UC Irvine
Innovate. Discover. Thrive. UCI.
📍 Irvine, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #32 in United States · QS World #293 · THE World #90 · ARWU #79
Quick Facts about UC Irvine
- Type: Public
- Students: 37,297
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $49,679 – $57,600/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: September
About UC Irvine
Academics
UCI offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, with 87 undergraduate degrees and 129 graduate and professional degrees. The university is known for its interdisciplinary approach, particularly evident in programs like Transportation Systems Engineering, which combines engineering, analysis, and computing to address urban transportation challenges. The Institute of Transportation Studies at UCI collaborates with faculty from various schools, including Engineering, Social Sciences, Social Ecology, Population & Public Health, Business, Law, and Information and Computer Science. Notable interdisciplinary graduate programs also include Biotechnology Management and Computational Science.
International Students
UC Irvine is a popular destination for international students, with approximately 15% of its student body coming from outside the United States. The university provides extensive support services, including academic advising, health and wellness advising, and immigration advising to assist with visas and other regulations. The International Center offers workshops, drop-in advising sessions, and cultural integration programs like the International Coffee Hour. In 2020, UCI was home to around 6,665 international students, with China, India, and South Korea being the largest contributing countries.
Campus & Location
The UCI campus in Irvine, California, is celebrated for its unique concentric layout, with academic and service buildings encircling the central Aldrich Park. This 16-acre park serves as a popular gathering, study, and event space. Irvine is consistently ranked as one of America's safest cities. The campus offers various amenities, including the Anteater Recreation Center, a vibrant Student Center with dining options, and the first public esports facility on a college campus in the U.S. While a car is often recommended for exploring beyond the immediate vicinity, UCI provides its own bus system, the Anteater Express, for on-campus transportation and access to nearby shopping centers like the University Town Center. Beyond campus, popular attractions within driving distance include Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, various beaches like Newport and Laguna, and natural spaces such as the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Career Outcomes
UC Irvine demonstrates strong career outcomes for its graduates, with 94% of them employed or pursuing further studies. The Division of Career Pathways offers comprehensive support for international students, including career panels, workshops, one-on-one advising, and career fairs. They also provide resources for navigating the job market in the U.S., including information on Optional Practical Training (OPT) and H1B visas. UCI graduates find employment with notable companies such as Google, Blizzard, and Amazon. The university also provides access to tools like Steppingblocks, which allows students to explore alumni career paths, top employers by major, and estimated salaries.
Information for International Students at UC Irvine
UC Irvine in Irvine, United States welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for UC Irvine
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to UC Irvine:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $155
- Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
- Application deadline: December 1 for undergraduate, varies for graduate (typically December-January)
Programs at UC Irvine (28 programs)
UC Irvine offers 28 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (12)
- Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn fundamental principles of computing, including algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software development methodologies.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst - Biological Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a broad understanding of living organisms, from molecular and cellular levels to ecosystems, preparing students for careers in research, health, and environmental fields.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Healthcare Professional - Business Administration (BA) — 48 months · English
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of business functions, including marketing, finance, management, and operations, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor - Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English
This program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, preparing students for careers in government, law, and public service.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Advisor, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry, preparing students for diverse scientific careers.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores human behavior and mental processes, covering topics such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Research Assistant - History (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores past events, societies, and cultures, fostering critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through historical inquiry.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator - Economics (BA) — 48 months · English
Students learn to analyze economic systems, markets, and policies, understanding how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Analyst - English (BA) — 48 months · English
Students engage with literature, critical theory, and various forms of writing, developing strong analytical and communication skills.
