About

Progressive, bold, fearless education that benefits both the individual and the planet.

The redwood sign at the main entrance to campus

Facts & Figures

UC Santa Cruz opened in 1965 with 650 students. During the 2018-2019 academic year, 16,983 undergraduate and 1,822 graduate students were enrolled.

3 UCSC graduates wearing cap and gown

Achievements

Achievements by UC Santa Cruz faculty and students have earned national and international recognition for the quality of research and teaching.

A member of the UCSC tennis team

University News

The latest news, achievements, milestones, and activities featuring UC Santa Cruz students, staff, and faculty can be found here, updated daily.

Chancellor Cynthia Larive

Administration

Cynthia Larive is UCSC's 11th chancellor, appointed in May 2019. A common thread throughout Larive’s career has been her commitment to student success, inclusion, and equity.

Sammy the Slug, the UCSC mascot

Banana Slug

In a world of beavers, bears, and bobcats, UCSC is home to the mighty Banana Slug—which students voted in 1986 to adopt as the official campus mascot.

University News

See Also

About UCSC

UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the intimacy of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university.

Academic Divisions

Looking for a specific division, undergraduate major, or graduate program?

The Colleges

UCSC residential learning colleges provide students with academic support, activities, and events that enhance the intellectual and social life of the campus.

Support UCSC

Learn more about the need for private gifts — and please consider making a gift today.