The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) is a public research university located on the coast of Southern California. UCSB is part of the 10-campus University of California system and is widely recognized as one of the top public universities in the United States.
UCSB offers over 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across five schools: the College of Letters and Science, the Graduate Division, the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, the Gervirtz Graduate School of Education, and the College of Engineering. The university is particularly well-known for its programs in the sciences, engineering, and social sciences.
The UC Santa Barbara Gauchos compete in NCAA Division I athletics as part of the Big West Conference. The university offers 20 varsity sports teams, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, swimming and diving, and track and field. The university’s teams have won numerous conference championships and individual athletes have earned national recognition. The UCSB Gauchos have a strong fan base and school spirit, making athletic events a fun and exciting part of campus life.
UCSB is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the California Nanosystems Institute, the Marine Science Institute, and the Institute for Energy Efficiency. UCSB is highly known for its academic excellence and research innovation.
Location
The University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) is located on a picturesque coastal campus of over 1,000 acres in Santa Barbara County, California. The campus is situated on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by natural beauty, including beaches, mountains, and lagoons. The campus architecture is a mix of modern and traditional styles, with a majority of buildings made of redwood and concrete. The university is known for its commitment to sustainability and has been ranked as one of the most environmentally responsible colleges in the country. The campus has a lively and vibrant atmosphere with many student organizations, cultural events, and recreational opportunities available for students.
Student Cohort
University of California, Santa Barbara boasts a diverse student population. The university has 23,091 undergraduate students, and 3,033 graduate students. 55% of students are women and 45% of students are men. 4.64% of students are out of state and 10.77% are international students. 4,248 admitted students represent the state of California. International students come from 88 countries and the majority of the students come from China, India, and South Korea.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
UCSB has an acceptance rate of 28%. 110,991 students applied to UCSB and 12,844 students got admitted.
Acceptance GPA
The average high school GPA of accepted students is more than 3.4. `
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
The students to faculty ratio at UCSB is 18:1. 48% of UCSB classes have fewer than 21 students.
Four-year Completion Rate
The first-year retention rate at UCSB is 91%. The four-year graduation rate is 69.90%. The five-year graduation rate is 83.20% and the six-year graduation rate is 85.38%.
Types of Admission
University of California, Santa Barbara is a part of the University of California. All applicants apply through the UC application portal with just one application. The application needs to be submitted by 30th November every year.
Application Components
Complete the UC application and add the high school transcripts.
Standardized Test Score: The University of California is test blind. They have a holistic review of the application process.
Essays: The applicants can choose any 4 prompts from the Personal Insight Questions.
Academics
University of California, Santa Barbara comprises three academic divisions: Letters & Science, Creative Studies, and Engineering. The academics offers 90 undergraduate majors, 40 minors, more than 50 graduate degree programs, and Ph.D. programs.
The College of Letters and Science is the largest college at UC Santa Barbara with over 80 majors and more than 45 departments.
Most Popular Majors
Sociology
Economics
Communications
Research and Experimental Psychology
Biology
International Studies
Environmental Science
Political Science and Government
Statistics
English
College of Engineering: The college offers five engineering programs:
Chemical Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
The College of Creative Studies: The college offers eight majors and a rigorous accelerated program. Some of the areas include:
Art
Biology
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Computing
Mathematics
Music Composition
Physics
Writing and Literature
Technology Management Program: The Technology Management Program is a certificate program for undergraduates interested in business principles and entrepreneurship.
Pre-Health: UCSB’s Pre-Health Program offers academic advising, career planning, application help, and internship connections to students interested in medical school or other health careers.
Pre-Law Program: Students applying to law school are assisted by advisors in developing an academic plan. They are also given the chance to connect with internships locally, statewide, and nationally.
Student Research: UCSB’s Faculty Research Assistance Program (FRAP) and Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URCA) grants help fund research and other creative activities.
Student Life
Student Organizations: University of California, Santa Barbara students can get involved in more than 500 student organizations. Students can also become a part of the student government and many committees.
UCSB’s Recreation Center: Health and wellness is a large component of student life at UCSB. Through the UCSB Recreation Center students join sport clubs and intramural sports or take a trip with Adventure Programs.
Cost of Attendance
UCSB In-State
Total Cost On-Campus $37,902
Total Cost Off-Campus $35,828
Tuition & Fees $14,617
Books and Supplies $1,343
Room & Board On-Campus $16,833
Room & Board Off-Campus $14,246
Other Expenses On-Campus $5,059
Other Expenses Off-Campus $5,622
Total Costs After Receiving Aid On-Campus $19,561
Total Costs After Receiving Aid Off-Campus $17,487
UCSB Out-Of-State
Total Cost On-Campus $67,974
Total Cost Off-Campus $65,900
Tuition & Fees $44,689
Books and Supplies $1,343
Room & Board On-Campus $16,833
Room & Board Off-Campus $14,246
Other Expenses On-Campus $5,059
Other Expenses Off-Campus $5,622
Total Costs After Receiving Aid On-Campus $49,633
Total Costs After Receiving Aid Off-Campus $47,559
In conclusion, the University of California, Santa Barbara is a remarkable higher education institution with a beautiful coastal campus, a diverse student body, and a strong commitment to academic excellence and research. Students have the opportunity to explore their interests and achieve their career goals. UCSB is an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded education in a vibrant, inclusive community.
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