| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1905 as the University Farm, originally an agricultural extension of UC Berkeley. It became a general campus of the UC system in 1959.
Ranking: UC Davis consistently ranks highly among public universities in the U.S. and globally. It is particularly renowned for its programs in agriculture, veterinary science, biological sciences, and environmental science.
Motto: "Fiat Lux" (Let There Be Light).
Size: UC Davis is one of the largest UC campuses, spanning over 5,300 acres. It includes academic buildings, research facilities, a large arboretum, and farmlands.
Features:
The UC Davis Arboretum is a 100-acre garden with walking trails that highlights sustainable landscaping and diverse plant collections.
The Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts hosts cultural events and performances.
The campus is bicycle-friendly, with over 20,000 bikes on campus daily.
Sustainability: UC Davis is a leader in green initiatives and has been recognized for its eco-friendly buildings, renewable energy efforts, and focus on sustainable agriculture.
Student Body: Over 39,000 students (approx. 31,000 undergraduates and 8,000 graduate students).
Colleges and Schools:
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
College of Biological Sciences
College of Engineering
College of Letters and Science
School of Veterinary Medicine (ranked #1 in the world)
Graduate School of Management
School of Law
School of Education
School of Medicine
Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing
Popular Majors: Animal Science, Biology, Psychology, Environmental Science, Engineering, Economics, and Computer Science.
Research: UC Davis is a Tier 1 research institution, contributing to advancements in agriculture, climate science, health, and technology.
Agriculture and Sustainability: UC Davis is recognized as one of the top agricultural schools in the world. Its research in viticulture, plant science, and sustainable farming practices is world-renowned.
Veterinary Medicine: UC Davis is home to the top-ranked School of Veterinary Medicine in the U.S., offering leading research and education in animal health.
Environmental Leadership: The campus excels in programs focusing on environmental science, water resources, and climate change.
Clubs and Organizations: Over 800 student-run organizations, including academic, cultural, recreational, and social clubs.
Campus Housing: Students have access to on-campus housing, including themed living communities and traditional residence halls.
Events: Events like Picnic Day, a student-run open house and festival, draw thousands of visitors annually.
Sports: UC Davis' teams, the Aggies, compete in NCAA Division I sports.
Davis is a college town known for its welcoming community and bike-friendly infrastructure. The town is small but offers a mix of restaurants, cafes, farmers' markets, and cultural events.
Proximity to major cities like Sacramento, San Francisco, and Lake Tahoe makes Davis an ideal location for students seeking access to urban and outdoor experiences.
UC Davis fosters a diverse and inclusive campus environment, with students from various cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It is also a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI).
Ann Veneman (former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture)
Hasan Minhaj (comedian and political commentator)
Martin Yan (chef and TV host of Yan Can Cook)
Jessica Chastain (Oscar-winning actress)
Acceptance Rate: Around 37-46%, depending on the year.
Application Process: Uses the UC application system. Requires essays (Personal Insight Questions), SAT/ACT scores (optional as of recent years), and academic transcripts.
Cost of Attendance: Tuition is lower for California residents; however, out-of-state and international students pay higher fees. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
UC Davis is a leader in environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. Key achievements include:
A solar power plant that provides much of the campus’s energy needs.
Programs in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy.
Research on climate resilience and water management.
UC Davis is world-renowned for its programs in agriculture, environmental sciences, and sustainability. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Undergraduate Majors:
Agricultural and Environmental Education
Animal Science
Animal Science and Management
Atmospheric Science
Biotechnology
Community and Regional Development
Ecological Management and Restoration
Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning
Environmental Science and Management
Environmental Toxicology
Food Science
Global Disease Biology
Human Development
International Agricultural Development
Landscape Architecture
Managerial Economics
Plant Sciences
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
Viticulture and Enology (grape and wine science)
Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology
Graduate Programs:
Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry
Animal Biology
Community Development
Ecology
Environmental Policy and Management
Food Science
Horticulture and Agronomy
International Agricultural Development
Plant Biology
Soils and Biogeochemistry
The College of Biological Sciences provides cutting-edge education and research in life sciences.
