Federal University of Maranhão
Maranhão's intellectual heart, Brazil's academic future.
📍 São Luís, Brazil 🇧🇷
🏆 #39 in Brazil · THE World #1501
Quick Facts about Federal University of Maranhão
- Type: Public
- Students: 40,000
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $954 – $1,000/year
- Language: Portuguese
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
- Intakes: Spring, Fall
About Federal University of Maranhão
Academics
UFMA offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields of knowledge, including Biological Sciences, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Exact Sciences, Technology, and Engineering. The university is particularly noted for its strong programs in Medicine, Law, and Pedagogy, which are considered among the best in Maranhão and nationally. With a focus on interdisciplinary learning, UFMA aims to equip graduates to address contemporary challenges. The institution also demonstrates leadership in scientific research, with a significant percentage of its projects approved by national development agencies.
International Students
UFMA actively promotes academic internationalization and multiculturalism, welcoming foreign students through various programs and partnerships. The Internationalization Directorate (DIN) coordinates cooperation and exchange initiatives with international institutions. While specific details on English-taught programs are limited, UFMA offers Portuguese as a Foreign Language courses through its longest-running language extension project, NCL, to support international students. The university also participates in programs like PAEC and PEC-G, facilitating the enrollment of international students.
Campus & Location
The main campus of UFMA, Cidade Universitária Dom Delgado, is situated in São Luís, the capital city of Maranhão. São Luís is a vibrant city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center, characterized by colonial architecture and Portuguese azulejo-covered facades. The city offers a blend of historical charm and modern energy, with a rich Afro-Brazilian culture and a lively festival scene, including the Bumba-Meu-Boi festival. The campus itself features academic centers, a pedagogical center, an acoustic shell, a convention center, and a sports complex with courts, a track, and a semi-Olympic pool.
Career Outcomes
UFMA is recognized for training professionals who are well-prepared for the job market, having been a leading higher education institution in Maranhão for over 55 years. Its strong programs in Law and Medicine have produced notable alumni who have achieved prominence in political and healthcare spheres. While specific employment rates are not readily available, the university's focus on research and its connections with national development agencies suggest opportunities for graduates in various sectors. Student academic centers also play a role in enriching academic and social experiences and promoting student well-being, which can contribute to career development.
Information for International Students at Federal University of Maranhão
Federal University of Maranhão in São Luís, Brazil welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Teaching languages: Portuguese
Admissions Requirements for Federal University of Maranhão
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Federal University of Maranhão:
- Application fee: $60
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
Programs at Federal University of Maranhão (20 programs)
Federal University of Maranhão offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (15)
- Agronomy (BSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program focuses on the science and technology of producing and using plants for food, fuel, fiber, and land reclamation. Students learn about soil science, crop production, plant breeding, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Field: Agricultural Sciences
Career outcomes: Agronomist, Agricultural Researcher, Farm Manager - Chemical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · STEM
Students in this program learn to design, operate, and optimize chemical processes and industrial plants. The curriculum covers thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, reaction engineering, and process control.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research and Development Engineer - Civil Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Students gain expertise in structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, and construction management.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager - Pharmacy (BSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · STEM
Students acquire knowledge and skills in pharmaceutical sciences, drug development, medication management, and patient counseling. The curriculum covers pharmacology, pharmacotherapy, toxicology, and pharmaceutical care.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Clinical Pharmacist, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program prepares students to provide comprehensive patient care, focusing on health promotion, disease prevention, and treatment. It combines theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice in diverse healthcare settings.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist - Biological Sciences (BSc) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels. Students explore topics such as genetics, ecology, physiology, and microbiology, preparing them for research or applied careers.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Researcher, Environmental Consultant - Oceanography (BSc) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program explores the physical, chemical, geological, and biological aspects of oceans and coastal environments. Students learn about marine ecosystems, ocean currents, climate change impacts, and marine resource management.
