University Of California, Merced

Our visit…

Four days after our visit to UC Merced, California shut down. So we felt extra lucky to have walked the campus (despite most students learning remotely by then) and feel the modern vibe set in this rural, agricultural landscape of Merced. The campus gleams with new buildings, groomed grounds and well placed water features that reflect the geometric buildings.  Below are some highlights and takeaways from our day.

Strong Programs:

· Very STEM oriented: Engineering is especially strong with new facilities

· 60% students conduct research with faculty

· Faculty is very hands on with advisors for Pre-health program, engineering and law.

Admissions: 

· This UC is not major driven- one applies to the school first and once accepted, can choose a major.  Great news for those super competitive areas of engineering, nursing, and computer science.

· Diversity in student population a huge asset with students from all walks of life and backgrounds.

· School is small now for a UC (about 7000 undergrads). Medium private school size for public school price. Growth plans are in the works and they expect 10,000 by fall of 2020.

Financial Aid: # 1 university in California for Financial Aid.

Learning Environment:

· Small Class size are the norm.  17-20 for TA discussion groups.  Popular introductory lecture may have 200

· Creativity and independent research/thinking encouraged and supported.

· UCM known for smaller, more personal and guided learning. 

Student Life:

• · Sports Division II coming soon!

• Incoming freshman are required to live the first two years on campus

• · Dorms are spacious, modern and temperature controls in each room!

• Food Pantry available to provide staples for students each day.  Geared to those who may need it more but all students are welcome!