University of California, Davis

Davis, California

ACCEPTED

SETTING

College town near Sacramento with 100+ acre arboretum

SIZE

Large (40,000 students)

ACADEMIC RIGOR

Very High (R1 Research)

Environmental Programs

Environmental Engineering

B.S. (ABET Accredited)

  • Top 10 graduate program in Civil & Environmental Engineering
  • Tier one research university (R1) with extensive research opportunities
  • UC Davis Institute of the Environment for interdisciplinary study
  • Focus on sustainable solutions for society
  • World-leading faculty and cutting-edge facilities

Campus & Nature

UC Davis features the stunning 100+ acre UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, a living museum with extensive wildlife and nature education programs integrated throughout campus.

  • UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden - 100+ acre living museum
  • 31 species of mammals, 45+ bird species on campus
  • 'Nature's Classroom' green spaces for outdoor learning
  • Nature Rx program promoting outdoor wellness
  • Extensive walking and biking trails through arboretum
  • Wildlife habitat and native plant gardens throughout campus

Academic Rigor

As a tier one research university, UC Davis offers rigorous academics with world-class research opportunities and a top 10 graduate program in environmental engineering.

  • R1 research university designation
  • Top 10 graduate program in Civil & Environmental Engineering
  • Rigorous foundation in science and mathematics
  • World-leading faculty and research facilities
  • Extensive undergraduate research opportunities

Liberal Arts Access

  • Pre-law advising and academic planning
  • Strong liberal arts foundation alongside technical programs
  • Academic preparation programs for graduate school
  • Excellent law school placement record

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Top-tier research university with R1 designation
  • Exceptional arboretum and nature integration
  • Top 10 environmental engineering graduate program
  • UC system prestige and resources
  • Strong research and graduate school preparation

Cons

  • Large university size may feel impersonal
  • Competitive admissions and coursework
  • Davis location less scenic than coastal schools
  • May require more self-advocacy for opportunities

Student Voices

Real perspectives from students and alumni on third-party review sites

What Students Love

"UC Davis reminds me of home. With the thriving life of agriculture here, it has a familiar smell and environment that makes me feel at ease. The professors and the school community is extremely supportive."

— Junior, a month ago

What Students Love

"The campus is beautifully maintained and encourages a bike-friendly lifestyle, promoting sustainability and outdoor activities. The town of Davis is welcoming, gorgeous, and surprisingly bustling."

— Freshman, 3 months ago

Common Complaint

"Large lecture classes can feel overwhelming, and some courses move very quickly. I would like to see more built-in academic support and clearer communication in difficult classes."

— Sophomore, 24 days ago