10 Best Colleges and Universities Near Santa Ana, CA

Santa Ana, California is tucked between Anaheim and Irvine in the southern part of the Greater Los Angeles metro area. As a result, it's conveniently located next to everything the area has to offer.

This includes colleges and universities, which are abundant near Santa Ana. Keep reading to discover some of the best colleges near Santa Ana, California.

Featured Colleges in Santa Ana, California

Santa Ana's location between Anaheim and Irvine means it's surrounded by many excellent colleges and universities.

We've listed some of the top universities and colleges near Anaheim, California below.

1. Biola University

Biola University is a private Christian university in La Mirada, about 16 miles north of Santa Ana. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in person and online.

Degrees are available in fields such as:

• business
• psychology
• theology and religion
• visual arts

Biola University was established in 1908. Today, it enrolls over 5,000 students across its nine schools.

2. California State University, Fullerton

California State University, Fullerton is a public research university in Fullerton, less than 10 miles straight north of Santa Ana. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs.

Students can earn degrees in fields such as:

• business
• education
• health sciences and nursing
• psychology

The university was established in 1957. It's the largest of the California State University schools, with an enrollment of over 40,000 students.

3. California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach is a public research university in Long Beach, just west of Santa Ana. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs.

Degrees are available in areas of study like:

• business
• engineering
• health sciences and nursing
• visual and performing arts

Cal State Long Beach was founded in 1949. It has the second-largest enrollment of the California State University system, with almost 39,000 students.

4. Chapman University

Chapman University is a private university in the neighboring city of Orange. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Students can earn degrees in fields such as:

• business
• education
• health sciences and nursing
• visual and performing arts

The university was established in 1861. Today, it enrolls over 10,000 students through the university's 11 colleges and schools.

5. Concordia University, Irvine

Concordia University, Irvine is a private Lutheran university in Irvine, about 13 miles south of Santa Ana. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online.

Degrees are available in areas of study like:

• business
• coaching and exercise science
• education
• health sciences and nursing

Concordia University was founded in 1976 as part of the national Concordia University system. It currently enrolls over 3,700 students.

6. University of California, Irvine

The University of California, Irvine is a public research university in Irvine. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Students can earn degrees in fields such as:

• business
• computer and information sciences
• engineering
• social sciences

The university was established in 1965, making it one of the newer members of the University of California system. Today, it enrolls nearly 36,000 students.

7. University of California, Los Angeles

The University of California, Los Angeles is a public research university about 48 miles from Santa Ana. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Degrees are available in areas of study like:

• biology and biomedical sciences
• business
• engineering
• social sciences

UCLA was founded in 1881. With an enrollment of over 46,000, it's the largest of the University of California campuses.

8. University of La Verne

The University of La Verne is a private university in La Verne, California, roughly 30 miles from Santa Ana. It also maintains a regional campus in Irvine and offers online programs.

Students can earn bachelor's and master's degrees in fields like:

• business
• education
• management
• public administration

The university was established in 1891. Today, it enrolls over 5,500 students through its main campus, multiple regional campuses, and online programs.

9. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California is a private research university in Los Angeles, about 40 miles from Santa Ana. It offers undergraduate programs in person and graduate programs on campus and online.

Degrees are available in areas of study like:

• business
• computer and information science
• engineering
• health sciences and nursing

USC was founded in 1880, making it the oldest private university in the state. It's also California's largest university, with nearly 49,000 students.

10. Vanguard University

Vanguard University is a private university in Costa Mesa, just a few miles outside of Santa Ana. It offers bachelor's and master's programs.

Students can earn degrees in fields such as:

• business
• education
• health sciences and nursing
• psychology

The university was established in 1920. Today, it enrolls about 2,250 students, mainly in undergraduate programs.

What Is the Biggest School Near Santa Ana, California?

The biggest school near Santa Ana, California is the University of Southern California. With nearly 49,000 students, it's the largest in the state.

The largest public university is UCLA, with over 46,000 students.

How To Choose the Right College Near Santa Ana, California

With so many excellent colleges near Santa Ana, how do you choose the right one?

Consider the following:

• does the school have a good program for your intended major?
• where is the school located?
• are classes on campus or online?
• how much is tuition?
• what financial aid is available?

Paying for Your Degree Near Santa Ana, California

Most students use financial aid to help pay for their degrees. To find out what you're eligible for, start by filling out your Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA).

Financial aid often includes things like grants, scholarships, student loans, and work studies. Many students use a combination of financial aid options.

Start Your Degree Near Santa Ana, California Today

Santa Ana is nestled in the southern part of the Greater Los Angeles area, putting it close to dozens of colleges and universities. Check out the featured programs above to find yours today!