Strong Politics/Business/Gov Programs at California Schools?

<p>I am particularly interested in Claremont Mckenna because of its strong politics and economics programs. The problem, however, is its incredibly selective nature. Are there any schools similar in nature to CMC in California, but perhaps just a little less selective?</p>

<p>I sometimes wonder how CMC came about to be such a prestigious LAC. The college was founded in 1959 i believe. That is very short time span to gain such notoriety or track record to be one of the best in the US.</p>