University of California, Merced

The University of California, Merced (UC Merced) is the newest campus in the University of California system. Located in California's San Joaquin Valley, UC Merced has become a center for academic excellence, innovation, and diversity. It serves the growing educational needs of the region since welcoming its first students.

A Brief History of UC Merced

UC Merced was proposed in the late 1980s to address California's increasing population and demand for higher education. The site in Merced was selected for its central location. The university was founded in 2002 and began construction in 2003. It opened to students in 2005, initially using downtown Merced facilities until campus buildings were ready.

Since then, UC Merced has experienced significant growth in both infrastructure and academic offerings. The university emphasizes sustainability and innovation, exemplified by the ambitious expansion plan known as the 2020 Project, designed to support student growth and research activities.

Academics at UC Merced

UC Merced consists of three schools: - School of Engineering

• School of Natural Sciences
• School of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts

The university provides a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs to meet diverse interests.

Students benefit from a low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering personalized education. Undergraduates have the chance to participate in groundbreaking research projects, a benefit often reserved for graduate students at larger institutions.

Research centers at UC Merced focus on diverse topics, including advanced materials, climate change, and social sciences. These opportunities are enhanced by connections with local and global communities.

Rankings and Recognitions

Despite being a relatively new institution, UC Merced is gaining recognition in various academic fields. It frequently appears on lists of the best new universities and is noted for promoting diversity and upward mobility.

The university has received accolades for its commitment to sustainability, diversity, and research. It has been recognized by Sierra Magazine as a "Cool School" for its sustainability initiatives and is praised for providing access to higher education for first-generation college students and underrepresented minorities.

Contacting Admissions

Prospective students with questions about applications, requirements, and deadlines can reach out to the Admissions Office:

• Undergraduate Admissions Office

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: 209-228-7178

• Graduate Division

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: 209-228-4723

It is recommended to consult with an admissions counselor for personalized information based on individual circumstances. UC Merced encourages campus visits and offers assistance with tours and information sessions.

Useful Links

Prospective students can access various online resources to learn about UC Merced:

• Main Website: University of California, Merced
• Admissions: Undergraduate Admissions, Graduate Admissions
• Campus Tours: Visit UC Merced
• Academic Programs: UC Merced Academics
• Research Opportunities: Research at UC Merced
• Current Rankings: UC Merced Rankings

UC Merced continues to support growth and discovery, presenting opportunities for those looking to make an impact in academia and beyond.