I’m transferring in the Fall as a Psychology major. Both campuses are very enlightening and have a lot to offer. I’m stuck between the two, as in which has a more resourceful program.
They are both good academically, the campus and surrounds couldn’t be more different. Visit both, then follow your preference.
Here are research opportunities for undergrads at Merced: http://psychology.ucmerced.edu/undergraduate-program/resources-undergraduates
And here are opportunities at UCSC: https://psychology.ucsc.edu/undergraduate/undergrad-opportunities/index.html
Completely different campuses! Definitely tour each of them to get the vibe and see how you would fit there along with the great information above!