bike path and view of the bay

#2

for making an impact on the world

by Princeton Review

#1

for racial and gender diversity in leadership

by Women’s Power Gap Initiative

Leading at the intersection of innovation and social justice.

A global research university with an uncommon emphasis on undergraduate research and education, UC Santa Cruz is part of the world’s most celebrated system of public higher education, and stands among the most renowned institutions of higher learning.

News

The new site aims to easily and seamlessly guide visitors to the top questions that people have about the university including academics, research, admissions, financial aid, campus life, and more.

Reimagining digital presence, UC Santa Cruz debuts new homepage

Creating a digital presence that reflects excellence and impact, UC Santa Cruz debuted a new homepage with a modern and responsive design, crisp language, stunning photos, and compelling videos.

Graphic illustration with bright colors and close up of a chromosome.

Scientists release the first complete sequence of a human Y chromosome

Researchers announce a feat that finally completes the set of end-to-end human chromosomes, providing crucial insight for those studying important questions related to reproduction, evolution, and population change.

Firefighter with a firehose spraying water on flames.

UC Santa Cruz projects win California Climate Action Grant funding

Millions of dollars in new funding will support UC Santa Cruz and partners in tackling some of California’s toughest climate change challenges through innovative research and community engagement.

Our Voices: Rachel Nelson, Institute of the Arts and Sciences

Artists work to shift the ways we see and understand things like climate change, incarceration, and justice.

To lead means …

student working on a model in the makers space.


Creating real change

Students at UC Santa Cruz learn from incredible faculty, develop new skills through hands-on research opportunities, and have a track record of making an impact. What kind of a pathbreaker, innovator, or changemaker will you become?

student assessing digital prints


Serving our society

World-class researchers at UC Santa Cruz unlock mysteries and help to transform our world, addressing some of our most pressing needs—from decoding cancer to protecting our natural environment to creating art that challenges assumptions. What will you contribute?

student on the beach with binoculars

Shaping our future

Become a Banana Slug, and lead the change.

Get ready for your future

UC Santa Cruz graduates are sought after for their knowledge, skills, and passion. Whether you plan to start working right away, or pursue graduate school or professional school, your UC Santa Cruz degree will help you on your way.

Explore our majors and start your future.

See for yourself

One of the most extraordinary campuses in the world, UC Santa Cruz pairs high-impact research with 10 residential colleges—offering students the experience of a small liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. 

Take a tour virtually or in person.

Here to help

A UC degree is worth it—and we can help you pay for it. Our financial aid program is one of the best out there. It supports students in all kinds of ways, whatever their background—with grants, scholarships, low-interest loans, and more.

Get the details on different kinds of financial aid.


Your journey awaits.

When you become a Banana Slug, you join a community of artists, innovators, creators,
and justice seekers united in using their voices to change the world.