* California State University, Long Beach (CSULB): This is likely the most prominent and comprehensive option nearby. It's a large, public university with a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It's a bit further than some others on this list but offers significantly more program variety.
* University of La Verne: This is a private university with a strong reputation, offering a more intimate learning environment than CSULB. It's closer to Downey than CSULB but has a smaller selection of programs.
* Rio Hondo College: This is a community college, offering associate degrees and transfer programs to four-year universities. It's the closest option geographically and a great and affordable option for the first two years of college. It's ideal for students wanting to save money before transferring to a four-year institution.
* Cypress College: Another community college option slightly further out but still relatively close to Downey. Similar advantages to Rio Hondo in terms of affordability and transfer opportunities.
To determine the "best" college for *you*, consider:
* Your intended major: Some schools excel in specific fields.
* Your budget: Private universities like University of La Verne are more expensive than public universities like CSULB or community colleges.
* Campus size and environment: Do you prefer a large university or a smaller, more intimate setting?
* Career goals: Research which schools have strong alumni networks and placement rates in your desired field.
I recommend visiting the websites of these colleges and comparing their programs, tuition costs, and student life offerings to make an informed decision.