Federal University of Bahia

Quick Facts about Federal University of Bahia

• Type: Public
• Students: 45,000
• International: 1%
• Campus: Multiple Campuses
• Tuition: $1,050 – $1,050/year
• Language: Portuguese
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
• Intakes: Spring, Fall

About Federal University of Bahia

Academics

UFBA offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including 101 undergraduate and 143 graduate courses. The university is renowned for its robust programs in engineering, health sciences (including medicine and dentistry), humanities, social sciences, and the arts. UFBA fosters an interdisciplinary academic environment, emphasizing critical inquiry and practical application, with a modular curriculum and a commitment to problem-based learning. The Faculty of Medicine is particularly respected, and the School of Music and Performing Arts enjoys international recognition.

International Students

The UFBA International Office (AAI) provides essential information and support for international students, including guidance on arrival procedures, enrollment, and visa processes. While UFBA recommends at least a B1 level of Portuguese proficiency, the university offers a "Portuguese as a Foreign Language Course." International students can enroll through cooperation agreements or as special enrollment students, with specific application procedures for each. The "My UFBA Friend Program" helps integrate international exchange students by pairing them with local student volunteers.

Campus & Location

UFBA's main campus is situated in the urban metropolis of Salvador, Bahia, a city known for its rich Afro-Brazilian heritage and vibrant culture. The university has several campuses within Salvador, including Ondina, Canela, and Piedade, each housing different faculties. Salvador offers a unique blend of urban life, arts, and natural beauty, with attractions like the historic Pelourinho district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. UFBA also provides a free intercampus transportation system called BUZUFBA to facilitate student movement between its Salvador campuses.

Career Outcomes

UFBA is recognized for its strong research focus and commitment to social inclusion. The university's emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and its high research output contribute to preparing graduates for various career paths. While specific employment rates are not readily available, UFBA provides comprehensive student support services, including career advising. The university's strong connections within Brazil and its active participation in global academic consortia suggest opportunities for graduates in diverse fields.

Information for International Students at Federal University of Bahia

Federal University of Bahia in Salvador, Brazil welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 1% of students are international
• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available (~$520/month)
• Teaching languages: Portuguese

Admissions Requirements for Federal University of Bahia

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Federal University of Bahia:

• Application deadline: December 20 (1st Semester), June 15 (2nd Semester)

Apply to Federal University of Bahia →

Programs at Federal University of Bahia (57 programs)

Federal University of Bahia offers 57 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (19)

• Bachelor's in Biology — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
  Students study living organisms and their vital processes, preparing for careers in research, conservation, biotechnology, and health sciences.
  Field: Biological and Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Biologist, Researcher, Conservationist, Biotechnologist
• Bachelor's in Economics — 48 months · Portuguese
  This program analyzes how societies allocate scarce resources, preparing students for careers in finance, public policy, research, and economic analysis.
  Field: Business and Law
  Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Analyst, Researcher
• Bachelor's in Medicine — 72 months · Portuguese
  This rigorous program provides extensive medical knowledge and clinical skills, preparing students to become physicians and address diverse health challenges.
  Field: Biological and Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher
• Bachelor's in Literature — 48 months · Portuguese
  Students explore diverse literary works, theories, and critical approaches, developing strong analytical and communication skills for careers in writing, publishing, education, and cultural institutions.
  Field: Humanities and Arts
  Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Publisher, Educator
• Bachelor's in Physics — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
  Students explore the fundamental laws of the universe, developing problem-solving and analytical skills for careers in research, engineering, technology, and education.
  Field: Exact Sciences and Technology
  Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Researcher, Educator
• Bachelor's in Music — 48 months · Portuguese
  This program offers comprehensive training in musical performance, theory, history, and composition, leading to careers as musicians, music educators, composers, or music therapists.
  Field: Humanities and Arts
  Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Music Therapist
• Bachelor's in Fine Arts — 48 months · Portuguese
  Students develop artistic skills and critical perspectives across various mediums, preparing them for careers as professional artists, art educators, or roles in the creative industries.
  Field: Humanities and Arts
  Career outcomes: Artist, Art Educator, Graphic Designer, Illustrator
• Bachelor's in Computer Science — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
  Students learn the theoretical foundations of information and computation, and their practical application in computer systems, leading to careers in software development, data science, and cybersecurity.
  Field: Exact Sciences and Technology
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Consultant
• Bachelor's in Pedagogy — 48 months · Portuguese
  This program focuses on the theory and practice of education, preparing students to become educators, curriculum developers, and educational administrators in various learning environments.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Teacher, Curriculum Developer, Educational Administrator, Educational Consultant
• Bachelor's in Philosophy — 48 months · Portuguese
  This program prepares students for careers in academia, research, and various fields requiring critical thinking and analytical skills by exploring fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language.
  Field: Humanities and Arts
  Career outcomes: Academia, Research, Critical Thinking Roles
• Bachelor's in History — 48 months · Portuguese
  This program delves into past events, societies, and cultures, equipping students with research, analysis, and interpretation skills for careers in education, archives, museums, and historical research.
  Field: Humanities and Arts
  Career outcomes: Education, Archivist, Museum Curator, Historical Researcher
• Bachelor's in Mathematics — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
  This program provides a strong foundation in mathematical theories and applications, preparing students for careers in research, data analysis, finance, and education.
  Field: Exact Sciences and Technology
  Career outcomes: Mathematician, Data Analyst, Financial Analyst, Educator
• Bachelor's in Nursing — 48 months · Portuguese
  This program trains students to provide comprehensive patient care, promote health, and prevent illness, leading to careers as registered nurses in various healthcare settings.
  Field: Biological and Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Administrator
• Bachelor's in Law — 60 months · Portuguese
  Students gain a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, systems, and practices, preparing them for careers as lawyers, judges, legal consultants, or in public service.
  Field: Business and Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant, Public Prosecutor
• Bachelor's in Social Sciences — 48 months · Portuguese
  This program examines human society and social relationships, providing students with a deep understanding of social structures, cultures, and behaviors for careers in research, public policy, and social work.
  Field: Humanities and Arts
  Career outcomes: Researcher, Policy Analyst, Social Worker, Community Organizer
• Bachelor's in Chemistry — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
  This program focuses on the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, preparing students for roles in chemical industries, research, pharmaceuticals, and environmental science.
  Field: Exact Sciences and Technology
  Career outcomes: Chemist, Researcher, Pharmacist, Environmental Scientist
• Bachelor's in Psychology — 48 months · Portuguese
  Students explore the human mind and behavior, developing skills in research, assessment, and intervention for careers in mental health, counseling, and human resources.
  Field: Biological and Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Psychologist, Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist
• Bachelor's in Engineering (BEng) — 60 months · Portuguese · STEM
  This program applies scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, and systems, preparing students for diverse engineering roles across industries.
  Field: Exact Sciences and Technology
  Career outcomes: Engineer, Project Manager, Consultant, Researcher
• Bachelor's in Administration — 48 months · Portuguese
  Students gain knowledge in business management, organizational behavior, and strategic planning, preparing them for leadership and management roles in various industries.
  Field: Business and Law
  Career outcomes: Manager, Business Analyst, Consultant, Entrepreneur