Undergraduate Majors:
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Biological Sciences
Cell Biology
Evolution, Ecology, and Biodiversity
Genetics and Genomics
Marine and Coastal Science (shared with other colleges)
Microbiology
Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior
Plant Biology
Graduate Programs:
Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Integrative Genetics and Genomics
Molecular and Cellular Biology
Neuroscience
Population Biology
Plant Biology
UC Davis is highly regarded for its engineering programs, with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
Undergraduate Majors:
Aerospace Science and Engineering
Biochemical Engineering
Biological Systems Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Science (also offered by the College of Letters and Science)
Electrical Engineering
Environmental Engineering
Materials Science and Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Graduate Programs:
Biological Systems Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Computer Science
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Materials Science and Engineering
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
This is the largest college at UC Davis, offering a wide variety of programs in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and sciences.
Arts & Humanities:
Art Studio
Art History
Cinema and Digital Media
Design
English
Music
Philosophy
Theatre and Dance
Comparative Literature
History
Religious Studies
Social Sciences:
Anthropology
Communication
Cognitive Science
Economics
History
International Relations
Linguistics
Political Science (General and Public Service options)
Psychology
Sociology (General, Law & Society, and Organizational Studies options)
Mathematics and Sciences:
Applied Physics
Astrophysics
Chemistry
Earth and Planetary Sciences
Mathematics (Applied, General, and Secondary Teaching options)
Physics
Statistics
Interdisciplinary Studies:
African American and African Studies
Asian American Studies
Chicana/Chicano Studies
Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies
Middle East/South Asia Studies
Native American Studies
Science and Technology Studies
Anthropology
Chemistry
Economics
History
Linguistics
Mathematics
Physics
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Statistics
The School of Veterinary Medicine at UC Davis is ranked #1 in the world and offers programs focused on animal health and disease.
Programs:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
Graduate Groups in areas like:
Integrative Pathobiology
Preventive Veterinary Medicine
Veterinary Science
The GSM is renowned for its business programs and entrepreneurial focus.
Programs:
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Full-time, Part-time, and Online
Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAc)
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA)
Executive MBA
The UC Davis School of Medicine focuses on healthcare innovation, education, and research.
Programs:
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Master’s in Public Health (MPH)
Master of Health Informatics
Dual-degree MD/Ph.D. programs
The nursing school emphasizes healthcare innovation and leadership.
Programs:
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice—Family Nurse Practitioner (DNP-FNP)
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Nursing Science and Healthcare Leadership
The School of Education prepares future educators, researchers, and policymakers.
Programs:
Master of Arts in Education
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Education
Teaching Credential Programs
UC Davis School of Law (King Hall) is highly regarded for its focus on public service and social justice.
Programs:
Juris Doctor (JD)
LL.M. (Master of Laws)
Certificate Programs in Public Service Law, Environmental Law, and more.
UC Davis also offers professional certifications, online courses, and continuing education programs for working professionals. Topics include:
Business and Management
Data Science and Analytics
Health and Behavioral Sciences
Sustainability and the Environment
Technology and Engineering
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (per year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences |
|
|
|
Agricultural and Environmental Education |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Animal Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Animal Science and Management |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Atmospheric Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Biotechnology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Community and Regional Development |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Ecological Management and Restoration |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Environmental Science and Management |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Environmental Toxicology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Food Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Global Disease Biology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Human Development |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
International Agricultural Development |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Landscape Architecture |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Managerial Economics |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Plant Sciences |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Viticulture and Enology (Wine Science) |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Wildlife, Fish, and Conservation Biology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Biological Sciences |
|
|
|
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Biological Sciences |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Cell Biology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Evolution, Ecology, and Biodiversity |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Genetics and Genomics |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Marine and Coastal Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Microbiology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Plant Biology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Engineering |
|
|
|
Aerospace Science and Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Biochemical Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Biological Systems Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Computer Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Materials Science and Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Letters and Science |
|
|
|
Anthropology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Applied Physics |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Art History |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Communication |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Cognitive Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Design |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
English |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
History |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
International Relations |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Linguistics |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
Residents: ~$15,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (per year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences |
|
|
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Animal Biology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Community Development |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Ecology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Environmental Policy and Management |
1-2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Food Science |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in International Agricultural Development |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Plant Biology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Soils and Biogeochemistry |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Biological Sciences |
