UC Santa Cruz

Quick Facts about UC Santa Cruz

• Type: Public
• Tuition: $46,923 – $50,250/year

About UC Santa Cruz

Academics

UC Santa Cruz offers 74 undergraduate majors and 66 graduate programs, fostering a learning environment where students "learn by doing." Notable programs include Astrophysics and Earth Sciences, Marine Sciences, Biology and Genomics, and Computer Science and Engineering, especially its highly-ranked game design programs. The university is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach, with programs like Computational Media and Environmental Studies, and is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity."

International Students

UC Santa Cruz provides specialized support for international students through its International Student Services & Programming (ISSP) department. ISSP offers visa and immigration advising, orientation programs, events, and activities to facilitate cultural adjustment and community building. While English is the language of instruction, international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. In 2020, UC Santa Cruz hosted approximately 1,846 international students, with a significant number from China and India.

Campus & Location

The 2,000-acre main campus of UC Santa Cruz is nestled in rolling, forested hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, about 75 miles south of San Francisco. The campus features redwood groves, ravines with footbridges, and a large open meadow. Santa Cruz offers a vibrant city life with a diverse community, cultural events, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The closest airports are San Jose Mineta International Airport and San Francisco International Airport.

Career Outcomes

UC Santa Cruz graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, particularly in tech-related fields due to its proximity to Silicon Valley. The university actively connects students with industry through programs like the Corporate Sponsored Senior Projects Program and the QB3 Biotech Undergraduate Summer Internships. Career Services provides extensive support, including job fairs, networking events, individual counseling, and internship opportunities. UCSC also fosters a thriving startup ecosystem with initiatives like the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurial Development (CIED) and student-led organizations.

Information for International Students at UC Santa Cruz

UC Santa Cruz in Santa Cruz, United States welcomes international students.

• No visa support offered
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available

Admissions Requirements for UC Santa Cruz

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to UC Santa Cruz:

• Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)

Programs at UC Santa Cruz (25 programs)

UC Santa Cruz offers 25 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (13)

• Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program explores human diversity across cultures and through time, focusing on social, cultural, archaeological, and biological aspects of humanity.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Museum Curator, Community Organizer, International Development Worker
• Economics (BA) — 48 months · English
  Students analyze how societies allocate scarce resources, studying microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various economic policies.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Economist, Policy Analyst, Market Researcher
• Linguistics (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program investigates the structure, meaning, and use of human language, covering phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics.
  Field: Linguistics
  Career outcomes: Linguist, Speech-Language Pathologist, Translator, Language Technologist
• Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This program covers fundamental concepts of computing, including algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software engineering, preparing students for careers in technology.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Web Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst
• History (BA) — 48 months · English
  Students explore past societies, cultures, and events, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through the study of diverse historical periods and regions.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: Archivist, Historian, Educator, Journalist
• Art (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program provides a comprehensive education in visual arts, including studio practice, art history, and critical theory, fostering creative expression and technical skills.
  Field: Visual Arts
  Career outcomes: Artist, Graphic Designer, Art Educator, Gallery Assistant
• Electrical Engineering (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, development, and application of electrical systems, including electronics, power systems, and telecommunications.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Systems Engineer, Controls Engineer
• Marine Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students study marine organisms and their ecosystems, focusing on oceanography, ecology, conservation, and the biological processes of marine life.
  Field: Biology
  Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Oceanographer, Environmental Scientist, Aquarist
• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
  Students study human behavior and mental processes, exploring areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, and abnormal psychology.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Social Worker
• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students explore the chemical processes and molecular mechanisms underlying life, covering topics from genetics to protein structure and function.
  Field: Biology
  Career outcomes: Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Medical Professional, Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Film and Digital Media (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program offers a comprehensive study of film, television, and digital media, including production, theory, history, and criticism.
  Field: Media Studies
  Career outcomes: Filmmaker, Video Editor, Content Creator, Media Producer
• Neuroscience (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students investigate the structure and function of the nervous system, exploring topics such as brain development, sensory perception, and neurological disorders.
  Field: Neuroscience
  Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Medical Researcher, Pharmacologist, Biomedical Engineer
• Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program examines social structures, interactions, and institutions, analyzing topics like inequality, social change, and cultural dynamics.
  Field: Sociology
  Career outcomes: Social Worker, Policy Analyst, Community Organizer, Researcher

