Federal University of Paraná

The Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), established in 1912, is a prominent public institution in Curitiba, Brazil, and holds the distinction of being one of the oldest universities in the country. Recognized as one of the top ten Brazilian universities and among the 25 most prestigious in Latin America, UFPR is dedicated to education, science, technology, innovation, culture, and citizenship. It offers a dynamic environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, creativity, and social responsibility, preparing students to make a positive impact on society.

Academics

UFPR is a comprehensive university with 14 academic units across various campuses, offering over 155 undergraduate and 270 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs. The university's teaching approach integrates theory, practical skills, research, and outreach activities, aiming to develop global citizens with critical thinking abilities. Notable programs span diverse fields like engineering, environmental science, health sciences, social studies, law, and education, with several graduate programs highly rated for excellence. The faculty includes 2,450 tenure-holding professors, 70% of whom hold doctoral degrees, actively contributing to over 15,000 scientific products annually and numerous patents.

International Students

UFPR offers a welcoming environment for international students, with academic activities being tuition-free for public university students in Brazil. The "INTEGRATE UFPR" project provides comprehensive support, including local student mentors to assist with everything from opening bank accounts to finding housing. While there are no dedicated foreign student residences, the International Agency helps connect students with available rooms for rent. UFPR also provides free Portuguese as a foreign language courses through its Center for Language and Interculturalism (CELIN), alongside cultural and social activities to aid integration.

Campus & Location

UFPR has nine campuses in Curitiba, the capital of Paraná State, and additional campuses in five other cities within the state. Curitiba offers a vibrant cultural environment and a temperate climate. The university's historic buildings showcase neoclassical architecture, with features like a chapel, theater, and spacious courtyards. Transportation within Curitiba primarily relies on an efficient bus system, with free buses connecting UFPR's campuses.

Career Outcomes

UFPR focuses on providing students with experiences that are valuable for their future professional lives, with several evaluations ranking the university highly for market placement. The university's commitment to research and development, particularly in fields like engineering and health sciences, contributes to strong industry connections. While specific employment rates for international students are not readily available, the university emphasizes practical skills and offers opportunities for students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems through outreach and service-learning programs. UFPR's career services and strong academic reputation contribute to favorable career prospects for its graduates.