San Sebastián University
Future-ready professionals, ethically driven.
📍 Concepción, Chile 🇨🇱
🏆 #2 in Chile · THE World #501
Quick Facts about San Sebastián University
- Founded: 1989
- Type: Private Non-Profit
- Students: 52,974
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $3,800 – $7,600/year
- Language: Spanish
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About San Sebastián University
Academics
USS Concepción offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including Health Sciences, Engineering, Economics, Education, Law, and Veterinary Medicine. The university is particularly recognized for its strong health sciences programs, with state-of-the-art Clinical Simulation Hospitals and dental clinics that provide hands-on training and community services. USS emphasizes an innovative and interdisciplinary learning approach, seeking to equip students with the skills to address complex societal challenges. The university has also been expanding its doctoral programs in areas such as Cellular Biology and Biomedicine, and History, contributing to advanced research and knowledge generation.
International Students
San Sebastián University actively attracts international students through exchange programs and partnerships with foreign universities. The International Affairs Office provides support services including assistance with visas, accommodation, orientation, and language support. While most courses are taught in Spanish, requiring proficiency in the language, the university is committed to fostering a global environment. International students can apply to study for a semester or an academic year at any of the USS campuses across Chile.
Campus & Location
The Concepción campus, the birthplace of USS, is a significant educational hub in the Biobío Region, featuring two campuses: Las Tres Pascualas and Paicaví. The Las Tres Pascualas campus boasts over 42,000 m² of constructed space, situated by the banks of the Biobío River. Concepción itself is a vibrant and energetic city, known for its parks, lively nightlife, and a rich cultural scene, often referred to as the "Capital of Chilean Rock." The city offers a reasonable cost of living, good public transportation, and a balance of urban energy with a laid-back atmosphere.
Career Outcomes
San Sebastián University focuses on developing professionals who are well-prepared for the job market and actively contributes to the sustainable development of Chile. The university's educational project aims to provide students with the necessary competencies to succeed in their chosen fields. While specific employment rates for international students are not readily available, the university's strong ties to local communities and emphasis on practical education, particularly in fields like health sciences and business administration, suggest good industry connections. USS also encourages social responsibility and community service, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
Information for International Students at San Sebastián University
San Sebastián University in Concepción, Chile welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Spanish
Admissions Requirements for San Sebastián University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to San Sebastián University:
- GPA minimum: 2.5
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: January 29, 2026
Programs at San Sebastián University (23 programs)
San Sebastián University offers 23 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (15)
- Medicine — 84 months · Spanish · STEM
This program trains future doctors with a strong ethical foundation and clinical skills, focusing on patient care, diagnosis, and treatment across various medical specialties.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher - Kinesiology — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
Focuses on human movement, rehabilitation, and physical therapy, training professionals to assess, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Kinesiologist, Physical Therapist, Sports Rehabilitator - Civil Engineering — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
Students learn to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as buildings, roads, bridges, and water systems, with an emphasis on sustainability and safety.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager - Dentistry — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
Students learn to diagnose, prevent, and treat oral and maxillofacial diseases, developing skills in restorative dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, and oral surgery.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Dentist, Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon - Architecture — 60 months · Spanish
This program focuses on the design and planning of buildings and urban spaces, integrating aesthetic, functional, and sustainable principles.
Field: Architecture and Design
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer - Nursing — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
This program prepares compassionate and skilled nurses to provide comprehensive care to individuals, families, and communities, promoting health and preventing illness.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse - Commercial Engineering — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
Combines business administration, economics, and quantitative methods to train professionals capable of strategic decision-making, financial management, and market analysis.
