What are some top schools in California, USA?

I'm planning a college tour in California and want to make sure I hit the best schools. Which universities or colleges should I definitely check out? I'm interested in a range of programs and a great campus experience.

California is home to a range of exceptional colleges and universities, each with their unique strengths in various programs. Here is a quick, non-comprehensive list of some institutions across the state:

1. Stanford University: Known for its programs in Computer Science, Engineering, and Business, Stanford's breathtaking campus in the heart of Silicon Valley is a must-visit location.

2. The University of California System: The UCs have ten campuses located across the state. Each one excels in different areas - for example, UC Berkeley and UCLA are often praised for their programs in everything from STEM to the humanities and social sciences, while UC Davis is recognized for its programs in agriculture and veterinary sciences.

3. The California Institute of Technology (CalTech): Located in Pasadena, CalTech is renowned for its programs in the sciences and engineering.

4. The University of Southern California (USC): USC, located in Los Angeles, has strong programs in Business, Film, and Engineering. USC's campus reflects the city's vibrancy and diversity.

5. The Claremont Colleges: The Claremont Colleges, a consortium of five undergraduate liberal arts colleges (Pomona, Claremont McKenna, Harvey Mudd, Scripps, and Pitzer) and two graduate schools, offer a unique college experience. Each school is academically rigorous with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary and experiential learning.

6. Pepperdine University: Based in Malibu, Pepperdine boasts striking views of the Pacific Ocean. It's known for programs in business and the social sciences.

7. Loyola Marymount University: Located in Los Angeles, Loyola Marymount is recognized for its programs in Business, Communication, and Liberal Arts and Humanities.

Each of these schools offers an array of unique programs and vastly different campus atmospheres, so visiting should provide a rounded view of what higher education in California has to offer.

Remember to look into each campus's visitor policies as many have shifted their tour guidelines in response to health conditions. It can also be beneficial to arrange meetings with department representatives to gain more insights about specific programs you're interested in.

Ultimately, it’s about finding a school that’s the right fit for you. Happy touring!