|
|
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Integrative Genetics and Genomics |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Molecular and Cellular Biology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Neuroscience |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Population Biology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Plant Biology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Engineering |
|
|
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Biological Systems Engineering |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Biomedical Engineering |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Chemical Engineering |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Civil and Environmental Engineering |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Electrical and Computer Engineering |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Materials Science and Engineering |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Letters and Science |
|
|
|
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Anthropology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Mathematics |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Economics |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Arts (M.A.) in History |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Linguistics |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Political Science |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sociology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Veterinary Medicine |
|
|
|
Master of Preventive Veterinary Medicine (MPVM) |
1 year |
Residents: ~$19,000 |
|
Master of Science (M.S.) in Integrative Pathobiology |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Graduate School of Management (GSM) |
|
|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Full-Time |
2 years |
Residents: ~$58,000 |
|
Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) |
1 year |
Residents: ~$56,000 |
|
Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAc) |
1 year |
Residents: ~$49,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing |
|
|
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 years |
Residents: ~$24,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Education |
|
|
|
Master of Arts in Education |
2 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Law |
|
|
|
Master of Laws (LL.M.) |
1 year |
Residents: ~$52,000 |
PhD/Doctorate Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (per year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences |
|
|
|
PhD in Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Animal Biology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Community Development |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Ecology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Policy and Management |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Food Science |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in International Agricultural Development |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Plant Biology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Soils and Biogeochemistry |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Biological Sciences |
|
|
|
PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Integrative Genetics and Genomics |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Neuroscience |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Population Biology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Plant Biology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Engineering |
|
|
|
PhD in Biological Systems Engineering |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Biomedical Engineering |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Chemical Engineering |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Computer Science |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Materials Science and Engineering |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
College of Letters and Science |
|
|
|
PhD in Anthropology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Applied Mathematics |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Economics |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in History |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Linguistics |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Political Science |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Sociology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Physics |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Statistics |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Veterinary Medicine |
|
|
|
PhD in Veterinary Medicine |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
PhD in Integrative Pathobiology |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Education |
|
|
|
PhD in Education |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Law |
|
|
|
Juris Doctor/Doctor of Philosophy (JD/PhD) |
5-7 years |
Residents: ~$52,000 |
|
|
|
|
|
School of Medicine |
|
|
|
PhD in Biomedical Sciences |
4-6 years |
Residents: ~$18,000 |
|
Dual MD/PhD (Medical Doctor and Doctor of Philosophy) |
7-8 years |
Residents: ~$39,000 |
Top Rankings and Global Reputation:
Ranked among the top 10 public universities in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report).
Globally recognized for its programs in agriculture, veterinary medicine, engineering, environmental sciences, and biological sciences.
The #1 School of Veterinary Medicine in the world.
Known for its focus on sustainability and climate change solutions.
Diverse and Inclusive Community:
UC Davis values diversity and inclusivity, with over 7,000 international students and scholars on campus.
Programs and organizations are designed to help international students integrate into campus life and succeed academically and socially.
Prime Location:
Located in Davis, California, a friendly and safe college town near major cities like Sacramento (15 miles) and San Francisco (70 miles).
Proximity to Silicon Valley and the Napa Valley wine region offers career and recreational opportunities.
The campus is bike-friendly, and Davis is known as the "Bicycle Capital of the U.S."
1. Academic Excellence:
Offers 100+ undergraduate majors and 90+ graduate programs.
Strengths in areas such as STEM, business, agriculture, biological sciences, computer science, and public health.
Extensive research opportunities with leading professors and state-of-the-art facilities.
2. Tuition and Living Costs:
Tuition Fees for International Students:
Undergraduate: Approximately $48,000 per year (tuition + fees).
Graduate: Approximately $33,000 per year (tuition + fees).
Additional expenses for housing, food, health insurance, books, and personal costs: ~$20,000–$25,000 per year.
Financial Aid: While UC Davis does not provide need-based aid for international students, some scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships are available at the graduate level.
3. Admission Requirements:
Undergraduate Admissions:
Academic excellence in secondary school.
Strong performance in required courses like math, science, and English.
English language proficiency: TOEFL iBT (minimum 80) or IELTS (minimum 6.5).
Personal Insight Questions (essays).
No SAT/ACT required (test-optional policy for international students).
Graduate Admissions:
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
TOEFL iBT (minimum 80) or IELTS (minimum 7.0).
GRE may be required for some programs.
Statement of Purpose and Letters of Recommendation.
4. Application Deadlines:
Undergraduate:
Fall Quarter: November 1–30 (via the UC Application System).
Graduate:
Deadlines vary by program, typically between December and March.
5. Support for International Students:
Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS):
Assists with student visas, immigration compliance, and work authorizations.
Offers pre-arrival support and orientation.
Global Ambassador Mentorship Program:
Matches international students with current students to ease the transition to UC Davis.