Field: English
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Journalist - Biomedical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
Combines engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to design and develop healthcare solutions, devices, and technologies.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Clinical Engineer - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students explore the fundamental laws of the universe, from quantum mechanics to astrophysics, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Scientist, Engineer - Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English
Students examine social structures, interactions, and institutions, gaining insights into human behavior within societal contexts.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Market Researcher
Master Programs (9)
- Master of Science in Engineering (various specializations) (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study in various engineering disciplines, such as Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering, focusing on research and specialized technical skills.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Senior Engineer, Engineering Consultant, R&D Specialist - Master of Public Health (MPH) (MPH) — 24 months · English · $35,000/yr
This program prepares students to address public health challenges through epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health policy.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator - Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing (MFA) — 24 months · English · $25,000/yr
An intensive graduate program for aspiring writers, offering workshops and seminars in fiction, poetry, and non-fiction, culminating in a thesis manuscript.
Field: Creative Writing
Career outcomes: Author, Editor, Creative Director, Educator - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program delves into specialized areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software engineering, preparing students for research or industry leadership.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Architect, AI Engineer, Research Scientist - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English
The MBA program develops strategic leadership and management skills, focusing on real-world business challenges and innovative solutions across various sectors.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur - Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $17,000/yr · STEM
Focuses on extracting knowledge and insights from data using statistical methods, machine learning, and computational techniques.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst - Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $60,000/yr
A comprehensive program designed to develop leadership and management skills, covering strategic planning, finance, marketing, and operations.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Senior Manager - Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $17,000/yr · STEM
Advanced study in mechanical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science, with applications in various industries.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Product Design Engineer, Research and Development Engineer - Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English · $18,000/yr · STEM
This program prepares students to address public health challenges through epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health policy.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Analyst, Epidemiologist, Health Educator
PhD Programs (7)
- PhD in Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
This doctoral program emphasizes advanced research in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas such as astrophysics, condensed matter, and particle physics.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Physicist, Data Scientist - PhD in Education (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr
This program focuses on advanced research in educational theory, policy, and practice, preparing scholars and leaders in various educational settings.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Researcher, Policy Analyst - PhD in Biological Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program prepares students for independent research careers in various biological fields, emphasizing original contributions to scientific knowledge.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Biotech Innovator - PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr
This rigorous doctoral program trains students in advanced economic theory and econometric methods, preparing them for research and academic careers.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist (Government/Private Sector), Researcher - PhD in Engineering (various specializations) (PhD) — 60 months · English · $15,000/yr · STEM
A research-focused doctoral program offering in-depth study and original contributions across various engineering disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, and biomedical engineering.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, R&D Engineer, Innovator - Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $17,000/yr · STEM
Doctoral research in advanced electrical engineering topics, including signal processing, control systems, and integrated circuits.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Senior Engineer - Materials Science and Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $17,000/yr · STEM
This program involves advanced research into the synthesis, structure, properties, and performance of materials for various applications.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Materials Scientist, Research Engineer, University Professor
Scholarships & Tuition at UC Irvine
Annual tuition for international students: $49,679 – $57,600/year
✅ UC Irvine offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of UC Irvine
- National Ranking: #32 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #293
- Times Higher Education (THE): #90
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #79
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at UC Irvine
- Student housing available
- No sports facilities
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
Key Highlights
- Public land-grant research university
- "R1" very high research activity
- Interdisciplinary academic programs
- Large international student population
- Concentric campus, Aldrich Park focus
Notable Alumni
- Greg Louganis
- Jon Lovitz
- David Benioff
- Nazanin Boniadi
- Michael Chabon
Frequently Asked Questions about UC Irvine
What is UC Irvine?
UC Irvine is a public university located in Irvine, United States. It has approximately 37,297 students.
How much does it cost to study at UC Irvine?
Tuition fees at UC Irvine for international students range from $49,679 – $57,600/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for UC Irvine?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $155. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: December 1 for undergraduate, varies for graduate (typically December-January).
What language are courses taught in at UC Irvine?
Courses at UC Irvine are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does UC Irvine offer?
UC Irvine offers 28 programs: 12 Bachelor's, 9 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is UC Irvine ranked?
#32 in United States · QS World #293 · THE World #90 · ARWU #79.
Does UC Irvine offer scholarships?
Yes, UC Irvine offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does UC Irvine provide visa support?
Yes, UC Irvine provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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