Master Programs (25)

• Master's in Applied Computing (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in applied computing, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Applied Computing
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Communication (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in communication, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Law (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in law, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Administration (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in administration, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Administration
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Arts and Culture (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in arts and culture, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Arts and Culture
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Dentistry (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in dentistry, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Dentistry
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Architecture and Urbanism (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in architecture and urbanism, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Architecture and Urbanism
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Agronomy (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in agronomy, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Agronomy
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Anthropology (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in anthropology, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Anthropology
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in chemistry, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Environmental Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in environmental sciences, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Environmental Sciences
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in physics, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Physics
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Animal Science (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in animal science, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Animal Science
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Biomedicine (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in biomedicine, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Biomedicine
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Engineering (MEng) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in engineering, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Nursing (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in nursing, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Nursing
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Biological Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in biological sciences, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Biological Sciences
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Education (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in education, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Medicine and Health Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in medicine and health sciences, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Medicine and Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in computer science, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Literature and Linguistics (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in literature and linguistics, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Literature and Linguistics
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Public Health (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in public health, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Public Health
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in mathematics, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Mathematics
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Social Sciences (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in social sciences, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles
• Master's in Psychology (MA) — 24 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program aims to deepen knowledge in psychology, often involving research and the development of a dissertation. Professional Master's programs focus more on practical application and market demands.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Research, Teaching at higher education levels, Advanced professional roles

PhD Programs (13)

• PhD in Animal Science (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to animal science. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Animal Science
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Biomedicine (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to biomedicine. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Biomedicine
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Agronomy (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to agronomy. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Agronomy
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Biological Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to biological sciences. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Biological Sciences
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Administration (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to administration. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Administration
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Arts and Culture (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to arts and culture. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Arts and Culture
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Dentistry (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to dentistry. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Dentistry
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Applied Computing (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to applied computing. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Applied Computing
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Communication (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to communication. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Architecture and Urbanism (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to architecture and urbanism. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Architecture and Urbanism
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to computer science. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Anthropology (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to anthropology. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Anthropology
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles
• PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM · Scholarship available
  This program is designed for in-depth, original research, contributing new knowledge to chemistry. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, advanced research, and leadership roles.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Academia, Advanced Research, Leadership Roles

Scholarships & Tuition at Federal University of Bahia

Annual tuition for international students: $1,050 – $1,050/year

✅ Federal University of Bahia offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Federal University of Bahia

• National Ranking: #13 in Brazil
• QS World University Ranking: #1201
• Times Higher Education (THE): #1501
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #901
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Federal University of Bahia

• Student housing available
• No sports facilities
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Multiple Campuses
• Housing cost: ~$520/month

Key Highlights

• Oldest university in Brazil
• Diverse academic programs
• Strong international student support
• Located in vibrant Salvador
• Renowned arts and health schools

Accreditation

• Ministério da Educação, Brazil

Fields of Study at Federal University of Bahia

• Medicine
• Humanities
• Arts
• Social Sciences

Notable Alumni

• Gilberto Gil
• Caetano Veloso
• Wagner Moura
• Milton Santos
• Pitty

Frequently Asked Questions about Federal University of Bahia

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