Campus Life

UC Merced Recognized Nationally for Excellence, Affordability and Student Success

July 30, 2025

UC Merced remains one of the top universities in the nation according to Money’s 2025 “Best Colleges in America” report. The university earned 4.5 stars out of 5 in Money’s latest poll, which scores over 700 schools. The ratings are based on several factors, including...

The Sentinel Rock building at UC Merced.

UC Merced's Expansion Project Continues to Garner Acclaim

Since its completion three years ago, the Merced 2020 Project has amassed numerous accolades. Most recently, the landmark project that, in essence, doubled the size of the university's campus,...

A rendering depicts the new housing project.

UC Merced, Merced College to Provide New Housing for Transfer Students

UC Merced and Merced College will jointly build a 488-bed student housing project for community college and transfer students. The California Legislature gave final approval to the $100 million...

Founding Faculty Member Martha Conklin Bids Farewell to Campus Community

Professor Martha Conklin started her career at UC Merced at the Castle Research Facility, and it began with a frightening surprise. “I had a baby rattlesnake in my office,” she said....

Scholars Bridge Crossing Event (Slideshow)

Thousands of incoming UC Merced students participated in the Scholars Bridge Crossing, one of the university's earliest traditions. The annual event is a rite of passage for new Bobcats...

The Labyrinth Provides Space to Reflect, Meditate and Find Peace on Campus

Just in time for the start of the academic year, UC Merced's newest landmark has opened —The Labyrinth. Located in Kelley Grove overlooking Little Lake, UC Merced Art Director Collin...

Move-in Weekend 2023 (Slideshow)

UC Merced welcomed back thousands of students to campus for the start of the university's 19th academic year! From Aug. 17-20, family and friends joined incoming Bobcats as they arrived on...

Bobcats Returning to New Features and Opportunities at UC Merced

UC Merced is preparing to welcome back thousands of students to campus for the start of the university's 19th academic year. From Aug. 17-20, family and friends will join incoming Bobcats as...

Students solve a problem during the Center for Educational Partnerships' math academy.

Math Academies Provide Skills - and Fun - in a College Environment

Here's a challenge: Four weeks, five days a week and seven hours a day, you have to teach math to middle school students. During the summer. And you have to keep it interesting. The...

Students to Present Wide Array of Research at Annual Undergraduate Research Symposium

UC Merced students will present research conducted over the summer at the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center (UROC) annual Undergraduate Research Symposium. The research presentations...

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