University of Valparaíso

Valparaíso: Educating Chile's future, rooted in history.

📍 Valparaíso, Chile 🇨🇱

🏆 #12 in Chile · QS World #1201

Quick Facts about University of Valparaíso

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 17,000
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Tuition: $3,200 – $6,400/year
  • Language: Spanish
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About University of Valparaíso

The University of Valparaíso (UV) is a state public university in Chile, with its main campus and headquarters located in the vibrant city of Valparaíso. Established in 1981 as an autonomous university, UV carries on a long tradition of higher education in the Valparaíso region, with formal law studies in the city dating back to 1878. It is recognized as a large coeducational institution with an enrollment range of 15,000-19,999 students.

Academics

The University of Valparaíso offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. While specific faculties are distributed throughout the city, the main campus in Valparaíso serves as the historic and administrative center. The institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations, and international applicants are eligible to apply. UV provides a comprehensive education, with particular strengths in fields like law, which has a long-standing history in the city.

International Students

International students are welcome to apply to the University of Valparaíso. While specific details on English-taught programs are not readily available for UV, other universities in Valparaíso offer courses in both English and Spanish, and intensive Spanish language and Chilean culture programs are common for international students in the region. The university provides various academic and non-academic facilities and services, including a library and sports facilities.

Campus & Location

The University of Valparaíso's main campus is situated in Valparaíso, a major Pacific port city known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Valparaíso is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful architecture, and unique funiculars. The city is often referred to as Chile's "college town" due to the significant presence of higher education institutions. UV's various faculties and schools create a university quarter spanning the central part of the city.

Career Outcomes

While specific employment rates for the University of Valparaíso are not explicitly detailed, universities in the region actively foster connections with industry. The Valparaíso region is working to build an innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem, linking academic research to industry needs. This includes initiatives to promote deep-tech startup development and scaling, aiming to establish Valparaíso as a leader in innovation-driven entrepreneurship in Latin America.

Information for International Students at University of Valparaíso

University of Valparaíso in Valparaíso, 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 University of Valparaíso

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Valparaíso:

  • Selectivity: Open (60%+)
  • Application deadline: December 12, 2025 (for international students with foreign secondary education for March 2026 intake)

Apply to University of Valparaíso →

Programs at University of Valparaíso (61 programs)

University of Valparaíso offers 61 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (39)

