Pomona's University Landscape
Pomona has a unique place in Southern California higher education. The city is home to a major public polytechnic university and a nationally recognized graduate health sciences university, and it is within easy reach of several research universities and specialized graduate schools. For students who want hands-on learning, professional training, or advanced research, few regions offer as much opportunity.
This guide focuses on universities, meaning institutions that grant bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across multiple schools or disciplines, that are located in or easily accessible from Pomona.
How We Ranked These Universities
We considered academic reputation, program breadth and depth, research activity, career outcomes, affordability, student experience, and ease of access from Pomona by car or transit. Every university on this list offers a distinctive strength that makes it worth considering.
The Top 10 Universities Serving Pomona
1. California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Cal Poly Pomona is the city's flagship institution and one of the most respected public universities in the western United States. Its learn-by-doing philosophy emphasizes hands-on experience in engineering, architecture, hospitality management, business, agriculture, and science. The sprawling campus, once the winter ranch of cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg, still hosts the famous Arabian Horse Center and its well-known Sunday horse shows.
2. Western University of Health Sciences
Western University of Health Sciences, located in downtown Pomona, is a graduate university dedicated to healthcare education. It offers programs in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, veterinary medicine, dentistry, nursing, and more, and its interprofessional approach prepares students to work in collaborative care teams.
3. University of La Verne
The University of La Verne is a private university just north of Pomona, known for small classes, a diverse student body, and strong programs in education, business, public administration, and law. Its commitment to working adults and first-generation students has made it a pillar of the region.
4. Claremont Graduate University
Claremont Graduate University is a graduate-only institution known for its schools of management, including the Peter F. Drucker and Masatoshi Ito Graduate School of Management, and for programs in psychology, education, and information systems. Its interdisciplinary approach and connection to the Claremont Colleges create a rich academic environment.
5. Keck Graduate Institute
Keck Graduate Institute is part of the Claremont Colleges and specializes in applied life sciences, pharmacy, genetic counseling, and biotechnology management. Its industry-focused programs connect students directly with pharmaceutical, medical device, and biotech employers.
6. Azusa Pacific University
Azusa Pacific University is a private Christian university along the Metro A Line. It is known for strong programs in nursing, education, psychology, and theology, and it offers a supportive, values-based environment for undergraduate and graduate students.
7. University of California, Riverside
UC Riverside is a public research university with nationally recognized programs in engineering, the life sciences, business, and medicine. It is known for its social mobility outcomes and diverse student body and is a popular choice for Pomona Valley students seeking a University of California education close to home.
8. California State University, Fullerton
Cal State Fullerton is one of the largest universities in California and offers highly regarded programs in business, communications, engineering, and the arts. Its central location in north Orange County makes it an accessible option for students from southern Pomona and Diamond Bar.
9. California State University, San Bernardino
CSUSB serves the Inland Empire with programs in business, cybersecurity, education, and public administration. Its national recognition for cybersecurity education and its commitment to regional economic development make it a strong choice for career-focused students.
10. California Institute of Technology
Caltech in Pasadena is one of the world's leading research universities in science and engineering. Admission is extremely selective, and its proximity to Pomona via light rail gives the region's most ambitious STEM students access to an institution known for groundbreaking discoveries and close ties with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
University Trends in the Pomona Valley
Universities in the region are expanding programs in artificial intelligence, data science, sustainability, and healthcare to meet workforce demand. Online and hybrid graduate degrees are increasingly common, making advanced education accessible to working professionals. Public universities are also strengthening partnerships with community colleges to create smoother transfer pathways.
Tips for Choosing a University
Look beyond overall rankings and focus on the strength of the specific program you want to study. Consider internship opportunities, faculty research, class sizes, housing, and total cost after financial aid. If possible, visit campuses and sit in on a class, and ask about career services and alumni networks in your field.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cal Poly Pomona best known for? The university is especially well known for engineering, architecture, hospitality management, business administration, and agriculture. Its learn-by-doing approach gives students laboratory, studio, and industry project experience throughout their studies.
Does Western University of Health Sciences offer undergraduate programs? Western University focuses mainly on graduate and professional health programs. Students typically complete a bachelor's degree elsewhere before applying to its medical, pharmacy, veterinary, and allied health programs.
Can I reach nearby universities without a car? Yes. The Metro A Line and Metrolink connect Pomona with universities in La Verne, Azusa, Pasadena, and Los Angeles, and Foothill Transit buses serve many campuses in the San Gabriel Valley.
Final Thoughts
From Cal Poly Pomona's hands-on polytechnic education to Western University's health sciences training and the research power of nearby institutions, Pomona students have world-class university options within reach. Take time to explore each one and find the best match for your academic and career ambitions.