2026 Best Value General Systems Engineering Schools in California

1

California State University Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA

For return on investment in general systems engineering, no school beat California State University Dominguez Hills this year. Set in the city of Carson, California State University Dominguez Hills is a large public institution. In-state tuition and fees average $7,454, compared with $20,054 for out-of-state students. Students borrow a median of $15,886 to complete the general systems engineering program here. Soon after graduation, general systems engineering degree recipients from California State University Dominguez Hills generally make around $52,683. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. California State University Dominguez Hills admits about 93% of applicants.

2

University Of California San Diego
La Jolla, CA

A rank of #2 makes University Of California San Diego one of the best values for general systems engineering. Located in the city of La Jolla, University Of California San Diego is a very large public university. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $15,788, compared with $47,676 for out-of-state students. General Systems Engineering graduates carry a median of $17,101 in student loans. Early-career general systems engineering graduates make about $60,797. That is a strong return on a $17,101 median debt. The acceptance rate is 27%.

3

University Of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA

A rank of #3 makes University Of Southern California one of the best values for general systems engineering. Located in the city of Los Angeles, University Of Southern California is a very large private not-for-profit university. In-state tuition and fees average $71,647. Students borrow a median of $15,625 to complete the general systems engineering program here. General Systems Engineering graduates of University Of Southern California earn a median of $118,363 early in their careers. Set against $15,625 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. Roughly 10% of applicants are accepted.

4

Loyola Marymount University
Los Angeles, CA

Loyola Marymount University is a great value for students pursuing a degree in general systems engineering, landing the #4 spot this year. Loyola Marymount University is a large private not-for-profit school located in the city of Los Angeles. The average in-state cost of tuition and fees is $61,867. General Systems Engineering graduates carry a median of $22,248 in student loans. General Systems Engineering graduates of Loyola Marymount University earn a median of $52,935 early in their careers. Set against $22,248 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. The acceptance rate is 45%.