A College Town Surrounded by Options
Few cities in Southern California have as many higher education options within a short drive as Pomona. On its northern border, the Claremont Colleges consortium includes some of the most selective liberal arts colleges in the nation. Around it, highly rated community colleges offer affordable pathways to university transfer and in-demand careers. Pomona itself is home to major institutions that attract students from across the country.
This guide focuses on colleges, meaning undergraduate-focused liberal arts colleges and community colleges, that serve Pomona residents. For large research institutions, see our companion guide to the best universities in Pomona.
How We Selected These Colleges
We weighed academic reputation, program variety, transfer and graduation outcomes, affordability, student support services, and accessibility from Pomona. We also considered each college's culture and learning environment, because the right fit matters as much as rankings.
The Top 10 Colleges Serving Pomona
1. Pomona College
Despite its name, Pomona College is located in neighboring Claremont. The college was founded in the late 1880s and took its name from the region. It consistently ranks among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States and is known for small classes, world-class faculty, and generous financial aid. It is the founding member of the Claremont Colleges consortium.
2. Harvey Mudd College
Harvey Mudd is one of the most respected science, engineering, and mathematics colleges in the country. Its rigorous core curriculum blends technical depth with the humanities, and its graduates are highly sought after by top technology companies and graduate programs.
3. Claremont McKenna College
Claremont McKenna focuses on economics, government, international relations, and leadership. It is known for its research institutes, its Athenaeum speaker series, and its strong outcomes in business, law, and public policy.
4. Scripps College
Scripps is a women's liberal arts college known for its interdisciplinary humanities core, beautiful campus, and strong community. Students benefit from an intimate academic environment and full access to courses across the Claremont consortium.
5. Pitzer College
Pitzer is known for its emphasis on social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and intercultural understanding. It offers flexible academic pathways and strong study abroad programs, and it attracts students who want to combine academics with community engagement.
6. Mt. San Antonio College
Mt. San Antonio College, known as Mt. SAC, is in nearby Walnut and is one of the largest community colleges in California. It offers hundreds of degree and certificate programs, strong transfer pathways to Cal Poly Pomona and University of California campuses, and nationally recognized athletics and career technical education.
7. Chaffey College
Chaffey College serves the western Inland Empire from its main campus in Rancho Cucamonga and satellite campuses in Chino and Fontana. It is known for strong nursing, industrial technology, and aviation programs, along with extensive student support services and a growing guaranteed transfer network.
8. Citrus College
Citrus College in Glendora is one of the oldest community colleges in California. It is known for its performing arts, cosmetology, and automotive technology programs and for high student success rates, and its welcoming campus and close-knit community make it a favorite for students from the eastern San Gabriel Valley.
9. Rio Hondo College
Rio Hondo College in Whittier offers well-regarded programs in public safety, alternative fuel technology, and the health sciences. Its police and fire academies are especially respected, and it provides reliable transfer pathways for Pomona Valley students.
10. Pasadena City College
Pasadena City College is now reachable from Pomona by Metro A Line light rail. It is known for strong transfer rates to top universities, a large selection of academic programs, and excellent design, media, and science offerings.
Higher Education Trends in the Region
Colleges throughout the Pomona Valley are expanding dual enrollment so high school students can earn college credit early. Many community colleges now offer tuition-free first-year programs for California residents, along with guaranteed admission agreements with public universities. Liberal arts colleges are investing in data science, environmental studies, and interdisciplinary programs that respond to a rapidly changing job market.
Tips for Choosing a College
Think about your academic goals, preferred learning environment, and budget. Community colleges are an excellent, affordable way to complete general education before transferring. Selective liberal arts colleges offer intimate classes and strong financial aid for qualifying students. Visit campuses, talk to current students, and meet with admissions and financial aid counselors before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pomona College in the city of Pomona? No. Pomona College is located in Claremont, directly north of the city of Pomona. The college was named after the Pomona Valley region, which is a frequent source of confusion for visitors and prospective students.
Can community college students take classes at the Claremont Colleges? Cross-registration is generally reserved for students enrolled at the consortium's member colleges. However, many community college students transfer successfully into Claremont institutions, and the colleges host public lectures and events.
What is the most affordable path to a bachelor's degree? For many Pomona residents, starting at a community college such as Mt. SAC or Chaffey and transferring to a public university offers the lowest total cost while still leading to a respected degree.
Final Thoughts
Pomona students have access to an extraordinary range of colleges, from nationally ranked liberal arts institutions to large, career-focused community colleges. Whatever your goals and budget, there is a college nearby that can help you build a strong foundation for the future.