poly also has a HUGE amount of clubs that were incredibly fun and engaging, especially in my first couple of years before the pandemic! Although I had an amazing time, there are absolutely some systemic issues in Cal Poly; racism and microaggressions, misogyny and homophobia (especially experienced by women in STEM majors), food quality, underfunding of campus mental health support, etc. Although in the past five years I have seen campus legislation attempt to address some of these problems, cal poly has a very far way to go to create fully accessible and safe learning environments for all of their students to thrive. However, all of this being said, Cal Poly is a spectacular school and I am proud to be a mustang!... Read 3,963 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 33%

• Net price $20,708

• SAT range 1240-1440

• 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

• Long Beach, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  4,830 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 4,830 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $9,171

• SAT range 1020-1240

• 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

• La Jolla, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.98 out of 5  1,160 reviews

Freshman: As someone that lives on their own in the Bay Area that works full-time, I definitely needed to find a school that was flexible due to my hectic schedule. National University genuinely provides that for me. The teachers and staff are always willing to help and accommodate hours for their students. Though the workload is still heavy, it only makes me so proud of myself after the classes are over. I accomplished the course! Instead of being upset that I didnt make it to class and now my grade is getting lower or getting booted out of a class because life happens.... Read 1,160 reviews

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 55%

• Net price $9,966

• SAT range 750-1170

• 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

• 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

• Sacramento, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  3,876 reviews

Junior: Being a transfer student, I was scared of being a new university student. But, the family here at Sacramento state has welcomed me with open arms. There are many resources on campus for those from all walks of life. There are over 1,000 clubs on campus, many resources, and professors who want you to succeed. A crucial backbone any student needs when pursuing a higher education. All of my professors have been very helpful and support me like no other. Sacramento state provides students with many off campus resources as well. For example, my nursing professor connected me to a volunteering opportunity at a local hospital! A lush green environment makes me feel cozy and safe. One critical fact about Sacramento state is that the on-campus police is available 24/7 to walk you to your class, car, etc. A major factor to consider when choosing a college. Student life is also very welcoming with happy and engaging classmates everywhere you turn. Great mental health resources also available!... Read 3,876 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $7,778

• SAT range 930-1130

• Lancaster, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  108 reviews

Alum: I transferred to the university of Antelope Valley after my sophomore year of college, I was considered a student athlete. I loved being apart of this school! So many great teachers!... Read 108 reviews

• grade C

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $27,539

• SAT range —

• San Francisco, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.53 out of 5  3,690 reviews

Junior: As a student at San Francisco State University, I've found it to be a place of incredible diversity and opportunity. Nestled in a vibrant city, SFSU offers a range of programs, with strong emphasis in liberal arts and social sciences. The faculty's expertise and dedication are remarkable, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. Campus life is lively, full of various clubs and activities. What truly stands out is the cultural richness and global perspectives among students. Although living in San Francisco can be pricey, the experience is enriching. The university continuously strives to enhance facilities and provide ample student support. Overall, SFSU is a dynamic and enriching place to study.... Read 3,690 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 93%

• Net price $13,641

• SAT range 930-1130

• Hayward, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.56 out of 5  1,967 reviews

Senior: My Experience at California State University - East Bay was amazing! Right from the beginning, the University was supportive and informative as to what is expected of their students and how they will support your journey on and off campus. My Professors in the last 3 years try their hardest to be aware of their students and set them up for success in the class. It is clear in all courses through the University that they do not want to fail students but encourage their students to want more of their educators and the education. When looking for a University I made sure that I would end up in a spot where the transition from High School to College would be smooth and that my education would not be abandoned. CSU-East Bay has fulfilled everything I could imagine from my College Experience and has proven what their investment will bring into my academic/professional career once graduated. Thank you.... Read 1,967 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $12,631

• SAT range 800-1020

• San Jose, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.62 out of 5  4,313 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 4,313 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 84%

• Net price $14,603

• SAT range 1010-1240

• Fresno, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  2,852 reviews

Freshman: Despite numerous challenges I had with transcripts, classes, and technology errors, Fresno State's Kremen academic advising team was extremely helpful and worked dilligently to help me enroll this last semester. Now that the fall semester has begun, I enjoy all of my classes thoroughly. I have never been more confident that elementary education is what I want to do! Pouring into their students, the professors actually care about the material they are teaching. When a professor is as passionate about the subject as the students, it becomes contagious! Fresno State has successfully cultivated a community of students and professors where I know I am supported on my academic journey. A greater education does not come without its challenges, but at Fresno State, I know that I will be able to prevail with my degree and a hope for the future.... Read 2,852 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 97%

• Net price $6,336

• SAT range 890-1100

• Arcata, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  1,941 reviews

Senior: I have absolutely loved my time at Cal Poly Humboldt! I am a wildlife major and the hands-on field experience we get in this program is awesome. Each class related to environmental majors offers so many opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventures such as camping, tide pooling, or exploring the Coral Sea aboard the Cal Poly research boat! If you start at this school, you will not be able to transfer without having a fear of missing out, and if you join the school as a transfer you will not be sorry.... Read 1,941 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $13,904

• SAT range 970-1190

• 4 Year (Online)

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  7,071 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 7,071 reviews

• grade D minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $23,585

• SAT range —

• Northridge, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  5,020 reviews

