2026 Best Value Planetary Astronomy & Science Schools in California

1

University Of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA

Leading the list is University Of California Los Angeles, our #1 best value for planetary astronomy & science in California. Set in the city of Los Angeles, University Of California Los Angeles is a very large public institution. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $14,233, with out-of-state students paying around $46,121. Typical student debt for planetary astronomy & science graduates is $16,097. Planetary Astronomy & Science graduates of University Of California Los Angeles earn a median of $63,833 early in their careers. Set against $16,097 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. University Of California Los Angeles admits about 9% of applicants.

2

University Of California Berkeley
Berkeley, CA

The strong cost-to-outcome balance at University Of California Berkeley earned it the #2 place for planetary astronomy & science. Set in the city of Berkeley, University Of California Berkeley is a very large public institution. Students from in state pay about $15,377 in tuition and fees, compared with $47,265 for out-of-state students. Planetary Astronomy & Science graduates carry a median of $19,500 in student loans. Early-career planetary astronomy & science graduates make about $54,746. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. University Of California Berkeley admits about 11% of applicants.

3

California Institute Of Technology
Pasadena, CA

California Institute Of Technology came in at #3 on our 2026 list of the best value planetary astronomy & science schools. Set in the city of Pasadena, California Institute Of Technology is a mid-sized private not-for-profit institution. Students from in state pay about $65,898 in tuition and fees. Early-career planetary astronomy & science graduates make about $173,344. The acceptance rate is 3%.