III: Commitment to Diversity

The Graduate Division is committed to recruiting, enrolling, supporting, and matriculating a diverse student body reflecting the complexity of our state and nation. The Graduate Division oversees recruitment and retention efforts to welcome excellent graduate students into the university community.

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Our Goals

UCSC strives to achieve a graduate student population that is inclusive of all historically underserved groups including first-generation status, socioeconomic levels, physical and mental abilities, ages, races, national origins, gender identities, immigration status, and sexual orientations. UCSC encourages applications from students who have overcome economic or social barriers to pursuing their academic objectives and those who bring unique perspectives, research topics, or career interests that advance the University’s mission as well as excellence and diversity. 

Early identification of, and personal communication with, all competitive applicants is essential in attracting them to UCSC. Studies have shown that students who have had personal contact with faculty are much more likely to accept offers of admission at their relevant institutions. Wherever possible, the Faculty and/or Staff Graduate Representatives and individual faculty are encouraged to take an active role and contact prospective students. Information regarding recruitment materials, services, and other assistance is available through the Graduate Division.

STEM Diversity Programs –

IMSD

The Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD), also known as the Minority Biomedical Research Support (MBRS) program, provides participating students with the opportunity to receive an in-depth experience in the academic and experimental aspects of biological research. Funded through the National Institutes of Health, the program consists of a laboratory-training program during the summer and laboratory research projects during the academic year.

UC LEADS

The Office of Recruitment and Retention coordinates the University of California Leadership Excellence through Advanced Degrees (UC LEADS). UC LEADS is a systemwide program designed to identify and provide academic enrichment for disadvantaged undergraduates pursuing courses at the University of California in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), who are likely to succeed in doctoral programs. Program components include matching the student with a faculty mentor, participation in academic research, involvement in campus academic enrichment opportunities and in professional and scientific societies, and travel to other UC campuses for summer research and exposure to campus graduate study opportunities.

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