Alum: What I enjoyed from California State University, Northridge is that a lot of the professors are very considerate of the students and they also know how to teach the subject pretty well, whether it be kinesiology classes, or general education classes. The diversity in this school helps you feel like you belong in a higher education school. I also appreciate the amenities that come with paying your tuition, such as the Student Recreational Center, the Oasis Center, and the Oviatt Library. The Student Recreational Center is a gym with 3 floors, indoor rock-climbing, indoor basketball, indoor volleyball, indoor soccer, indoor track and even has a recreational pool! The Library was four floors and very resourceful. The rest of my 5 years there were mostly online due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the school was very supportive throughout this time. The only change I would like to see would be to have more consistency with Canvas for some professors, otherwise my experience at CSUN was amazing.... Read 5,020 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 88%

• Net price $8,708

• SAT range 900-1110

• Carson, CA•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  1,937 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 1,937 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 90%

• Net price $4,500

• SAT range 760-940

• Santa Monica, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  2,144 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a on campus Santa Monica College student. The energy on campus is very positive along with friendly students. The campus is also very diverse wit both students and teachers! There are a lot of food and drink choices all over the campus as well! The patio area near the cafe has a vast amount of tables and seating areas. Most of the class rooms look new and updated with both the buildings structure and the technology. The school also offers a large variety of different classes and the class options are very flexible to complicated schedules. Santa Monica College also offers a significant amount of extra help for students with learning disabilities. Most of the staff is friendly, welcoming, and helpful. There are also many clubs, fairs, and events on the Santa Monica campus. I personally believe that Santa Monica College is one of the best community college options available in California.... Read 2,144 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,380

• SAT range —

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  1,947 reviews

Sophomore: Mt. SAC has given me a sense of belonging in college, a newfound appreciation for education, and guidance for the rest of my life. The support programs and clubs gave me a community in higher education. The teachers, counselors, and fellow students gave me a newfound appreciation for education. And my guidance for the rest of my life came from the Mt SAC. events, counselors, student programs, and courses. I couldn't be more grateful!... Read 1,947 reviews

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,774

• SAT range —

• 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

• Torrance, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,554 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 1,554 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,296

• SAT range —

• Fullerton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  1,409 reviews

Sophomore: I liked the environment and campus. The school had a lot of resources that helped me in classes. I made a lot of friends and new people. I had the opportunity in multiple classes to communicate and get to know New people. The campus is close and small. Getting around classes was pretty simple. If I was ever lost, there was someone always willing to help me. The food on campus is great! They also had a Jamba Juice that was not open and still isn’t to this day. The idea of it is awesome though, I love Jamba Juice. They should open it. I do enjoy the life outside of school. We are so close to cal state Fullerton. There are a lot of fun things to do and places to visit where you will find students from all over. My professors here at Fullerton college are all very unique. Some very outgoing, some very calm and simple, some are even hilarious. The variety of personalities at this school is very unique. The diversity is beautiful. The education is great and simple. Lots of cool courses also... Read 1,409 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,191

• SAT range —

• Pleasant Hill, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,173 reviews

Freshman: Man, my experience at DVC has been fun! I've had some awesome moments here and genuinely enjoy spending my time here. The classes and courses they offer are no joke. I've had the chance to explore a bunch of different subjects that I'm genuinely interested in. The professors really know their stuff and are pretty enthusiastic about teaching. Learning from someone who's passionate about what they're teaching just makes the whole experience so much better. Plus, they've got online options, which saved my schedule more than a few times! The campus itself is pretty sweet. There are spots to chill and study all around, and the library is a lifesaver during crunch times. The counseling and career services have been super helpful in guiding me through my academic and future career plans. All in all, my time at DVC has been great. The diversity, the courses, and the resources are all amazing, and I'm glad to be a part of this community and excited to see how things evolve!... Read 1,173 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,878

• SAT range —

• Fresno, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  971 reviews

Senior: Fresno city college is an Amazing School. While I can only speak from my experience, all the professors I’ve had were excellent, passionate about what they teach and extremely knowledgeable- so much so you wonder why they are teaching at a community college! But they genuinely want to help their students succeed in whatever field/career/path they choose. FCC is also extremely diverse and you meet so many different people from different walks of life, and everyone is really respectful and understanding of different kinds of people. I struggle with pretty intense mental health issues and I’ve always felt accepted and have been met with empathy and compassion from fellow students and professors alike.I’ve learned so much, and have met so many incredible professors and people. FCC has greatly impacted my life for the better and has shaped who I am for the better.... Read 971 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,391

• SAT range —

• Rocklin, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  1,200 reviews

Sophomore: Sierra College changed my entire outlook on community college. I was able to start taking classes at Sierra in my sophomore year of high school; they had integrated dual-enrollment courses so students could begin accumulating college credits. I took as many of these classes as I could, and was able to graduate high school early, and enter Sierra College full-time in the Spring. This transition was made easy by the Sierra College counselors and professors, who all encouraged taking a non-tradiational pathway. My education through Sierra College has been nothing but advantageous. The college offers a wide variety of classes, which made it easy for me to complete my transfer requirements in under two years. I am now able to transfer to any CSU and multiple elite four-year colleges with 62 units on my transcript. In addition to this, the campus is beautiful. It is clean, feels safe, and fosters a very welcoming community. The infastructure additions to the campus are incredible as well!... Read 1,200 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,921

• SAT range —