Top 3 Information Technology Programs in California 2025
University of California-San Diego
207 Information Technology graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
California State University-Los Angeles
88 Information Technology graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
University of California-Riverside
64 Information Technology graduates annually, 83% graduation rate
- 1.California has 60+ accredited information technology bachelor's programs across UC, CSU, and private institutions (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Stanford University ranks #1 in California with 94% graduation rate and direct Silicon Valley recruiting pipeline
- 3.UC Berkeley offers top-tier IT education at $14,312 in-state tuition—significantly lower than private alternatives
- 4.California IT professionals earn median $118,250 annually—23% above the national median (BLS California 2024)
- 5.Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, and San Diego metro areas provide 180,000+ IT jobs—largest concentration nationally
Information Technology Education Landscape in California
California leads the nation in information technology education, offering more IT programs than any other state across public and private institutions. From Stanford's cutting-edge research programs to Cal State's career-focused curricula, California provides IT education pathways for every career goal and budget.
The state's proximity to Silicon Valley, thriving tech ecosystems in Los Angeles and San Diego, and major cloud computing centers creates unparalleled internship and career opportunities. Students benefit from direct industry connections, cutting-edge facilities, and curricula shaped by real-world tech demands.
For national perspective, review our comprehensive IT bachelor's rankings covering all states. Students concerned about costs should explore our most affordable IT programs guide. Career-focused individuals can reference our IT career outcomes analysis for detailed salary and employment data.
California Information Technology Bachelor's Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 94.9 |
| 2 | California State University-Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $5,742 | 99% | — | 69.1 |
| 3 | University of California-Riverside | Riverside, CA | Public | $11,834 | 83% | — | 67.7 |
| 4 | California Institute of Technology | Pasadena, CA | Private | $60,816 | 88% | — | 66.4 |
| 5 | Ashford University | San Diego, CA | For-Profit | $12,240 | — | — | 65.3 |
| 6 | California State University-San Bernardino | San Bernardino, CA | Public | $5,742 | — | — | 63.6 |
| 7 | California State University-Northridge | Northridge, CA | Public | $5,742 | 95% | — | 61 |
| 8 | Point Loma Nazarene University | San Diego, CA | Private | $42,600 | 94% | — | 60.7 |
| 9 | Alliant International University-San Diego | San Diego, CA | For-Profit | $17,544 | — | — | 57.4 |
| 10 | University of La Verne | La Verne, CA | Private | $48,300 | 82% | — | 57.3 |
| 11 | San Jose State University | San Jose, CA | Public | $5,742 | 100% | — | 55.3 |
| 12 | California State University-Chico | Chico, CA | Public | $5,742 | — | — | 55.2 |
| 13 | California State University-Channel Islands | Camarillo, CA | Public | $5,742 | — | — | 47.4 |
| 14 | University of Phoenix-California | Ontario, CA | For-Profit | $9,552 | — | — | 47.4 |
| 15 | Westcliff University | Irvine, CA | For-Profit | $20,850 | — | — | 46.9 |
| 16 | California Baptist University | Riverside, CA | Private | $37,570 | — | — | 46.5 |
| 17 | United States University | San Diego, CA | For-Profit | $6,467 | — | — | 45.9 |
| 18 | California State University-Dominguez Hills | Carson, CA | Public | $5,742 | — | — | 44.9 |
| 19 | Bethesda University | Anaheim, CA | Private | $6,960 | — | — | 44.9 |
| 20 | DeVry University-California | Ontario, CA | For-Profit | $14,392 | 25% | — | 44.5 |
| 21 | California Lutheran University | Thousand Oaks, CA | Private | $49,880 | — | — | 42.4 |
| 22 | University of Massachusetts Global | Irvine, CA | Public | $12,000 | 6% | — | 34 |
Top 5 Information Technology Programs in California: Side-by-Side
| School | UC Berkeley | UC San Diego | U of the People | Santa Clara | USC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,834 | $11,834 | $0 | $58,587 | $66,640 |
| Graduation Rate | 96% | 81% | N/A% | 91% | 92% |
| Annual Graduates | 604 | 207 | 390 | 50 | 9 |
| Acceptance Rate | 12% | 25% | N/A | 44% | 10% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Private | Private |
| Score | 100.0/100 | 79.6/100 | 74.2/100 | 67.1/100 | 65.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Information Technology in California
California offers 29 bachelor's-level information technology programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of California-San Diego, University of the People, Loyola Marymount University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $102,039 in the California market.
A bachelor's in information technology typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Information Technology Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Information Technology Bachelor's Programs in California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UC San Diego | $11,834 | 81% | 207 | 79.6 |
| #2 U of the People | $0 | N/A% | 390 | 74.2 |
| #3 Loyola Marymount | $57,602 | 94% | 37 | 64.2 |
Top Information Technology Schools for Master's Degrees in California
For graduate study, California offers 19 master's-level information technology programs. Leading institutions include University of California-Berkeley, Santa Clara University, University of Southern California. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in California reaching $189,501 or more.
