Cheapest Social Sciences Colleges in California

California State University-Dominguez Hills offers the most affordable path into social sciences at just $3,659 net cost, while Dominican University of California commands $50,218 for similar programs. This $46,559 gap reflects California's divided higher education market where public universities serve cost-conscious students pursuing careers in the state's expanding nonprofit sector, government agencies, and social services organizations. UC Berkeley graduates earn $61,380 annually, demonstrating the field's potential in California's economy where social research firms, policy think tanks, and advocacy groups concentrate around major metropolitan areas.

Programs

$3,659 – $50,218

Net Price Range

$41,526

Avg. Program Earnings

74.9%

Avg. Graduation Rate

10 Social Sciences, Other Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	California State University-Dominguez Hills Carson, California	$3,659	$7,064	46.9%	89.1%
2	Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto Campuses Stockton, California	$11,410	$14,760	50.0%
3	University of California-San Diego La Jolla, California	$11,750	$15,265	87.6%	23.7%
4	University of California-Riverside Riverside, California	$13,707	$14,170	76.6%	68.7%
5	University of California-Berkeley Berkeley, California	$14,979	$14,850	92.9%	11.3%
6	University of California-Davis Davis, California	$15,288	$15,247	85.1%	37.3%
7	California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, California	$15,624	$11,075	85.2%	30.4%
8	University of La Verne La Verne, California	$26,925	$47,000	65.4%	73.5%
9	Pitzer College Claremont, California	$31,663	$62,692	83.2%	18.4%
10	Dominican University of California San Rafael, California	$50,218	$50,666	76.3%	93.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

Public universities like CSU Dominguez Hills ($3,659) benefit from state funding and serve local communities, while private institutions like Dominican University ($50,218) operate without subsidies. The $46,559 spread reflects California's two-tier system where public options remain accessible despite the state's high living costs.

How do graduation rates compare between affordable and expensive programs?

UC Berkeley achieves a 92.90% graduation rate at $14,979 net cost, proving affordability doesn't compromise quality. CSU Dominguez Hills graduates 46.90% of students at the lowest cost, while mid-range UC schools like Davis (85.10% at $15,288) offer strong outcomes at reasonable prices.

Is UC Berkeley's $61,380 earning potential worth the investment over cheaper options?

Berkeley graduates earn more than double Cal Poly SLO alumni ($28,236) while paying similar net costs around $15,000. The $33,144 earnings advantage reflects Berkeley's research reputation and connections to California's policy centers and major nonprofits.

Where do Social Sciences, Other graduates find employment in California?

California's $3.6 trillion economy supports varied social science careers in government agencies, research institutions, and advocacy organizations. Silicon Valley tech companies increasingly hire social scientists for user research, while Los Angeles entertainment and nonprofit sectors offer additional pathways for program graduates.

More Social Sciences, Other Rankings

Best Value Social Sciences, Other in California Social Sciences, Other Under $20,000 in California

All Social Sciences, Other Programs Best Colleges in California Best Social Sciences, Other in California

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