VIEWBOOK
DIEGO UC SAN MEET
TOP 10
Best Value Public College - Princeton Review, 2024
#6
Public University - U.S. News and World Report, 2024
41,900
Total Campus
Enrollment
33,800 Undergraduate Students
$90,000
Average Base Salary of UC San Diego Graduates
$161,000
Average Mid-Career Salary of UC San Diego Graduates
As one of the world’s leading public universities, UC San Diego has a reputation for making waves with our cutting-edge innovation, top notch academics, vibrant student life, location and expressive arts scene. Proud Tritons spend their days pushing boundaries to uncover solutions to today’s most pressing world issues, including climate change, the public health pandemic and more. To aid their goals, our students enjoy access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources in both the sciences and arts, and are able to connect with research and internship opportunities as early as their first year on campus.
Curious? We invite you to dive into our campus and discover all the outstanding opportunities open to UC San Diego students.
Student Experience
UC San Diego invests significant resources in undergraduate services, including career and professional development, innovative technological facilities and advanced academic support. In addition, we’re establishing real and virtual nextgeneration classrooms and laboratories that offer interactive and immersive experiences.
Experiential Learning
We’re focused on linking classroom instruction with relevant, real-world experiences by placing students in cutting-edge laboratories, research facilities and public service programs at home and abroad. Undergraduates who practice in the field what they learn in the classroom have higher retention, faster graduation rates and better job prospects.
UC San Diego’s exceptional scholars aren’t afraid to push boundaries and challenge conventional wisdom to make the world a better place. Here, you will work closely with distinguished faculty, engage in a field that meets your life’s passions and begin living the academic journey you have always envisioned.
26:1
Student-to-Faculty
Ratio
16
Nobel Laureates have taught at UC San Diego
FACULTY AWARDS INCLUDE:
Pulitzer Prize, Nobel Prize, Academy Award, Tony Award, Fields Medal
Solange she/her 4th year
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Major: Human Biology
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE UC SAN DIEGO?
I wanted to experience new things. I'm from Georgia and it's always been a dream of mine to go to school in California. I also heard UC San Diego had a good pre-med program, and I wanted to go to med school. I was able to meet other Black pre-med students through a mentorship program and we started our own club called the Black Pre-Med Society. That was like the first family or community that I had here on campus.
HUNDREDS OF MINORS 160+ MAJORS
At UC San Diego, we take a distinctive and experimental approach to our programs of study. Our academic programs, taught by leading experts, prepare students to stand out and lead change. Forge your unique learning pathway today.
ARTS AND HUMANITIES
Black Diaspora & African
American Studies
Chinese Studies
Classical Studies
Dance
German Studies
Global South Studies
History
Italian Studies
Japanese Studies
Jewish Studies
Literature/Writing
Literatures in:
• English
• Spanish
Music
Music/Humanities
Music - Interdisciplinary
Computing & the Arts
Philosophy
Russian, East European & Eurasian Studies
Study of Religion
Theatre
Visual Arts
• Art History/Criticism
• Interdisciplinary Computing & the Arts
• Media
• Speculative Design
• Studio
World Literature & Culture
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Biology with Specialization in Bioinformatics
Ecology, Behavior & Evolution
General Biology
Human Biology
Microbiology
Molecular & Cell Biology
Neurobiology
DATA SCIENCE
Data Science
ENGINEERING
Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace Engineering with a Specialization in:
• Aerothermodynamics
• Astrodynamics & Space Applications
• Flight Dynamics & Controls
Bioengineering
Bioengineering
• Bioinformatics
• BioSystems
• Biotechnology
Chemical Engineering
Computer Science
Computer Science & Engineering
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Engineering
Computer Science with a Specialization in Bioinformatics
Electrical & Computer
Engineering
- Computer Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electrical Engineering & Society
Engineering Physics
Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering with a Specialization in:
• Controls & Robotics
• Fluid Mechanics & Thermal Systems
• Materials Science & Engineering
• Mechanics of Materials
• Renewable Energy & Environmental Flows
NanoEngineering
Structural Engineering
HEALTH SCIENCES
Public Health
Public Health with Concentrations in:
• Biostatistics
• Climate & Environmental Sciences
• Community Health Sciences
• Epidemiology
• Health Policy & Management Sciences
• Medicine Sciences
PHYSICAL SCIENCES
Applied Mathematics
Astronomy & Astrophysics
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Environmental Chemistry
General Physics
General Physics/Secondary
Education
Mathematical Biology
Mathematics
Mathematics & Economics
(Joint Major)
Mathematics
• Applied Science
• Computer Science
• Secondary Education
Molecular Synthesis
Pharmacological Chemistry
Physics
Physics with Specialization in:
• Astrophysics
• Computational Physics
• Earth Sciences
• Materials Physics
Physics - Biophysics
Probability & Statistics
SCRIPPS INSTITUTION OF OCEANOGRAPHY
Environmental Systems
• Earth Sciences
• Ecology, Behavior & Evolution
• Environmental Chemistry
• Environmental Policy
Geosciences
Marine Biology
Oceanic & Atmospheric Sciences
SOCIAL SCIENCES
Anthropology with Concentration in:
• Archaeology
• Biological Anthropology
• Climate Change & Human
Solutions
• Sociocultural Anthropology
Biological Anthropology
Business Economics
Business Psychology
Visit ucsd.edu/catalog for the most complete information on all of UC San Diego’s undergraduate programs.
Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience
Cognitive Science
Cognitive Sciences with a Specialization in:
• Clinical Aspects of Cognition
• Design & Interaction
• Language &Culture
• Machine Learning & Neural Computation
• Neuroscience Communication
Critical Gender Studies
Economics
Education Sciences
Ethnic Studies
Global Health
Human Developmental Sciences
Human Developmental Sciences with Specialization in:
• Equity and Diversity
• Healthy Aging
International Studies
• Anthropology
• Economics
• History
• International Business
• Linguistics
• Literature
• Philosophy
• Political Science
• Sociology
Latin American Studies
Latin American Studies with a Concentration in:
• Mexico
• Migration & Border Studies
Linguistics
Linguistics - Language Studies
Linguistics with a Specialization in:
• Cognition & Language
• Language & Society
• Speech & Language Sciences
Mathematics & Economics
(Joint Major)
Media Industries & Communication
Political Science
Political Science
• American Politics
• Comparative Politics
• Data Analytics
• International Relations
• Political Theory
• Public Law
• Public Policy
• Race, Ethnicity & Politics
Psychology
Psychology with Specialization in:
• Clinical Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Human Health
• Sensation & Perception
• Social Psychology
Real Estate & Development
Sociology
Sociology
• American Studies
• Culture & Communication
• Economy & Society
• International Studies
• Law & Society
• Science & Medicine
• Social Inequalities
Urban Studies & Planning
Interested in a Law, Medical or Business career?
UC San Diego offers many academic and pre-professional programs, mentorships, resources and support to ensure your success in graduate school and beyond!
career.ucsd.edu/undergrads
SUCCESS PATHS TO
Everyone’s journey to success is unique. Whether you already have your heart set on a certain career or are still exploring your options, there are many different ways to help you achieve your goals. UC San Diego will be by your side to make sure you’re on the right track.
Explore a career in:
BUSINESS
COMPUTING
ENGINEERING
LAW
MEDIA AND ARTS
MEDICINE
Consider a major in Economics, Political Science, Communications, Psychology
Consider a major in Cognitive Science, Interdisciplinary Computing and the Arts, Speculative Design
Explore majors in Structural and NanoEngineering, Math/Physics, Economics
Consider a major in Political Science, Economics, Biological Sciences, Sociology
Consider a major in Humanities, Communications, Visual Arts, Political Science
Consider a major in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Psychology, Cognitive Science, Engineering
Brandon he/him 3rd year
Hometown: Orange County, CA
Major: Mathematics-Computer Science
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE UC SAN DIEGO?
When I came to campus for a tour, my guide mentioned there was something on campus that was like "Shark Tank" and I thought "That sounds awesome." I found out they were talking about The Basement, which is a place I could possibly explore creating a business of my own. I also wanted to make connections and, with places like the Data Center or the Entrepreneurship Center, you can find fantastic people.
Our unique college system is one of many things that makes UC San Diego such a special place. UC San Diego is a large campus with an international reputation, but the college system allows our undergraduates to experience more personalized advising, student support and leadership opportunities within their smaller college community. Each college has their own general education requirements and college assignment is not based on major. Students may study any major regardless of college affiliation. Get to know our colleges before ranking them on your UC application. View the First-Year and Transfer General Education Requirements PDFs on the Admissions site at admissions.ucsd.edu/colleges.
Yvonne she/her 4th year, transfer Hometown: Tracy, CA
Major: Cognitive Science, specialization in Neuroscience
Initially, the college system can seem pretty confusing because they each have their own requirements and I didn't understand the difference. But I chose Revelle since it's the oldest college and I liked their traditions.
There's a lot of pride in being part of your college because UC San Diego is a really big school, so with the smaller colleges, you're part of that college community too. Like, I'm part of Revelle and I have that Revellian pride. It's also a way to connect with people outside your college since it's an icebreaker. One of the first questions you ask when you meet new people on campus is "What's your college?"
