University of California, Berkeley vs University of California, Los Angeles
01 · Global Academic Standing
UC Berkeley, the "public Ivy," champions intense academic rigor, foundational research, and STEM leadership, fostering a serious intellectual culture. UCLA offers a balanced, spirited collegiate experience in a vibrant urban setting, blending strong academics with dynamic social and arts scenes. Berkeley's prestige leans towards deep theoretical contributions; UCLA's embraces broader professional and cultural excellence.
02 · Departmental & Subject Strengths
For excellence in computer science, UC Berkeley's Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) excels. Conversely, UCLA's Film and Television major within its School of Theater, Film and Television dominates for aspiring media professionals, leveraging its proximity to Hollywood and extensive industry ties.
03 · Campus Environment & Cohort Culture
Choose Berkeley if you seek theoretical, research-intensive education prioritizing innovation in STEM or business. Opt for UCLA for a vibrant, balanced university experience excelling in professional arts, health, or humanities, with strong industry connections and a more dynamic social campus.
Head-to-Head Indicator Showdown
| Comparative Dimension | University of California, Berkeley | University of California, Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
QS World University Rank Global employer & academic reputation index | #20 (2027)+29 places | #49 (2027) |
THE World University Rank Teaching, research environment & citations | #9 (2027)+11 places | #20 (2027) |
ARWU Shanghai Rank Nobel/Fields alumni & highly cited researchers | #5 (2026)+9 places | #14 (2026) |
U.S. News Global Rank Global research reputation & publications | #7 (2027)+4 places | #11 (2027) |
Admissions Selectivity Estimated acceptance rate (lower = more selective) | 12% | 9%More selective |
Annual International Tuition Estimated undergraduate/graduate base fee | $47,000 | $46,296Lower tuition |
Founding Heritage Year of institutional establishment | 1868Lead | 1919 |
Student Cohort Scale Total enrolled degree-seeking students | 45,399 | 46,430 |
Campus Safety Index Composite campus & surrounding municipal safety | 72 / 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) | California, Berkeley | California, Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropology | #4 | #7 |
| English Language and Literature | #5 | #9 |
California, Berkeley · Specialist Subject Standings
California, Los Angeles · Specialist Subject Standings
Cost of Living & Annual Budget Face-off
Estimated monthly student expenditure in Berkeley vs Los Angeles alongside annual international tuition.
California, Berkeley (Berkeley)
California, Los Angeles (Los Angeles)
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