University of California-Riverside

The University of California, Riverside, a proud member of the distinguished University of California system, stands as a vibrant public land-grant research institution. Its compelling story began in 1907 as the UC Citrus Experiment Station, a pioneering hub for research in biological pest control and crop improvement. This historical foundation underscores UCR's enduring commitment to scientific discovery and its vital role in shaping California's agricultural landscape, evolving into a recognized "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity."

From its modest beginnings in 1954 with just 127 students, UCR has embraced a remarkable trajectory of expansion. It was designated a general university campus in 1959 and has consistently met the state's escalating educational demands, with plans to reach 35,000 students by 2035. This rapid growth, including boasting the fastest growth rate among UC campuses in the 1990s, is matched by a steadfast dedication to diversity, having achieved the highest proportion of African American, American Indian, and Latino students among UC campuses by 1995—a legacy it proudly upholds.

Academically, UCR offers a comprehensive and engaging environment, with its R1 research classification reflecting significant contributions across various fields. A testament to its forward-thinking vision is the establishment of the UC Riverside School of Medicine in 2013, a groundbreaking achievement as the first new research-based public medical school in California in four decades. Students, known as the Highlanders, enjoy a spirited campus life with NCAA Division I athletics, all while immersing themselves in an inclusive and innovative academic community dedicated to making a tangible impact on the world.