Master Programs (3)

• Computer Science and Engineering (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This program offers advanced study in computer science and engineering, with specializations in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer systems.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Architect, Research Engineer, Data Scientist, AI Specialist
• Electrical and Computer Engineering (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
  Students pursue advanced knowledge in electrical and computer engineering, focusing on areas such as signal processing, embedded systems, and VLSI design.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Hardware Engineer, Systems Engineer, R&D Engineer, Consultant
• Applied Mathematics (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This program provides advanced training in mathematical modeling, numerical analysis, and scientific computing, preparing students for research or industry roles.
  Field: Mathematics
  Career outcomes: Quantitative Analyst, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Engineer

PhD Programs (9)

• Astronomy and Astrophysics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  Doctoral students conduct original research in astronomy and astrophysics, exploring topics like cosmology, exoplanets, and stellar evolution, often utilizing cutting-edge observational and computational techniques.
  Field: Astronomy
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Aerospace Engineer
• Chemistry and Biochemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  Doctoral candidates engage in advanced research in various areas of chemistry and biochemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, as well as molecular biology.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Chemist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist, Materials Scientist
• Environmental Studies (PhD) — 60 months · English
  This interdisciplinary doctoral program focuses on advanced research into complex environmental problems, integrating natural sciences, social sciences, and policy analysis.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Environmental Policy Analyst, Research Scientist, University Professor, NGO Director
• Mathematics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  Doctoral candidates pursue original research in pure and applied mathematics, contributing to theoretical advancements and solving complex problems across various disciplines.
  Field: Mathematics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Mathematician, Quantitative Analyst, Data Scientist
• Ocean Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This doctoral program offers advanced research in oceanography, marine biology, and marine geology, focusing on understanding ocean processes and their impact on the global environment.
  Field: Oceanography
  Career outcomes: Oceanographer, Marine Scientist, University Professor, Environmental Consultant
• Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  Doctoral students conduct cutting-edge research in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas such as condensed matter, particle physics, and astrophysics.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Engineer, Data Scientist
• Biomolecular Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on applying engineering principles to biological systems, with research areas including bioinformatics, genomics, and synthetic biology.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Biotech Engineer, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  Doctoral students conduct research on ecological processes, evolutionary mechanisms, and biodiversity, often involving fieldwork and quantitative analysis.
  Field: Biology
  Career outcomes: Ecologist, Evolutionary Biologist, Conservation Scientist, University Professor
• Earth Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This program offers advanced research opportunities in earth sciences, covering topics such as geology, geophysics, oceanography, and environmental science.
  Field: Earth Sciences
  Career outcomes: Geologist, Oceanographer, Environmental Scientist, University Professor

Scholarships & Tuition at UC Santa Cruz

Annual tuition for international students: $46,923 – $50,250/year

Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.

Rankings of UC Santa Cruz

• National Ranking: #84 in United States
• QS World University Ranking: #458
• Times Higher Education (THE): #181
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #151
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at UC Santa Cruz

• Student housing available
• No sports facilities
• No disability support info

Key Highlights

• Redwood groves, ocean views
• Strong academics, research focus
• Game design, highly ranked
• Interdisciplinary learning environment
• Supportive international student services
• Close to San Francisco

Notable Alumni

• Andy Samberg
• Jello Biafra
• Miranda July
• Kathryn D. Sullivan
• Steven Hawley

Frequently Asked Questions about UC Santa Cruz

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