  • Ingeniería Civil Informática (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program trains professionals in the design, development, and management of information systems and software, with a strong foundation in computer science and engineering principles.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, IT Project Manager, Systems Analyst
  • Arquitectura (BArch) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Architecture program focuses on the design of spaces and buildings, integrating artistic vision with technical knowledge, sustainability, and urban planning principles.
    Field: Architecture
    Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer
  • Química y Farmacia (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Chemistry and Pharmacy program trains professionals in the development, production, and dispensing of medicines, ensuring their safe and effective use.
    Field: Pharmacy
    Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist
  • Medicina (MD) — 84 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Medicine program prepares future doctors with comprehensive knowledge in health sciences, clinical skills, and ethical principles to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases.
    Field: Medicine
    Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher
  • Odontología (DDS) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on oral health, training dentists to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases of the teeth, gums, and mouth, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice.
    Field: Dentistry
    Career outcomes: Dentist, Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon
  • Periodismo (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program trains journalists in news gathering, reporting, and production across various media platforms, emphasizing ethical practices and critical analysis.
    Field: Journalism
    Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist
  • Trabajo Social (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Social Work program prepares professionals to address social issues, advocate for vulnerable populations, and promote social justice through direct intervention and policy development.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst
  • Enfermería (BSN) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Nursing program prepares compassionate and skilled nurses to provide comprehensive patient care, promote health, and prevent illness in diverse healthcare settings.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Public Health Nurse
  • Ingeniería Civil Biomédica (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program integrates engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to design and develop innovative solutions for healthcare, such as medical devices and diagnostic tools.
    Field: Biomedical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Clinical Engineer
  • Derecho (LLB) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program provides a solid foundation in legal theory and practice, preparing students for careers in law, justice, and public service, with an emphasis on Chilean legal system.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Public Prosecutor, Legal Advisor
  • Psicología (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Psychology program explores human behavior and mental processes, providing students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for various professional applications.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Psychologist, Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist
  • Ingeniería Comercial — 60 months · Spanish
    This program combines economics, business administration, and management, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries, focusing on strategic decision-making and market analysis.
    Field: Business and Economics
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Economist, Financial Analyst
  • Kinesiología (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on the study of human movement and its therapeutic application, preparing professionals to prevent, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
    Field: Physical Therapy
    Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Sports Kinesiologist, Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Ingeniería Civil Informática (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program trains professionals in the design, development, and management of information systems and software, with a strong foundation in computer science and engineering principles.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, IT Project Manager, Systems Analyst
  • Arquitectura (BArch) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Architecture program focuses on the design of spaces and buildings, integrating artistic vision with technical knowledge, sustainability, and urban planning principles.
    Field: Architecture
    Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer
  • Química y Farmacia (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Chemistry and Pharmacy program trains professionals in the development, production, and dispensing of medicines, ensuring their safe and effective use.
    Field: Pharmacy
    Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist
  • Medicina (MD) — 84 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Medicine program prepares future doctors with comprehensive knowledge in health sciences, clinical skills, and ethical principles to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases.
    Field: Medicine
    Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher
  • Odontología (DDS) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on oral health, training dentists to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases of the teeth, gums, and mouth, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice.
    Field: Dentistry
    Career outcomes: Dentist, Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon
  • Periodismo (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program trains journalists in news gathering, reporting, and production across various media platforms, emphasizing ethical practices and critical analysis.
    Field: Journalism
    Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist
  • Trabajo Social (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Social Work program prepares professionals to address social issues, advocate for vulnerable populations, and promote social justice through direct intervention and policy development.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst
  • Enfermería (BSN) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Nursing program prepares compassionate and skilled nurses to provide comprehensive patient care, promote health, and prevent illness in diverse healthcare settings.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Public Health Nurse
  • Ingeniería Civil Biomédica (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program integrates engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to design and develop innovative solutions for healthcare, such as medical devices and diagnostic tools.
    Field: Biomedical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Clinical Engineer
  • Derecho (LLB) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program provides a solid foundation in legal theory and practice, preparing students for careers in law, justice, and public service, with an emphasis on Chilean legal system.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Public Prosecutor, Legal Advisor
  • Psicología (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Psychology program explores human behavior and mental processes, providing students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for various professional applications.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Psychologist, Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist
  • Ingeniería Comercial — 60 months · Spanish
    This program combines economics, business administration, and management, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries, focusing on strategic decision-making and market analysis.
    Field: Business and Economics
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Economist, Financial Analyst
  • Kinesiología (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on the study of human movement and its therapeutic application, preparing professionals to prevent, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
    Field: Physical Therapy
    Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Sports Kinesiologist, Rehabilitation Specialist
  • Ingeniería Civil Informática (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program trains professionals in the design, development, and management of information systems and software, with a strong foundation in computer science and engineering principles.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, IT Project Manager, Systems Analyst
  • Arquitectura (BArch) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Architecture program focuses on the design of spaces and buildings, integrating artistic vision with technical knowledge, sustainability, and urban planning principles.
    Field: Architecture
    Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer
  • Química y Farmacia (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Chemistry and Pharmacy program trains professionals in the development, production, and dispensing of medicines, ensuring their safe and effective use.
    Field: Pharmacy
    Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist
  • Medicina (MD) — 84 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Medicine program prepares future doctors with comprehensive knowledge in health sciences, clinical skills, and ethical principles to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases.
    Field: Medicine
    Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher
  • Odontología (DDS) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on oral health, training dentists to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases of the teeth, gums, and mouth, with a strong emphasis on clinical practice.
    Field: Dentistry
    Career outcomes: Dentist, Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon
  • Periodismo (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program trains journalists in news gathering, reporting, and production across various media platforms, emphasizing ethical practices and critical analysis.
    Field: Journalism
    Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist
  • Trabajo Social (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Social Work program prepares professionals to address social issues, advocate for vulnerable populations, and promote social justice through direct intervention and policy development.
    Field: Social Work
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Policy Analyst
  • Enfermería (BSN) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Nursing program prepares compassionate and skilled nurses to provide comprehensive patient care, promote health, and prevent illness in diverse healthcare settings.
    Field: Nursing
    Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Public Health Nurse
  • Ingeniería Civil Biomédica (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program integrates engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to design and develop innovative solutions for healthcare, such as medical devices and diagnostic tools.
    Field: Biomedical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Clinical Engineer
  • Derecho (LLB) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program provides a solid foundation in legal theory and practice, preparing students for careers in law, justice, and public service, with an emphasis on Chilean legal system.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Public Prosecutor, Legal Advisor
  • Psicología (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Psychology program explores human behavior and mental processes, providing students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills for various professional applications.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Psychologist, Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist
  • Ingeniería Comercial — 60 months · Spanish
    This program combines economics, business administration, and management, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries, focusing on strategic decision-making and market analysis.
    Field: Business and Economics
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Economist, Financial Analyst
  • Kinesiología (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on the study of human movement and its therapeutic application, preparing professionals to prevent, diagnose, and treat musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.
    Field: Physical Therapy
    Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Sports Kinesiologist, Rehabilitation Specialist

