How do UC’s acceptance rates vary by major?

Hi all, I know UC's acceptance rates can vary widely from major to major. Do you guys have any advice on how to approach this? Where can I find specifics about this? Would love to read about your experiences.

While it's true that acceptance rates can vary by major for UC schools, they do not disclose acceptance rates by major, making it challenging to find concrete data. However, you can sometimes find data on program selectivity or the competitiveness of certain programs. For instance, certain majors like Computer Science, Engineering, and Business might be more competitive due to their popularity and the high demand.

Also, keep in mind that all UC campuses practice 'capped' or 'selective' majors where you must meet additional prerequisites or have a higher level of preparation than for other, non-selective majors. These capped majors are usually the ones that see higher application volumes, and consequently, have lower acceptance rates. For example, Biological Sciences and Engineering fall under capped majors at UC San Diego.

Additionally, remember that even though a major might be competitive, it doesn't mean it's impossible to get admitted! Your individual profile - including your GPA, classes, essays, test scores (if applicable), and extracurriculars - is ultimately what will set you apart.

In terms of advice, deciding whether to apply to a more competitive major or a less competitive one depends on your end goals. If you have a clear plan and a passion for a field, it might make sense to apply for that, even if it's competitive. But, if you're less certain, you might lean towards an undeclared or less competitive major and change your major later.

To understand the details and specifics of the acceptance rates, you could potentially reach out to admissions offices at the UC schools or try to locate more granular data through searches online. Note that direct contact with the university's admissions office will likely yield the most accurate information. Remember that each UC campus is different, so the information for one campus may not be the same for another.