University of California, Riverside

University of California, Riverside Overview

The University of California, Riverside (UCR or UC Riverside) stands as a prominent public land-grant research university nestled in Riverside, California. One of the distinguished institutions within the University of California system, UCR's sprawling main campus spans 1,900 acres in Riverside, supplemented by a branch campus of 20 acres in Palm Desert. Its roots date back to the establishment of the UC Citrus Experiment Station in 1907, a pioneer in biological pest control and growth regulator research.

UCR is a vibrant hub of academic divisions, including Emory College of Letters and Science, Oxford College, Goizueta Business School, and more. The university proudly boasts a diverse student body hailing from all corners of the globe.

At UCR, both undergraduate and graduate students thrive in an environment where over $730 million have been invested in construction since 1999, envisioning an enrollment of 21,000 by 2015. The UC Riverside School of Medicine, founded in 2012, stands as a remarkable milestone, being the first new research-based public medical school in 40 years.

This institution, classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," has established itself as a prominent member of the Association of American Universities. UCR's athletic teams, known as the Highlanders, actively participate in the NCAA Division I within the Big West Conference.

UCR's journey began in the early 20th century, rooted in Southern California's citrus industry. The establishment of the UC Citrus Experiment Station on Mount Rubidoux's slope in Riverside set the stage for pioneering agricultural research. This momentum led to the founding of a UC-administered liberal arts college adjacent to the CES, guided by a group of determined civic leaders.

Gordon S. Watkins played a pivotal role as UCR's first provost, setting the foundation for a vibrant academic community with its doors opening in 1954. Under the visionary leadership of Herman Theodore Spieth and Ivan Hinderaker, UCR transitioned into a full-fledged university and successfully navigated through significant events, such as the free speech movement.

As the 21st century approached, UCR faced a surge in applications, resulting in significant ethnic diversity. The institution embarked on enhancing its recognition and popularity, making strides in various fields like athletics and establishing new academic units like the UCR School of Medicine.

Governed by a Board of Regents and administered by a president, UCR excels in its organization, offering three academic colleges, two professional schools, and two graduate schools. The university's dedication to diverse education options, groundbreaking research, and a vibrant campus community solidifies its position as a premier institution within the University of California system.