2023 Best Trade Schools in California

• San Francisco, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  1,000 reviews

Sophomore: City College of San Francisco offers a chance to explore a lot of classes to prepare you for a four-year university or a better idea of what you want to pursue in life. This college really reflects the word community in community college by offering 11 campuses in San Francisco enabling everyone to have academic and personal growth. City College of San Francisco is a nonprofit and a sanctuary college, so enjoy a very strong community and your voice always being heard! I recommend CCSF to anyone who just graduated high school and is not exactly sure what they want to pursue yet. New students will also get a smoother transition rather than going from high school to university.... Read 1,000 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,648

• SAT range —

• Santa Maria, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  738 reviews

Junior: It's a very good campus. The large majority of both staff and alumni are very kind, and overall creates a friendly vibe throughout the whole campus. Most professors have an energy of wanting to be there and are usually accepting of most life situations pertaining individuals, where they work with you to figure out better scheduling or advice. Being an Art major, the community is relaxed and easy to talk to, as long as you put in the effort. The professors have the energy and passion to educated and help throughout the art process and give a lot of freedom for individuality, as art should have. They have a vast amount of knowledge and advice for students on the transfer program, or simply the art enthusiast that really helps for the exploration of owns art projects. Overall a fine campus.... Read 738 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,520

• SAT range —

• Walnut, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.93 out of 5  1,885 reviews

Freshman: This is one of the best California community college, has a vast and diverse range of classes, excellent professors and facilities, friendly staff, renovated business and computer classrooms, seamless online classes, and cozy campus atmosphere. Mt. Sac definitely shows for being rated as a top community college. Upon first arrival I was impressed with how lovely and amicable all the staff, counselors, and professors were. With great classes, support, and experienced professors you are sure to be able to transition to a 4-year university transfer well!... Read 1,885 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $5,297

• SAT range —

• Santa Rosa, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  1,293 reviews

Sophomore: My experience at the Santa Rosa Junior College was great! I spent three years here and the staff was amazing. Everyone was so kind and willing to help. I received assistance from the Disability center and they did a great job of accommodating me. The professors were also very inclusive and took my accommodations seriously. The financial aid office also provided me with a lot of support during COVID, which was amazing. The transfer center provided me with much-needed guidance when I was applying to transfer. My counselor Robbin went above and beyond to assist me!... Read 1,293 reviews

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $8,844

• SAT range —

• Oroville, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  698 reviews

Freshman: I really love how Butte college cares not only about its students, but also the environment. I have met so many teachers and faculty there that are really excited to help their students succeed in life and what they are passionate about! There are also many environment conscious choices around campus, such as carpool spaces, a bus system, and solar panels! Butte also did a lot to help students through the pandemic with additional grants and other forms of help. The campus itself is clean, and with areas such as the Queer resource center, road runner hub and food pantry, and the campus safe space, I always feel welcome and at ease.... Read 698 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,396

• SAT range —

• Weed, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  248 reviews

Sophomore: I liked the low tuition costs to get my general education requirements. Overall I really like COS but some of the professors should not have their jobs due to minimal requirements, no personal teachings just read this book and answer the questions on page x- to not get fired. One of them literally had it in their syllabus "I reserve the right to change your grade depending on whether or not I believe you deserve it". That teacher was unprofessional and shouldn't work there. Overall great campus but they need to rework who they're keeping on as professors.... Read 248 reviews

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,455

• SAT range —

• Monterey, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.91 out of 5  575 reviews

Freshman: I am currently a Freshman at MPC and has so far been an amazing experience! The counselors have been very helpful wether you are taking classes to further topical education or preparing for UC or CSU Transfers. On top of that, their classes are offered In-Person, Online, and Hybrid.... Read 575 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,223

• SAT range —

• San Diego, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  547 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 547 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,965

• SAT range —

• Compton, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.63 out of 5  374 reviews

Sophomore: The college itself is a supportive one that has good intentions! My only issue is how and the time things are resolved. Besides those issues, it’s a magnificent college with plenty of opportunities which allow the students that attend to flourish and or succeed! I would recommend this college if you already have an idea and or plan of what you intend to achieve. The reason why, is because community colleges are very easy to lose track of what your goals and aspirations are due to not having an idea and or plan of what one must complete.... Read 374 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,402

