California State University, San Bernardino

Settled in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, California State University, San Bernardino offers terrific scenery in addition to solid academics. The school, one of the 23 campuses in the Cal State system, has glass-blowing facilities, a crime analysis lab and an electronic music studio, among other amenities. Overall, the school offers more than 70 academic programs spread over five colleges. CSUSB has developed a variety of focused student support programs, including its Veterans Success Center and Coyote First STEP (Student Transition Enhancement Program), a free fully residential summer program for incoming students aimed at helping them improve their math skills before the semester starts. Of the nearly 18,000 students who attend CSUSB, 67% identify as Hispanic, and it's been designated a Hispanic-serving institution by the US Department of Education. It has a 65% graduation rate, which Money finds is 16% higher than expected for institutions with similar student populations. Commuters make up over 90% of the student body, but there are four student housing “villages” on campus and plenty of opportunities to get involved. CSUSB boasts more than 140 student-run clubs and organizations, including 23 fraternities and sororities.