University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC)

A progressive university that is part of a well-established university system, UC Santa Cruz offers a unique approach to traditional academics

Situated in the stunning and progressive coastal California town of Santa Cruz, UCSC is an environmentally friendly, green community both on and off campus.

A community that values both the individual and the world, UCSC’s academics offer a unique approach. While students take a traditional major in the liberal arts, humanities, sciences and professional areas, they also enroll in one of UCSC’s smaller colleges.

Each college focuses on a particular theme, such as “self and society,” with the student examining his area of study from the perspective of that theme.

UCSC also offers progressive and highly individualized grading methods; assessing students with narrative evaluations rather than grades.

The community is also central to UCSC’s identity, particularly in its student life. Students reside at one of the 10 colleges and participate in extracurricular and service activities together, fostering a tightly-knit community at each college.

However, while progressive, UCSC is also a well-established and respected institution. Part of the University of California system, UCSC employs award-winning, nationally recognized faculty who are authors, researchers and renowned scholars in their respective fields.

Admission to UCSC is, like everything else, highly individualized. While grades are taken into account, other factors such as creative talents, participation in service and extracurricular activities are given equal attention. Submission of standardized tests is not required.

Since it is a state school, tuition for in-state residents is considerably lower. Various financial aid sources are available to those who qualify.

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