The School of Social Science, Humanities, and Arts (SSHA) at UC Merced empowers students with the knowledge to become leaders, creators and innovators who will shape the future of California and the world.

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Our departments offer 16 majors and 20 minors that prepare students for academic and professional success.

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Top 5 UC Merced's Top 10 Enrolled Majors

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Voices of Success

" It’s SSHAwesome how supportive SSHA faculty are, and I love learning through their interdisciplinary approach while being part of a friendly, engaged community. "

-Victoria Mendez

" Public Health at UC Merced feels personal- what I learn connects to the Central Valley, and I love helping others find the resources they need to thrive. "

-Emily Lo

" As a history major, I’ve gained versatile skills I can use beyond the classroom. At a smaller campus like UC Merced, it’s easier to access research, jobs, and meaningful ways to help others. "

-Max Turkovich

" SSHA majors have a clear edge- it's easy to build real connections with professors and tap into research and job opportunities early on. "

-Anton Viray

" At SSHA, I get to explore beyond my major, connect with professors, and have meaningful conversations that make learning personal. "

-Melanie Farias-Ramirez

" I feel that the topics that are taught are expansive, and I like that I am able to take classes in different areas of study and they still count towards my major. You can get one on one time with professors and get to know them, and class sizes are smaller so there is more opportunity to get to know your professors. "

-Melanie Farias-Ramirez

Our Impact in Action

20 Years In, UC Merced Celebrates Achievements, Looks to Future

October 23, 2025

Only 20 years since undergraduate instruction began, UC Merced is a leader in academic research, developing young minds for career success and driving economic growth, the university’s chancellor...

Three-year Grant Lifts Joy Provided by UC Merced Children’s Opera

October 20, 2025

UC Merced Children’s Opera, a performance that delights and enlightens thousands of schoolchildren a year while giving Bobcat students experience in theater, has received support from a generous...

UC Merced Arts Opens Season with East L.A. Band Las Cafeteras

October 3, 2025

UC Merced Arts has announced its 2025-26 season of performances, exhibitions and public art programs, beginning with the return of East L.A.’s electrifying band Las Cafeteras. The band’s Día de los...

Writer-in-Residence Mark Arax Chronicles California's Lifeblood: Water

September 18, 2025

UC Merced has debuted a writer-in-residence program with one of California’s premier chroniclers of its history, especially the titanic power plays for land and water that have shaped the state’s...