11 Best Football Colleges in California

When it comes to college football, many people immediately think of the South as the heartland of the sport. While it’s true that programs like Alabama and Clemson dominate the national conversation, California is also a powerhouse in college football, boasting some of the best football colleges in the country. The Golden State is home to a diverse range of football programs, from storied Division I schools with national championships to rising Division II and III teams with dedicated fanbases to these American football teams in California.

California’s football scene is as varied as the state itself. Whether you’re drawn to the high-octane atmosphere of a Pac-12 showdown or the strategic play of a Big Sky Conference game, there’s something for everyone. This article delves into the top football colleges in California, offering a comprehensive look at what makes each program stand out. We’ll explore their histories, recent successes, and what it takes to secure a job at one of these prestigious institutions.

In addition to spotlighting these elite programs, we’ll provide insights into the career opportunities available within college football. From coaching positions to athletic training roles, California’s football scene offers a wealth of opportunities for passionate individuals looking to make their mark in the sport. Whether you’re a student considering your future or a professional seeking new career paths, understanding the landscape of college football in California is essential.

So, if you’re curious about which schools lead the pack and what it takes to work in this competitive field, read on to discover the top football colleges in California and how you can get involved with these California State Football teams.

How Many College Football Teams are in California?

There are more than 50 college football teams in California, and they play at various levels and have varying degrees of success on and off the field. However, most of the NCAA football jobs are available for you to pursue.

Top D1 Football Colleges in California

California boasts some of the most storied football programs in the nation. Each of the following schools has made significant contributions to college football through their impressive histories, championships, and standout players. Here’s a closer look at these top programs:

1. California Polytechnic State University – San Luis Obispo (FCS) – San Luis Obispo, CA

Team: Cal Poly Mustangs
Conference: Big West

Cal Poly’s football program has been known for its strong performances in the FCS division. The Mustangs are particularly famous for their unique triple-option offense, which has led them to several successful seasons and playoff appearances.

2. California State University – Fresno (FBS) – (Fresno, CA)

Team: Fresno Bull Dogs
Conference: Mountain West

The Fresno State Bulldogs have a rich history, including notable bowl victories like the 2007 Humanitarian Bowl and the 2018 Las Vegas Bowl. Legendary players such as quarterback David Carr, who was the first overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft, have left their mark on the program.

3. California State University – Sacramento (FCS) – (Sacramento, CA)

Team: Hornets
Conference: Big Sky

Sacramento State has seen considerable success in recent years, particularly under head coach Troy Taylor. The Hornets won their first Big Sky Championship in 2021 and made their first-ever FCS Playoff appearance.

4. San Diego State University (FBS) – (San Diego, CA)

Team: Aztecs
Conference: Mountain West

The Aztecs are known for their strong defensive units and have a tradition of producing NFL talent. Notable alumni include Marshall Faulk, a Hall of Famer and Super Bowl champion. San Diego State has also participated in numerous bowl games, including the 2019 New Mexico Bowl.

5. San Jose State University (FBS) – (San Jose, CA)

Team: Spartans
Conference: Mountain West

The Spartans have experienced a resurgence in recent years, highlighted by their 2020 Mountain West Championship win. San Jose State’s football history includes a 1987 California Bowl victory and the development of NFL stars like quarterback Jeff Garcia.

6. Stanford University (FBS) – (Stanford, CA)

Team: Cardinals
Conference: Pac-12

Stanford is one of the most prestigious football programs in the country. Its storied history includes multiple Rose Bowl appearances and national championships in the early 1900s. The Cardinals have produced numerous NFL stars, including John Elway and Andrew Luck.

7. University of California – Davis (FCS) – (Davis, CA)

Team: Aggies
Conference: Big Sky

UC Davis has been a competitive force in FCS football, winning multiple conference championships and making several playoff appearances. The Aggies’ football program is noted for its rigorous defense and consistent performance in the Big Sky Conference.

8. University of California – Berkeley (FBS) – (Berkeley, CA)

Team: Golden Bears
Conference: Pac-12

The Golden Bears have a long football tradition, including multiple Rose Bowl appearances and a national championship in 1920. Notable alumni include NFL legends like quarterback Joe Kapp and wide receiver Keenan Allen.

