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University of California-Davis

Davis, CA

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Quick Facts

Fiat lux (Latin)("Let there be light")

1905
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
40,848
Total Students
31,797
Undergrad
7,912
Graduate
$770M
Endowment
(2024)
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of California-Davis

From pioneering agriculture to a global research hub, UC Davis cultivates discovery.

The University of California, Davis, stands as a distinguished "Public Ivy" and a top-tier R1 research university, renowned for its very high research activity. As the northernmost campus of the esteemed University of California system, UC Davis began its journey in 1905 as an agricultural branch, embracing its land-grant mission to serve the state through innovation. This foundational commitment to discovery is captured in its inspiring Latin motto, "Fiat lux," meaning "Let there be light."

Over the past century, UC Davis has blossomed far beyond its agricultural roots, expanding into a comprehensive academic powerhouse. Today, it offers an impressive array of graduate and professional programs, excelling in fields such as medicine, engineering, science, law, veterinary medicine, education, nursing, and business management. The university is particularly celebrated for its School of Veterinary Medicine, recognized as the largest in the United States, and its highly competitive School of Medicine, which consistently ranks among the nation's best. With 90 research programs, UC Davis provides unparalleled opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research and make meaningful contributions to the world.

Life at UC Davis is vibrant and engaging, fostering a strong sense of community among its over 40,800 students. Known as the Aggies, students embody a spirit of athletic excellence competing in NCAA Division I. Located in the welcoming area of Davis, California, the campus offers a dynamic environment where intellectual curiosity thrives. Whether you're pursuing groundbreaking research, excelling in the classroom, or participating in campus life, UC Davis provides a supportive and inspiring setting for students to learn, grow, and contribute to a brighter future.

Key Highlights

  • A "Public Ivy" and R1 Research Powerhouse: Classified among "Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," reflecting its commitment to groundbreaking research.
  • Pioneering Legacy: Established in 1905 as an agricultural branch, evolving into a comprehensive University of California campus in 1959.
  • Vast Student Community: Home to over 40,800 students, fostering a dynamic and diverse learning environment.
  • Nation's Largest Veterinary School: UC Davis boasts the largest School of Veterinary Medicine in the United States, a leader in animal health.
  • Highly Competitive Medical Education: The UC Davis School of Medicine was recognized as the 6th most competitive medical school in the U.S. in 2016, with a 2.8% acceptance rate.
  • Illustrious Faculty and Alumni: The university community includes recipients of 2 Nobel Prizes, 1 Fields Medal, 3 Pulitzer Prizes, and numerous other prestigious national awards.
  • Significant Endowment: Supported by an endowment of approximately $0.8 billion, fueling its mission of education and discovery.

Timeline

1868
University of California established, founding a College of Agriculture as its first college.
1905
"University Farm" founded as an agricultural branch of the University of California.
1922
Renamed the Northern Branch of the College of Agriculture.
1938
Renamed the College of Agriculture at Davis.
1959
Became the sixth general campus of the University of California.
🏛️
121 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within University of California-Davis

🏥

UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine

The largest veterinary school in the United States, known for its leadership in animal health and research.

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UC Davis School of Medicine

A highly competitive medical school, ranked among the nation's best and a hub for medical innovation.

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