Overview
Founded in 1868 as the first campus of the University of California system, Berkeley has grown into one of the most influential research universities in the world. It played a pivotal role in scientific breakthroughs including the discovery of numerous chemical elements, the development of the atomic bomb through the Manhattan Project, and foundational work in computer science and biotechnology. Berkeley consistently ranks among the top public universities globally and boasts an extensive list of Nobel laureates, Turing Award winners, and MacArthur Fellows among its faculty and alumni.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Berkeley, California |
| Founded | 1868 |
| Total students | 45,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 18:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 11% |
| Graduation rate | 93% |
| Average starting salary | $78,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $14,900 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $47,800 |
| Room & board | $19,500 |
| Average financial aid | $22,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1330-1530 |
| ACT range | 29-35 |
| Average GPA | 4.15 |
| Regular deadline | November 30 |
Top Programs
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Business (Haas)
- Economics
- Molecular Biology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.