UC Davis

The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is a public land-grant research university and the northernmost of the ten University of California campuses. Established in 1905 as an agricultural branch, it has grown into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. UC Davis is recognized for its strong academic environment and commitment to student success.

Academics

UC Davis offers 99 undergraduate and 90 graduate programs across four colleges and six professional schools. The university is particularly renowned for its programs in agricultural and environmental sciences, biological sciences, engineering, and veterinary medicine, with the School of Veterinary Medicine being the largest in the United States. The College of Letters and Science also provides extensive opportunities in social sciences, humanities, and physical sciences. A significant aspect of the teaching approach is a strong emphasis on research and practical training, with over 70% of undergraduates participating in research or other experiential learning.

International Students

UC Davis is a diverse institution, with international students comprising approximately 16% of the total student body, representing over 100 countries. The Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) office provides crucial support, including visa and immigration assistance, orientation, and advising on financial, personal, cultural, and academic concerns. While specific English-taught programs are not separately listed, all instruction at UC Davis is in English, and English proficiency is a requirement for admission. Cultural integration is fostered through various events, programs, and organizations like the Global Ambassador Mentorship Program and the Pal Program.

Campus & Location

The main campus of UC Davis spans 5,300 acres, making it the largest in the University of California system, and is located in Davis, California, a vibrant college town of about 68,000 people. The city of Davis is known for being student-friendly and bicycle-friendly, with a downtown area directly adjacent to the university. Sacramento International Airport is approximately 20 minutes away, and public transportation, including the local Unitrans bus system, serves the campus. World-class attractions like the San Francisco Bay Area, Lake Tahoe, and the Napa Valley are within a two-hour drive.

Career Outcomes

UC Davis demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with a high overall graduation rate of 85% within 150% of normal time. The university boasts an employment rate of 79% for MBA graduates within three months of post-graduation, with an average base salary of USD 98,000, while MSBA graduates see a 95% employment rate and an average salary of USD 131,000. Top employers of UC Davis graduates include major companies like Amazon, Google, Apple, Meta, and Tesla. The Career Center offers workshops and resources specifically for international students, including guidance on employment authorization like CPT and OPT, and access to global job boards. UC Davis also fosters a growing startup culture, with initiatives like Aggie Square designed to accelerate discovery and economic growth.