Academic Comparison between Chico State and PLNU

California State University-Chico and Point Loma Nazarene University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Chico State is a four-year, public school located in Chico, CA and PLNU is a four-year, private (not-for-profit) school located in San Diego, CA.

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

California State University-Chicovs.Point Loma Nazarene University
Chico, CaliforniaLocationSan Diego, California
Four-year, PublicSchool Typefour-year, Private (not-for-profit)
Master's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Master's College and University (larger programs)Carnegie ClassificationMaster's College and University (larger programs)
In-State$8,472
Out-Of-State$21,072
2025 Tuition & Fees$46,250
63%% Receiving Financial Aid85%
$11,291Average Amount of Financial Aid$19,348
92.72 %Acceptance Rates83.68 %
10.16 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)21.41 %
-SAT Score1,260
-ACT Score28
63 %Graduation Rate77 %
4 %Transfer-out Rate18 %
82 %Retention Rate86 %
15,257Student Population4,757
493Number of Faculties162
23 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio13 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), Study Abroad, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycareOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services