Established in 2000, the University of California, Merced, Bakersfield Center serves the educational resource needs of the southern San Joaquin Valley. The UC Merced, Bakersfield Center's primary goals are to consolidate UC programs in the Bakersfield area into a centralized facility, and to establish new academic programs that increase educational opportunities for residents of the region in preparation for the opening of UC Merced. A key element in increasing opportunities is the collaboration with other area educational institutions.

Services such as summer courses for UC students, teacher training, school partnerships, professional development, UC undergraduate admissions information and public policy forums are offered at the UC Merced, Bakersfield Center. In addition, office space and meeting facilities are available for rent.

The UC Merced, Bakersfield Center provides an integral link to UC Merced - the 10th UC campus and the nation's first research university to be built in the 21st century. Scheduled to open in 2005, UC Merced is already expanding educational opportunities to Valley students and residents through UC centers in Bakersfield, Fresno and Merced.