BA Computer Science at University of California, Santa Cruz

Programme overview

The bachelor of arts (B.A.) program at University of California, Santa Cruz, is designed to give students a grounding in both theoretical and practical topics in computer science, computer engineering, and mathematics while leaving flexibility for a broad program of study, including some courses outside of science and engineering, or even for a double major in another discipline.

Faculty: Baskin School of Engineering | Department: Computer Science and Engineering | Study mode: full-time | Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Required courses listed in the catalogue include Computer Systems and Assembly Language and Lab, Applied Discrete Mathematics, Programming Abstractions: Python, Calculus for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics, Honors Calculus, Computer Systems and C Programming.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Catalogue preparation guidance for the major (admission to the university is separate): Transfer students should refer to the Transfer Admission Screening requirements. For all students, it is necessary to be listed as proposed computer science majors within the School of Engineering before being able to declare the major.

Domestic applicants: USD 14,202 a year (2026-27). UC undergraduate Tuition for California residents first enrolled in 2026-27 (Tuition Stability Plan cohort rate); one rate for all undergraduate majors. Excludes Student Services Fee, campus fees, UC SHIP health insurance and records fee. Non-residents ad Source

Fall quarter entry (classes for fall 2026 began September 24, 2026); winter quarter entry (winter 2027 instruction begins January 4, 2027).

UC Application for fall 2027 opens October 1, 2026 and the filing deadline is November 30, 2026; the application is available online from August 1, 2026. Fall 2027 first-year decisions appear on the Admissions Portal late February to mid-March 2027; transfer decisions April 1-30, 2027. Transfer Academic Update due January 31, 2027; UCSC TAG filing period September 1-30, 2026.

UC Santa Cruz does not use ACT/SAT scores in its comprehensive review and selection process. Applications are made through the UC Application. Minimum GPA is 3.00 for California residents and 3.40 for non-residents and international applicants.

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