UC students pleased with school, worried about costs

University of California undergraduates are pleased with the education and social life on their campuses but are worried about how to pay for it all, according to a new survey.

The 2012 UC Undergraduate Experience Survey found that about 82% of those who answered the survey were somewhat satisfied, satisfied or very satisfied with their overall academic experience. About 79% reported similar satisfaction with their social life.

The survey was answered by 36% of undergraduates, or about 63,500 students.

Even with budget cuts that reduced some course offerings in recent years, 73% said they were at least “somewhat satisfied” with access to courses needed to graduate and 89% said they were mainly able to get into their major.

“UC has worked hard to protect our academic program in the face of reduced state funding, and these results show that we are succeeding,” UC System Provost Aimée Dorr said in a statement.

However, anxiety about tuition rates and the costs of room, board and books were evident in the survey. About 68% of students who were not graduating soon said they have been concerned about paying for their education, including 25% who described themselves as “very concerned.” And 78% of students not finishing school soon reported that they are worried about next year’s bills, including 37% who said they were “very concerned.”

UC students got some relief this year since annual in-state tuition — about $12,200, not including room and board — did not increase and is expected to stay the same for 2013-14. Overall costs for a UC undergraduate can be close to $30,000 a year.

It delved into a wide array of topics, including study habits and race relations on campus.

ALSO:

Jackson used vocal aid in concerts, choreographer says

Kern County sheriff defends seizure of videos of fatal beating

Bear who surprised swimmers in La Cañada Flintridge to be relocated

larry.gordon@latimes.com

Twitter: @larrygordonlat