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Colleges / CA / Santa Cruz
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University of California-Santa Cruz

Public Santa Cruz, CA · Urban · Far West · 93% data reported · Agent Insights
75%
Graduation Rate
$68,396
Earnings (10yr)
$17,890
Net Price
66%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

Seventy-five percent of students graduate from the University of California-Santa Cruz, a solid figure that indicates strong support for student success. With an acceptance rate of 66%, this public university welcomes a diverse range of students to its vibrant campus in Santa Cruz, California.

Graduates from UC Santa Cruz earn an average of $68,396 ten years after starting their degree. While specific mobility rates are not available, the university serves a significant number of Pell Grant recipients, indicating a commitment to serving students from low-income backgrounds. This environment fosters a high potential for upward mobility, especially for those who engage fully with available resources.

The net price of attendance is $17,890, and the median debt upon graduation is $16,666, making it a relatively affordable option for many students. Those who thrive here typically have interests in fields like Computer Science, Biology, Social Sciences, and the Arts. The supportive atmosphere and diverse academic offerings create a strong foundation for students aiming for successful careers.

Rankings

How University Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation75%Earnings 10yr$68KNet Price$18KRetention88%Median Debt$17KPell Grant Rate32%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$9K$0-30K$11K$30-48K$14K$48-75K$33K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$16,005
In-State Tuition
$50,205
Out-of-State
$17,890
Avg Net Price
$16,666
Median Debt
32%
Pell Grant Rate
28%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$8,717
Family Income $0–$30K
$10,613
Family Income $30K–$48K
$14,418
Family Income $48K–$75K
$33,323
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$49,716
6 Years After Entry
$59,302
8 Years
$68,396
10 Years
0.24x
Debt-to-Earnings
61%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$49,716 6yr $59,302 8yr $68,396 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.74
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.02
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
11.8%
Volunteering Rate
0.98
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 66%
Retention Rate 88%
Full-Time Faculty 85%
Faculty Salary (mo) $17,994
Diversity Index 0.76
First-Gen Students 37%

Top Programs

Computer Science & IT 16%
Biology & Biomedical 15%
Social Sciences 10%
Visual & Performing Arts 10%
Psychology 10%
Business & Marketing 7%
Physical Sciences 5%
Engineering 4%