Field: Earth Sciences
Career outcomes: Oceanographer, Marine Biologist, Environmental Scientist - Architecture and Urbanism (BA) — 60 months · Portuguese
This program trains students in the design of buildings and urban spaces, integrating aesthetic, functional, and environmental considerations. It covers architectural theory, urban planning, construction techniques, and sustainability.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer - Dentistry (BSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program prepares students for a career in oral healthcare, covering diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and conditions affecting the oral cavity. It includes clinical practice and theoretical knowledge in various dental specialties.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Dentist, Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon - Social Sciences (BA) — 48 months · Portuguese
This interdisciplinary program examines human society and social relationships. Students study sociology, anthropology, and political science, gaining critical perspectives on social structures, cultural practices, and political systems.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Social Researcher, Policy Analyst, Community Organizer, Educator - Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of computing. Students learn about algorithms, data structures, programming languages, software development, and computer architecture.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Systems Analyst - Electrical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program focuses on the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. Students learn about power systems, telecommunications, control systems, and digital electronics.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Electronics Engineer, Control Systems Engineer - Law (BA) — 60 months · Portuguese
This program provides a comprehensive education in legal principles, theories, and practices. Students learn about various branches of law, legal research, and ethical considerations in the legal profession.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Public Prosecutor - Medicine (BSc) — 72 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program trains future physicians in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of human diseases. It combines extensive theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience across various medical specialties.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher - Psychology (BA) — 60 months · Portuguese
This program investigates human behavior and mental processes, covering areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and clinical psychology. Students develop skills in research and critical analysis.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychologist, Counselor, Human Resources Specialist
Master Programs (3)
- Master in Chemical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge and research skills in chemical engineering, focusing on process optimization, new material development, and sustainable technologies. Students engage in cutting-edge research projects.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, Process Consultant, Academic Researcher - Master in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge and research skills in areas such as artificial intelligence, software engineering, and computer networks. Students engage in cutting-edge research and develop innovative solutions.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Architect, AI Engineer, Research Scientist - Master in Biological Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Portuguese · STEM
This master's program offers advanced studies in various fields of biological sciences, including genetics, ecology, and molecular biology. It emphasizes research and prepares students for doctoral studies or specialized careers.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Researcher, University Lecturer, Biotechnology Specialist
PhD Programs (2)
- PhD in Biological Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
This doctoral program involves intensive research in specialized areas of biology, leading to significant contributions to scientific knowledge. Students conduct independent research under faculty supervision and produce a dissertation.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, Biotechnology R&D Director - PhD in Materials Science and Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · Portuguese · STEM
This program offers advanced research opportunities in the synthesis, characterization, and application of new materials. Students conduct cutting-edge research, contributing to innovations in various industrial and technological sectors.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Research Professor, Materials Scientist, R&D Director, Innovation Specialist
Scholarships & Tuition at Federal University of Maranhão
Annual tuition for international students: $954 – $1,000/year
✅ Federal University of Maranhão offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Federal University of Maranhão
- National Ranking: #39 in Brazil
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1501
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Federal University of Maranhão
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Prominent public higher education institution
- Strong programs: Medicine, Law, Pedagogy
- Leadership in scientific research
- Welcomes international students
- Main campus in São Luís
Accreditation
- Ministério da Educação, Brazil
Fields of Study at Federal University of Maranhão
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Education
- Social Sciences
Notable Alumni
- Flávio Dino
- Humberto Coutinho
- Othelino Neto
- Helena Duailibe
- Zé Reinaldo Tavares
Frequently Asked Questions about Federal University of Maranhão
What is Federal University of Maranhão?
Federal University of Maranhão is a public university located in São Luís, Brazil. It has approximately 40,000 students.
How much does it cost to study at Federal University of Maranhão?
Tuition fees at Federal University of Maranhão for international students range from $954 – $1,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Federal University of Maranhão?
Application fee: $60. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%).
What language are courses taught in at Federal University of Maranhão?
Courses at Federal University of Maranhão are taught in Portuguese.
How many programs does Federal University of Maranhão offer?
Federal University of Maranhão offers 20 programs: 15 Bachelor's, 3 Master's, and 2 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Federal University of Maranhão ranked?
#39 in Brazil · THE World #1501.
Does Federal University of Maranhão offer scholarships?
Yes, Federal University of Maranhão offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Federal University of Maranhão provide visa support?
Yes, Federal University of Maranhão provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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