The University of California is increasing opportunities for undergraduates to gain hands-on experience as part of their degrees, according to an April 10 announcement. The initiative aims to help students develop both academic knowledge and practical skills sought by employers.
University officials say that experience-based learning has long been a hallmark of a UC education, with 80% of undergraduates participating in research, creative projects or service learning. As the job market evolves, new programs are being added across campuses to complement traditional coursework.
At UC Davis, the Quarter at Aggie Square program allows students to spend a full academic quarter at the university’s innovation campus in Sacramento. The program combines classroom instruction with internships, research and clinical observation. Tiffany Chan, a biomedical engineering student who participated in the program, said: “It was incredibly motivating. Being able to see the devices that biomedical engineers like me have made, watching them being used to save lives and seeing what it all leads to — that was so inspiring.” Chan also described her participation as “one of the coolest experiences” of her life and credited it with helping her understand career goals.
UC Santa Cruz has introduced Degree Defining Experiences through which students engage in field courses, labs and internships that apply academic knowledge beyond the classroom. Physical and Biological Sciences Dean Bryan Gaensler developed this approach so every undergraduate can have a signature hands-on experience during their studies. Bella Shamoon reflected on her participation: “It’s something you carry with you … something that makes your entire time at an institution feel worthwhile.”
At UC Irvine’s Claire Trevor School of the Arts, Creative Connections offers paid teaching artist internships for arts majors in local schools while Arts Launch places undergraduates in paid arts management roles within community organizations. Mia Gabbey, who teaches dance through Creative Connections said: “It’s so helpful for me not only as an artist but as someone who’s about to go out into the world and look for a job.” Program director Megan Belmonte said these initiatives expose students to different aspects of creative industries beyond performing or creating art.
University leaders say these expanded programs help students build professional networks and clarify career paths before graduation.