HOW HAS THE COLLEGE SYSTEM BENEFITED YOUR TIME AT UC SAN DIEGO?
EIGHT COLLEGES ONE UNIVERSITY
A Community of Neighborhoods
Think of UC San Diego as a living and learning community made up of different neighborhoods. Each undergraduate college is a neighborhood. They each have their own philosophy and general education requirements. Additionally, each undergraduate college has its own staff, traditions, and residence facilities–first-year students typically live at their college, while new transfers have the option to live on campus in a transfer-centered living learning community. Every college provides access to personalized academic advising, support services, and opportunities to get involved.
Meet the Colleges
REVELLE COLLEGE | EST. 1964 revelle.ucsd.edu
Where the sciences, arts, and humanities join to educate and inspire multidisciplinary scholars.
JOHN MUIR COLLEGE | EST. 1967 muir.ucsd.edu
Recognized for individuality and independent spirit.
THURGOOD MARSHALL COLLEGE | EST. 1970 marshall.ucsd.edu
Shaping us as scholars and citizens.
EARL WARREN COLLEGE | EST. 1974 warren.ucsd.edu
Fostering responsible citizenship in a global society.
ELEANOR ROOSEVELT COLLEGE | EST. 1988 roosevelt.ucsd.edu
Developing world citizens through scholarship, leadership, and service.
SIXTH COLLEGE | EST. 2001 sixth.ucsd.edu
Innovative - Interconnected - Aware: Cultivating curious minds to tackle the complex challenges of our time.
SEVENTH COLLEGE | EST. 2019 seventh.ucsd.edu
Equipping the next generation of scholars, leaders, and innovators with the tools to confront our changing planet.
EIGHTH COLLEGE | EST. 2022 eighth.ucsd.edu
Committed to engagement and community in an effort to tackle worldwide challenges.
FACULTY RENOWNED
Connect Outside the Classroom
• The Dine/Coffee with a Prof programs allow students to meet up with their professors, share a meal or cup of coffee, and learn more about their course or area of study.
• Campus resources like the Academic Internship Program (AIP) connect students with internship opportunities and faculty advisors who can assist with research papers or projects relevant to the student’s internship.
Olivia Graeve, Ph.D.
Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Director, Graduate Program in Material Science and Engineering
Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics, Engineering and Science Mentoring
Luis Alvarez
Associate Professor of History
Inaugural director, Institute of Arts and Humanities and Chicanx/ Latinx Arts and Humanities program
Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action and Diversity Award
UC San Diego has earned a world-class reputation for having faculty of the highest caliber. They guide students along educational and career pathways; they reshape our concepts of the world around us; and they advance creative solutions to address social disparity.
Gentry Patrick he/him Professor of Neurobiology Director of Mentorship and Diversity Division of Biological Sciences
Gentry Patrick grew up in South Central Los Angeles.
MY INSPIRATION
“For me, growing up in that neighborhood was not only interesting and special, but posed a lot of different challenges. One of those challenges was access to a quality education and what inspired me to be a scientist were mentors that I had along the way.”
MY ADVICE TO UNDERGRADUATES
“Don’t be afraid to seek out mentorship. You should have a faculty mentor and perhaps a graduate student or upperclassman mentor. A great mentor can be the difference between a mediocre undergraduate experience and a great one that sets you on a path for success at all stages of your career.”
Maira she/they 3rd year
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Major: Geosciences
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR MAJOR?
I love and owe so much to geosciences. As one of the smallest majors at UC San Diego, it has been an absolute joy getting to know so many passionate and inspiring peers and professors. The field is endlessly fascinating with a tight-knit community. I cannot imagine myself studying anything else, and am truly grateful for Scripps Institution of Oceanography. I have been a part of three research projects so far and all of those opportunities were possible through word of mouth within the geosciences major.
UNKNOWN UNCOVER THE
As a $1.76 billion research enterprise, the university provides undergraduates with valuable hands-on experience and training, no matter what your field of study or major. UC San Diego is a unique place where fresh ideas are translated into solutions to benefit society.
Our research themes include:
• Understanding and protecting the planet.
• Enriching human life and society.
• Exploring the basis of human knowledge, learning and creativity.
• Understanding cultures and addressing disparities in society.
Labs and Libraries
Next-generation chemistry, biological sciences, communications and engineering labs fill our campus, as well as 18 research institutes. UC San Diego’s Geisel Library provides access to more than 7 million items. It was the first academic library in Southern California to partner with Google in building a global digital library.
