UC San Diego

Quick Facts about UC San Diego

• Type: Public
• Students: 46,178
• Campus: Urban
• Tuition: $43,800 – $72,000/year
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
• Intakes: September

About UC San Diego

Academics

UC San Diego is recognized for its rigorous academic environment and research-oriented approach. Key faculties include the Jacobs School of Engineering, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and strong programs in biology, bioengineering, chemistry, and physics. The university encourages undergraduate involvement in research, especially in STEM fields. Popular majors also include social sciences, health sciences, computer science, and international studies.

International Students

UC San Diego provides extensive support services for international students through its International Services and Engagement Office (ISEO) and International Programs at the Division of Extended Studies. These services include immigration and visa advising, student health and welfare advising, housing assistance, and cultural integration activities. In Fall 2021, international students constituted approximately 11.8% of the undergraduate student population, with a significant number coming from China, India, and South Korea. Various student organizations, such as the International Student Society and Model United Nations, foster community and offer opportunities for cultural exchange.

Campus & Location

Located in the La Jolla neighborhood, UC San Diego's campus spans 2,178 acres near the Pacific coast. San Diego offers a vibrant city life with beautiful beaches, a thriving economy, and diverse cultural influences. The campus features modern infrastructure, including the iconic Geisel Library, and is well-connected with public transportation. Students can enjoy a balanced lifestyle, with opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and surfing.

Career Outcomes

UC San Diego graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with 86.1% of 2022–23 respondents receiving a full-time job offer within three months of graduating. The university has strong connections with various industries, particularly in technology and biotechnology, given its location in Southern California. Notable employers recruiting from UC San Diego include Google, Apple, Pfizer, and Amazon. The university also fosters a robust startup culture, with resources like the Entrepreneurship Center providing mentorship, funding opportunities, and incubator space for student ventures.

Information for International Students at UC San Diego

UC San Diego in San Diego, United States welcomes international students.

• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for UC San Diego

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to UC San Diego:

• IELTS minimum: 7
• TOEFL minimum: 83
• Duolingo minimum: 115
• GPA minimum: 3
• Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
• Application deadline: November 30

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Programs at UC San Diego (56 programs)

UC San Diego offers 56 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (11)

• Marine Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  Students study marine organisms, ecosystems, and ocean processes, preparing for careers in marine conservation, research, and aquaculture.
  Field: Marine Biology
  Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Aquaculture Specialist
• Cognitive Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program explores the nature of the mind and intelligence, integrating psychology, computer science, linguistics, and neuroscience.
  Field: Cognitive Science
  Career outcomes: UX Designer, AI Developer, Research Assistant
• Marine Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  Students study marine organisms, ecosystems, and ocean processes, preparing for careers in marine conservation, research, and aquaculture.
  Field: Marine Biology
  Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Aquaculture Specialist
• Cognitive Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program explores the nature of the mind and intelligence, integrating psychology, computer science, linguistics, and neuroscience.
  Field: Cognitive Science
  Career outcomes: UX Designer, AI Developer, Research Assistant
• Marine Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  Students study marine organisms, ecosystems, and ocean processes, preparing for careers in marine conservation, research, and aquaculture.
  Field: Marine Biology
  Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Aquaculture Specialist
• Cognitive Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program explores the nature of the mind and intelligence, integrating psychology, computer science, linguistics, and neuroscience.
  Field: Cognitive Science
  Career outcomes: UX Designer, AI Developer, Research Assistant
• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr
  Students investigate human behavior and mental processes through various subfields, including cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Research Assistant
• Environmental Systems (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This program provides a scientific understanding of environmental processes and challenges, focusing on solutions for sustainability and resource management.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Urban Planner
• Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems, covering areas like thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
  Field: Mechanical Engineering
  Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Product Designer, Manufacturing Engineer
• Visual Arts (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr
  Students develop creative and critical skills in various artistic mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and media arts, fostering artistic expression.
  Field: Visual Arts
  Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator
• Global Health (BA) — 48 months · English · $14,490/yr
  This interdisciplinary program examines health issues from a global perspective, considering social, economic, and environmental factors that influence well-being worldwide.
  Field: Global Health
  Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, NGO Program Manager, Health Educator