9. University of California – Los Angeles (FBS) – (Los Angeles, CA)

Team: Bruins
Conference: Pac-12

UCLA has a rich football history, with several Rose Bowl victories and a national championship in 1954. The Bruins have produced numerous NFL stars, including quarterback Troy Aikman and running back Maurice Jones-Drew.

10. University of San Diego (FCS) – (San Diego, CA)

Team: Tritons
Conference: Big West

The Toreros have made significant strides in FCS football, winning multiple Pioneer Football League titles and making consistent playoff appearances. The program is known for its strong offensive schemes and player development.

11. University of Southern California (FBS) – (Los Angeles, CA)

Team: Trojans
Conference: Pac-12

USC is one of the most successful programs in college football history, with multiple national championships and Heisman Trophy winners. The Trojans have a storied rivalry with UCLA and have produced numerous NFL stars, including O.J. Simpson and Reggie Bush.

Each of these schools has significantly impacted college football through their achievements, legendary players, and contributions to the sport’s history. Whether you’re a fan, a prospective student-athlete, or someone looking to work in college football, these programs represent the pinnacle of football excellence in California.

Types of D1 Football Jobs in California

Coach

Salary: $67,000 – $107,000

You typically need previous coaching experience to get hired at the D1 level at a football college in California or elsewhere. There are also several types of assistant coaching jobs available. 

These range from working with specific position groups to leading the entire offense or defense with your play-calling. The more responsibilities you have, the more you can expect to earn.

Athletic Trainer

Salary: $47,000– $67,000

Athletic trainers are responsible for keeping players fit and healthy so they can perform during games. They also help players resolve injuries by applying treatment before and after practices. You generally need a college degree to get this job.

Director of Recruitment

Salary:  ~$60,000

Recruiting directors are responsible for bringing skilled players into the school, and they may also manage other scouts. The requirements for this job tend to be previous high-level football experience and potentially a college degree.

Announcer/Broadcaster

Salary: ~$51,862

You may also want to look into becoming an announcer or broadcaster. Previous broadcasting or announcing experience and a relevant degree will be a requirement for this job. It’ll give you the opportunity to stay involved in football without needing to get hired by the team to do so.

Internships and Entry-Level Opportunities

Starting your career in college football often begins with an internship or an entry-level position. Here’s how to find the best opportunities:

Expand on Internship Opportunities

Applying for internships in college football requires a proactive approach. Most programs offer graduate assistant positions or internships through their athletic departments. Here’s how to get started:

• Search College Athletic Websites: Visit the official websites of California’s college football programs to find internship and graduate assistant positions listings.
• Reach Out Directly: Don’t hesitate to contact the coaching staff or athletic department directly to inquire about available opportunities.
• Check Job Boards: Organizations such as the NCAA, NAIA, and JobsInSports.com often post available internship positions across various colleges.

Some specific programs that frequently offer internships include:

• University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Athletics Internship Program: Offers a variety of roles, including sports medicine, operations, and video analysis.
• Stanford Athletics Internship Program: Known for offering opportunities in strength and conditioning, sports information, and event management.

How to Find a D1 Football Job in California

If you’re committed to finding jobs in D1 NCAA football, then it’s important to know what the process looks like to maximize your performance during each step. 

Here’s an overview.

1. Build a Resume

The first thing you need to do is build a resume that’s good enough to land your dream college football job. That means two things: getting some experience and finishing your education.

The experience you need will depend on the job you want. If you’d like to become an assistant coach, try your hand at coaching high school football first. Or, if you want to be an athletic trainer, take an internship somewhere – it doesn’t necessarily need to be a football job.

Many high-level college football job openings also require a college degree. So if you haven’t finished yours yet, now could be the time to do so.

2. Form Connections

NCAA football jobs are very competitive – especially in a state like California. That means hiring decisions are often made based on connections as much as they are based on merit. 

That’s why it’s never too early to begin forming connections in the state’s football communities.

