FAQs

General Program Questions

What is the average class size?

Lower-division courses in the business major, including calculus, statistics, and economics, typically have class sizes ranging from 150 to 300 students. Upper-division core courses are smaller, with class sizes ranging from 120 to 180 students. Senior-level specialization courses are more focused, with enrollment ranging from 75 to 120 students.

Who teaches the business major courses?

Courses are taught by a combination of esteemed UC Davis Senate faculty and highly-rated lecturers with industry experience, some of whom have even won teaching awards.

Is it possible to study abroad as a business major?

While program-specific study abroad opportunities for business majors are still under development, students can fulfill general education requirements through study abroad programs offered at UC Davis. Explore options through the UC Davis Global Learning Hub.

What kind of career support is available for business majors?

An experienced career advising team will be an integral part of the undergraduate business program, offering support for internships, career placement and more. 

What academic support services are available?

UC Davis offers a wide range of academic support services. In the Graduate School of Management, each student will be assigned a cohort advisor who provides academic guidance from matriculation through graduation. Business majors will also be invited to participate in a first-year success seminar designed to ease their transition to UC Davis, foster connections within the major and develop essential business skills. Additionally, students have access to university-wide resources, including Success Coaching and Academic Assistance and Tutoring Centers.

Can I double major in business and economics or managerial economics?

No, double majoring in Business with Economics or Managerial Economics is not permitted due to significant course overlap.

Admissions Questions

What makes the UC Davis business major different from business majors at other schools?

The UC Davis business major offers a strong quantitative foundation in math, statistics, and economics, preparing students with the analytical skills needed for data-driven decision-making. Students can choose from four specialized tracks, each designed to deepen expertise in areas like finance, marketing, accounting, or management.

In the first quarter, students engage in a course that supports their transition to UC Davis, helping them connect with peers in the major and set the stage for success. Throughout the program, there is a strong emphasis on career development, ensuring students are equipped with the skills and networks needed for future success.

Courses offered by the Graduate School of Management focus on collaboration and data-driven case studies, allowing students to apply theory to real-world business challenges and be ready to enter the business world upon graduation. 

What does the admissions committee look for in my application?

For first-year applicants, 13 factors are considered when looking at a student's application. A broad range of factors are considered, from traditional academics to extracurricular achievement and response to life challenges.

For transfer applicants, students must first meet minimum UC subject and scholarship requirements. However, students admitted to UC Davis need to meet a higher GPA, with specific course and GPA requirements for the business major. The business major is not available via TAG. 

How many students are accepted into the business major?

Admissions to the business major and UC Davis is highly competitive. View the latest admissions statistics in our campus profile. 

Can I speak with someone about my admissions questions?

Yes! UC Davis Undergraduate Admissions is available to answer your admission questions. Connect with them by phone during business hours, email through Ask an Advisor, or connect during admission events.

How will my AP/ IB units count toward the business major?

The University of California grants credit for successful completion of College Board Advanced Placement (AP) exams and International Baccalaureate (IB) Higher Level exams. To receive credit, students must ensure that official test score reports are sent directly from the testing service to UC Davis. During Aggie Orientation, students meet with advising staff to review their transfer credits and determine which courses or requirements they have fulfilled based on their exam scores. 

For Continuing UC Davis Students/Change of Major Students

Can current UC Davis students change into or add the business major in Fall 2025?

No, change of majors and double majors will not begin until Fall 2027. Current students will need to meet the change of major requirements and have fewer then 135 units in Fall 2027 to be able to enter the lottery. 

Can I complete the courses required for the business major and then retroactively get credit for doing this major?

No. Students will not be allowed to add the major in this manner even if they take all the required coursework.

Can I receive a Permission to Add (PTA) number to enroll in an MGT course?

PTAs will not be issued to override scheduling conflicts, waiting lists or unit limits. The only way to join a class is to add it through Schedule Builder. If a student does not roll into the class by the last day to add (12th day of instruction), then the student should plan to try to take the class in a subsequent quarter. 

While on a waiting list, students should attend all lectures, discussions and complete all coursework. Students should enroll in a back up class in case they do not get off the waiting list.

It is not possible to PTA onto a waiting list.