University Credit Program (UCP)
Download the UCR General Catalog for complete descriptions of available courses.
Important Eligibility Note
The UCP program is designed for those who have an advanced understanding of English and are strong academic students. Students who do not provide an approved English assessment test score are tested upon arrival and may be advised to attend the Intensive English Program instead.
University Credit Program (UCP)
- Earn University of California credit that is transferrable to universities throughout the U.S. or to your home university.
- Offers the opportunity to study with American students, professors and professionals in subjects that can advance your academic and professional career.
- 12-week sessions.
- 12-30 hours each week.
- Offered each winter, spring, summer* and fall.
- You can take a maximum of three campus or Extension classes each session (Students can take a 4th. class with approval for an additional fee).
- English support available.
- Courses are individually selected depending on your academic interest. Subject to availability and space, additional fees may be required. Students must meet any pre-requisites.
- Minimum age: 17.
- Advanced-level English required (minimum TOEFL 550 PBT, 79 iBT; IELTS 6.0 or IEP level 600).
About the Program
Through the University Credit Program (UCP), you have the opportunity to experience American university culture, enroll in University of California credit courses and study with American students, faculty and professionals and earn University of California credit that is transferable to university programs throughout the US or to your home university.
Course Options
Students can choose from a range of credit classes across disciplines. However, fully admitted UCR undergraduate and graduate students have registration priority. UCP students can select their courses only after the quarter has begun, subject to availability. UCP students must meet all pre-requisites.
Undergraduate and Graduate Level Courses
UCP students have access to courses in over 80 undergraduate and 50 graduate programs. UCR is one of only three UC campuses with an undergraduate program in Business. However, availability is limited and students should not expect to get into their first choice of classes.
For a full list of classes offered at UCR please visit http://www.classinfo.ucr.edu
Extension Classes
In addition to day time classes, UCP students also have access to a wide range of Extension classes that are normally offered in the late afternoon and evenings. Many Extension classes carry University of California credit and every Extension course has been approved by the UCR Academic Senate Committee on courses. Extension courses give students the opportunity to study with professionals from the community and make excellent business connections.
For a full list of classes offered through UCR Extension please visit https://www.extension.ucr.edu/enroll/
The program gives you the opportunity to experience undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate courses without having to formally apply to the University of California, Riverside.
The estimated cost for the program is based upon course tuition, fees, and other expenses.
| Tuition Fees | |
|---|---|
| 12-week | $3,950* (2011) $4,200* (2012) |
*some programs require
additional professional fees
| Other costs | |
|---|---|
| Application Fee (one-time fee) | $150 |
| Student Services Fee (each session) | $150 |
| Medical Insurance (per week) | $35 |
| Books and Supplies (each session) | $100-$350 |
Quarter Units vs. Semester Units
UC Riverside is on the quarter system. To adjust your quarter units to semester units, simply divide total quarter units by 1.5. For European students, 6 courses are equal to 30 ECT credits.
UCP – Academic Summer Session
As an International Education Program student, you may be eligible to take academic courses during the summer sessions (June through September). Summer sessions courses run in 5-week formats. Students make take a maximum of 2 courses during each 5-week session. For more information about courses, eligibility criteria and costs, visit our Summer Sessions page.
Riverside International Transfer Track
Do you want to get a Degree from the University of California, Riverside? Join our Riverside International Transfer track, which provides you with the program combination to be able to graduate with an internationally renowned UC degree.

