The College of Letters and Science at University of California, Davis anchors the university as its broadest and most diverse undergraduate and graduate division. Students explore critical thinking, written communication, and interdisciplinary analysis within a dynamic liberal arts and sciences environment.
Across more than two dozen departments, the college emphasizes engaged research, global perspectives, and civic responsibility. The structured overview below highlights key dimensions of the college at a glance.
| Category | Details | Undergraduate Focus | Graduate Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Departments | Over 20 majors spanning humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences | BA, BS degrees | MA, MS, PhD options |
| Core Emphasis | Critical inquiry, ethics, communication, quantitative reasoning | General education + major coursework | Thesis and non-thesis tracks |
| Research Opportunities | URAP, faculty mentorship, summer grants, lab and field work | Course-embedded projects | Direct involvement in funded research centers |
| Career Outcomes | Education, tech, public service, health, business, law | Practicum and internship partnerships | Postdoctoral pathways and industry placement |
Academic Programs and Majors
Undergraduate Majors
The undergraduate portfolio includes more than 70 majors and minors, organized into interdisciplinary clusters. Students can pursue traditional paths such as biology, economics, and political science, or emerging combinations like cognitive science and environmental humanities.
Graduate and Advanced Degrees
Graduate study in the college features MA, MS, and PhD programs that balance teaching, research, and professional practice. Departments often collaborate with campus research institutes, expanding resources for advanced scholars.
Admissions and Application Process
Freshman Admission
First-year applicants submit a complete application including academic history, personal insight questions, and test scores (optional). Holistic review considers coursework rigor, GPA, and context to build a well entering class.
Transfer Admission
Transfer applicants provide college transcripts, coursework details, and a statement of purpose. Competitive admits typically complete general education at regionally accredited institutions and demonstrate strong performance in major preparatory courses.
Student Life and Campus Resources
Communities and Support
Affinity centers, writing and tutoring services, and peer mentoring programs help students thrive. Active clubs, internships, and study abroad options connect academic study with real-world experience.
Global Engagement and Career Readiness
Study Abroad and International Partnerships
The college supports semester-long and short-term programs worldwide, integrating global perspectives into students’ academic and professional development.
- Review departmental requirements early to align majors with career goals
- Leverage writing and communication centers to strengthen application materials
- Pursue internships and research assistantships to build practical experience
- Engage with faculty advisors to design a coherent plan for graduation
- Explore study abroad options that complement your academic interests
FAQ
Reader questions
What are the most popular majors in the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis?
Popular majors include biology, psychology, economics, political science, and chemistry, reflecting strong interest in both arts and sciences pathways.
Does the college offer honors programs or research opportunities for undergraduates?
Yes, students can participate in honors programs, the Undergraduate Research and Apprenticeship Program (URAP), and faculty-led research projects.
How does course enrollment work for general education requirements?
General education courses are structured to build foundational skills in communication, quantitative reasoning, and critical inquiry across multiple disciplines.
What support services are available for first-generation college students?
First-generation students access mentoring, academic coaching, financial literacy workshops, and targeted advising through student success centers.