University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego)

Organization and academics

Undergraduate education at UC San Diego is organized through a distinctive six-college system; each college provides a general education framework while departments grant majors. The university offers a broad range of programs across arts and humanities, social sciences, biological and physical sciences, engineering, computer science, and professional schools. Historically reported enrollment figures include 22,048 undergraduates and 5,073 graduate students in fall 2007, and the institution awards thousands of degrees annually. Program types include dozens of undergraduate majors and a wide slate of master’s and doctoral options.

Research strengths and reputation

UCSD has developed particular strengths in oceanography, biological sciences, engineering, medicine, and computer science. Its proximity to the Scripps Institution of Oceanography drives a leading presence in ocean, climate and earth science research. The university publishes extensively, attracts substantial research funding, and participates in multidisciplinary centers and industry partnerships. Rankings have reflected these strengths: for example, the Academic Ranking of World Universities placed UCSD among the top global universities in 2012, and national listings by major outlets have repeatedly ranked it among the leading public universities in the United States. See sample evaluations by independent rankings for more context: international rankings and other rankings.

History and campus

UC San Diego began in the early 1960s with a close association to a pre-existing oceanographic research institute. The campus expanded rapidly in the following decades, adding laboratories, teaching facilities and residential colleges. Its La Jolla location provides both urban and coastal research opportunities and shapes campus life. Facilities include research laboratories, teaching hospitals and specialized centers that support both basic science and applied work.

Student life, impact and notable facts

Student life at UCSD blends organized college traditions, student organizations, and strong ties to the local technology and life-science economy. Alumni and faculty contributions have had influence in academic research, industry startups, public policy and the arts. As a public research university within the UC system, UCSD combines a mission of education, public service and research, making it a major regional and international academic institution.

Quick facts

• Part of the University of California system.
• Founded in 1960 near the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
• Organized around six undergraduate colleges and multiple graduate divisions.
• Recognized in national and international rankings for research and academic quality: see global rankings and national lists.