Registered Campus Organizations at UCSF (RCOs)
Registered Campus Organizations (RCOs) are a very important part of campus life. Each year there are more than 130 RCOs at UCSF. These organizations address diverse educational, social, cultural, artistic, recreational, community service, and spiritual interests within the campus community. Collectively RCOs sponsor over 400 diverse and exciting activities each year on campus and in the surrounding Bay Area communities.
Any volunteer organization whose membership is comprised primarily of UCSF students, faculty, and/or staff may register with the Office of Student Life (OSL) and receive all the benefits of an RCO. Though UCSF does not sponsor or endorse any RCO, the campus encourages the formation of RCOs to promote and provide for special interests of the UCSF community.
The OSL works closely with RCOs to comply with University policies and procedures by:
- Approving the annual registration of campus organizations;
- Administrating numerous funds sources for RCO activities;
- Approving use of University space for RCO-initiated activities;
- Providing RCOs with guidance around event risk and liability;
- Advising RCOs about campus resources and best practices for successful activities and events.
Why should my group become a Registered Campus Organization?
RCOs have access to many campus facilities, resources and services, including:
- Use of University space: schedule classrooms, lecture halls, Special Use Areas (such as Saunders Court, Medical Sciences Lobby, Koret Quad, etc.);
- Sponsorship of speakers, programs, and activities on campus;
- Sponsorship of fundraising activities on campus;
- Free web-hosting service;
- Access to funding resources for events and activities;
- Access to support and program assistance from both the Office of Student Life and the Student Activity Center;
- And much more!
How do I find the right campus organization for me?
The best way to find an organization is to search the list of current Registered Campus Organizations. The RCO List includes all currently registered organizations along with a statement of purpose and, when available, links to organizational websites.
What if my needs or interests aren’t addressed by existing RCOs? Can I create a new one?
Absoulutely! And it’s easy, too. Visit the RCO Registration Page for all the information you will need to register your new organization.
Why should I get involved with a RCO?
Because RCOs provide wonderful opportunities for their members to:
- Strike a healthy balance between work and play that will help you to relax, reduce stress, and feel a part of the UCSF community;
- Get involved in enriching campus activities and community programs;
- Meet new and interesting people through inter-professional activities and programs;
- Help build supportive relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community leaders;
- Develop academic, professional and personal interests and lifetime friendships;
- Experience real-life leadership and teamwork opportunities that support academic and professional development;
- Feel good about being a part of UCSF and give something back to this incredible campus community!