The 5 Best Colleges Near Glendora, California

California is home to a plethora of prestigious colleges and universities, and the area surrounding Glendora is no exception. Nestled in the San Gabriel Valley, Glendora offers proximity to some of the state’s top educational institutions. If you’re considering pursuing higher education near this charming city, here are the five best colleges to consider near Glendora.

Claremont Colleges

Comprised of five undergraduate and two graduate institutions, the Claremont Colleges are among the most acclaimed in the country. Located just a short drive from Glendora, each college has its own unique focus:

• Pomona College: Known for its liberal arts curriculum and small class sizes.
• Claremont McKenna College: Offers strong programs in government, economics, and international relations.
• Scripps College: A women’s college with a focus on liberal arts and interdisciplinary studies.
• Harvey Mudd College: Renowned for its STEM programs.
• Pitzer College: Emphasizes social sciences, behavioral sciences, international programs, and media studies.

California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona)

A member of the California State University system, Cal Poly Pomona is one of the top polytechnic universities in the nation. With a "learn by doing" philosophy, the university is recognized for its programs in architecture, engineering, business, and hospitality management, among others. Its sprawling campus includes the famous Voorhis Ecological Reserve and a working farm.

Azusa Pacific University (APU)

Just a stone's throw from Glendora, APU is a comprehensive Christian university known for integrating faith and higher education. Offering over 100 associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, it’s recognized for its nursing, business, and music programs. APU’s commitment to community service and spiritual development makes it a unique choice for students looking for a faith-based education.

University of La Verne

A private not-for-profit university, the University of La Verne has a rich history dating back over a century. It offers more than 50 undergraduate programs and several graduate and doctoral programs. Known for its dedication to community engagement, diversity, and small class sizes, the University of La Verne has a strong emphasis on experiential learning and is particularly well-regarded for its business, law, and education programs.

Citrus College

Located right in Glendora, Citrus College is one of the oldest community colleges in California. Serving over 20,000 students, it offers a wide array of associate degrees and vocational certificate programs. Its Fine and Performing Arts programs are particularly strong, often hosting events and performances that are open to the community. With a focus on student success and transfer readiness, Citrus College is a great starting point for students looking to transfer to a four-year university in the future.

In conclusion, Glendora's vicinity to a wide array of top-notch educational institutions makes it a prime location for students of all disciplines. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive liberal arts education, a STEM-focused curriculum, a faith-based approach, or a community college to kickstart your academic journey, the colleges near Glendora have something to offer for every student.