Which is better for an education major?
They are both very good I don’t think Chico offers an accelerated program but, that’s not for everyone. .
Tour the campuses, one will feel more like where you want to spend the next 4 years. That one will be the right choice.
If you cannot visit consider these facts (I have visited Sonoma State, but not Chico State - however I deeply researched both institutions).
Sonoma State…
Pros
- Has much more students living on campus.
- One of the best housing systems in the nation.
- Very safe/serious environment to study in.
Cons
- Not that much school spirit. I also saw a girl wearing a UCLA tanktop. :I
- If you want more than academics, this school may not be the place. The city Sonoma State resides in is a bedroom community, people mistaken it as a college town (which I understand). Social life isn't superior unless you participate in Greek life/have a car.
- The stereotypical Sonoma State student is a middle-class white women who has grown up in the area or in the neighboring cities.
Chico State…
Pros
- One of the few remaining college towns left in California.
- One of the top schools that has the best school spirit in California that doesn't have a football team. Has an excellent academic reputation...at least to the open-minded people.
- One of the few residential California State Universities.
Cons
- The stereotype, I'm sure you have heard of it. Students from my secondary school who enrolled in Chico State weren't that interested in academics. However, they do have a Honors College.
- The location isn't ideal from what I have heard of.
- Unless if you live in Northern California, traveling will be a pain in the butt.
Both schools are excellent. But I’m sure you care about both your social and academic skills, but if you had to choose one, which one would you go for? If social, go Chico State. If academic, go Sonoma State.
Good luck. 