• SAT range —

• Long Beach, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  1,709 reviews

Junior: The most caring and educational college i have ever been too. The amount of support that the students get from staff is phenomenal. Long Beach City College wants to help their students succeed in all aspects of life! They promote Mental Health and offer an avenue of programs and services for students having a difficult time with their studies. Such as success centers, programs for disabled students, basic needs and mental health services.... Read 1,709 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,583

• SAT range —

• Ridgecrest, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.83 out of 5  247 reviews

Sophomore: I had a fantastic experience with Cerro Coso Community College. My counselors were proactive in my education plan and always helped me on any questions or issues. The faculty was welcoming and supportive. I love being on the campus, using the learning resources, and being absorbed in the positive academic atmosphere.... Read 247 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,592

• SAT range —

• La Puente, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  6 reviews

Freshman: I am enrolled in the psychiatric technician program at this school, and overall my experience with this school has been positive. The three teachers that i have had are caring, more than any other college i have been a part of. The administration goes through great lengths to make themselves available. My administrative representative actually reached out to me to about scholarship opportunities. overall, this has been the best college experience that i have had.... Read 6 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $2,434

• SAT range —

• San Jose, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  301 reviews

Freshman: I love it! As a community they do the most to include everyone and make everyone feel comfortable. The professors understand and are very nice, I love taking classes here and I’m looking forward to the upcoming school year!... Read 301 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $16,997

• SAT range —

• Reedley, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  450 reviews

Junior: Reedley college is a really good starting point for those who want to begin their college experience straight out of high school and even those who have been out of school for a while. It’s super easy to get involved in the campus life because everyone from the professors to the staff and the students are so welcoming. The application process is fairly simple which is helpful to those who have a bit of anxiety with applying. Personally, Reedley was the best decision for me because I wasn’t ready to go into a 4 year just yet, so it allowed me ease into the university atmosphere and even save up money for when I do transfer. There are many opportunities for students in every majors such as clubs and workshops and even career counseling to help those unsure students. Reedley college is an investment for your future that will pay off whether you’re there in hopes to transfer or get a certificate.... Read 450 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $6,510

• SAT range —

• Sacramento, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  1,442 reviews

Sophomore: This school is amazing for a 2-year start before transferring in your college journey. They have a large selection of classes to choose from for each major. The counseling services are very informative and intuitive. The counselors are driven to make sure you meet your college requirements and goals which ensures you that you will not get lost in your journey. The campus is also a great size and other students are nice to give you directions if you need help trying to find a specific building. There is a police department on campus that you can reach out to when you feel that you need to. For example, there are buttons around the campus that you may push in case of emergency or if you would like an escort to take you to your car if it's dark at night. There are also a number of extra curricular activities including clubs and intercollegiate sports you can choose to participate in. And the courses and supplies are affordable!... Read 1,442 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,523

• SAT range —

• Oakland, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  238 reviews

Graduate Student: Absolutely amazing college to go to, this is the perfect place to start your journey as a college student. Giving you the support and resources under your feet that you need, and helping to motivate you to properly stand on your own two feet. Starting college is hard, but with Merritt college and their massive amount of wonderful and kind professors, not to mention multiple programs that encourage creativity in everyone! Starting college never felt easier... Read 238 reviews

• grade B minus

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $14,525

• SAT range —

• Merced, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  721 reviews

Sophomore: I truly enjoy Merced College as it has been nothing but supportive towards allowing me to successfully achieve my goals in receiving my A.S.T for Business Administration while attending school through a hybrid learning system. Merced College also gives very efficient and easily accessible web courses to further help you with your search for success! The ability to schedule appointments with your counselors is also so convenient and very reliable to help you out during times in need.... Read 721 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $13,565

• SAT range —

• Lemoore, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.97 out of 5  220 reviews

Freshman: The knowledge and coursework at West Hills College (Lemoore) helped prepared me for my undergrad transfer to Fresno State and graduate school at CSU Bakersfield. I started at West Hills College in Lemoore taking 1 or 2 classes per semester, although it took me 5 years to transfer to Fresno State it was worth it! The professors at West Hills were knowledgeable and provided the same course load (other than the writing portion) as a university which made the transition easy. I enjoyed the campus, the staff was friendly, and tutoring services to help students succeed. West Hills motto is "if you can go here you can go anywhere." I believe this is a true statement and the opportunity is yours!... Read 220 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $11,661

