University College London vs University of California, Los Angeles
01 · Global Academic Standing
Overall Verdict UCL delivers a prestigious, research-intensive European academic immersion within a global capital, emphasizing intellectual depth and an international perspective. UCLA offers a premier American public university experience, combining rigorous academics with a vibrant campus culture and strong ties to West Coast industries and professional fields.
02 · Departmental & Subject Strengths
Discipline Match For aspiring architects, UCL’s Bartlett School of Architecture (BSc Architecture) is globally unparalleled. Conversely, UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television (BA Film and Television) dominates for those pursuing careers in the competitive entertainment industry.
03 · Campus Environment & Cohort Culture
Final Choice Rule Choose UCL if you prioritize a deeply academic, research-focused education and thrive in a major European city. Opt for UCLA if you seek a comprehensive university experience, robust professional pathways in the US, and a dynamic campus environment.
Head-to-Head Indicator Showdown
| Comparative Dimension | University College London | University of California, Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
QS World University Rank Global employer & academic reputation index | #8 (2027)+41 places | #49 (2027) |
THE World University Rank Teaching, research environment & citations | #17 (2027)+3 places | #20 (2027) |
ARWU Shanghai Rank Nobel/Fields alumni & highly cited researchers | #17 (2026) | #14 (2026)+3 places |
U.S. News Global Rank Global research reputation & publications | #9 (2027)+2 places | #11 (2027) |
Admissions Selectivity Estimated acceptance rate (lower = more selective) | 15% | 9%More selective |
Annual International Tuition Estimated undergraduate/graduate base fee | £41,910Lower tuition | $46,296 |
Founding Heritage Year of institutional establishment | 1826Lead | 1919 |
Student Cohort Scale Total enrolled degree-seeking students | 51,000 | 46,430 |
Campus Safety Index Composite campus & surrounding municipal safety | 85 / 100 | 90 / 100Lead |
10-Year Historical Ranking Trajectory
Decade-long global standing curve across major league tables (higher curve position = stronger rank).
QS Subject Rankings Showdown
Click any discipline row to inspect side-by-side degree programs, tuition, and scholarships below.
| Academic Subject (Click to Inspect Programs) | University College London | California, Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Archaeology | #3 | #13 |
| Anthropology | #4 | #7 |
| Geography | #5 | #10 |
| Psychology | #5 | #11 |
University College London · Specialist Subject Standings
California, Los Angeles · Specialist Subject Standings
University College London Programs
California, Los Angeles Programs
Refer to the official California, Los Angeles course catalog for current intake fees.
Cost of Living & Annual Budget Face-off
Estimated monthly student expenditure in London vs Los Angeles alongside annual international tuition.
University College London (London)
California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles)
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