Master Programs (24)

• Materials Science and Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the fundamental properties, processing, and applications of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites.
  Field: Materials Science and Engineering
  Career outcomes: Materials Engineer, Research Scientist, Process Engineer
• Global Policy (MIA) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr
  The Master of International Affairs (MIA) program focuses on global policy challenges, international relations, and regional specializations.
  Field: International Affairs
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Development Specialist
• Electrical and Computer Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  Students delve into advanced topics in electrical and computer engineering, including signal processing, embedded systems, and integrated circuits.
  Field: Electrical and Computer Engineering
  Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Engineer
• Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr
  The Master of Public Health program prepares students to address public health challenges through epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy.
  Field: Public Health
  Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator
• Business Analytics (MSc) — 12 months · English · $50,000/yr · STEM
  This program equips students with analytical tools and techniques to solve business problems, focusing on data-driven decision-making and strategic insights.
  Field: Business Analytics
  Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Management Consultant, Data Analyst
• Structural Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the analysis, design, and construction of structures, including buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure, with an emphasis on earthquake engineering.
  Field: Structural Engineering
  Career outcomes: Structural Engineer, Civil Engineer, Project Manager
• Materials Science and Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the fundamental properties, processing, and applications of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites.
  Field: Materials Science and Engineering
  Career outcomes: Materials Engineer, Research Scientist, Process Engineer
• Global Policy (MIA) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr
  The Master of International Affairs (MIA) program focuses on global policy challenges, international relations, and regional specializations.
  Field: International Affairs
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Development Specialist
• Electrical and Computer Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  Students delve into advanced topics in electrical and computer engineering, including signal processing, embedded systems, and integrated circuits.
  Field: Electrical and Computer Engineering
  Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Engineer
• Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr
  The Master of Public Health program prepares students to address public health challenges through epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy.
  Field: Public Health
  Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator
• Business Analytics (MSc) — 12 months · English · $50,000/yr · STEM
  This program equips students with analytical tools and techniques to solve business problems, focusing on data-driven decision-making and strategic insights.
  Field: Business Analytics
  Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Management Consultant, Data Analyst
• Structural Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the analysis, design, and construction of structures, including buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure, with an emphasis on earthquake engineering.
  Field: Structural Engineering
  Career outcomes: Structural Engineer, Civil Engineer, Project Manager
• Materials Science and Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the fundamental properties, processing, and applications of materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites.
  Field: Materials Science and Engineering
  Career outcomes: Materials Engineer, Research Scientist, Process Engineer
• Global Policy (MIA) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr
  The Master of International Affairs (MIA) program focuses on global policy challenges, international relations, and regional specializations.
  Field: International Affairs
  Career outcomes: Diplomat, Policy Analyst, International Development Specialist
• Electrical and Computer Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  Students delve into advanced topics in electrical and computer engineering, including signal processing, embedded systems, and integrated circuits.
  Field: Electrical and Computer Engineering
  Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Engineer
• Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English · $28,000/yr
  The Master of Public Health program prepares students to address public health challenges through epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy.
  Field: Public Health
  Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator
• Business Analytics (MSc) — 12 months · English · $50,000/yr · STEM
  This program equips students with analytical tools and techniques to solve business problems, focusing on data-driven decision-making and strategic insights.
  Field: Business Analytics
  Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Management Consultant, Data Analyst
• Structural Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the analysis, design, and construction of structures, including buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure, with an emphasis on earthquake engineering.
  Field: Structural Engineering
  Career outcomes: Structural Engineer, Civil Engineer, Project Manager
• Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  This program trains students in the interdisciplinary field of data science, combining statistics, computer science, and domain knowledge to extract insights from data.
  Field: Data Science
  Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $58,000/yr
  This program develops leadership and management skills, providing a comprehensive understanding of business functions, strategy, and global markets.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Consultant, Product Manager, Entrepreneur
• Master of Finance (MFin) — 12 months · English · $50,000/yr · STEM
  This specialized program provides in-depth knowledge of financial markets, investment strategies, and corporate finance, preparing students for careers in the financial industry.
  Field: Finance
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Investment Banker
• Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
  An advanced program focusing on theoretical and applied computer science, allowing specialization in areas like artificial intelligence, systems, or software engineering.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Researcher, Data Architect
• Master of Science in Bioengineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study in bioengineering, with opportunities for research in areas such as tissue engineering, neuroengineering, and medical imaging.
  Field: Bioengineering
  Career outcomes: Biomedical Researcher, R&D Engineer, Medical Device Specialist
• Master of Advanced Studies in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation (MAS) — 12 months · English · $30,000/yr · STEM
  A professional master's program focusing on interdisciplinary approaches to marine conservation, policy, and management.
  Field: Marine Science
  Career outcomes: Conservation Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Policy Advisor

