Cheapest Health/Medical Preparatory Programs Colleges in California

California State University-Bakersfield offers the state's most affordable Health/Medical Preparatory Programs at just $5,825 net cost annually, while private University of Saint Katherine reaches $33,072. This $27,247 price gap reflects California's unique public education funding model that keeps state university costs manageable for pre-med students. The state's biotech corridor from San Francisco to San Diego creates strong demand for medical professionals, with companies like Genentech and Gilead Sciences driving research opportunities. Among the 12 programs, public institutions claim the top three spots for affordability, with CSU-Fresno following at $6,480 and CSU-San Marcos at $10,550.

Programs

$5,825 – $33,072

Net Price Range

$25,194

Avg. Program Earnings

57.4%

Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Health/Medical Preparatory Programs Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	California State University-Bakersfield Bakersfield, California	$5,825	$7,696	49.3%	86.6%
2	California State University-Fresno Fresno, California	$6,480	$6,980	54.8%	95.4%
3	California State University-San Marcos San Marcos, California	$10,550	$7,739	54.2%	95.2%
4	Fresno Pacific University Fresno, California	$14,317	$35,558	55.9%	75.0%
5	California State University-Chico Chico, California	$14,838	$8,064	63.6%	95.0%
6	Mount Saint Mary's University Los Angeles, California	$25,009	$48,132	53.4%	75.8%
7	University of the Pacific Stockton, California	$25,926	$55,340	67.8%	93.2%
8	La Sierra University Riverside, California	$26,217	$35,910	68.1%	91.9%
9	California Baptist University Riverside, California	$27,384	$39,720	59.5%	79.9%
10	Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science Los Angeles, California	$27,789	$18,933	50.0%	80.5%
11	Saint Mary's College of California Moraga, California	$31,198	$56,134	69.0%	87.9%
12	University of Saint Katherine San Marcos, California	$33,072	$28,800	43.5%	65.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost difference between public and private programs?

California's public universities receive state subsidies that dramatically reduce costs for residents. CSU-Bakersfield charges just $5,825 net compared to private Mount Saint Mary's at $25,009. The Cal Grant program further reduces expenses for qualifying students at public institutions.

How do graduation rates compare across different price points?

Higher-priced programs often show better completion rates, with University of the Pacific achieving 67.8% graduation at $25,926 net cost. However, CSU-Chico proves affordability and success can coexist at 63.6% graduation rate for $14,838. The range spans from 43.5% to 69% across all programs.

Does acceptance rate indicate program competitiveness?

Most California programs maintain high acceptance rates, with CSU-Fresno at 95.43% and CSU-Chico at 95%. University of Saint Katherine shows the lowest acceptance rate at 65.56%, suggesting more selective admissions. This accessibility helps address California's healthcare workforce shortages.

Where do graduates typically earn after completing these programs?

La Sierra University reports graduate earnings of $25,194, though this likely reflects entry-level positions before medical school. California's biotech industry offers numerous research assistant and lab technician roles for pre-med graduates. Many students use these programs as stepping stones to medical school rather than terminal career paths.

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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.