University of California, San Diego (UCSD) is a large public research university in the La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, California, known for its strong STEM, biological sciences, and social‑sciences programs and its ocean‑proximate campus. Students often rave about the beautiful coastal setting, the seven‑college system that creates smaller communities within the big school, the many clubs and events like the Sun God Festival, and the easy access to beaches, hiking, and San Diego nightlife.
Student Population
35,000+
Common Majors
biology, cognitive science, computer science, economics, psychology, bioengineering
“School culture feels like a mix of intense quarters and beach‑driven downtime, professors push you academically but research and labs are easy to join, sports and college‑specific traditions add a fun rhythm, and off‑campus life blends La Jolla hikes, Pacific Beach trips, and internships that keep the schedule full but never dull.”
Team & Tuition
Tuition (no scholarship)
In-state: $14,934; Out-of-state: $37,602
Conference
Big West Conference
Scholarships Available
Yes. Both athletic and academic.