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Cheapest International Business Colleges in California

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

California State University-Fullerton charges just $5,646 net annually for International Business while private schools like University of Redlands reach $22,867, creating a stark divide in program costs. The state's 19 programs reflect California's position as a global trade gateway, with the Port of Los Angeles handling 20% of U.S. container traffic and Silicon Valley companies requiring international market expertise. Graduates earning potential spans from $35,060 to $63,005, with San Francisco State producing some of the highest earners at $43,054 despite its moderate $12,882 net cost. The Cal Grant program helps bridge affordability gaps, particularly benefiting students at the seven Cal State campuses offering the major.
19
Programs
$5,646 – $45,409
Net Price Range
$46,907
Avg. Program Earnings
63.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

19 International Business Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $5,646 $7,073 69.2% 66.7%
2 $5,918 $7,675 54.7% 91.1%
3 $6,480 $6,980 54.8% 95.4%
4 $10,550 $7,739 54.2% 95.2%
5 $12,882 $7,424 50.1% 94.2%
6 $13,741 $7,992 64.7% 76.7%
7 $16,174 $8,290 78.3% 39.3%
8 $19,798 $43,600 64.4% 87.0%
9 $22,867 $57,614 70.7% 81.9%
10 $25,009 $48,132 53.4% 75.8%
11 $25,321 $13,160 8.8%
12 $26,217 $35,910 68.1% 91.9%
13 $26,925 $47,000 65.4% 73.5%
14 $27,384 $39,720 59.5% 79.9%
15 $31,198 $56,134 69.0% 87.9%
16 $31,265 $56,444 81.6% 52.6%
17 $31,927 $68,237 92.0% 12.0%
18 $39,495 $58,222 71.1% 71.2%
19 $45,409 $66,742 84.7% 48.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the huge cost differences between California's cheapest and most expensive International Business programs?

Public Cal State schools charge between $5,646 and $16,174 net annually while private institutions range from $19,798 to $26,925. Cal Grant funding reduces costs significantly at public schools, with in-state tuition staying under $9,000 at all Cal State campuses. Private schools offer smaller class sizes and specialized resources but lack state subsidies that make public education more accessible.

How do graduation rates compare across different price points for International Business programs?

San Diego State leads with a 78.30% graduation rate despite charging $16,174 net annually. Several affordable options like Cal State Fullerton achieve solid 69.20% rates at just $5,646 net cost. Ashford University shows concerning trends with only an 8.80% graduation rate, highlighting the importance of researching outcomes beyond price when selecting programs.

Does studying International Business in California provide better earning potential than other states?

California graduates earn between $35,060 and $63,005 annually, reflecting the state's role as the world's fifth-largest economy. Tech companies in Silicon Valley, aerospace firms like SpaceX, and major ports create demand for international business expertise. The state's proximity to Pacific Rim markets and Mexico provides practical experience opportunities that translate to higher starting salaries.

Where should students focus their applications to maximize value in International Business education?

Cal State Fullerton offers the best value at $5,646 net cost with strong 69.20% graduation rates and $36,745 average earnings. San Francisco State provides access to financial industry internships at $12,882 net cost with higher $43,054 earnings potential. San Diego State combines reasonable $16,174 costs with the highest 78.30% graduation rate among affordable options.

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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.