Is UC Berkeley or UCLA a better choice for undergrad?
I'm trying to figure out whether UC Berkeley or UCLA would be a better fit for me as an undergrad. I'm really interested in studying biology, but I also care about things like campus culture, location, and research opportunities.
I've visited both campuses and liked different things about each, but I'm still torn and finding it a bit stressful to decide. I've heard people say Berkeley is more intense academically, while UCLA is supposed to have a lighter vibe overall. Not sure how true that is.
Does anyone who has attended or knows a lot about both schools have insights about the academic environment, clubs, or student life? Any personal experiences with making this decision would be super helpful. Trying to get a holistic view before I make my final choice.
I've visited both campuses and liked different things about each, but I'm still torn and finding it a bit stressful to decide. I've heard people say Berkeley is more intense academically, while UCLA is supposed to have a lighter vibe overall. Not sure how true that is.
Does anyone who has attended or knows a lot about both schools have insights about the academic environment, clubs, or student life? Any personal experiences with making this decision would be super helpful. Trying to get a holistic view before I make my final choice.
4 months ago
•
123 views
Kathy Jayanth
• 4 months ago
Advisor
Both UC Berkeley and UCLA are top-tier universities, especially strong in the sciences, so you really can’t go wrong. For biology, both offer rigorous programs, tons of research opportunities, and access to renowned professors. There are a few differences that might help you lean one way or the other.
Academic culture – Berkeley is known for its very strong research orientation and has a reputation for being intense and competitive, especially in STEM fields. You might find a more academically driven and sometimes more serious culture among students, particularly in the sciences. Classes can be larger and grading can feel strict, but there’s also a strong focus on getting undergrads into research labs, and the Berkeley biology department is globally recognized. For example, a current Berkeley bio major mentioned that undergrads get direct chances to work on cutting-edge research as early as their sophomore year, with faculty genuinely welcoming student initiative.
UCLA, while still highly competitive academically, is often described as having a more collaborative and socially active atmosphere. The campus is lively, and there’s a sense of school spirit that’s hard to miss. Many students say the social scene is vibrant, and the sunny West LA location means you’re close to bustling city life and the beach. UCLA’s life sciences division is fantastic, with multiple hospitals and research institutes right on campus, offering excellent clinical and volunteer opportunities. A UCLA bio student noted that the faculty are approachable and that the sheer number of clubs and pre-professional organizations makes it easy to find a community.
Semester vs. quarter system – UC Berkeley runs on a semester system (two main academic terms), while UCLA runs on a quarter system (three main academic terms). This matters because it changes the pacing and style of learning. On the quarter system, classes move faster, and you cover material in shorter bursts, which can be exciting but also more intense in terms of exams and assignments. The semester system gives you more time to dive deeply into each course, build relationships with professors, and work on longer-term projects. Some students prefer the fast turnover and variety of the quarter system, while others like the steadier rhythm of the semester system.
Campus vibe – Both campuses have loads of clubs, undergraduate research support, and access to internships, but the “feel” definitely varies. Berkeley feels a bit more like a city campus with a slightly grittier vibe, while UCLA’s campus feels more self-contained, sunny, and relaxed.
One way to make your decision is to think about the environment where you’ll thrive. If you want an intense academic culture with a history of activism and tradition, Berkeley could be your spot. If you prefer a big, spirited, collaborative environment with lots of social opportunities and a classic campus feel, you might love UCLA. Go with where you felt most energized and comfortable on your visit. Also, consider where you might want to live for the next four years—NorCal vs. SoCal is a lifestyle shift too.
If possible, reach out to current students in each bio department. Getting a sense of their day-to-day lives can give you a perspective beyond stats and rankings. Ultimately, you’ll do well at either, but how you fit into the culture—and the academic calendar style—is just as important as the academics.
Academic culture – Berkeley is known for its very strong research orientation and has a reputation for being intense and competitive, especially in STEM fields. You might find a more academically driven and sometimes more serious culture among students, particularly in the sciences. Classes can be larger and grading can feel strict, but there’s also a strong focus on getting undergrads into research labs, and the Berkeley biology department is globally recognized. For example, a current Berkeley bio major mentioned that undergrads get direct chances to work on cutting-edge research as early as their sophomore year, with faculty genuinely welcoming student initiative.
UCLA, while still highly competitive academically, is often described as having a more collaborative and socially active atmosphere. The campus is lively, and there’s a sense of school spirit that’s hard to miss. Many students say the social scene is vibrant, and the sunny West LA location means you’re close to bustling city life and the beach. UCLA’s life sciences division is fantastic, with multiple hospitals and research institutes right on campus, offering excellent clinical and volunteer opportunities. A UCLA bio student noted that the faculty are approachable and that the sheer number of clubs and pre-professional organizations makes it easy to find a community.
Semester vs. quarter system – UC Berkeley runs on a semester system (two main academic terms), while UCLA runs on a quarter system (three main academic terms). This matters because it changes the pacing and style of learning. On the quarter system, classes move faster, and you cover material in shorter bursts, which can be exciting but also more intense in terms of exams and assignments. The semester system gives you more time to dive deeply into each course, build relationships with professors, and work on longer-term projects. Some students prefer the fast turnover and variety of the quarter system, while others like the steadier rhythm of the semester system.
Campus vibe – Both campuses have loads of clubs, undergraduate research support, and access to internships, but the “feel” definitely varies. Berkeley feels a bit more like a city campus with a slightly grittier vibe, while UCLA’s campus feels more self-contained, sunny, and relaxed.
One way to make your decision is to think about the environment where you’ll thrive. If you want an intense academic culture with a history of activism and tradition, Berkeley could be your spot. If you prefer a big, spirited, collaborative environment with lots of social opportunities and a classic campus feel, you might love UCLA. Go with where you felt most energized and comfortable on your visit. Also, consider where you might want to live for the next four years—NorCal vs. SoCal is a lifestyle shift too.
If possible, reach out to current students in each bio department. Getting a sense of their day-to-day lives can give you a perspective beyond stats and rankings. Ultimately, you’ll do well at either, but how you fit into the culture—and the academic calendar style—is just as important as the academics.
Kathy Jayanth
Berkeley, CA
UC Berkeley | Economics & Slavic Studies
Experience
5 years
Rating