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Cheapest Business Colleges in California

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

California's business program costs create a stark divide between public and private options, with Cal State Dominguez Hills charging just $3,659 net while FIDM reaches $41,493. The state's massive economy, ranking fifth globally, generates strong demand for business graduates across Silicon Valley tech companies, aerospace firms like SpaceX, and the entertainment industry. Cal State campuses dominate the affordable end, with three programs under $6,000 annually, while graduates from Dominguez Hills earn $55,338 within six years of completing their degrees.
5
Programs
$3,659 – $41,493
Net Price Range
$47,174
Avg. Program Earnings
55.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $3,659 $7,064 46.9% 89.1%
2 $5,671 $7,826 58.0% 96.6%
3 $5,825 $7,696 49.3% 86.6%
4 $14,317 $35,558 55.9% 75.0%
5 $41,493 $34,325 67.2% 41.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes California State University-Dominguez Hills the most affordable option?

The Carson campus charges just $3,659 net annually, nearly $2,000 less than the next cheapest Cal State program. With an 89% acceptance rate and graduates earning $55,338 six years after completion, it offers strong value for students entering California's job market.

How do graduation rates compare across these affordable programs?

FIDM leads with a 67% graduation rate despite its higher cost, while Cal State Stanislaus achieves 58% graduation rates at just $5,671 net annually. The Cal State campuses range from 47% to 58%, reflecting the challenge of balancing affordability with completion rates.

Does the Cal Grant program help reduce these costs further?

Yes, Cal Grant covers full tuition at public universities for qualifying California residents. Since Cal State tuition runs around $7,000-$8,000 annually, eligible students could attend programs like Dominguez Hills or Stanislaus with only living expenses to consider.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.