The University of California, Merced, offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate majors, catering to the academic and professional interests of its students. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and community engagement, UC Merced provides its students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields. From the natural sciences to the humanities, the university's academic programs are designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.
Undergraduate Majors at UC Merced

UC Merced offers over 20 undergraduate majors, including programs in the schools of Engineering, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts, and the Ernest and Julio Gallo Management Program. Some of the most popular undergraduate majors at UC Merced include:
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Biological Sciences
- Psychology
- Business Administration
- Environmental Systems Science
- Public Health
These undergraduate programs provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen field, as well as the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and community-based projects. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and collaborative problem-solving, UC Merced's undergraduate programs prepare students for successful careers and further education.
Graduate Programs at UC Merced
UC Merced also offers a range of graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees in fields such as engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. Some of the graduate programs available at UC Merced include:
- Master of Science in Engineering
- Ph.D. in Biological Sciences
- Master of Arts in Psychology
- Master of Business Administration
- Ph.D. in Environmental Systems
These graduate programs provide advanced training and research opportunities for students, allowing them to specialize in their area of interest and make significant contributions to their field. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and collaboration, UC Merced's graduate programs prepare students for leadership roles in academia, industry, and government.
Key Points
- UC Merced offers over 20 undergraduate majors and a range of graduate programs
- Undergraduate programs provide a solid foundation in the chosen field and opportunities for research and community engagement
- Graduate programs offer advanced training and research opportunities in fields such as engineering, natural sciences, and humanities
- UC Merced's academic programs emphasize interdisciplinary research, collaborative problem-solving, and hands-on learning
- The university provides students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields
With its strong academic programs, cutting-edge research opportunities, and commitment to community engagement, UC Merced is an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality education in a supportive and inclusive environment. Whether you're interested in the natural sciences, humanities, or social sciences, UC Merced has a program that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Interdisciplinary Research at UC Merced

One of the unique features of UC Merced is its emphasis on interdisciplinary research. The university’s faculty and students work together on projects that span multiple disciplines, from engineering and natural sciences to humanities and social sciences. This approach to research allows students to develop a deeper understanding of complex problems and to develop innovative solutions that draw on multiple perspectives.
Some examples of interdisciplinary research projects at UC Merced include:
- Developing sustainable energy systems that combine engineering, environmental science, and policy
- Investigating the social and environmental impacts of climate change, drawing on expertise in sociology, anthropology, and environmental science
- Designing and implementing innovative technologies for healthcare, combining computer science, engineering, and public health
These projects demonstrate the university's commitment to addressing complex problems and to providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
Community Engagement at UC Merced
UC Merced is also committed to community engagement and outreach. The university’s students, faculty, and staff work together on projects that benefit the local community, from tutoring and mentoring programs to environmental conservation and community development initiatives.
Some examples of community engagement projects at UC Merced include:
- The UC Merced Community Engagement Center, which provides resources and support for community-based projects and initiatives
- The UC Merced Mentor Program, which pairs students with mentors from the local community
- The UC Merced Volunteer Program, which provides opportunities for students to get involved in community service and volunteer work
These projects demonstrate the university's commitment to giving back to the community and to providing students with opportunities for hands-on learning and community engagement.
| Major | Description |
|---|---|
| Computer Science and Engineering | A program that combines computer science and engineering to prepare students for careers in software development, data analysis, and more |
| Biological Sciences | A program that provides students with a comprehensive education in biology, from molecular biology to ecology and evolution |
| Psychology | A program that explores the human mind and behavior, with courses in cognitive psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology |

In conclusion, UC Merced offers a range of undergraduate and graduate majors that cater to the academic and professional interests of its students. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, community engagement, and hands-on learning, the university provides its students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.
What are the most popular undergraduate majors at UC Merced?
+The most popular undergraduate majors at UC Merced include Computer Science and Engineering, Biological Sciences, Psychology, Business Administration, Environmental Systems Science, and Public Health.
What types of graduate programs are available at UC Merced?
+UC Merced offers a range of graduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees in fields such as engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
What is the focus of UC Merced’s academic programs?
+UC Merced’s academic programs focus on interdisciplinary research, community engagement, and hands-on learning, providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.