3. Put Together Your Application Materials

Now you’re ready to put together an application that will get you your dream job. Ideally, you want to customize your resume and cover letter for every job you apply for. That way, you give yourself the best chance of standing out.

4. Know Where to Look for College Football Jobs

Finally, you need to know where to look for college football jobs. There are thousands available in the United States every year, and if you know where to find those quickly, it could be just what you need to get hired.

That’s why you should consider using JobsInSports.com.

Football Job Trends

The football job market constantly evolves, and understanding current trends can help job seekers target their efforts more effectively.

Job Trends in the Football Market

• Growing Demand for Data Analysts and Sports Scientists: As teams increasingly rely on data to make strategic decisions, there is a rising demand for data analysts and sports scientists. These roles require expertise in statistics, data visualization, and often a background in sports science or kinesiology.
• Shift Toward Specialization in Coaching Roles: There has been a noticeable shift towards more specialized coaching positions, such as strength and conditioning coaches or position-specific coaches (e.g., quarterback coach, defensive backs coach). This trend reflects a focus on targeted skill development and performance optimization.
• Changes in Job Requirements: Recently, many programs have started emphasizing the need for experience with technology and analytics. For example, coaches are now often expected to use video analysis tools and data-driven software to enhance training and game preparation.

Start Your Journey in California Football Today!

Are you ready to kickstart your career in college football and make your mark at one of California’s top programs? Whether you’re an aspiring coach, athletic trainer or looking to dive into football operations, JobsInSports.com is here to help you find your dream job. Don’t miss out on the latest openings – create your free account today, set up personalized job alerts, and be the first to apply to the newest and most exciting opportunities in California football.

Take the next step in your career – Join JobsInSports.com now!

FAQs

What is the difference between Division I, II, and III football programs in California?

Division I programs, such as those in the Pac-12 and Mountain West conferences, typically have larger budgets, more scholarships, and a higher competition level than Division II and III schools. Division II and III programs may offer fewer athletic scholarships and focus more on balancing academics and athletics.

How can I find internship opportunities with California college football teams?

Internship opportunities with California college football teams can often be found on the official websites of the athletic departments or by contacting the departments directly. Additionally, checking job boards like NCAA Market and NAIA Careers can provide listings for available positions.

What kind of experience is needed to become a director of recruitment in college football?

To become a director of recruitment, candidates usually need extensive experience in scouting or coaching, a strong understanding of NCAA rules and regulations, a background in player evaluation, and networking within the football community.

Are there part-time or volunteer opportunities in California college football programs?

Yes, many college football programs offer part-time or volunteer opportunities, especially for roles like team management, video analysis, and support staff. These roles are excellent for gaining experience and building a network within the sport.

What are some emerging trends in college football job roles?

Emerging trends in college football jobs include a growing demand for data analysts who can interpret performance metrics and sports scientists who help enhance player performance through innovative training techniques. There’s also an increasing focus on mental health support and wellness coaching for athletes.

What should I consider when choosing a college football program to work for in California?

When choosing a college football program to work for, consider the program’s culture, support for career development, opportunities for advancement, and geographic location. Also, research the program’s reputation within the football community and its history of success.

How does networking impact a career in college football?

Networking is crucial in college football careers, as many opportunities arise through connections with coaches, administrators, and other professionals in the industry. Attending events like coaching clinics and conferences can help build these relationships and open doors to potential job offers.

How competitive is the job market for college football roles in California?

The job market for college football roles in California is highly competitive due to the state’s numerous programs and the sport’s overall popularity. Candidates with specialized skills, relevant experience, and strong professional networks are more likely to stand out.

What are the benefits of working in a college football program in non-coaching roles?

Working in non-coaching roles, such as in athletic administration, sports medicine, or marketing, allows individuals to be involved in the football program without the intense coaching demands. These roles often provide a better work-life balance and opportunities for specialization in a particular area.

How can I stay updated on new job openings in California college football?

Check job boards like JobsInSports.com, NCAA Market, and NAIA Careers regularly to stay updated on new job openings. Joining professional organizations such as the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) can also provide access to exclusive job postings and networking opportunities.