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NCAA Division II Colleges in California

21 schools in California. See our methodology.

UC San Diego graduates earn $84,943 annually while maintaining an 87.6% graduation rate, making it the clear standout among California's 21 Division II institutions. The state's Cal Grant program helps explain why 15 of these schools charge net prices below $15,000, with Cal State Dominguez Hills requiring just $3,659 after aid. California's economy creates unique opportunities for these graduates, particularly in tech-adjacent fields where Cal Poly Pomona alumni earn $71,902 despite the school's 55% acceptance rate. The contrast between schools like Dominican University at $50,218 and multiple Cal State campuses under $6,000 reflects California's dual economic reality. Most schools accept over 90% of applicants, yet graduation rates vary dramatically from East Bay's 45.5% to UC San Diego's 87.6%. This accessibility serves California's varied population while connecting students to industries ranging from Silicon Valley tech to aerospace manufacturing. The state's biotech sector particularly benefits from graduates of programs in San Diego and the Bay Area, where proximity to research institutions creates pathways into high-paying careers that justify the investment.
21
Schools
$18,907
Avg. Net Price
$63,606
Avg. Earnings
60.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division II Colleges in California

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 33,787 $11,750 87.6% 23.7%
2 24,271 $11,580 66.7% 55.4%
3 13,057 $14,838 63.6% 95.0%
4 5,374 $13,801 60.5% 94.0%
5 5,811 $14,487 63.2% 92.4%
6 8,564 $5,671 58.0% 96.6%
7 20,033 $12,882 50.1% 94.2%
8 21,478 $4,113 52.6% 86.9%
9 15,771 $5,918 54.7% 91.1%
10 14,174 $10,550 54.2% 95.2%
11 10,422 $11,276 45.5% 96.2%
12 1,178 $50,218 76.3% 93.2%
13 12,642 $3,659 46.9% 89.1%
14 3,390 $28,101 68.8% 56.6%
15 1,456 $28,046 62.5% 69.0%
16 3,132 $50,168 73.8% 81.9%
17 1,614 $14,317 55.9% 75.0%
18 2,977 $19,798 64.4% 87.0%
19 1,310 $32,926 70.1% 82.0%
20 5,491 $13,167 46.6% 98.2%
21 4,131 $39,778 40.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes UC San Diego different from other Division II schools in California?

UC San Diego combines a 23.7% acceptance rate with an 87.6% graduation rate, producing graduates who earn $84,943 annually. This combination of selectivity, completion rates, and earning potential sets it apart from the more accessible Cal State campuses that accept 86-98% of applicants but show more variable graduation outcomes.

How much do California Division II college graduates typically earn?

Graduate earnings range from $56,778 to $84,943 annually, with most schools producing graduates earning $59,000-$68,000. Location matters significantly, as Bay Area schools like Dominican University ($84,713) and East Bay ($71,401) show higher earnings, likely reflecting regional salary premiums and industry access.

Is the Cal Grant program making California colleges more affordable?

Yes, 15 of 21 schools charge net prices below $15,000 after financial aid, with some Cal State campuses like Dominguez Hills costing just $3,659. Only private institutions like Dominican University ($50,218) and Biola University ($28,101) maintain significantly higher net costs despite aid availability.

Does acceptance rate predict graduation success at these schools?

Not necessarily. Chico State accepts 95% of applicants but maintains a 63.6% graduation rate, while East Bay accepts 96.2% but graduates only 45.5%. Cal Poly Pomona's 55% acceptance rate corresponds with a solid 66.7% graduation rate, suggesting more selective programs may improve completion odds.

Where do California Division II schools offer the best value?

Cal State campuses provide strong value, particularly Stanislaus at $5,671 net cost with 58% graduation rate and $63,188 earnings, and Los Angeles at $4,113 with $59,211 earnings. These schools offer California residents access to quality education at prices below many community college programs.

How do enrollment sizes affect the college experience at these schools?

Enrollment ranges from 1,178 at Dominican University to 33,787 at UC San Diego. Smaller schools like Concordia-Irvine (1,456 students) often provide more personalized attention, while larger campuses like San Francisco State (20,033) offer broader program selections and research opportunities typical of major universities.

Related

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See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.