Opening its doors on September 5, 2005, the University of California – Merced is the 10th campus in the UC system and the first research university of the 21st century. Located by the nearby Yosemite National Park, this connection serves as a major base for advanced research and development in the field of science and engineering. With a commitment to its neighboring ecosystem and community, the university prides itself as a model of future education within the University of California system.
Mission/Vision
Proud to be the first American university devoted to research and development to be sanctioned in the 21st Century, UC – Merced devotes its curriculum to the discovery of new technologies and sciences and the future development of older ones. This dedication to discovery provides each and every student a possible moment in history to claim as their own. The school believes in the utilization of multiple resources and has the resources of an intertwined network between other schools and industry innovators alike.
Campus Setting
Located deep within the San Joaquin Valley the campus is fairly small. The Fairfield Canal that stems from the Yosemite Lake flows right through the campus park and provides for a great connection with nature. A handful of student activities are provided that allow students to interact and be social. Limited student housing is available and most students commute from the nearby city of Merced which is a vibrant small town with city amenities.
Academics
Focusing on sciences and humanities is the key to the academic program at UC -Merced, with 24 majors offered through Bachelor of Science programs ranging from Physics to Computer Engineering and Bachelor of Arts programs that focus on humanities. Graduate programs are also available in the same fields. As part of the University of California system, curriculum is expected to meet or exceed that standards set out by the system which puts the education received at UC Merced on the same caliber as that of its partner campuses.
Athletics
As part of the California Pacific Conference (CALPAC) of the National Association of the Intercollegiate Athletes (NAIA), the Merced “Bobcats” of Blue and Gold compete with other regional colleges in Basketball, Volleyball, Cross Country Running, and Soccer. All sports are offered for both men and women.
Tuition & Financial Aid
Tuition at UC – Merced is affordable for California residents while non-resident students pay a considerably higher tuition. Financial Aid is available and affordability is a concern for the campus. The university offers additional incentives including the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan that is available for those with a household income of under $70,000 a year. This incentive is one of the many tuition breaks offered by the university. Please refer to the school’s website for the most up-to-date tuition and financial aid information.
Accreditation
The University of California in Merced is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and must adhere to the standards set forth by the national standard of the Association. UC Merced also boasts an incredible accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) for their curriculum that is based in the sciences and technology.
Admissions
First year students are encouraged to apply to the university if they are seeking a four-year degree in the fields in which the university focuses on. Application requirements set by the University of California system must be met. Transfer and Graduate students are also welcome to apply by contacting the admissions office to explore opportunities at the campus.
Telephone: (209) 228-7178
Email: admissions@ucmerced.edu
Graduate Admissions: http://graduatedivision.ucmerced.edu/
University of California, Merced
5200 North Lake Road
Merced, CA 95343
T: (209) 228-4400
http://www.ucmerced.edu/