Field: Business and Economics
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Financial Manager, Marketing Manager - Law — 60 months · Spanish
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, judicial systems, and ethical practices, preparing them for careers in various legal fields.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Advisor - Psychology — 60 months · Spanish
Explores human behavior, mental processes, and emotional well-being, preparing students for careers in clinical, organizational, educational, or research psychology.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Psychologist, Counselor, Human Resources Specialist - Education (Pedagogy in various specializations) (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
This program prepares future educators with pedagogical skills and subject-specific knowledge to teach at different educational levels.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, Educational Administrator, Curriculum Developer - Obstetrics and Puericulture — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
This program trains professionals in maternal and infant care, focusing on pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and the health of newborns.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Midwife, Obstetric Nurse, Maternal-Child Health Specialist - Medical Technology — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
This program trains professionals in the use of advanced medical equipment and laboratory techniques for diagnosis, treatment, and research in healthcare.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Biomedical Technician - Education (Pedagogy in Basic General Education) — 60 months · Spanish
This program prepares future educators to teach at the primary school level, focusing on pedagogical methods, child development, and curriculum design.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Primary School Teacher, Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer - Pedagogy in Physical Education — 60 months · Spanish
Prepares future educators to teach physical education, promoting healthy lifestyles, motor skill development, and sportsmanship in educational settings.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Physical Education Teacher, Sports Coach, Recreation Specialist - Journalism — 48 months · Spanish
This program trains students in news gathering, reporting, writing, and multimedia production, emphasizing ethical journalism and critical analysis of information.
Field: Communications
Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator
Master Programs (5)
- Master in Clinical Psychology — 24 months · Spanish
Focuses on advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for mental health disorders, preparing students for clinical practice and psychological intervention.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor - Master in Education Management — 24 months · Spanish
This program focuses on leadership, administration, and policy in educational institutions, preparing professionals to manage and improve educational systems.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Principal, Education Administrator, Policy Analyst - Master in Public Health — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
This program focuses on the prevention of disease, promotion of health, and improvement of well-being in populations through research, policy, and community interventions.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Administrator - Master in Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · Spanish
This program provides advanced knowledge in business strategy, finance, marketing, and human resources, preparing professionals for leadership roles in diverse industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: CEO, Manager, Consultant - Master in Educational Management and Leadership — 18 months · Spanish
Designed for educators and administrators, this program develops leadership skills and knowledge in educational policy, curriculum development, and institutional management.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Principal, Educational Consultant, Curriculum Developer
PhD Programs (3)
- PhD in Law (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish
This program offers advanced legal research opportunities, allowing students to specialize in areas of law and contribute to legal scholarship and jurisprudence.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, University Professor, Legal Policy Advisor - PhD in Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
This doctoral program offers advanced research training in various biomedical fields, fostering innovation and scientific discovery to address health challenges.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotechnology Specialist - PhD in Education (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish
A research-intensive program focusing on advanced theories and methodologies in education, preparing scholars to address complex educational challenges and contribute to policy.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Researcher, Policy Analyst
Scholarships & Tuition at San Sebastián University
Annual tuition for international students: $3,800 – $7,600/year
✅ San Sebastián University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of San Sebastián University
- National Ranking: #2 in Chile
- Times Higher Education (THE): #501
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at San Sebastián University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Leading Biobío Region institution.
- Strong health sciences programs.
- Innovative, interdisciplinary learning.
- Growing doctoral programs.
- Active international exchange.
Accreditation
- Comisión Nacional de Acreditación (CNA)
- Agency for Quality Assurance (AQAS)
Fields of Study at San Sebastián University
- Health Sciences
- Law
- Engineering
- Education
- Business
Notable Alumni
- Matías Walker
- Francisco Saavedra
- Felipe Camaño
- Cristián Campos Jara
- Rodrigo Goldberg
Frequently Asked Questions about San Sebastián University
What is San Sebastián University?
San Sebastián University is a private non-profit university located in Concepción, Chile, founded in 1989. It has approximately 52,974 students.
How much does it cost to study at San Sebastián University?
Tuition fees at San Sebastián University for international students range from $3,800 – $7,600/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for San Sebastián University?
GPA minimum: 2.5. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: January 29, 2026.
What language are courses taught in at San Sebastián University?
Courses at San Sebastián University are taught in Spanish.
How many programs does San Sebastián University offer?
San Sebastián University offers 23 programs: 15 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is San Sebastián University ranked?
#2 in Chile · THE World #501.
Does San Sebastián University offer scholarships?
Yes, San Sebastián University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does San Sebastián University provide visa support?
Yes, San Sebastián University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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