Diego Portales University

Diego Portales University (UDP), established in 1982, is a private, non-profit institution located in Santiago, Chile. It is recognized as one of Chile's leading private universities, consistently ranking among the top institutions in the country and Latin America. UDP is committed to contributing to Chilean development through its academic programs and research, with a motto of "Tradition, Innovation, Pluralism."

Academics

UDP offers 31 undergraduate and 31 postgraduate programs across its eleven faculties and institutes. Notable faculties include Law, Architecture, Art and Design, Communication and Letters, Economics and Business, Engineering and Sciences, Health Sciences, Humanities and Education, History and Social Sciences, and Psychology. The university is particularly strong in the social sciences and humanities, with its School of Political Science and research in communications recognized among the best in Chile. UDP emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, with academic staff actively involved in research and promoting academic internships abroad.

International Students

Diego Portales University welcomes international students, with over 300 international students currently enrolled and hundreds more arriving annually through over 150 agreements with partner universities. While most courses are taught in Spanish, requiring a B2 level of Spanish proficiency, UDP is expanding its English-taught offerings. The International Relations Office provides support services, including orientation meetings, welcome activities, and free Spanish classes at the start of each semester. Students can also engage in cultural integration through programs like American Corner and Globaliza UDP.

Campus & Location

UDP's urban campus is primarily located in Santiago's historic center, known as the University District, where nine out of ten faculties are situated. This central location offers students access to the vibrant city life of Santiago, with its rich infrastructure, diverse entertainment options, and convenient public transportation, including metro and micro (bus) lines. The campus features modern facilities, including the Nicanor Parra Library and a Sports Centre. The Faculty of Economy and Business is located in the Ciudad Empresarial, a business area in northern Santiago.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Diego Portales University are highly regarded in the job market, both within Chile and internationally. The university maintains strong industry connections, with the Faculty of Engineering, for example, holding cooperation agreements with national companies for student internships. UDP's MBA program is ranked among the top in Latin America, focusing on developing leaders who can make a positive societal impact through collaboration. The university also fosters an entrepreneurial spirit through platforms like PLEIN (Entrepreneurship and Innovation Platform), which connects students and researchers with businesses to address societal challenges.