Arts and Expression
• Our professional theatre district is home to the La Jolla Playhouse, which has originated several shows that have gone on to find success on Broadway, including "How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying," "Jersey Boys," and the 2024 Tony-winner for best musical "The Outsiders."
• UC San Diego's Department of Music offers highly sophisticated concert halls and recording, editing and mastering studios. Students can also enjoy live music at the Epstein Family Amphitheater. Past performers include Death Cab for Cutie, Fred Armisen, Em Beihold '20, and more.
• Art is all around us at UC San Diego thanks to the Stuart Collection, which features more than 20 art pieces throughout our 1,200-acre campus. Some of the most famous pieces in the collection include the Sun God statue and Fallen Star, a small cottage which sits atop the edge of Jacobs Hall.
• Our Structural and Materials Engineering building houses 12 visual arts studios, a gallery, performance space and a state-of-theart paint booth.
VIBES SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
UC San Diego's location just north of downtown San Diego means our students can enjoy the outdoors almost every day of the year, connect with industry leaders for jobs and internships, experience the unique cultures and cuisines of Southern California and nearby Mexico, and make unforgettable memories in one of the most beautiful cities in the country.
Discover San Diego
CULTURAL HUB
San Diego’s world-famous Balboa Park is a hot spot for museums, live music, theater performances, unique crafts and other must-sees like the San Diego Zoo.
SPICE UP YOUR LIFE
From award-winning restaurants to casual dining eateries, irresistible flavors can be found around every corner in San Diego. Being in close proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border means it’s also easy to find some of the best Mexican cuisine in the nation.
THE WORLD’S A STAGE
Live theater and music are at the heart of San Diego’s entertainment. With Broadway San Diego at the downtown Civic Theater, the La Jolla Playhouse on campus, and the San Diego Symphony playing up classic compositions, there is something for all interests.
ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM
San Diego is home to millions of sports fans who root on our home teams, including the San Diego Padres (baseball), San Diego Gulls (ice hockey) and San Diego Wave (soccer). The Padres play at the downtown Petco Park stadium, providing the perfect outing for some fun with friends.
EASY ACCESS
Transportation in San Diego is easy and affordable. The Blue Line Trolley connects UC San Diego’s campus to iconic neighborhoods, downtown activities, entertainment, and internship opportunities. The trolley also allows easy access to the San Diego International Airport, while the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner provides access to nearby areas including Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.
At UC San Diego, excellence is achieved by intentionally weaving inclusivity and support into the fabric of your academic, social and professional experience. We encourage you to bring your whole self into all spaces, and we provide equitable opportunities to fulfill your aspirations in order to ensure success at UC San Diego and beyond.
Supportive Campus Centers
ASIAN PACIFIC ISLANDER MIDDLE EASTERN DESI
AMERICAN PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
APIMEDA helps students—especially from the Asian American, Pacific Islander and Southwest Asian North African American populations—find community at UC San Diego. apimeda.ucsd.edu
BLACK RESOURCE CENTER
The BRC serves the entire population of UC San Diego while emphasizing the Black experience. brc.ucsd.edu
CROSS CULTURAL CENTER
The CCC provides a place of belonging and validation for underrepresented and underserved students, staff, and faculty. ccc.ucsd.edu
INTERTRIBAL RESOURCE CENTER
The ITRC is dedicated to creating a welcoming space on campus and a supportive community for Native American students, faculty and staff by offering academic support, cultural awareness programs and social activities. itrc.ucsd.edu
LESBIAN GAY BISEXUAL TRANSGENDER
RESOURCE CENTER
The LGBT Resource Center is a diverse and inclusive public space for all members of the campus community to explore issues relating to sexual and gender identities, practices and politics. lgbt.ucsd.edu
RAZA RESOURCE CENTRO
A space for all to converse and connect around intersectional Chicanx Latinx identities, Latinidad and cultura. raza.ucsd.edu
TRITON TRANSFER HUB
Supporting the success of the diverse transfer population in order to ensure their pathways to graduation and beyond. transferstudents.ucsd.edu
WOMEN’S CENTER
The center serves as a resource for the entire campus community while focusing on the experiences of diverse women. women.ucsd.edu
TRITON LIFE THE THRILL OF
John he/him
4th year
Hometown: San Clemente, CA
Major: Political Science (Public Policy) and History double major Activities: UCDC Program, Roosevelt College Student Council, Asian and Pacific Islander Student Alliance, Associated Students
HAVE YOU HAD AN INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE AT UC SAN DIEGO?
