New Merced Housing Complex to Open Next Spring

A new student housing complex in Merced, California, is set to open next spring.

Construction crews are currently finishing the courtyard and residential units for the project, known as Promise Housing. The $108 million development will offer more than 400 beds for students attending both UC Merced and Merced College. The two institutions created this partnership to increase housing options and reduce insecurity among local students.

The bed allocation is split between the two schools. Approximately 60% of the units are reserved for UC Merced students, while nearly 40% are designated for Merced College attendees. Tonantzin Oseguera, vice chancellor of student affairs and engagement at UC Merced, said the new facility is drawing strong interest. “We have more interest in this particular housing than we do anywhere else, and of course it's our newest housing here at UC Merced,” Oseguera said.

The building offers two distinct housing styles. Apartment-style units contain four private bedrooms connected by a shared living area. Suite-style units include four shared bedrooms with access to a communal kitchen nearby. All units are fully furnished upon move-in.

Tylina Burdell, director of student housing at Merced College, noted that many students face severe housing challenges. “A lot of them face housing insecurity, even homelessness,” Burdell said. “It's hard. How do you go to classes when that is the biggest stressor in your life?”

Merced College students must be at least 18 years old and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA to qualify for the housing. Students with the greatest financial need will receive priority placement. University leaders hope the shared living environment encourages collaboration between the student populations. Oseguera pointed out that Merced College students studying nursing or paramedic programs will live near UC Merced's medical education building. “They'll be able to talk to students who are actually becoming doctors,” Oseguera said.

There is no requirement for Merced College students to transfer to UC Merced or take classes there. Burdell stated that the goal is simply to provide exposure to the university. “They do not have to transfer, they do not have to take classes at UC Merced,” Burdell said. “We just hope that the exposure may convince them and inspire them even to attend this institution.” Applications for the housing are currently open.