Sacramento is not only the capital of California but also a place of interest for students of government, medicine, history, art and an array of other subjects. Students can further their education with two-year, four-year and graduate degree options at area campuses that include the University of California and California State University. Just over 100 square miles in size, the city of Sacramento brings in both local and non-local students to its colleges, universities and training centers.
Colleges in Sacramento
In Sacramento, many look beyond high school education. That's shown in the number who attain two-year, four-year and higher degrees. According to the Sacramento Economic Development Center, of the over 460,000 residents, counting those in the 25+ age range, over 29 percent completed bachelor's or higher degree programs.
For those seeking associate degrees or certificates designed for employment goals or transfer options to a four-year university, Sacramento students have a choice of 20 community colleges and centers. Sacramento City College (SCC), one of the two-year institutions, spans three locations to offer more than 24,000 students a curriculum of over 90 programs of study, including certificates. These programs range from business to computer information science to journalism.
| Institution | Enrollment (2012) |
| American River School | 31,088 |
| Cosumnes River College | 14,143 |
| Wyotech – West Sacramento | 1,417 |
When it comes to undergraduate and above studies, Sacramento's eight institutions for higher learning give students a diverse range of options. At California State University, Sacramento (CSUS), over 28,000 students choose from 58 undergraduate majors and 41 master's degrees.
Below is a listing of some of the other colleges and universities available in Sacramento:
| INSTITUTION | TYPE |
| Alliant International University – Sacramento | Not-for-profit – Private |
| California State University – Sacramento | Public |
| Epic Bible College | Not-for-profit – Private |
| Sacramento Center | Not-for-profit – Private |
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Online Colleges in Sacramento
On-site learning isn't the only option for higher learning students in Sacramento. Online colleges give students the flexibility to study and attain degrees & certificates on their own time. With SCC's distance learning programs, students can choose from a wide range of Internet-based, hybrid (blended) and video/televised options to attain their degree or certificate. Cosumnes River College offers nontraditional alternatives through online and interactive televised classes.
For the four-year and above student, Sacramento also offers distance learning. Institutions such as CSUS provide undergraduate programs like Science in Criminal Justice and certificate studies in Contract Management.
Top Industries, Careers and Employers
For Sacramento, industrial diversity is a key to economic growth. Here are some of the top industries in the region:
- Construction
- Professional and Business Services
- Educational and Health Services
The greater Sacramento area is home to a variety of employers, such as these leading companies:
- UC Davis Health System
- Sutter Health Sacramento Sierra Region
- Kaiser Permanente
- Intel Corporation
- AT&T California
Gen Corp, based in nearby Rancho Cordova, is active in the aerospace industry, while Intel's semiconductor manufacturing and other operations include the neighboring town of Folsom. Sacramento offers resources for recent graduates to explore employment opportunities, including:
Colleges & Universities in Sacramento
#1 Colleges, Universities & Online Colleges in Sacramento
American River College
Sacramento, CA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
American River College provides premier study opportunities to learners through its hybrid programs. Whether learners study on campus or online, they benefit from rigorous coursework, premier faculty, and industry-specific learning opportunities.
Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to their field. Students can pursue internships, research projects, and other learning opportunities throughout their program.
Degree-seekers can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. To learn more about funding opportunities for education, students can meet with the financial aid office. Given the generosity of the college, 87% of all admitted enrollees receive financial aid.
#2 Colleges, Universities & Online Colleges in Sacramento
Cosumnes River College
Sacramento, CA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Cosumnes River College offers a variety of programs for learners from all walks of life. Students learning online or on campus benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community.
Enrollees complete foundational classes and subject-specific coursework throughout their studies. Degree candidates can pursue additional learning opportunities, such as internships and externships.
Learners can connect with career services, academic advising, and other offices to receive support and guidance throughout their studies. Students can connect with the financial aid office to explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. Out of all incoming degree-seekers, 86% receive financial aid.
#3 Colleges, Universities & Online Colleges in Sacramento
Alliant International University-Sacramento
Sacramento, CA - 2 years
- Campus
Alliant International University-Sacramento provides premier study opportunities to degree-seekers through its hybrid programs. All students benefit from rigorous core curriculums, skilled faculty, and supportive learning environments.
Degree-seekers complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Enrollees can pursue internships, research projects, and other learning opportunities.
Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their program. The financial aid office can connect degree candidates with funding opportunities.
#4 Colleges, Universities & Online Colleges in Sacramento
California State University, Sacramento
Sacramento, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University, Sacramento offers premier programs to students from all walks of life. Undergraduate students can enroll in one of two remote bachelor's programs or opt for in-person study across 55 programs. Advanced students can also enroll in one of 40 master's programs or pursue remote study in one of two programs.
Learners in either degree modality benefit from rigorous coursework, skilled faculty, and a supportive learning community. Degree candidates complete industry-specific and general coursework, gaining skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Students can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources throughout their program. To learn more about funding opportunities for education, students can meet with the financial aid office. The college notes that approximately 85% of all incoming students receive financial aid. Institutional support contributes to the college's 55% graduation rate.
#5 Colleges, Universities & Online Colleges in Sacramento
Epic Bible College
Sacramento, CA - 4 years
- Online
Learners seeking flexible hybrid study should consider enrolling at Epic Bible College. The private institution provides one bachelor's degree and three master's degrees. For distance learners, the college offers one online bachelor's degree and three online master's degrees.
All students benefit from rigorous core curriculums, skilled faculty, and supportive learning environments. Learners complete general and subject-specific coursework throughout the program. Students can further their learning through research projects, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Degree candidates benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies. Enrollees can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The college offers a variety of financial aid awards, with 100% of all enrollees receiving aid.