PhD Programs (21)

• Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study and research in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas such as astrophysics, condensed matter, and particle physics.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Data Scientist
• Computer Science and Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, systems, and theoretical computer science.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Architect
• Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr
  This program provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for academic and research positions in economics.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Policy Advisor
• Chemistry and Biochemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  Students conduct cutting-edge research in various areas of chemistry and biochemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
  Field: Chemistry and Biochemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Communication (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr
  The PhD in Communication offers advanced research into media studies, interpersonal communication, and the social impact of communication technologies.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Communication Researcher, Media Analyst
• Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study and research in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas such as astrophysics, condensed matter, and particle physics.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Data Scientist
• Computer Science and Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, systems, and theoretical computer science.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Architect
• Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr
  This program provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for academic and research positions in economics.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Policy Advisor
• Chemistry and Biochemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  Students conduct cutting-edge research in various areas of chemistry and biochemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
  Field: Chemistry and Biochemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Communication (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr
  The PhD in Communication offers advanced research into media studies, interpersonal communication, and the social impact of communication technologies.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Communication Researcher, Media Analyst
• Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This program offers advanced study and research in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas such as astrophysics, condensed matter, and particle physics.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Data Scientist
• Computer Science and Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, systems, and theoretical computer science.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Architect
• Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr
  This program provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for academic and research positions in economics.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist, Policy Advisor
• Chemistry and Biochemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  Students conduct cutting-edge research in various areas of chemistry and biochemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
  Field: Chemistry and Biochemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Communication (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr
  The PhD in Communication offers advanced research into media studies, interpersonal communication, and the social impact of communication technologies.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Communication Researcher, Media Analyst
• Bioengineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $14,490/yr · STEM
  The PhD in Bioengineering prepares students for independent research careers, focusing on innovative solutions to biological and medical challenges.
  Field: Bioengineering
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Biomedical Researcher, R&D Scientist
• PhD in Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program offers rigorous training in advanced physics concepts and research methodologies, leading to original contributions in various subfields.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Physicist
• PhD in Biological Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
  A research-intensive program covering diverse areas of biology, including molecular biology, genetics, ecology, and neurobiology, with a strong emphasis on discovery.
  Field: Biological Sciences
  Career outcomes: Biomedical Researcher, University Professor, Biotechnology Scientist
• PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $13,000/yr
  This program provides advanced training in economic theory and empirical methods, preparing students for academic or research careers in economics.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Economist, University Professor, Policy Advisor
• PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
  An advanced research program focusing on areas such as circuits, systems, communications, and signal processing, leading to innovative contributions in the field.
  Field: Electrical and Computer Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Engineer, University Professor, Hardware Architect
• PhD in Chemistry and Biochemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · $13,000/yr · STEM
  A research-focused program exploring fundamental chemical and biochemical principles, with opportunities for specialization in areas like organic, inorganic, or physical chemistry.
  Field: Chemistry and Biochemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Chemist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist

Scholarships & Tuition at UC San Diego

Annual tuition for international students: $43,800 – $72,000/year

✅ UC San Diego offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of UC San Diego

• National Ranking: #29 in United States
• QS World University Ranking: #66
• Times Higher Education (THE): #47
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #20
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at UC San Diego

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

• Top-tier research university
• STEM and health sciences powerhouse
• World-renowned Scripps Oceanography
• Vibrant La Jolla coastal campus
• Strong international student community

Accreditation

• WSCUC

Notable Alumni

• Benicio del Toro
• Mike Judge
• Angela Davis
• James Avery
• Nathan East

Frequently Asked Questions about UC San Diego

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