English Language Support:
Courses and tutoring for students needing help with academic writing, presentations, and communication.
Career Center:
Provides assistance with internships, resume building, and job placement.
6. Scholarships for International Students:
While UC Davis has limited scholarships specifically for international undergraduates, graduate students can access:
Research and Teaching Assistantships.
Graduate Fellowships offered by individual departments.
External scholarships from private organizations.
7. Housing Options:
On-Campus Housing:
Available for first-year undergraduates and some graduate students.
Single and shared rooms in residence halls, apartments, or themed living communities.
Estimated cost: ~$17,000–$19,000 per year (room and board).
Off-Campus Housing:
Affordable housing options available in Davis and nearby cities.
Free UC Davis Housing Resources help students find apartments or roommates.
UC Davis accepts undergraduate applications for first-year (freshman) students and transfer students through the UC Application System.
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
1. Choose a Major |
Explore 100+ majors offered at UC Davis (Majors List). Note: You can also apply as "Undeclared." |
|
2. Check Eligibility |
- Completion of A-G coursework (college prep courses) in high school. |
|
3. English Proficiency |
- Required for international students. |
|
4. Submit UC Application |
- Apply online via the UC Application. |
|
5. Write Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) |
- Respond to 4 of 8 questions (350 words each). |
|
6. SAT/ACT (Optional) |
- UC Davis is test-optional (you may choose to submit SAT/ACT scores, but it is not mandatory). |
|
7. Application Fee |
- $80 per campus for international students. |
|
8. Submit Transcripts |
- Self-report grades in the UC application. |
|
9. Wait for Decision |
- Admission decisions are typically released in March for Fall Quarter. |
|
10. Accept Admission |
- If accepted, submit your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) by May 1. |
The admission process for graduate programs is program-specific and handled by the UC Davis Graduate Studies office in collaboration with individual departments. Applications are submitted online.
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
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1. Research Programs |
Explore 90+ graduate programs at UC Davis (Graduate Programs List). |
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2. Check Eligibility |
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a GPA of 3.0 or above. |
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3. English Proficiency |
- Required for international students. |
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4. Prepare Application Materials |
Most programs require: |
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5. Submit Application |
- Apply online through Grad Studies Application Portal. |
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6. Submit Transcripts |
- Upload unofficial transcripts during the application process. |
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7. Funding Considerations |
- Indicate interest in fellowships, assistantships, or financial aid during the application. |
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8. Wait for Decision |
- Decisions are made by individual departments, typically between February and May. |
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9. Accept Admission |
- Submit your Statement of Intent to Register (SIR) and pay the deposit. |
UC Davis typically has one primary intake for most of its programs:
Program Type |
Primary Intake |
Secondary Intake (if available) |
|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate Programs |
Fall Quarter (September) |
No secondary intake. |
|
Graduate Programs |
Fall Quarter (September) |
(some programs accept Winter or Spring applications). |
|
Professional Programs (e.g., MBA, JD) |
Fall Quarter (September) |
Rolling admissions for some programs (e.g., MBA). |
|
Continuing Education & Certificate Programs |
Rolling admissions throughout the year |
N/A |
Undergraduate Applications:
Application opens: October 1 (for Fall intake)
Application closes: November 30
Decisions are released: March
Enrollment deadline: May 1
Graduate Applications:
Deadlines vary by program, typically between December and March.
It is recommended to check the specific department's deadlines on the Graduate Studies website.
Professional Programs:
Deadlines vary; early applications are encouraged (e.g., MBA offers rolling admissions).
