Hey there! I'm a high school junior in Long Beach, CA. I'd love to hear about nearby colleges that I could consider, while allowing me to stay close to my family. What are some good colleges near my location? Are there notable differences between them in terms of student life, majors, etc.?
Hello! You're in luck because Southern California is home to a variety of colleges and universities with diverse offerings.
The University of Southern California (USC) is one of the oldest private research universities in the state. They have a vibrant student life with robust Greek life and powerhouse athletic teams. Academically, USC is known for business, cinema, engineering, and the arts.
UCLA is another top-tier college in LA, well-known for its programs in law, business, medicine, and the humanities. UCLA's student life is influenced by its location, with access to cultural institutions and outdoor activities.
Cal State Long Beach is also an option. Its programs in business, engineering, the arts, and nursing are well-regarded. As opposed to the vastness of UCLA and USC, it offers a more tightened-knit community feel.
For a different experience, consider the liberal arts colleges of the Claremont Colleges Consortium, namely Pomona, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, Pitzer, and Scripps. They offer the advantages of both large universities and small colleges due to their consortium structure.
Depending on your intended major and preferences, some colleges may be better fits than others. For instance, Harvey Mudd is excellent for science and engineering, USC has robust programs in cinema and the arts, and UCLA has a global influence in the fields of law and business. Consider your academic interests and personal priorities when exploring these schools closer.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.