We prepare multidisciplinary thinkers who can work across disciplines collaboratively in ways that converge disciplines and create new solutions. By combining our expertise in teaching and research with our commitment to real-world learning, the College plays a key role in UC Davis’s commitment to providing access and opportunity to a diverse array of students who seek to make the world a better place.

About Our Students

• 38% of our students are underrepresented minorities
• 42% of our undergraduates are the first in their families to attend college
• 71% of incoming international students apply to major in our college
• 43% of undergraduates in the University Honors Program are L&S majors
• 30% of chemistry majors participate in undergraduate research 

Student Experience

Students majoring in one of the 55 majors offered by the College of Letters and Science have so many opportunities to pursue their passions and prepare for a future of endless possibilities. Here we share just a few stories about the incredible students who are determined to make a better world, and the faculty and staff who help them succeed.

Pursuing Undergraduate Research Outside the Lab

Getting research experience as an undergraduate student doesn’t have to mean working in a laboratory. Instead of days spent transferring fluids from one tube to another, math major Tracy Camacho explored matroids, complex mathematical objects with many different uses. 

The Family You Choose

When she was ready to transfer in 2017, Valencia Scott chose UC Davis because of the friendly environment, the resources for supporting students of color, and the prevalence of transfer students. “The biggest thing I was worried about when coming to Davis was finding community, but everyone here was honestly so welcoming,” she said. “I’m so grateful for the community I’ve been able to build here at Davis.”

Three Newly Elected California Leaders Reflect College’s Civic Impact

A student and two alumni of the College of Letters and Science assumed new positions as elected public officials in December 2020.