- Eiti Tiwari According to the Graduate labor market statistics 2023, graduates enjoy higher employment rates than non-graduates, making a degree a worthwhile investment. Business management graduates, in particular, can expect salaries that often surpass those in other fields. Both the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) and the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) offer strong programmes in Business Management. When selecting a university for this field of study, it is essential to evaluate not only rankings — UCSC is ranked 393 and UMass Amherst 275 in the latest QS rankings — but also course structure, real-world experience opportunities, and the overall academic environment. This comparison aims to assist prospective students in making an informed decision about which programme best aligns with their goals. Location UCSC is located in Santa Cruz, California, a coastal town known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding redwood forests. The area offers students various recreational activities, including access to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and state parks. Cultural attractions such as the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and the Tannery Arts Center provide enriching experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby beaches or hike through redwood forests while enjoying activities such as surfing and kayaking along 29 miles of coastline. The city also features a vibrant culinary scene, with restaurants offering diverse cuisines; La Posta is particularly popular for its handmade pasta and locally sourced ingredients. In contrast, UMass Amherst is situated in the Pioneer Valley, a lively college town filled with cultural events and outdoor activities. Students can immerse themselves in local history at literary landmarks or enjoy art collections at nearby museums. Just a short drive away, Northampton serves as a creative hub while Hadley boasts the largest climbing gym in the region. With extensive hiking and biking trails, Amherst provides ample opportunities for exploration. Course The Business Management Economics major at UCSC offers a solid foundation in economics combined with practical management skills, preparing students for careers in business or further graduate studies. The curriculum emphasizes analytical techniques and technology for data analysis — skills essential for today's business environment. Students benefit from field placements that provide hands-on experience while fostering valuable professional connections. Additionally, students can earn an accounting concentration designation on their transcripts by meeting specific curricular criteria. UMass Amherst's Isenberg School of Management offers an undergraduate major in management designed to cultivate creative problem-solvers and adaptable leaders. The curriculum focuses on workplace dynamics while allowing students to customise their academic experience through various elective courses such as Current Issues in Human Resource Management and Small Business Management. Students can pursue concentrations in Entrepreneurship & Innovation Management or Sustainable Business Practices. Admissions process Admission to UCSC’s Business Management Economics programme is competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on high school GPA, standardised test scores (the UC system is test-optional), and extracurricular activities. To qualify for this major, students must complete three prerequisite courses — Introductory Microeconomics (ECON 1), Introductory Macroeconomics (ECON 2), and one calculus course — with a combined GPA of 2.8 or higher. Similarly, UMass Amherst’s Isenberg School of Management employs a highly competitive admissions process that emphasizes a holistic review. Applicants are assessed on leadership potential, community involvement, and academic achievement. To qualify for the Management major, students must complete several core courses alongside three upper-level electives. Scholarships UCSC provides various scholarships for undergraduate business students, including merit-based and need-based options. Notably, the Regents Scholarship offers financial assistance to high-achieving students while the Karl S. Pister Leadership Opportunity Scholarship targets transferring community college students with strong leadership qualities. UMass Amherst also offers numerous scholarships through its Isenberg School of Management, including merit-based awards like the Isenberg Dean's Scholarship and the Paul and Harriet Weissman Scholarship. Additionally, financial aid is available through the Commonwealth Honors College for academically outstanding students. Extracurriculars At UCSC, SOMeCA manages approximately 200 registered student organisations that enhance campus life and promote community engagement across various interests such as academics and environmental sustainability. Participation fosters real-world experience while developing leadership skills. At UMass Amherst, students have the opportunity to create and lead clubs within a vibrant community of over 400 active organisations. The Isenberg School supports numerous student clubs focused on business interests alongside an award-winning chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, an accounting honors society. Ultimately, students interested in entrepreneurial opportunities and tech-driven careers may prefer UCSC, while those seeking broader business management pathways — especially in finance or leadership — might find UMass Amherst more suitable. (The writer is the Associate Writing Director, Athena Education)