As a student at UC San Diego, I’ve had the pleasure of working in a variety of internships and jobs across the public and non-profit sectors. I first got involved in local politics through an internship with Congressmember Mike Levin’s re-election campaign. This opportunity allowed me to build a strong foundation for my interpersonal, strategic, and managerial skills that empowered me to succeed in my later experiences.
The professional opportunities made possible by my attendance at UC San Diego have not just been limited to the greater San Diego region. Upon my acceptance to the UC Washington Program, better known as UCDC, I received a generous offer to intern with UC San Diego’s Office of Federal Relations in the nation’s capital.
FUTURE
FUTURE
Our community of Triton alumni is 245,000+ strong and growing! Worldwide, UC San Diego graduates are working in the most sought-after industries, finding success as innovators and entrepreneurs, making a splash in the arts, and changing the world.
TOP EMPLOYERS:
760+
Start-Ups Created by UC San Diego Graduates
$826,000
UC San Diego Graduates
Average 20-Year Net ROI - Payscale.com
$32.4 billion in annual sales by alumni start-up companies
57% of UC San Diego graduates report working in an industry that makes the world a better place - Payscale.com
UC SAN DIEGO ALUMNI HONORS INCLUDE: Nobel Prize Emmy Award Tony Award Nebula Award
PATH TO SUCCESS
Deniz Burnham Class of 2007
Major: Chemical Engineering
Occupation: Selected by NASA to join the 2021 Astronaut Candidate Class
After graduating from UC San Diego with a bachelor’s in Chemical Engineering, Deniz worked in the energy industry, managing drilling optimization projects and emission reduction strategies for drilling rigs. She was raised in a military family and is a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. She serves in the Navy Reserve as the executive officer of SurgeMain Alameda. She was selected by NASA to join the 2021 Astronaut Candidate Class and began reporting for duty in January 2022.
ADMISSIONS
When To Apply
The UC Application is open for submission October 1-November 30. apply.universityofcalifornia.edu
Fall 2024 Admitted Student Overview
FIRST-YEAR
• Applications: 134,500
• Admits: 36,000
• Admit rate: 27%
• Middle 50% GPA: 4.10 - 4.28
Minimum Requirements
FIRST-YEAR APPLICANTS
• Complete UC A-G college preparatory subjects.
• Earn a minimum GPA: 3.0 (CA residents) and 3.4 (non-residents). Students competitive for admission exceed the minimum GPA recommendations.
• UC San Diego does not consider SAT or ACT test scores as a factor in admissions decisions.
TRANSFER
• Applications: 22,500
• Admits: 12,300
• Admit rate: 55%
• Middle 50% GPA: 3.45-3.92
TRANSFER APPLICANTS
• Complete the UC 7-course pattern and major preparation, if applicable.
• Earn a minimum GPA: 3.0 in UC-transferable courses. Students competitive for admission exceed the minimum GPA recommendations.
• Complete a minimum of 60 UC-transferable semester (90 quarter) units.
Competitive applicants to UC San Diego present an academic profile stronger than the minimum requirements. International Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency.
Tuition Stability Plan
Every qualified student, regardless of income, should be able to enroll, thrive and graduate from UC San Diego. The UC system has one of the most generous and progressive financial aid programs in the nation. A UC San Diego education is within reach.
The UC Tuition Stability Plan means your systemwide tuition rate will stay the same for up to six years (not including campus fees), allowing you to plan financially without any surprises along the way.
AND AID
Financing Your Education
You can apply for aid via the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application starting October 1. Submit the application that is right for you before March 2 priority deadline to receive the best possible funding.
Estimated Cost of Attendance for the 2024-2025 Academic Year
Cost of attendance Living with Parents On Campus Off Campus
Components of CA Resident Tuition and Fees
UC Systemwide Tuition and Fees: $13,752
UC San Diego Campus Fees: $2,304
UC San Diego Health Fee: $2,259
UC San Diego One-time Document Fee: $165
*Students from outside of California, add $34,200 to the total above for supplemental out-of-state tuition.
LET'S CONNECT
IMPORTANT DATES
APPLY OCTOBER 1 - NOVEMBER 30
apply.universityofcalifornia.edu
AUG. 1 | UC application opens
OCT. 1-NOV. 30 | UC application submission period
OCT. 1 -MAR. 2 | FAFSA or California Dream Act Application priority submission period (subject to change) BY MAR. 31 | First-year application decisions released BY APR. 30 | Transfer application decisions released
MAY 1 | First-year deadline to accept offer of admission
JUNE 1 | Transfer deadline to accept offer of admission
CONNECT WITH US! (858) 534-4831 admissions.ucsd.edu/contact
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