Eligibility requirements differ depending on the type of program (undergraduate, graduate, or professional). Below are the general eligibility criteria for each program:
International students applying for undergraduate programs must meet the following criteria:
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
High School Education |
Completion of secondary school/high school with a diploma or equivalent qualification. |
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Minimum GPA |
Minimum 3.4 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) for non-California residents and international students. |
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English Language Proficiency |
One of the following test scores: |
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A-G Subject Requirements |
Completion of the following coursework in high school (with grades of C or better): |
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Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) |
Required as part of the UC application. Students must respond to 4 of 8 personal insight prompts (350 words each). |
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Standardized Tests |
UC Davis is test-optional (SAT/ACT scores are not required but can be submitted if available). |
For graduate programs, eligibility requirements are more program-specific. Below are the general criteria applicable to most programs:
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s Degree |
Completion of a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. |
|
Minimum GPA |
Minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) in undergraduate coursework. |
|
English Language Proficiency |
One of the following test scores: |
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Standardized Tests |
- GRE/GMAT: Some programs (e.g., MBA, Engineering) may require these scores. |
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Letters of Recommendation |
2-3 letters from professors or professionals who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications. |
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Statement of Purpose |
Required; applicants must outline academic background, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the program. |
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Resume/CV |
Required for most programs, particularly professional degrees like the MBA. |
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Additional Program-Specific Requirements |
Some programs may require portfolios (for design programs), research proposals, or prior coursework in specific fields. |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Applicable Programs |
Award Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Global Excellence Award |
- Open to high-achieving international students. |
Undergraduate |
Up to $5,000–$15,000/year |
|
Regents Scholarship |
- For exceptional academic achievement. |
Undergraduate and Graduate |
Up to $7,500/year |
|
UC Davis Undergraduate Scholarships |
- Based on academic merit and financial need. |
Undergraduate |
(typically $1,000–$13,000/year). |
|
UC Davis Graduate Fellowships |
- Based on academic excellence and research potential. |
Graduate |
(typically $5,000–$30,000/year). |
|
Graduate Academic Achievement Fellowship |
- For students from underrepresented backgrounds. |
Graduate |
Covers tuition, fees, and stipend. |
|
Graduate Diversity Fellowship |
- For students contributing to diversity. |
Graduate |
(covers fees and a living stipend). |
|
Fulbright Program |
- For international students supported by the Fulbright Commission. |
Graduate (Master’s/PhD) |
Covers full tuition and living expenses. |
|
Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (external) |
- Must demonstrate leadership and innovation. |
Graduate (Master’s/PhD) |
Covers full tuition, fees, and stipend. |
|
Berkeley-UCLA-Davis Law Fellowships |
- For students pursuing a career in law. |
Law (JD) |
(partial to full tuition). |
|
UC Davis School of Medicine Scholarships |
- Based on financial need, academic merit, and service. |
Medicine (MD) |
(partial to full tuition). |
|
School of Veterinary Medicine Scholarships |
- Based on academic merit and financial need. |
Veterinary Medicine (DVM) |
(up to $15,000/year). |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Scholarships |
- Merit-based scholarships for outstanding academic and professional backgrounds. |
MBA (Graduate) |
Up to $40,000. |
|
Education Abroad Scholarships |
- For UC Davis students studying abroad. |
Undergraduate and Graduate |
Varies (typically $1,000–$5,000). |
|
UC Presidential Fellowship in Innovation & Entrepreneurship |
- For students pursuing innovative research and entrepreneurship. |
Graduate |
Up to $30,000/year. |
|
Cal Aggie Alumni Association Scholarships |
- Open to children of UC Davis alumni. |
Undergraduate |
Up to $10,000/year. |
|
External Scholarships (various) |
- Offered by private organizations (e.g., Gates, Rotary, Soros). |
Undergraduate and Graduate |
(partial or full funding). |
Type of Accommodation |
Features & Amenities |
Cost per Academic Year (in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
1. On-Campus Housing (Residence Halls) |
|
|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
- Fully furnished double or triple occupancy rooms. |
$17,600 – $19,800/year (room & board). |
|
Themed Living Communities |
- Residential communities based on shared interests (e.g., Global Living, STEM-focused housing). |
$18,000 – $20,000/year (room & board). |
|
Honors Housing |
- Special housing for students in the University Honors Program. |
$18,000 – $20,000/year (room & board). |
|
Suite-Style Residence Halls |
- Larger, semi-private living spaces with private bathrooms shared among a small group of residents. |
$19,000 – $21,000/year (room & board). |
|
2. On-Campus Apartments |
|
|
|
UC Davis Student Housing Apartments |
- Fully furnished single-occupancy or shared apartments. |
$10,800 – $15,000/year (excluding meals). |
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The Green at West Village |
- Sustainable, energy-efficient apartments designed for undergraduate and graduate students. |
$12,000 – $16,500/year (excluding meals). |
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3. Off-Campus Housing |
|
|
|
Shared Apartments |
- Apartment living in nearby Davis city. |
$6,000 – $12,000/year (per student). |
|
Private Apartments |
- Fully private apartments, ideal for families or students seeking independent living. |
$12,000 – $20,000/year. |
|
Houses for Rent |
- Suitable for groups of students sharing a house. |
$15,000 – $25,000/year. |
|
4. Family Housing |
|
|
|
Solano Park Apartments |
- Designed for students with families. |
$8,000 – $14,000/year. |
|
Orchard Park Apartments |
- Family housing located near the campus core. |
$10,000 – $16,000/year. |
|
5. Graduate Student Housing |
|
|
|
9th & J Street Apartments |
- Off-campus but UC Davis-affiliated housing for graduate students. |
$12,000 – $18,000/year. |
|
The Green at West Village |
- Energy-efficient housing for graduate students. |
$12,000 – $16,500/year. |
|
6. Temporary Housing (Short-Term) |
|
|
|
Short-Term On-Campus Housing |
- Available for international students or students needing accommodation for short periods. |
$35–$50 per night (depending on room type). |
|
Hotels in Davis |
- Local hotels near campus for temporary stays. |
$100–$200 per night. |
1. Academics and Research
UC Davis is a Tier 1 research university, meaning academics and research are integral to student life. Students have access to world-class professors, state-of-the-art facilities, and numerous opportunities to participate in research, internships, and hands-on learning experiences. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to pursue a well-rounded education.
