Universidad de Cartagena

Quick Facts about Universidad de Cartagena

• Type: Public
• Students: 21,749
• International: 1%
• Campus: Multiple Campuses
• Tuition: $600 – $3,000/year
• Language: Spanish
• Intakes: Fall, Spring

About Universidad de Cartagena

Academics

The Universidad de Cartagena offers a diverse range of academic programs across various faculties, including Economic Sciences, Humanities, Engineering, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Law and Political Science, Nursing, and Medicine. The university emphasizes a strong foundation in core disciplines while also fostering interdisciplinary approaches. Notable programs include those in Law, Medicine, and various engineering fields, which are crucial for regional development. The institution also boasts research institutes focusing on immunology, Caribbean studies, and water and environmental sanitation.

International Students

The Universidad de Cartagena welcomes international students and offers support services to facilitate their integration. While the primary language of instruction is Spanish, some programs and courses may be offered in English, particularly within exchange programs. International exchange programs are regularly accepted, providing opportunities for both local and international students to engage with diverse cultures. The International Relations Office assists exchange students with documentation and initial steps in the university and city, and a "Mentor Programme" is available to further aid integration.

Campus & Location

The Universidad de Cartagena has several campuses, including the Zaragocilla Campus for Health Sciences, the Piedra de Bolívar Campus for Engineering and Economic Sciences, and the historic Cloister of St. Augustine and Cloister of La Merced Campuses. The main campus, Piedra de Bolívar, is situated in the heart of Cartagena, offering a vibrant academic environment close to historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Cartagena itself is a historic coastal city known for its colonial architecture and lively atmosphere. Public transportation, including the Transcaribe bus system and taxis, provides convenient ways to navigate the city.

Career Outcomes

The Universidad de Cartagena is committed to enhancing the professional prospects of its graduates. The university has a Center for Labor Insertion and Social Responsibility, and a section dedicated to graduate affairs and business internships. Programs like "Mi Primera Chamba" (My First Job) aim to connect students with professional practice opportunities and facilitate their transition into the workforce. While specific employment rates for all programs are not readily available, the university's strong reputation and focus on practical application in fields like engineering, medicine, and law contribute to favorable career outcomes.

Information for International Students at Universidad de Cartagena

Universidad de Cartagena in Cartagena, Colombia welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 1% of students are international
• No visa support offered
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Teaching languages: Spanish

Admissions Requirements for Universidad de Cartagena

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Universidad de Cartagena:

• Application fee: $152200
• Application deadline: November 05, 2025

Apply to Universidad de Cartagena →

Programs at Universidad de Cartagena (20 programs)

Universidad de Cartagena offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (10)

• Pharmacy (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
  The Pharmacy program focuses on the study of drugs, their effects, and safe and effective use, preparing pharmacists to dispense medication, provide patient counseling, and contribute to pharmaceutical research.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher
• Business Administration (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
  The Business Administration program develops managerial skills and knowledge in areas such as finance, marketing, human resources, and operations, preparing graduates for leadership roles in various industries.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Entrepreneur
• Law (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
  The Law program provides a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, national and international legislation, and judicial processes, preparing students for legal practice and public service.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Advisor, Public Prosecutor
• Chemistry (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
  The Chemistry program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, laboratory techniques, and research methodologies, preparing students for careers in industry, research, and education.
  Field: Natural Sciences
  Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, Quality Control Specialist
• Social Communication (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
  This program explores theories and practices of communication, journalism, public relations, and audiovisual production, equipping students to work in media, corporate, and social organizations.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Content Creator, Communications Manager
• Dentistry (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
  This program trains dental professionals to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral diseases, promoting oral health and overall well-being through clinical practice and patient education.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Dentist, Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon
• Medicine (BSc) — 84 months · Spanish · STEM
  This program trains highly competent medical professionals with a strong ethical foundation, capable of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases, and promoting public health in various settings.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Physician, Medical Researcher, Public Health Specialist
• Civil Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, including buildings, roads, bridges, and water systems, with an emphasis on sustainability and safety.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Project Manager, Construction Manager
• History (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
  The History program provides a critical understanding of past events, societies, and cultures, developing analytical and research skills applicable to various fields.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator
• Nursing (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
  This program prepares compassionate and skilled nursing professionals to provide holistic care, promote health, and prevent illness in diverse healthcare settings.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse

Master Programs (7)

• Master in Public Health (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
  This master's program provides advanced knowledge and skills in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and environmental health, preparing professionals to address complex public health challenges.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Program Manager
• Master in Computer Systems Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
  This program provides advanced knowledge in software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science, preparing professionals for leadership roles in the technology sector.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Software Architect, AI Engineer, Cybersecurity Specialist, Data Scientist
• Master in Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · Spanish
  The MBA program provides advanced management and leadership skills, focusing on strategic decision-making, financial analysis, and global business practices to prepare executives for top-tier roles.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: CEO, Senior Manager, Business Consultant
• Master in Law (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
  The Master in Law program offers specialized legal knowledge in various areas such as constitutional law, criminal law, or administrative law, enhancing legal expertise for advanced practice or academia.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Legal Consultant, University Professor, Specialized Lawyer
• Master in Environmental Management (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
  This program addresses environmental challenges through interdisciplinary approaches, focusing on sustainable resource management, environmental policy, and conservation strategies.
  Field: Environmental Sciences
  Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Environmental Manager, Policy Analyst
• Master in Chemical Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
  This program deepens understanding of advanced chemical theories and experimental techniques, fostering research capabilities in areas like materials science, biochemistry, or environmental chemistry.
  Field: Natural Sciences
  Career outcomes: Research Chemist, Product Developer, Academic Researcher
• Master in Education (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
  This program enhances pedagogical skills and knowledge in educational theories, curriculum design, and educational research, preparing professionals for leadership and innovation in educational institutions.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: Educational Administrator, Curriculum Specialist, University Lecturer

PhD Programs (3)

• PhD in Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
  This doctoral program focuses on advanced research and innovation in various engineering disciplines, enabling students to solve complex technical problems and contribute to technological development.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Research Engineer, University Professor, R&D Director
• PhD in Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
  The PhD in Biomedical Sciences program trains independent researchers to conduct cutting-edge investigations in areas such as molecular biology, immunology, or neuroscience, contributing to scientific discovery and health advancements.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotechnology Specialist
• PhD in Human Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish
  The PhD in Human Sciences offers advanced research opportunities in fields such as history, philosophy, and social sciences, promoting critical thinking and original contributions to humanistic knowledge.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Cultural Analyst

Scholarships & Tuition at Universidad de Cartagena

Annual tuition for international students: $600 – $3,000/year

✅ Universidad de Cartagena offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Universidad de Cartagena

• National Ranking: #19 in Colombia
• QS World University Ranking: #1401
• Times Higher Education (THE): #1001
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Universidad de Cartagena

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• No disability support info
• Campus type: Multiple Campuses

Key Highlights

• Oldest, prestigious Colombian university
• Diverse academic programs offered
• Strong research focus areas
• International student welcoming environment
• Historic, multiple campus locations

Accreditation

• Ministry of Education (Colombia) Institutional Accreditation of High Quality
• ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)
• Unión de Universidades de América Latina y del Caribe (UDUAL)
• ISO 9001:2015
• ISO 21001:2018

Fields of Study at Universidad de Cartagena

• Medicine
• Engineering
• Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Humanities

Notable Alumni

• Gabriel García Márquez
• Rafael Núñez
• Justo Arosemena Quesada
• Manuel Amador Guerrero
• Alfonso Múnera Cavadía

Frequently Asked Questions about Universidad de Cartagena

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