Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro

The Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-Rio) is a private, non-profit Catholic university in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, founded in 1940. It is recognized for its academic excellence, research output, and commitment to humanistic values, consistently ranking among the top universities in Brazil. PUC-Rio aims to foster diversity among its student body and has a strong focus on scientific research and innovation.

Academics

PUC-Rio offers a wide array of programs across its four academic centers: the Center of Theology and Human Sciences, the Center of Social Sciences, the Center of Science and Technology, and the Center of Biomedical Sciences. The university is particularly acclaimed for its faculties in law, engineering, computer science, psychology, economics, business, and international relations. While a full range of majors is available in Portuguese, English-taught courses are offered in various disciplines, including business, design, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, international relations, mechanical engineering, and sociology. The university emphasizes intimate class sizes and close interaction with professors.

International Students

PUC-Rio welcomes over 1,000 international exchange students annually and has exchange programs with numerous universities worldwide, including Harvard, Notre Dame, UC Berkeley, UCLA, and Brown University. The International Program Office (CCCI) facilitates student, professor, and researcher exchanges, offering exchange, short-term, and double-degree programs. Support services for international students include assistance with visa requirements, health insurance, and pre-term intensive Portuguese language courses. The university fosters cultural diversity and provides opportunities for cultural integration through various activities and student organizations.

Campus & Location

PUC-Rio's urban campus is located in Gávea, a charming and green neighborhood in the south of Rio, at the edge of Tijuca National Forest. The campus itself is a pleasant green area with a stream, where small monkeys and squirrels can be seen. It features three main buildings, 25 departments, 13 labs, a central library, and various amenities such as restaurants, coffee shops, and banking facilities. The campus is well-connected by city bus lines, and the Botanical Gardens and Leblon beach are within walking distance. Rio de Janeiro, known for its vibrant Carnaval, beautiful beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema, and iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, offers a rich and energetic city life.

Career Outcomes

PUC-Rio encourages the integration of students into the job market and maintains agreements with approximately 6,000 companies. The Professional Internship Central Coordination Office (CCESP) disseminates internship offers, trainee programs, and job opportunities, and connects undergraduates with companies through events like the annual PUC Exhibition. The university is recognized as a leading institution in partnerships with industries. Notable alumni have made significant impacts across business, entertainment, politics, and academia, showcasing the university's role in shaping influential leaders. The university also has a strong startup culture, being one of the first in Brazil to teach entrepreneurship in undergraduate courses.