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Universidad de Cartagena

Cartagena, 🇨🇴 Colombia Public
#19 National #1401 QS World #1001 THE
Universidad de Cartagena campus
21,749 students 1% international Multiple Campuses $600 - $3k/yr

About Universidad de Cartagena

The Universidad de Cartagena, also known as UniCartagena, is a public coeducational research university located primarily in Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia. Established in 1827, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country, recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including two doctoral programs.

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.

Highlights

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

Subject Areas

MedicineEngineeringSciencesSocial SciencesHumanities

Student Life & Support

Campus Housing Sports Facilities Scholarships Available

Photos

Universidad de Cartagena photo 1Universidad de Cartagena photo 2Universidad de Cartagena photo 3Universidad de Cartagena photo 4Universidad de Cartagena photo 5Universidad de Cartagena photo 6Universidad de Cartagena photo 7Universidad de Cartagena photo 8Universidad de Cartagena photo 9

Programs Offered at Universidad de Cartagena (20)

Offers programs in:

Business & Management Education Engineering Humanities Law Medicine & Health Natural Sciences Physics & Chemistry

Bachelor Programs (10)

Business Administration

Business

Business
bachelor in businessbachelor of businessbsc businessundergraduate businessstudy business in colombia
60 months Spanish Full-time

Social Communication

Communication

Communication
bachelorcartagenacolombiacommunicationsocial
60 months Spanish Full-time

Civil Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
engineeringtechnicaltechnologybachelorundergraduate
60 months Spanish Full-time

Medicine

STEM

Health Sciences

Health Sciences
babachelorbsbsccolombia
84 months Spanish Full-time

Dentistry

STEM

Health Sciences

Health Sciences
bachelorcartagenacolombiadentistryhealth
60 months Spanish Full-time

Pharmacy

STEM

Health Sciences

Health Sciences
bachelorcolombiahealthhealth sciencespharmacy
60 months Spanish Full-time

Nursing

STEM

Health Sciences

Nursing & Health Sciences
babachelorbengbsbsc
60 months Spanish Full-time

History

Humanities

Humanities
bachelor programs in colombiainternational humanities programbachelor historybachelor of humanitiesstudy humanities in colombia
60 months Spanish Full-time

Law

Law

Law
bachelorcolombialaw
60 months Spanish Full-time

Chemistry

STEM

Natural Sciences

Natural Sciences
babachelorbsbsccartagena
60 months Spanish Full-time

Master Programs (7)

Master in Business Administration (MBA)

Business

Business
masters in businessmaster of businessstudy business in colombiabusiness in cartagenamaster business cartagena
24 months Spanish Full-time

Master in Education

Education

Education
academiccartagenacolombiaeducationlearning
24 months Spanish Full-time

Master in Computer Systems Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
masters in engineeringmaster's in engineeringstudy engineering in colombiaengineering masters in cartagenaengineering program in spanish
24 months Spanish Full-time

Master in Environmental Management

STEM

Environmental Sciences

Environmental Sciences
masters in environmental sciencesstudy environmental sciences in colombiaenvironmental sciences mscuniversidad de cartagena environmental sciencesenvironmental sciences degree in colombia
24 months Spanish Full-time

Master's in Health Sciences

STEM

Master in Public Health

Health Sciences

Health Sciences
health sciences in cartagenamaster's in health sciencesgraduate program health sciencesmaster of health scienceshealth sciences master's cartagena
24 months Spanish Full-time

Master in Law

Law

Law
LLB abroadLawLaw program in CartagenaLaw taught in SpanishMA in Law
24 months Spanish Full-time

Master in Chemical Sciences

STEM

Natural Sciences

Natural Sciences
chemicalcolombiamasternaturalsciences
24 months Spanish Full-time

PhD Programs (3)

PhD in Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
colombiaengineeringphd
48 months Spanish Full-time

PhD in Biomedical Sciences

STEM

Health Sciences

Health Sciences
PhD in health sciencesdoctorate in health sciencesdoctoral program health sciencesstudy health sciences in Colombiahealth sciences in Cartagena
48 months Spanish Full-time

PhD in Human Sciences

Humanities

Humanities & Social Sciences
colombiahumanhumanitiesphdsciences
48 months Spanish Full-time

Universidad de Cartagena Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

Intakes Fall, Spring
Application Deadline November 05, 2025
Tuition (per year) $600 - $3k/yr
Application Fee $152200
Teaching Language Spanish
Accreditation
Ministry of Education (Colombia) Institutional Accreditation of High QualityABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)Unión de Universidades de América Latina y del Caribe (UDUAL)ISO 9001:2015ISO 21001:2018

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Frequently Asked Questions About Universidad de Cartagena

Common questions from international students considering Universidad de Cartagena.

How much does Universidad de Cartagena cost for international students?

Tuition at Universidad de Cartagena ranges from $600 - $3k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.

What is Universidad de Cartagena ranked globally?

Universidad de Cartagena holds the following rankings: QS World #1401, Times Higher Education #1001, #19 in Colombia. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

Are scholarships available at Universidad de Cartagena?

Yes, Universidad de Cartagena offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does Universidad de Cartagena start its semesters?

Universidad de Cartagena has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

What programs does Universidad de Cartagena offer?

Universidad de Cartagena offers 20+ academic programs across multiple disciplines including Business & Management, Education, Engineering, Humanities. Programs are available at Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral levels.

Where is Universidad de Cartagena located?

Universidad de Cartagena is located in Cartagena, Colombia 🇨🇴. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What are the admission requirements for Universidad de Cartagena?

For specific details about Universidad de Cartagena, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

How does Universidad de Cartagena compare to other universities?

Universidad de Cartagena is a strong choice that compares favorably to peer institutions (QS World #1401). Each university has different strengths — we recommend comparing specific programs, location, cost, and graduate outcomes for your field rather than overall rankings alone.

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