Having opened in 2005, University of California, Merced says it's "the first American research university of the 21st century." It offers 24 undergraduate majors and 25 minors, plus 18 graduate programs. The university’s six-year graduation rate is 14% higher than predicted based on the students who enroll, according to Money’s analysis.
The student body is diverse and largely local, with few hailing from out of state or country, and roughly 85% of all students receive some form of financial aid. The university ranks within the top 10 of all the schools Money ranked for its socioeconomic mobility, meaning it serves lower-income students particularly well.
Research is a priority, with university projects touching everything from renewable energy to artificial intelligence. Despite its young age, the university already has something for everyone. Whether your passion is Dungeons and Dragons, investing or hip hop, there's a club for you. If sports are more your style, look for varsity teams in basketball, cross country, soccer and volleyball. Students can check out farmers markets and stores in the city of Merced, which is also within driving distance of San Francisco, Sacramento and Yosemite National Park.