• SAT range —

• Los Angeles, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.79 out of 5  814 reviews

Freshman: Located in Los Angeles, California, LA City is a public university. It is a modest university with 3,469 undergraduate students enrolled. 100% of applicants are accepted by LA City. Liberal arts and humanities, business, and child care provider are all well-liked majors. Alumni of LA City graduate in 28% of cases, and their beginning pay is $20,400. I adore the staff and student body's diversity and vigor. The section of film and television production is excellent! The department received a $2,000,000 investment from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for new machinery, editing software, and other improvements. This is unquestionably the most reasonably priced film school in California or the entire nation, with excellent faculty and a top-notch curriculum. Los Angeles City College offers a wide range of tools and programs for students of any degree, kind, age, ethnicity, or disability. My time there has been genuinely enjoyable. Los Angeles City College is good overall.... Read 814 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $10,828

• SAT range —

• Monterey Park, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.85 out of 5  1,247 reviews

Sophomore: My overall experience at ELAC so far have been for the most part positive. I am currently a second year student at ELAC. My first year was definitely an eye opener and a learning experience. At first I was scared. But after a conference with a counselor, it was suggested to contact professor Artin Davidian of the engineering department at ELAC. Professor Davidian was able to advise me through my first year at ELAC and enlighten me about the field of engineering. Then I’ve been able to connect with other ELAC faculty. They have advised me along my ongoing journey to transfer. But aside from ELAC Faculty. As well have some great prerequisite classes for higher levels. For example trigonometry is only offered with support. Meaning that professors review background knowledge from algebra or geometry before introducing trigonometry lessons that require this background knowledge. Demonstrating ELAC’s prep work for students ensuring for students to reach high standards in their coursework.... Read 1,247 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $12,522

• SAT range —

• Fresno, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  940 reviews

Senior: I am currently in high school taking dual enrollment classes here at Fresno City College. The experience has been incredible alongside my friends, we were given the privilege to met new people from the same city we grew up in. I am fortunate enough to be graduating with my AA Degree and have been able to meet amazing professors on this campus. I took classes both online and in-person and they all went great overall!... Read 940 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $4,122

• SAT range —

• Redding, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  674 reviews

Sophomore: In my time at Shasta College, I have been most appreciative of the professors here and their dedication to the education system. I am grateful for the grace, structure, and insightful advice that I have received from my instructors. When I decided to go strictly online due to my work schedule, I still felt personal support through the screen as they would respond to my constant email questions quickly and throughly. In my online courses I did however feel a disconnect with other students. The online discussions could only bring so much community. I found myself associating Shasta College with independent learners and those that enjoy the solitude. But when I took my first in person class this semester, I learned that the campus has great opportunity for connection. Especially because community colleges bring in so many different groups of people. It is truly a beautiful melting pot that I am proud to be apart of.... Read 674 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,646

• SAT range —

• San Diego, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  898 reviews

Senior: A student centered, diverse learning community. City College is a place to expand and grow into the person you want to be. With hundreds of degree and certificate programs, City College has something for each student. Located in the heart of San Diego, close to public transportation, it is accessible for all. I love City College!... Read 898 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,236

• SAT range —

• Pittsburg, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  734 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 734 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $7,931

• SAT range —

• San Bernardino, CA•

• 2 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  924 reviews

Senior: San Bernardino Valley College has been so amazing overall. They offer many great things for students. They really provide students with the right tools to succeed. I have nothing but good things to say about this school. I have really enjoyed my time here. I have learned many valuable skill that I now carry into my everyday life. This school also has made getting resources very easy and high accessible to all the students that really need it. This school is doing a great job of getting involved with students by providing this to do as well…on their free time. My experience here at Valley will never be forgotten. This school is always going take part in being the reason I am a success and also the first in my family to graduate. Thank you valley and all the faculty for everything you do and how much you truly care for your students. Last but not least, I am very grateful for all the amazing professors this school possesses!... Read 924 reviews

• grade C+

• Acceptance rate 100%

• Net price $9,858

• SAT range —