10 Best Colleges & Universities Near Modesto, CA 2026

Modesto, California, offers students convenient access to both Central Valley colleges and nearby Bay Area universities. The city's location makes it an ideal base for pursuing a degree in a wide range of disciplines while staying close to major employers and cultural centers.

From large public universities to smaller community colleges, students in Modesto can find programs that match their goals, schedules, and budgets. Below, we'll highlight 10 of the best colleges and universities near Modesto, CA, and explore tuition, online learning, and career opportunities.

Featured Colleges in Modesto, California

Colleges near Modesto provide programs in business, healthcare, technology, and education. Many schools partner with local organizations to offer internships and practical experience that prepare students for today's job market.

1. California State University, East Bay

California State University, East Bay is a public research university in Hayward, California, about 60 miles west of Modesto. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Degrees are available through four colleges within the university:

• College of Business and Economics
• College of Education and Allied Studies
• College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences
• College of Science

Cal State East Bay is a member of the California State University system and was founded in 1957. Today, it enrolls over 13,500 students.

2. California State University, Stanislaus

California State University is a public university in Turlock, a city just south of Modesto. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Students can earn degrees through the university's four colleges:

• College of the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• College of Business Administration
• College of Education, Kinesiology, and Social Work
• College of Science

The university was established in 1957 as a member of the California State University system. It currently enrolls over 10,000 students.

3. Humphrey's University

Humphrey's University is a private university with a campus in Modesto as well as one in Stockton. It offers associate through doctoral programs on campus and online. Degrees are available in areas of study like:

• Business
• Criminal Justice
• Education
• Legal Studies

Humphrey's University was founded in 1896, and today has nearly 400 students through its two campuses and online programs.

4. Saint Mary's College of California

Saint Mary's College of California is a private Catholic college in Moraga, California, about 65 miles from Modesto. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Students can earn degrees through the college's four schools:

• Kalmanovitz School of Education
• School of Economics and Business Administration
• School of Liberal Arts
• School of Science

The university was established in 1863. It currently has a student population of over 2,750 and a student-teacher ratio of 9:1.

5. San Francisco Bay University

San Francisco Bay University is a small university in Freemont, California, roughly 55 miles from Modesto. It offers bachelor's and master's degrees. Degrees are available in three fields:

• Business Administration
• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering

The university enrolls about 160 students, allowing for small class sizes and a student-teacher ratio of 3:1.

6. San José State University

San José State University is a public university in San José, California. It's part of the California State University system and offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Students can earn degrees in areas of study like:

• Business
• Engineering
• Health Sciences and Nursing
• Visual and Performing Arts

San José State was founded in 1857, making it the oldest public university in the state. Today, it enrolls about 37,750 students across its nine colleges.

7. Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University is a private Catholic university in Santa Clara, about 60 miles from Modesto. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Students can earn degrees through the university's six colleges and schools:

• College of Arts and Sciences
• Leavey School of Business
• School of Engineering
• School of Education and Counseling Psychology
• School of Law
• School of Theology

The university was established in 1851, making it the oldest institution of higher learning still operating in the state. It currently enrolls over 9,000 students.

8. Stanford University

Stanford University is a private research university in Stanford, California. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Degrees are available in fields such as:

• Business
• Computer and Information Sciences
• Engineering
• Social Sciences

Stanford University was founded in 1885. Today, it enrolls over 18,000 students through its seven colleges and schools.

9. University of California, Merced

The University of California, Merced is a public research university in Merced, about 40 minutes from Modesto. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Students can earn degrees through the university's three schools:

• School of Engineering
• School of Natural Sciences
• School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts

The university was established in 2005 and is the newest member of the University of California system. It currently enrolls over 9,000 students.

10. University of the Pacific

The University of the Pacific is a private Methodist university about 30 miles north of Modesto in Stockton. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Degrees are available in areas of study like:

• Biology and Biological Studies
• Business
• Health Sciences and Nursing
• Law

The University of the Pacific has a varied history that traces back to 1851. Today, it enrolls over 6,000 students across nine colleges and schools.

How We Rank Schools

We evaluate Modesto-area colleges using factors that reflect quality and accessibility. Each institution provides accredited programs, affordable tuition, and strong student outcomes.

• Accreditation: All listed colleges are accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Location: Each school is located in or near Modesto, providing easy access to both the Central Valley and Bay Area.
• Affordability: Tuition rates, scholarships, and financial aid availability are reviewed for each ranking.
• Student outcomes: Graduation data, job placement rates, and alumni success help identify schools that support long-term achievement.

How Much Does College Cost in Modesto?

Tuition near Modesto varies by institution. Public universities typically charge between $9,000 and $13,000 per year for in-state students, while private colleges may range from $25,000 to $40,000 annually.

California residents can lower costs through state programs like the Cal Grant and the California College Promise Grant. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) also helps students access federal funding and scholarships.

Are There Online Colleges in Modesto?

Many Modesto-area colleges offer online and hybrid degree programs for students seeking flexibility. These options allow learners to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing work or family responsibilities.

Institutions such as California State University, Stanislaus, and Modesto Junior College provide online programs in business, education, and healthcare. Students can earn accredited degrees without having to commute daily.

FAQs About the Best Colleges Near Modesto, CA

Modesto's higher education network offers strong academics and connections to industries across the Central Valley. Below are answers to a few common questions about studying in the area.

Are There Community Colleges in the Modesto Area?

Modesto Junior College serves as a key educational resource for the city and surrounding communities. It offers associate degrees, technical programs, and transfer pathways to four-year universities.

Community colleges provide an affordable way to begin a college education. Many students complete general education courses there before transferring to a California State University or University of California campus.

Do Modesto Colleges Offer Agricultural or Environmental Programs?

Colleges near Modesto often feature programs in agriculture, environmental studies, and sustainability. These programs reflect the Central Valley's role as one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country.

Students gain hands-on experience through field research, internships, and community partnerships. Graduates are prepared for careers in agribusiness, environmental management, or conservation.

Can I Transfer Credits Between Modesto Colleges and Bay Area Universities?

Many Modesto-area schools have articulation agreements with Bay Area universities. These partnerships make it easier for students to transfer credits and continue their education at a four-year institution.

Advisors at community and state colleges help students plan transfer pathways that maximize completed coursework. This route provides an affordable and efficient way to earn a bachelor's degree.

Find Your Degree Near Modesto, CA

Modesto offers students access to affordable, accredited colleges and close connections to California's leading universities. Visit Learn.org to compare degree programs, explore tuition options, and find the college that best fits your goals in the Central Valley.