2. Campus Environment
UC Davis boasts one of the largest campuses in the UC system, covering over 5,300 acres, including academic buildings, student housing, an arboretum, and farmland. The campus is renowned for its sustainability efforts and green spaces, creating a peaceful and inspiring environment for students. It is also famously known as the “Bicycle Capital of the U.S.” with over 20,000 bikes on campus daily, making biking one of the primary modes of transportation.
3. Clubs and Organizations
UC Davis has over 800 student clubs and organizations, covering a wide variety of interests such as academics, arts, sports, cultural groups, community service, and more. These clubs provide students with the opportunity to develop leadership skills, connect with like-minded peers, and make meaningful contributions to the campus and community. Some examples include:
Academic societies like the Pre-Medical Society and Engineering Student Association.
Cultural groups such as the Indian Student Association, Black Student Union, and Asian Pacific Islander Student Alliance.
Special interest groups like the Aggie Gaming Club, Animal Welfare Club, and Environmental Sustainability Society.
4. Cultural Diversity
UC Davis is known for its diverse and inclusive student body, with students coming from over 100 countries and various cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The university celebrates this diversity through cultural events, programs, and initiatives that foster inclusivity. Events like International Education Week, Global Tea Gatherings, and Cultural Weeks hosted by student groups allow students to connect with and learn from different cultures.
5. Events and Traditions
UC Davis has a rich tradition of hosting exciting events and celebrations that bring the campus community together. Some of the most popular events include:
Picnic Day: The largest student-run event in the country, featuring parades, exhibitions, food, and performances.
Whole Earth Festival: A three-day event focused on sustainability, art, music, and community.
Farmers Market: Davis is home to a famous weekly farmers market where students can enjoy fresh produce, food, and crafts.
Welcome Week: Held at the start of the academic year to help new students acclimate and get involved.
6. Sports and Recreation
UC Davis, home of the Aggies, offers NCAA Division I sports teams that students can participate in or support. Popular sports include football, basketball, soccer, and volleyball. For non-competitive activities, the UC Davis ARC (Activities and Recreation Center) provides:
A world-class gym with fitness equipment, classes, and intramural sports.
Outdoor adventure programs, including hiking, kayaking, and camping trips.
Rock climbing walls, racquetball courts, and swimming pools.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, UC Davis’s Arboretum provides scenic walking and running trails, while the surrounding city of Davis is great for biking.
7. Community Engagement and Volunteering
UC Davis encourages students to give back to the community through volunteering and service. Students can participate in programs such as:
Aggie Compass: A resource hub to help students find food security, housing assistance, and wellness resources.
Community Service Resource Center: Helps students find volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits.
UC Davis Food Pantry: Provides free groceries and meals for students in need.
These programs highlight the university’s commitment to student well-being and community engagement.
8. Support for International Students
UC Davis provides extensive support for its 7,000+ international students through the Services for International Students and Scholars (SISS) office. Key offerings include:
Orientation programs to help students transition to life in the U.S.
Immigration advising and visa assistance.
Cultural adjustment workshops and events.
English language support programs for academic success.
Additionally, international students can join cultural clubs and the Global Ambassadors Program, which pairs international students with current students for mentorship.
9. Campus Dining
UC Davis offers a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and dietary needs. The Dining Commons provide meal plans for on-campus residents, with options for vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free diets. Popular spots include:
Coffee House (CoHo): A student-run café offering affordable meals and snacks.