Master Programs (12)

  • Magíster en Ciencias de la Computación (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program offers advanced studies in computer science, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, and software engineering, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: AI Specialist, Data Scientist, Software Architect
  • Magíster en Derecho (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
    This program offers advanced legal studies in various specializations, allowing students to deepen their expertise in specific areas of law and engage in legal research.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Legal Expert, Academic, Policy Advisor
  • Magíster en Ciencias de la Ingeniería, Mención Ingeniería Biomédica (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This master's program deepens knowledge in biomedical engineering, focusing on advanced research, development, and application of technologies for health and medicine.
    Field: Biomedical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Researcher, Advanced Biomedical Engineer, Academic
  • Magíster en Salud Pública (MPH) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Master in Public Health program trains professionals to analyze, design, and implement public health interventions, focusing on epidemiology, health policy, and community health.
    Field: Public Health
    Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Administrator
  • Magíster en Ciencias de la Computación (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program offers advanced studies in computer science, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, and software engineering, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: AI Specialist, Data Scientist, Software Architect
  • Magíster en Derecho (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
    This program offers advanced legal studies in various specializations, allowing students to deepen their expertise in specific areas of law and engage in legal research.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Legal Expert, Academic, Policy Advisor
  • Magíster en Ciencias de la Ingeniería, Mención Ingeniería Biomédica (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This master's program deepens knowledge in biomedical engineering, focusing on advanced research, development, and application of technologies for health and medicine.
    Field: Biomedical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Researcher, Advanced Biomedical Engineer, Academic
  • Magíster en Salud Pública (MPH) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Master in Public Health program trains professionals to analyze, design, and implement public health interventions, focusing on epidemiology, health policy, and community health.
    Field: Public Health
    Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Administrator
  • Magíster en Ciencias de la Computación (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program offers advanced studies in computer science, covering areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, and software engineering, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: AI Specialist, Data Scientist, Software Architect
  • Magíster en Derecho (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
    This program offers advanced legal studies in various specializations, allowing students to deepen their expertise in specific areas of law and engage in legal research.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Legal Expert, Academic, Policy Advisor
  • Magíster en Ciencias de la Ingeniería, Mención Ingeniería Biomédica (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This master's program deepens knowledge in biomedical engineering, focusing on advanced research, development, and application of technologies for health and medicine.
    Field: Biomedical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Biomedical Researcher, Advanced Biomedical Engineer, Academic
  • Magíster en Salud Pública (MPH) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    The Master in Public Health program trains professionals to analyze, design, and implement public health interventions, focusing on epidemiology, health policy, and community health.
    Field: Public Health
    Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Administrator

