He did a lecture with political science students in Assemblymember Adam Gray's class.
The governor also had a chance to see the university's newly created Center For Analytic Political Engagement program.
The center is a gathering place for the Central Valley's scholars, students and community leaders and was founded by the Political Science faculty at UC Merced.
Professors say the goal is to enhance a healthy democratic society by encouraging responsible civic participation, as well as provide a voice for the under-represented.
Newsom is running for re-election Tuesday against Republican challenger, State Senator Brian Dahle.
Gray is running to represent California's 13th congressional district against Republican farmer and businessman John Duarte.