10 Best Colleges and Universities Near San Diego, CA

San Diego offers students a mix of top-ranked public universities, private institutions, and community colleges in one of the most scenic regions of California. With a focus on innovation, flexibility, and affordability, these schools serve students pursuing degrees in healthcare, business, engineering, and the arts.

Whether you're starting college for the first time or returning to finish your degree, San Diego provides opportunities that fit your schedule and budget. In this article, we'll highlight the top colleges near San Diego, California, and share key information about costs, online learning, and student support.

Featured Colleges in San Diego, CA

San Diego is home to a wide range of colleges that combine strong academics with flexible learning options. Below, you'll find some of the area's top institutions offering accredited degree programs designed to help students achieve their personal and professional goals.

1. Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University's regional campus is in San Diego, CA, and offers online undergraduate programs that you can complete online to earn your degree.

Choose one of the following bachelor's degrees:

• Bachelor of Arts in psychology
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The cost of tuition is $452 to $527 per credit hour for the psychology degree program depending on the course level. You can earn your BSN degree if you are a registered nurse for $460 per credit hour.

2. California State University, San Marcos

If you are looking for a college in northern San Diego County, consider California State University, San Marcos. CSUSM offers five bachelor's degree programs that are available in an online format.

Earn your Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity, nursing, or wildfire science degree. You can also earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminology and justice studies or sociology. Full-time tuition is $2,871 per semester for undergraduate degree programs.

3. National University

National University is an accredited institution in San Diego, CA that offers many online bachelor's degree programs in teaching and education, arts and humanities, engineering, technology, and more.

Examples of BA degree programs that you can complete online at NU include early childhood education, integrated marketing communications, and pre-law studies. You can also find online BS degrees in computer science, human resource management, homeland security and emergency management, and more.

4. Point Loma Nazarene University

Point Loma Nazarene University offers several online undergraduate degree programs. Earn your bachelor's degree for $560 per credit hour. If you are a registered nurse interested in earning your BSN degree, PLNU offers an RN to BSN degree program for $500 per credit hour.

Examples of BA degrees include child development, creative digital media, and organizational leadership. Transfer up to seventy credits from a regionally accredited institution to save time and money.

5. San Diego Christian College

Set your pace and complete your bachelor's degree at San Diego Christian College. SDCC offers six online bachelor's degree programs. You can earn your BS in business management or leadership.

BA degree programs at SDCC include:

• Christian ministries
• communication
• human development
• psychology

The cost for online undergraduate tuition is $425 per credit hour. Submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid to qualify for federal and state grants to help reduce the cost of your tuition.

6. San Diego City College

San Diego City College offers online and in-person options to earn your BS in cyber defense and analysis. You can also complete your BA in communication online.

The cost of tuition is $130 per credit hour for the BS in cyber defense degree program. The total estimated cost of the BA in communication degree program is $23,124. Visit the San Diego City College website to learn about financial aid and scholarship options you may qualify for.

7. San Diego State University, Global Campus

Consider San Diego State University, Global Campus if you are interested in earning a degree from one of the best colleges near San Diego, CA.

SDSU, Global Campus offers five bachelor's degree programs that you can complete fully online and three hybrid bachelor's degree programs that involve online and on-campus requirements. The BA in business administration, BS in public health, and BA in communication are a few examples of fully online programs at SDSU, Global Campus.

8. Southwestern College

Southwestern College is one of the best colleges in San Diego, CA that partnerships with San Diego State University to offer online degree completion programs. Six bachelor's degree completion programs are provided through the SWC and SDSU partnership.

Online bachelor's degree programs include:

• BS in criminal justice
• BS in child development
• BS in civil engineering

The cost of tuition is $492 to $552 per credit hour depending on your program choice.

9. University of Massachusetts Global

The San Diego campus of the University of Massachusetts Global is one of the best colleges in San Diego, CA that offers online undergraduate degree programs at an affordable cost. You can earn your Bachelor of Business Administration degree or a Bachelor of Arts degree in one of several areas of study.

Example areas of study include:

• liberal studies
• organizational leadership
• psychology

The cost of tuition for online bachelor's degree programs is $500 per credit hour.

10. University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix is one of the best colleges in San Diego, CA that offers several bachelor's degree programs that you can complete in a fully online format.

Earn a BA in English, a BS in accounting, a BS in business, or choose another affordable online degree program. Tuition is $398 per credit hour for undergraduate degree programs. Consider financial assistance options such as submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid to reduce the cost of tuition.

How We Rank Schools

Our rankings identify colleges that provide strong academics, financial accessibility, and proven student outcomes. Each institution is carefully reviewed to ensure it meets the needs of today's learners.

• Accreditation: All schools are accredited by recognized agencies, ensuring quality education and transferability of credits.
• Location: Colleges in and around San Diego offer access to internships, research facilities, and coastal living.
• Affordability: We review tuition rates and available scholarships to highlight programs that balance value and cost.
• Student outcomes: Schools are evaluated on graduation rates, alumni career success, and post-graduation opportunities.

How Much Does College Cost in San Diego, CA?

College tuition in San Diego varies depending on the school type. Public universities such as San Diego State University and the University of California, San Diego, typically cost between $9,000 and $13,000 per year for in-state students.

Private universities, including Point Loma Nazarene University, may charge between $35,000 and $50,000 annually. Many schools offer financial aid, institutional scholarships, and tuition assistance programs to help reduce costs.

Are There Online Colleges in San Diego, CA?

Yes, many San Diego-area universities provide online and hybrid programs for students seeking flexibility. Schools such as National University and San Diego State University offer online degrees in education, business, healthcare, and computer science.

These programs allow students to complete coursework remotely while maintaining access to tutoring, advising, and career services. Online education is an ideal option for working professionals or students balancing family responsibilities.

FAQs About the Best Colleges Near San Diego, CA

San Diego's colleges serve a wide range of students, from recent high school graduates to working adults. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you choose the right program.

What Types of Degrees Are Available at San Diego Colleges?

Colleges in San Diego offer degrees at every level, from associate and bachelor's programs to master's and doctoral degrees. Students can study a wide range of disciplines, including nursing, business administration, education, and computer science.

Many universities also provide professional certificates and continuing education options. This flexibility allows students to find programs that match their goals and career stage.

Do San Diego Colleges Accept Transfer Credits?

Yes, most colleges near San Diego welcome transfer students and accept credits from accredited institutions. Schools such as San Diego State University and the University of San Diego have transfer-friendly policies and advisors to assist with course evaluation.

Community colleges in the region, including San Diego Mesa College, maintain articulation agreements with four-year universities. These partnerships make it easier for students to transition into bachelor's programs without losing credits.

Are There Community Colleges in the San Diego Area?

Yes, the San Diego Community College District includes several campuses that provide affordable associate degrees and certificate programs. These colleges are an excellent starting point for students planning to transfer to a four-year university.

Community colleges also offer workforce training programs in high-demand fields. They provide an accessible and budget-friendly path to higher education for local residents.

Start Your College Journey in San Diego, CA

San Diego offers students a balance of academic excellence, flexibility, and coastal living. Visit Learn.org to explore accredited colleges near you and find the right degree program to reach your goals.