University of California-Merced
UC Merced
Merced, California 95343-5603
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for engineering — excellent value
University of California-Merced is a public institution in Merced with particular strength in engineering and psychology.
A mid-sized campus of 8.4K undergraduates with a 21:1 student-faculty ratio. The suburban location offers a balance of campus life and nearby amenities.
69% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $64,368 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $12,744.
Rankings
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •On May 19, 1988, the UC Regents voted to move forward with a plan to establish a new campus in this region.
- •In 1989, the Regents further authorized then UC President David P.
- •By 1992, the field was narrowed once more, this time to three final contenders: Fresno, Madera, and Merced.
- •In April 1997, the City of Merced expanded its sphere of influence to incorporate the SUDP area and agreed to collaborate closely with Merced County to facilitate the project's advancement.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
69.0%
Median Debt at Grad
$12,750
Programs (65)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
83%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
61
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from CA state average + suburban adjustment