Best Colleges Near Costa Mesa, California: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for the best colleges near Costa Mesa, California? Whether you are a high school senior trying to decide where to apply or a working professional looking to advance your career, this guide will help you discover the top colleges in the area. From community colleges to private universities, here are some of the best colleges near Costa Mesa, California.

Orange Coast College

Distance from Costa Mesa: 2 miles

Address: 2701 Fairview Rd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Orange Coast College (OCC) is a community college located just a few miles from Costa Mesa. It is one of the largest community colleges in the country, serving over 25,000 students each year. OCC offers over 130 academic and career programs, including popular majors like nursing, business, and engineering. The college also boasts an impressive transfer rate to four-year universities. OCC is known for its beautiful campus, which includes a planetarium, a theater, and a world-class rowing team.

Vanguard University

Distance from Costa Mesa: 3 miles

Address: 55 Fair Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Vanguard University is a private Christian university located in the heart of Costa Mesa. It offers over 30 undergraduate programs and several graduate programs in fields like education, psychology, and theology. Vanguard is known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual formation, with a mission to equip students for a life of leadership and service. The university has a vibrant campus community, with over 40 clubs and organizations for students to get involved in.

Coastline College

Distance from Costa Mesa: 5 miles

Address: 11460 Warner Ave, Fountain Valley, CA 92708

Coastline College is a community college located in nearby Fountain Valley. It offers online and on-campus classes, making it a great option for working professionals or students who need a flexible schedule. Coastline offers over 100 degree and certificate programs in fields like business, health care, and technology. The college is known for its commitment to innovation and accessibility, with programs like the Coastline Promise, which guarantees free tuition to eligible students.

California State University, Fullerton

Distance from Costa Mesa: 9 miles

Address: 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92831

California State University, Fullerton (CSUF) is a public university located in Fullerton, about 9 miles from Costa Mesa. It is one of the largest universities in the California State University system, with over 40,000 students. CSUF offers over 110 undergraduate and graduate programs, including highly-ranked programs in business, engineering, and nursing. The university is known for its diverse student body and commitment to student success, with resources like the Center for Internships and Community Engagement.

University of California, Irvine

Distance from Costa Mesa: 12 miles

Address: 510 E Peltason Dr., Irvine, CA 92697

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) is a public research university located in nearby Irvine. It is consistently ranked as one of the top public universities in the country, with a reputation for academic excellence and cutting-edge research. UCI offers over 80 undergraduate majors and 80 graduate programs in fields like engineering, social sciences, and health sciences. The university is known for its innovative curriculum and commitment to sustainability, with programs like the UCI Sustainable Transportation Program.

In conclusion, these are just a few of the best colleges near Costa Mesa, California. Whether you are looking for a community college or a top-ranked university, there is something for everyone in this area. From Orange Coast College's beautiful campus to Vanguard University's commitment to spiritual formation, each college offers unique benefits.