<p>Also USmom, flagship state unis are generally the most prestigious, best funded of all the state unis. Graduation rates, retention rates and %of students living on campus can also heelp to winnow down a list from the universe of state universities. I agree with Mother of Two, this board can help.</p>
<p>The big state schools you read about here tend to be 1) The UCs, because there are just so many kids in CA, 2) The “public Ivys”,which are quite competitive both in-state and out of state, and 3) the state unis outside the top 5 that have at least some notable program, maybe several, maybe an honors college or a science program. The #3 group is the one where you may need to dig for more info.</p>