University of California-Santa Cruz Overview

University of California-Santa Cruz is a four-year, full-time, more selective, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Santa Cruz, CA. It has an enrollment of 17,864 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 58.64%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $18,828. Tuition is $14,070.00 without financial aid.

University of California-Santa Cruz is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At University of California-Santa Cruz, 88.86% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

University of California-Santa Cruz has a student-to-faculty ratio of 24 to 1.

University of California-Santa Cruz Website

University of California-Santa Cruz Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 58.64%.

SAT or ACT scores are neither required nor recommended

• The average SAT score was unreported for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was unreported for the incoming class to 2023.

University of California-Santa Cruz Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $18,828. The in-state tuition is $14,070.00. Out-of-state tuition is $43,824.00

The average tuition is:

• $13,340, when family income is less than $30,000

• $14,379, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $17,375, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $23,778, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $33,865, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 23.40% of students received a federal student loan and 31.78% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $43,824.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

University of California-Santa Cruz Net Price Calculator

University of California-Santa Cruz Majors/Salaries

University of California-Santa Cruz has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at University of California-Santa Cruz here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Plant Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,353
• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,913
• Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,598
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $63,530
• Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $60,185
• Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research. (Master’s Degree) – $54,894
• Biomedical/Medical Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $48,823
• Computer Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $79,150
• Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,338
• Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,832
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate). (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,704
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,133
• Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,060
• Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,043
• Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,351
• Neurobiology and Neurosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,459
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,941
• Cognitive Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,228
• Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,260
• Philosophy. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,421
• Chemistry. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,938
• Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,009
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,393
• Community Organization and Advocacy. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,236
• Anthropology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,667
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $44,356
• Economics. (Master’s Degree) – $61,516
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,704
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,141
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,166
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Master’s Degree) – $21,508
• Film/Video and Photographic Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,508
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,705
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Master’s Degree) – $29,593
• Music. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,353
• Business/Managerial Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $51,607
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,452

University of California-Santa Cruz Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at University of California-Santa Cruz

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.10%
• Asian: 22.83%
• Black: 1.94%
• Hispanic: 27.86%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.15%
• Non-resident alien: 5.70%
• Two or more races: 8.14%
• Unknown: 1.83%
• White: 31.45%

At University of California-Santa Cruz, 4.98% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

University of California-Santa Cruz Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at University of California-Santa Cruz?

School spirit at University of California-Santa Cruz is known to be strong and lively throughout the campus. Students at UC Santa Cruz are passionate about supporting their sports teams, attending concerts and performances, and participating in various campus events and organizations. The university also has an active Greek life community, which adds to the overall school spirit culture. Additionally, the beautiful campus setting and outdoor recreational activities available on and around the campus contribute to a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that many students find appealing.

What are some popular extracurriculars at University of California-Santa Cruz?

At the University of California-Santa Cruz, some popular extracurricular activities include: 1. Student Government and Student Organizations 2. Intramural Sports 3. Clubs and Social Groups 4. Volunteer Work Opportunities 5. Outdoor Adventure and Recreation Clubs 6. Community Service and Activism 7. Academic Honor Societies 8. Music and Theater Performance Groups 9. Community Engagement and Outreach Programs 10. Research and Laboratory Experience Opportunities. UC Santa Cruz encourages students to explore a range of extracurricular activities, and there are many opportunities available to get involved on campus.

How are the food choices at University of California-Santa Cruz?

The University of California-Santa Cruz (UCSC) offers a variety of dining options on campus, including all-you-can-eat dining halls, food courts, cafes, and markets. The dining halls serve a wide range of dishes, including vegan, vegetarian, and halal options. The chefs at UCSC use locally sourced and sustainable ingredients whenever possible. There are also themed dining events, such as Farm-to-Table and Global Cafe, that provide students with unique dining experiences. Overall, the food choices at UCSC are considered to be diverse and satisfying.

Is there Greek life at University of California-Santa Cruz?

Yes, the University of California-Santa Cruz has Greek life on campus. There are currently 5 fraternities and 3 sororities that are officially recognized by the university. Additionally, there are also several cultural and identity-based Greek organizations at UC Santa Cruz. Greek life at UC Santa Cruz plays an important role in campus culture, providing opportunities for social interaction, leadership development, and community service.

What is University of California-Santa Cruz known for?

The University of California-Santa Cruz (UCSC) is known for its unique approach to education, which emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, hands-on experience, and community engagement. UCSC is also known for its strong programs in the natural sciences, particularly astronomy, biology, and environmental studies. Additionally, UCSC has a strong program in the arts, with a renowned film and digital media department and a thriving arts community on campus. The university is also known for its commitment to social justice and sustainability, and is home to the nationally recognized Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems.

What are the most popular school clubs at University of California-Santa Cruz?

The University of California-Santa Cruz has a variety of school clubs that cater to different interests. Some of the most popular school clubs at UC-Santa Cruz are: 1. Student Government Association (SGA) 2. Black Student Union (BSU) 3. College Democrats (UCSC Democrats) 4. College Republicans (UCSC Republicans) 5. Queer Student Union (QSU) 6. Anime and Manga Club (UCSC Anime Club) 7. Women’s Center (UCSC Women’s Center) 8. Filipino Student Association (FSA) 9. Chinese Student Association (CSA) 10. Korean Student Association (KSA) Note that this is not an exhaustive list and there may be other popular school clubs at UC-Santa Cruz.

Is the campus at University of California-Santa Cruz safe?

The campus at University of California-Santa Cruz is generally safe, with a relatively low crime rate. However, like any large campus or city, it is important for students to take precautions to ensure their personal safety, such as walking in well-lit areas at night, staying aware of their surroundings, and reporting any suspicious activity to campus police. It may also be helpful for students to take advantage of campus safety resources such as emergency call boxes and night shuttle services.