2026 Best Value Medical Science Schools in California

1

University Of California San Diego
La Jolla, CA

University Of California San Diego tops our 2026 list of the best value medical science schools in California. Set in the city of La Jolla, University Of California San Diego is a very large public institution. In-state tuition and fees average $15,788, with out-of-state students paying around $47,676. Students borrow a median of $17,101 to complete the medical science program here. Soon after graduation, medical science degree recipients from University Of California San Diego generally make around $121,264. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. The acceptance rate is 27%.

2

University Of California Irvine
Irvine, CA

Students looking for strong value in medical science will find it at University Of California Irvine, which ranked #2. Set in the city of Irvine, University Of California Irvine is a very large public institution. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $14,752, compared with $46,640 for out-of-state students. Typical student debt for medical science graduates is $16,539. Medical Science graduates of University Of California Irvine earn a median of $50,958 early in their careers. Set against $16,539 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. The acceptance rate is 29%.