PhD Programs (10)

  • Doctorado en Neurociencias (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program offers advanced research training in neurosciences, exploring brain function, neurological disorders, and cognitive processes at molecular, cellular, and systems levels.
    Field: Neuroscience
    Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Academic Researcher, Pharmaceutical R&D
  • Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various biomedical fields, preparing students for independent scientific inquiry and academic careers.
    Field: Biomedical Sciences
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotech Innovator
  • Doctorado en Ciencias e Ingeniería de la Computación (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This PhD program trains researchers in cutting-edge areas of computer science and engineering, fostering original contributions to fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and distributed systems.
    Field: Computer Science and Engineering
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Software Engineer
  • Doctorado en Neurociencias (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program offers advanced research training in neurosciences, exploring brain function, neurological disorders, and cognitive processes at molecular, cellular, and systems levels.
    Field: Neuroscience
    Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Academic Researcher, Pharmaceutical R&D
  • Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various biomedical fields, preparing students for independent scientific inquiry and academic careers.
    Field: Biomedical Sciences
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotech Innovator
  • Doctorado en Ciencias e Ingeniería de la Computación (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This PhD program trains researchers in cutting-edge areas of computer science and engineering, fostering original contributions to fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and distributed systems.
    Field: Computer Science and Engineering
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Software Engineer
  • Doctorado en Neurociencias (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program offers advanced research training in neurosciences, exploring brain function, neurological disorders, and cognitive processes at molecular, cellular, and systems levels.
    Field: Neuroscience
    Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Academic Researcher, Pharmaceutical R&D
  • Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various biomedical fields, preparing students for independent scientific inquiry and academic careers.
    Field: Biomedical Sciences
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotech Innovator
  • Doctorado en Ciencias e Ingeniería de la Computación (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This PhD program trains researchers in cutting-edge areas of computer science and engineering, fostering original contributions to fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and distributed systems.
    Field: Computer Science and Engineering
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Software Engineer
  • Doctorado en Arquitectura y Urbanismo (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    The PhD in Architecture and Urbanism focuses on advanced research in architectural theory, urban design, heritage, and sustainable development, contributing to new knowledge in the field.
    Field: Architecture
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Urban Policy Advisor, Architectural Consultant

Scholarships & Tuition at University of Valparaíso

Annual tuition for international students: $3,200 – $6,400/year

✅ University of Valparaíso offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of Valparaíso

  • National Ranking: #12 in Chile
  • QS World University Ranking: #1201
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at University of Valparaíso

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses

Key Highlights

  • State public university in Chile
  • Established 1981, long tradition
  • Main campus Valparaíso, UNESCO site
  • Large coeducational institution, 15,000+ students
  • Strong in law, diverse programs
  • International applicants welcome

Accreditation

  • Comisión Nacional de Acreditación (CNA-Chile)

Fields of Study at University of Valparaíso

  • Health Sciences
  • Law
  • Architecture
  • Social Sciences
  • Arts

Notable Alumni

  • Andrés Chadwick
  • Felipe Harboe
  • Aldo Cornejo
  • Osvaldo Corrales
  • Agustín Squella

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Valparaíso

What is University of Valparaíso?

University of Valparaíso is a public university located in Valparaíso, Chile. It has approximately 17,000 students.

How much does it cost to study at University of Valparaíso?

Tuition fees at University of Valparaíso for international students range from $3,200 – $6,400/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of Valparaíso?

Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: December 12, 2025 (for international students with foreign secondary education for March 2026 intake).

What language are courses taught in at University of Valparaíso?

Courses at University of Valparaíso are taught in Spanish.

How many programs does University of Valparaíso offer?

University of Valparaíso offers 61 programs: 39 Bachelor's, 12 Master's, and 10 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is University of Valparaíso ranked?

#12 in Chile · QS World #1201.

Does University of Valparaíso offer scholarships?

Yes, University of Valparaíso offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does University of Valparaíso provide visa support?

Yes, University of Valparaíso provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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