Best UC for Business

Are you an entrepreneur at heart? The UC system has several schools with strong business programs to put you on the right path. Not every UC campus offers a traditional undergraduate business degree, but many do have related majors such as business economics, management, or entrepreneurship-focused programs. California’s thriving startup ecosystem and proximity to Silicon Valley make for the perfect business environment, even if you don't get an undergraduate business degree.

Berkeley is the Best in Business

For aspiring business majors who have some work or business experience, the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley is the best of the best. It is competitive, with general admission less than 25% and special programs having less than 4% admission. Students only mildly interested in business should probably keep reading for other options, but those absolutely committed to the business hustle would enjoy Haas' strong support for venture backed businesses and their special programs including Management, Entrepreneurship, and Technology or the dual degree program in Life Sciences and Business.

Tier 2

The runners-up for best UC business program include UCLA, UC Irvine, and USC. UCLA offers a business economics program where students combine economic theory with accounting and management coursework, making it a strong option for careers in consulting, finance, or corporate strategy. UCLA’s location in Los Angeles also gives students access to internships and jobs in LA's industries like entertainment, tech, and venture capital.

UC Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business offers an undergraduate business administration program with concentrations in marketing, finance, and operations. The program has a strong emphasis on the intersection between technology and business, preparing students for careers in analytics, product management, and tech startups. They even offer a non-degree business leadership institute where students can gain leadership skills in the field without having to go all-in on a business program.

USC has a wide variety of programs, including one for AI in business and a World Business Bachelor's program. USC’s Marshall School of Business is well known for its extensive alumni network and global orientation. Students interested in international business and supply chains will get the best opportunities for global reach at USC.

Others to Consider

UC San Diego does not offer a business major but they offer a minor and have majors in Business Economics and one in Economics. They are unfortunately sunsetting their Management Science major, but you can always find the professors on campus and talk to them about questions or ideas that you have. Their Rady School of Management also offers many graduate school options for students interested in continuing their education.

UC Riverside offers a business administration undergraduate degree with the option to continue into an MBA program. While it doesn't offer the prestige of Berkeley or UCLA, it is a strong contender for students who want to save money and get an MBA before fully launching their career.

UC Merced is also creating a Business Administration degree program for undergraduates starting in Fall 2026. If you're ready to be a trendsetter or want a small and tight knit program where you'll get lots of professor attention and support, you might just want to be in their first Business Admin class of 2030!

Choosing the right business program depends on your goals, experiences, and strengths. Whether you’re aiming for a competitive program like Berkeley Haas or exploring alternative paths through economics or management majors, the UC system offers several strong options.

If you want help building a competitive application for these programs that highlights your business prowess, sign up for a consultation with a mentor today!