About the school

As the largest academic division on campus, the Division of Social Sciences at UC Santa Cruz houses eight dynamic departments and two residential undergraduate colleges. With an impressive portfolio including eight PhD and 25 undergraduate degree programmes, the division's enrollment figures stand as the most robust on campus, boasting 5,885 undergraduates and 443 graduates. Supported by a dedicated cohort of 166 faculty and 100 staff members, the division plays a pivotal role, conferring 45% of bachelor's and 22% of Ph.D. degrees granted by the university.

Notably, UC Santa Cruz has secured the 26th spot in the U.S. News and World Report's 2019 list of leading public national universities. The division thrives on interdisciplinary synergy, offering renowned graduate programmes with a focus on professional training, particularly in fields like economics and education. Its exceptional research productivity has earned it the top rank among public universities nationwide.

Location of the School

The Division for Social Sciences is located in Monterey Bay, on the edge of the coastal community of Santa Cruz, with rolling, forested hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Life at the Division of Social Sciences

UCSC is well-known for its picturesque setting. It has a view of the Pacific Ocean and the magnificent redwood forests. The Division of Social Sciences addresses several key social issues via a multidisciplinary approach. As a student here, you will have the chance to engage with a wide variety of disciplines like sociology, psychology, politics, economics, anthropology, and more.

Outside of the classroom, the division offers extracurricular activities that cater to varied interests. The many student organizations provide a platform to connect with like-minded students. They can choose from many clubs, such as community service, global politics, or environmental justice. To network with industry experts, the division frequently hosts guest speakers, events, and conferences that tackle current societal challenges. Here, students can engage with renowned experts on topics like policymaking, human behaviour, and inequality.

Those interested in research can collaborate with faculty on research projects to gain some valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of your chosen field. In general, UCSC places a strong emphasis on community engagement and activism. As a student in the Division of Social Sciences, you'll find ways to connect your academic pursuits with real-world impact. From volunteering in the local community to participating in advocacy groups, you can make a difference both on and off campus.

The outdoor-oriented campus culture is one of the unique aspects of UCSC. With large green spaces, outdoor areas, hiking trails, and beach access, there’s ample opportunity to relax, unwind, and explore nature. To ensure students thrive both academically and personally, the division offers several resources. These include advising, counselling services, and peer mentoring.

Overall, as a student in the Division of Social Sciences at UCSC, you'll have the chance to engage in meaningful academic pursuits, connect with a diverse community, and contribute to positive change through a variety of activities and initiatives. The campus's natural beauty and commitment to social awareness create a unique and enriching experience.

Additional Benefits of Studying at the Division of Social Sciences

A notable factor about the Division of Social Sciences is its research-intensive environment that provides students with access to cutting-edge projects and facilities. The interdisciplinary approach to education nurtures a comprehensive understanding of various subjects.

With modern learning spaces, accessible faculty, plenty of student resources, and a strong alumni network, students can enjoy a well-rounded and enriching academic journey.

Admissions criteria

The Division of Social Sciences at UCSC has a specific criterion they’re looking for in prospective students. A few elements every student must submit are the following:

Résumé A Statement of Purpose A Personal History Statement TOEFL, GMAT and GRE test scores

Please consult the school’s necessary admissions and financial aid websites for detailed information and any updates to this information.

Job placements

At the UCSC Division of Social Sciences, students will find various resources and support for job placements.

Career services - The career services centre offers resources, guidance, and workshops to help students smoothly navigate their job search process Internship opportunities - There are ample internship opportunities related to social sciences for students Alumni network - With several well-known alumni graduates, current students have first-hand access to insights, mentorship, and potential job connections Research opportunity - For those who want a career in the field of research, there are plenty of opportunities available at this division to pursue this further