Top 3 Information Technology Master's Programs in California
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 UC Berkeley | $11,834 | 96% | 604 | 100.0 |
| #2 Santa Clara | $58,587 | 91% | 50 | 67.1 |
| #3 USC | $66,640 | 92% | 9 | 65.4 |
Most Affordable Information Technology Colleges in California
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable information technology programs in California are at California State University-Los Angeles ($5,742/year), California State University-Northridge ($5,742/year), California State Polytechnic University-Pomona ($5,742/year). These programs offer strong ROI given California's competitive tech salaries.
At California State University-Los Angeles, a 4-year degree costs approximately $22,968 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $102,039, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.3 years.
Most Affordable Information Technology Programs in California (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 California State... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #2 California State... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
| #3 California State... | $5,742 | $22,968 | 0.3 years | Public |
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 604 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 12%
- • Ranking Score: 100.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 96% graduation rate
- 604 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 100.0 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (96%), program size (604 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (12% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
UC Berkeley's School of Information is described as a global bellwether in information and data science, offering multiple degree paths including online options and featuring active research centers. The school bridges multiple disciplines including computer science, design, social sciences, management, law, and policy.
Available Scholarships
Admission Prerequisites
- •15 yearlong high school courses with C or better
- •4 years college-preparatory English
- •2 years history
- •mathematics
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of California-San Diego
La Jolla, CA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,834 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 207 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 25%
- • Ranking Score: 79.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 207 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 79.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (207 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (25% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of the People
Pasadena, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $0 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 390 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: N/A%
- • Ranking Score: 74.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 390 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 74.2 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (390 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (N/A% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $58,587 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 50 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 44%
- • Ranking Score: 67.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 91% graduation rate
- 50 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 67.1 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (91%), program size (50 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (44% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Santa Clara University's online business programs combine Silicon Valley location advantages with flexible learning, featuring #1 ranked career outcomes and strong placement at top tech companies. The programs offer customizable curriculum with 13 elective options and comprehensive career services including direct employer engagement in the heart of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 42 units (MSBA: 26 core + 6 experiential + 10 elective)
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Boeing, Big Five Tech Companies
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $66,640 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 9 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 10%
- • Ranking Score: 65.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 9 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 65.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (9 graduates), state salary outcomes ($145,770), and selectivity (10% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USC's Information Technology Program offers 16 minors and specializations that enable students to combine their major with technology (X+TECH), making technology education accessible to all USC students regardless of their primary field of study. The program is housed within the School of Advanced Computing and provides practical technical skills and digital fluency across diverse specializations from AI applications to cybersecurity.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design, develop, and maintain software applications for various platforms and industries
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer systems, networks, and IT infrastructure for organizations
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational systems and data from cyber threats through monitoring and analysis
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Configure, manage, and troubleshoot computer networks and telecommunications systems
Cloud Solutions Architect
SOC 15-1199Design and implement cloud-based infrastructure and applications for enterprise clients
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1252Bridge development and operations teams to streamline software deployment and infrastructure
California University Systems for Information Technology
California's higher education landscape provides multiple pathways for IT education across three major systems, each serving different student needs and career goals.
The University of California (UC) system offers research-focused IT programs at institutions like Berkeley, UCLA, San Diego, and Irvine. These programs emphasize theoretical foundations, research opportunities, and prepare students for both industry careers and graduate study. UC programs typically require higher admission standards but offer significant value at public tuition rates.
The California State University (CSU) system provides career-oriented IT education at 23 campuses statewide. Schools like San Jose State, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and San Diego State offer hands-on programs designed for immediate workforce entry. CSU programs often feature smaller class sizes, industry partnerships, and practical project work.
Private institutions including Stanford, USC, and Santa Clara University offer premium IT education with extensive resources, small class sizes, and elite industry connections. While tuition costs are significantly higher, these programs often provide superior career outcomes and networking opportunities.
Students considering different program types should review our IT curriculum guide and explore online IT degree options for additional flexibility.
Other Tech Degree Programs in California
Information Technology Programs in Other States
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to the world's largest tech job market with 180,000+ positions
- Direct proximity to Silicon Valley, Los Angeles tech, and San Diego innovation hubs
- Internship and networking opportunities with Apple, Google, Meta, and hundreds of startups
- Cutting-edge curriculum influenced by industry leaders and emerging technologies
- Strong public university options offering excellent value (UC/CSU systems)
- Year-round mild climate enabling outdoor activities and quality of life
- Lower cost of living with significant savings on housing and daily expenses
- Less competitive job market with potentially easier entry-level opportunities
- Smaller, more intimate campus environments with closer faculty relationships
- Regional focus matching your preferred geographic career area
- Lower tuition costs even at private institutions
- Different climate preferences or proximity to family
Frequently Asked Questions About California IT Programs
Based on 25 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Information Technology degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific information technology salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Information Technology Resources
Source: California Employment Development Department, 2024
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.