Why should I give to the College of Chemistry?
Did you know? In the 1980's, the University of California received more than 50% of its budget from the state; in 2004, it had declined to about 35%. But today it receives, at best, only 12% of its budget from the state! Full in-state tuition ($14,461) covers only 41% of the actual cost of educating a Berkeley student, leaving a gap of about $20,000 per student each year that the university provides. As state support declines and the cost of maintaining a premier university continues to grow, private support has become a critical and necessary part of Cal's funding model.
Why should I support the cause?
Critically needed upgrades for the College of Chemistry instructional laboratories will have a significant impact on virtually all aspects of undergraduate science education at Berkeley. These upgrades will enable us to take advantage of modern technology to enhance and redefine chemical sciences instruction for the 21st century.
This project will create a modern portal that will attract tomorrow’s leaders to the chemical sciences — sciences that are critical to the future of our health, energy, environment, and economy.
Mouse over the photo to see an example of a recently upgraded modern lab.
Reasons to give
- Invest in the value of your diploma. We all worked hard to earn our degree, so let’s make sure it maintains its value. When you invest in Chemistry at Cal, you are giving the college the resources it needs to continue its excellence and even to grow stronger for years to come. What better investment is there…than yourself?
- Thank Cal for your experiences and opportunities. Leave a lasting legacy, give something back, and help make a difference in the lives of future Berkeley students.
- Support the immediate needs of the College. As current students, you know the needs of the College best!
- Increase funding from corporations and foundations. These groups take into account the overall number of private donors to an institution, as well as the total dollar amount of contributions, when considering grants. Every contribution really counts!