Food Trucks: Found across campus, serving diverse cuisines like Mexican, Mediterranean, and Asian fusion.
Off-campus, the city of Davis offers a variety of restaurants, cafés, and international cuisine.
10. Housing and Living
UC Davis provides both on-campus housing and assistance with finding off-campus housing. First-year students typically live in residence halls, where they can meet other students and participate in community activities. Upperclassmen and graduate students often live in on-campus apartments or in the city of Davis, which has a small-town charm and plenty of student-friendly housing options.
11. Health and Wellness
UC Davis prioritizes student wellness with access to comprehensive health and counseling services:
Student Health and Counseling Services (SHCS): Offers medical care, mental health services, and wellness programs.
Aggie Mental Health Program: Provides counseling and support groups for students struggling with stress, anxiety, or other challenges.
Wellness programs such as yoga, meditation, and fitness challenges are regularly offered through the ARC.
12. Career Development
The UC Davis Internship and Career Center (ICC) provides students with the tools and resources needed to succeed professionally. Services include:
Resume and cover letter workshops.
Career fairs and networking events.
Internship placement and guidance.
Support for international students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
UC Davis’s proximity to Sacramento, San Francisco, and Silicon Valley makes it an excellent place for students to access internships and job opportunities in government, tech, healthcare, and agriculture.
13. Sustainability
As a leader in sustainability, UC Davis integrates environmental awareness into all aspects of campus life. Students can engage in sustainable projects through programs like the UC Davis Sustainability Office, participate in green research initiatives, or join sustainability-focused student groups. The UC Davis Arboretum and the student-run farm are key highlights for students interested in nature and agriculture.
14. Biking Culture
Davis is famously known as the “Bicycle Capital of the U.S.”, and biking is an integral part of student life. The campus has dedicated bike paths, bike racks, and even a Bike Barn for repairs. Many students rely on bikes as their primary mode of transportation.
High Employability of Graduates:
UC Davis is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the U.S. for graduate employability.
Employers recognize UC Davis graduates for their critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and research experience.
Many graduates land roles at Fortune 500 companies, startups, government agencies, research institutions, and nonprofits.
Strong Employer Connections:
UC Davis collaborates with employers across various industries to connect students with internships and full-time job opportunities.
Top companies recruiting from UC Davis include:
Apple, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Tesla (Tech and Engineering)
Bayer, Genentech, Pfizer (Healthcare and Biotechnology)
Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG (Business and Accounting)
USDA, EPA, World Bank (Government and Environmental Sciences)
Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs (Finance)
Internship and Career Opportunities:
The Internship and Career Center (ICC) at UC Davis connects students with thousands of employers each year.
Students are encouraged to gain real-world experience through internships, co-op programs, and summer jobs, which often lead to full-time positions.
Internships are available in diverse fields, including engineering, business analytics, agriculture, sustainability, healthcare, and technology.
Impressive Placement Statistics:
95% of undergraduates are employed or pursue further studies (graduate programs or professional schools) within 6 months of graduation.
Over 1,500 companies visit UC Davis each year to recruit students at career fairs and through the on-campus recruitment process.
Average salaries for UC Davis graduates vary by discipline but range from $55,000–$120,000/year, depending on the industry and degree.
UC Davis provides various resources and support systems to prepare students for the job market:
1. Internship and Career Center (ICC):
The Internship and Career Center (ICC) is the main hub for career development. It offers:
Job and Internship Postings: Access to thousands of openings through the Handshake platform.
Career Advising: Personalized career counseling sessions to help students plan their career paths.
Workshops and Seminars: Resume writing, interview preparation, networking, and career strategy workshops.
On-Campus Recruiting: Employers visit campus to recruit students for internships and full-time roles.
2. Career Fairs and Networking Events:
UC Davis organizes several career fairs throughout the year, including:
Engineering and Technology Career Fair
Business and Consulting Career Fair
Health and Biotechnology Career Fair
Environmental and Sustainability Career Fair
These fairs provide students with direct access to recruiters from top companies and organizations.
3. Industry Partnerships:
UC Davis has partnerships with key industries in Silicon Valley, Sacramento, and across the U.S., offering students opportunities in:
Tech companies like Google, Meta, and Tesla.
Agriculture and environmental organizations, such as the USDA and the California Department of Water Resources.
Biotech and healthcare companies like Genentech, Bayer, and Kaiser Permanente.
