Investing in Our People: UC Announces 2026-27 Salary Program

Dianna Henderson, Vice President of Systemwide Human Resources and Chief Human Resources Officer, shared the letter below on June 17, 2026.

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Dear colleagues,

I’m pleased to share that President James B. Milliken has approved a 4% salary increase budget for eligible policy-covered staff and academic appointees across the University of California.

This salary increase is one way UC is recognizing the dedication and contributions of our employees. We also understand that many employees continue to feel the pressure of rising costs, and we hope this increase provides you with meaningful support while balancing UC’s continued budget challenges.

For policy-covered staff, the 4% salary increase will be effective July 1 for employees paid monthly and on June 21 for employees paid biweekly.  The increase does not vary by performance rating, though the annual performance review process remains an important opportunity for feedback, development and performance management. In addition, UC locations will have discretion to implement an up to 2% equity increase program to provide adjustments for eligible employees based on local priorities and needs.

For academic personnel, salary scales will increase through a 4% general range adjustment, and the regular peer-review merit advancement process will continue. The salary increase will be effective Oct. 1 for policy-covered faculty and July 1 for other policy-covered academic appointees.

This salary program applies to policy-covered employees. Employees represented by a collective bargaining unit are covered by their respective collective bargaining agreements.

The final state budget for fiscal year 2026-27 helped make this salary program possible, and we appreciate the continued support of the Governor and state leaders for public higher education in California.

UC locations have flexibility to implement the program in ways that align with local budget priorities and constraints. Your location’s leadership will share additional details about its 2026-27 salary increase program.

This is one of the most consequential periods for our University and for higher education broadly. As we continue to navigate it together, UC is committed to ensuring that our employees feel valued, recognized, and supported. Thank you for all you do for UC and for the people we serve. Your work makes a difference to our students, patients, and all Californians every day.

Sincerely,

Dianna Henderson
Vice President of Systemwide Human Resources and Chief Human Resources Officer