Live in Community
Connection and belonging at UC Santa Cruz
Our unique college system is designed to make it easier to find community within the larger university. Whether you live on campus or not, our dedicated faculty, staff, and student leaders are here to help you get connected with activities, advising, leadership opportunities, and important campus resources.
Principles of Community
The University of California, Santa Cruz is committed to promoting and protecting an environment that values and supports every person in an atmosphere of civility, honesty, cooperation, professionalism, and fairness. We accept the responsibility to pursue these principles in a culture based on personal and intellectual freedom, security, respect, and mutual support.
The seven principles of community: Diverse • Open • Purposeful • Caring • Just • Disciplined • Celebrative
The 10 Colleges
All UC Santa Cruz undergraduate students, whether they live on campus or not, are affiliated with one of 10 residential colleges. Each college provides academic support, organizes student activities, and sponsors events that enhance the intellectual and social life of the campus in addition to housing students in living/learning communities.
Student Housing
At UC Santa Cruz, students are housed in small-scale residential communities, which provide close-knit living environments within the larger university. Each community provides an academically and socially supportive environment and offers special programs designed to help students transition to campus life, build a strong connection with the campus, and get the most out of their UCSC experience.
Off-Campus Housing
Students searching for housing in the off-campus community are encouraged to use the rental listings and other helpful online resources available through Community Rentals, UCSC’s official off-campus information source. Community Rentals maintains online rental listings to help students find rental housing, and offers resources on applying, landlord issues, being a renter, and more.
UCSC Dining
UC Santa Cruz Dining is all about serving you fresh, delicious meals to help you thrive in and out of the classroom. With our beautiful location on the Monterey Bay, we have access to incredible seasonal and local ingredients. This region grows some of the best produce around, and our chefs make sure to feature it in the menus at our dining halls and cafés. Whether you’re visiting one of our five dining halls, grabbing a bite at a café, or stopping by a coffee shop or market, we’re excited to nourish you with great food!
Campus Living Rooms
Our campus offers a variety of study, social, and gathering spaces designed to meet the diverse needs of our students. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to focus, a collaborative area for group work, or a relaxed environment to unwind with friends, there are spaces for everyone. And for students living off-campus, UCSC’s commuter lounges provide a welcoming space to unwind, focus on coursework, or even prepare a meal in a kitchenette.
Students as Parents
Student parents face unique challenges and often juggle multiple, sometimes competing, responsibilities between their work and home lives. UC Santa Cruz has resources for student parents balancing work and home life. Find links and support from students and campus programs dedicated to helping those raising children at UC Santa Cruz.
UCSC’s official podcast
Hosted out of the Student Affairs and Success divisional office, Slugcast is the official UCSC podcast. Slugcasters are made up of undergraduate and graduate students who are passionate about life as a banana slug. From news to engaging stories, Slugcast is a way for students to learn more about campus resources, services, and student stories no matter where they are.
Student Funding Request Process
Eligible student groups, organizations, and individuals can request funds from the Division of Student Affairs and Success. The division is especially interested in investing in projects that promote wellness and student engagement and that center equity. We look forward to receiving your proposals that highlight these areas!
Policies and Procedures
Our Procedures and Policies page provides essential information on the guidelines and practices that help shape university operations and community standards.