4. Alumni Network:
UC Davis has a global alumni network of over 290,000 graduates working in diverse industries.
Alumni often return to campus to mentor students, conduct workshops, or recruit for their companies.
5. Professional Development Programs:
Programs like Aggie Launch, Leadership Development Workshops, and Business Career Labs help students develop career readiness skills.
LinkedIn Learning is also provided for free to UC Davis students to help them build technical and professional skills.
1. Engineering and Computer Science:
Placement Rate: ~95%
Top Employers: Apple, Google, Intel, Microsoft, Tesla, Amazon, Cisco.
Average Starting Salary: $75,000–$120,000/year.
2. Business and Economics:
Placement Rate: ~92%
Top Employers: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, Bank of America, Wells Fargo.
Average Starting Salary: $65,000–$85,000/year.
3. Life Sciences and Biotechnology:
Placement Rate: ~94%
Top Employers: Genentech, Bayer, Pfizer, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Novartis.
Average Starting Salary: $65,000–$90,000/year.
4. Agriculture and Environmental Sciences:
Placement Rate: ~93%
Top Employers: USDA, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Syngenta, Monsanto.
Average Starting Salary: $55,000–$75,000/year.
5. Veterinary Medicine:
Placement Rate: ~100% (UC Davis Veterinary Medicine School is ranked #1 globally).
Top Employers: Private practices, zoos, and government agencies (e.g., USDA).
Average Starting Salary: $70,000–$90,000/year.
6. Health and Medicine:
Placement Rate: ~96% (including medical school placements).
Top Employers: Kaiser Permanente, UC Health, Mayo Clinic.
Average Starting Salary: $60,000–$85,000/year.
Utilize Career Services: Take full advantage of resources offered by the Internship and Career Center (ICC), including job boards, workshops, and career fairs.
Network Effectively: Attend networking events, alumni gatherings, and career fairs to connect with potential employers.
Gain Work Experience: Secure internships and co-op programs to gain practical experience in your field of interest.
Develop Skills: Use platforms like LinkedIn Learning (free for UC Davis students) to build technical and soft skills that employers seek.
Engage in Research: Work with professors on research projects to gain valuable experience, especially for STEM fields.
Join Clubs and Organizations: Participate in professional or academic clubs to develop leadership skills and enhance your resume.
Overall Acceptance Rate: ~37-49%
California Residents: Acceptance rates tend to be higher for California residents due to the university’s commitment to serving in-state students.
Out-of-State/International Students: Slightly lower acceptance rates compared to in-state applicants due to limited spots for non-residents and higher competitiveness.
Factors Influencing Undergraduate Admissions:
High school GPA (weighted and unweighted).
Completion of A-G coursework.
Personal Insight Questions (PIQs).
Extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and volunteer work.
No requirement for SAT/ACT (UC Davis is test-optional).
Graduate Programs Overall: ~25-40%.
Acceptance rates vary significantly based on the program and department.
Highly competitive programs, such as Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, or MBA, have lower acceptance rates (~20-30%).
Less competitive programs may have higher acceptance rates (40-50%).
Factors Influencing Graduate Admissions:
Academic background and GPA (typically 3.0+ is required).
Strong letters of recommendation.
Statement of Purpose and Personal History Statement.
Standardized test scores, if required (GRE, GMAT, or equivalent).
Research experience and alignment with faculty interests (important for STEM fields).
Law School (JD): ~34%
Highly competitive, requires strong LSAT scores, GPA, and personal statement.
School of Medicine (MD): ~1-2%
Exceptionally competitive, with fewer than 150 spots available annually.
Veterinary Medicine (DVM): ~15%
UC Davis is ranked as the #1 Veterinary School in the world, making admissions highly competitive.
MBA Program (Graduate School of Management): ~40%
Competitive but offers opportunities for applicants with strong academic and professional backgrounds.
Address:
University of California, Davis
1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
Coordinates:
Latitude: 38.5382° N
Longitude: 121.7617° W
Distance to Major Cities:
Sacramento: ~15 miles (24 km) east, about 20 minutes by car.
San Francisco: ~70 miles (112 km) southwest, about 1.5 hours by car.
Silicon Valley (San Jose): ~90 miles (145 km) southwest, about 2 hours by car.
Lake Tahoe: ~120 miles (193 km) east, about 2 hours by car.
Nearest Airport:
Sacramento International Airport (SMF): ~20 miles (32 km) from the campus, about a 25-minute drive.
