National University of the Altiplano

Andes wisdom, global impact.

📍 Puno, Peru 🇵🇪

🏆 #10 in Peru

Quick Facts about National University of the Altiplano

  • Founded: 1856
  • Type: Public
  • Students: 19,160
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $100 – $400/year
  • Language: Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, Italian, German, Quechua, Aymara
  • Intakes: Spring, Fall

About National University of the Altiplano

The National University of the Altiplano (UNAP) in Puno, Peru, is a public institution with a rich history, founded in 1856. It is dedicated to providing comprehensive higher education, emphasizing scientific, humanistic, and socially responsible training. UNAP aims for excellence, equity, and educational inclusion, contributing to sustainable development and the strengthening of regional identity.

Academics

UNAP is organized into 20 faculties encompassing 37 professional schools, offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs. Key faculties include Agricultural Sciences, Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Civil Engineering and Architecture, and Health Sciences. The university is recognized for its research-oriented curriculum, particularly in science, technology, and applied arts, preparing students for the professional world. It also offers language courses, online courses, study abroad programs, and vocational training.

International Students

UNAP's Office of Cooperation and International Relations manages a student mobility program for incoming national and international students. This program facilitates study stays through agreements with other universities, promoting intercultural exchange. Prospective exchange students need to submit an application form, a letter of presentation from their home university, academic transcripts, a CV, and a motivation letter. While specific English-taught program statistics are not readily available, the university does offer English language courses.

Campus & Location

The main campus of UNAP is situated in Puno, Peru, a city with a population between 50,000 and 249,999 inhabitants. Puno is located at 3,800 meters above sea level near Lake Titicaca. The university provides a library and sports facilities for its students. Additionally, UNAP has decentralized campuses in Azángaro and Chucuito-Juli, expanding access to higher education in the Puno region.

Career Outcomes

UNAP aims to foster entrepreneurial skills among its students through initiatives like Incunalab, an incubator offering pre-incubation, incubation, and acceleration programs. This initiative connects entrepreneurs, students, researchers, and businesses to co-create solutions and drive innovation. Notable alumni from UNAP have made significant contributions in politics and activism, particularly in indigenous rights, public health, and regional development within Peru. The university's focus on research and professional preparation contributes to students' readiness for the job market.

Information for International Students at National University of the Altiplano

National University of the Altiplano in Puno, Peru welcomes international students.

  • No visa support offered
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available
  • Teaching languages: Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, Italian, German, Quechua, Aymara

Admissions Requirements for National University of the Altiplano

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

  • Application deadline: January 28, 2026 (Extraordinary Exam); March 15, 2026 (General Exam)

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Programs at National University of the Altiplano (32 programs)

National University of the Altiplano offers 32 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (24)

  • Metallurgical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    Students learn about the extraction, processing, and application of metals and alloys. The program covers mineral processing, extractive metallurgy, physical metallurgy, and materials science.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: metallurgical engineer, materials scientist, process engineer
  • Social Work (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Social Work program trains professionals to assist individuals, families, and communities in addressing social problems and improving their well-being. Students learn about social policy, human behavior, counseling techniques, and community development.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: social worker, case manager, community organizer, advocate
  • Odontology (Dentistry) (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    Students learn to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral diseases and conditions. The curriculum covers dental anatomy, oral pathology, restorative dentistry, and orthodontics, with significant practical training.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: dentist, orthodontist, oral surgeon
  • Education (Primary Education) (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program prepares future educators to teach at the primary school level. Students learn about child development, pedagogical theories, curriculum design, and effective teaching methodologies, focusing on creating engaging and inclusive learning environments.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: primary school teacher, educational consultant, curriculum developer
  • Statistics and Informatics (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program combines statistical theory with computational methods to analyze data and develop information systems. Students gain skills in data analysis, programming, and database management.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: data scientist, statistician, software developer
  • Education (Secondary Education - various specializations) (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program prepares educators for secondary schools, offering specializations in subjects like Mathematics, Language and Literature, History, and Sciences. It combines subject matter expertise with pedagogical training.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: secondary school teacher, educational administrator, academic tutor
  • Civil Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Students gain expertise in structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, hydraulics, and construction management.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: civil engineer, structural engineer, project manager, urban planner
  • Geological Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program combines geology with engineering principles to solve problems related to natural resources, environmental protection, and civil infrastructure. Students study earth processes, mineral exploration, and geological hazards.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: geological engineer, environmental geologist, hydrogeologist
  • Architecture and Urbanism (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program focuses on the design of buildings and urban spaces, integrating artistic vision with technical knowledge. Students learn about architectural theory, construction techniques, and urban planning principles.
    Field: Architecture
    Career outcomes: architect, urban planner, landscape architect
  • Administration (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program provides a broad understanding of business management principles, including organizational behavior, marketing, finance, and human resources. Students develop leadership and decision-making skills.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: business administrator, manager, entrepreneur
  • Agronomy (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on the science and technology of producing and using plants for food, fuel, fiber, and land reclamation. Students learn about crop production, soil science, plant breeding, and sustainable agricultural practices.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: agronomist, agricultural researcher, farm manager, extension agent
  • Biology (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program provides a foundational understanding of living organisms, their structures, functions, evolution, and interactions with the environment. Students explore various biological disciplines, including genetics, ecology, microbiology, and molecular biology.
    Field: Biology
    Career outcomes: biologist, research assistant, environmental consultant, science educator
  • Environmental Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program addresses environmental challenges through engineering principles, focusing on pollution control, waste management, water and air quality, and sustainable resource management. Students learn to design solutions for environmental protection and public health.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: environmental engineer, environmental consultant, waste management specialist, water quality engineer
  • Medicine (BSc) — 84 months · Spanish · STEM
    This rigorous program trains future physicians in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of human diseases. It integrates foundational medical sciences with extensive clinical rotations and patient interaction.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: physician, surgeon, medical researcher
  • Chemical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program focuses on the design, operation, and optimization of chemical processes to transform raw materials into valuable products. Students gain expertise in thermodynamics, reaction engineering, and process control.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: chemical engineer, process engineer, research and development scientist
  • Economics (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Economics program provides a rigorous understanding of economic theories, principles, and their application to real-world issues. Students analyze markets, public policy, international trade, and economic development, developing strong analytical and quantitative skills.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: economist, financial analyst, market researcher, policy analyst
  • Law (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Law program provides a comprehensive education in legal principles, theories, and practices. Students develop critical thinking, analytical, and advocacy skills, preparing them for careers in the legal profession, public service, and various other fields requiring legal expertise.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: lawyer, judge, public prosecutor, legal advisor
  • Tourism (BA) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program focuses on the management and development of tourism services and destinations. Students gain knowledge in hospitality management, marketing, cultural heritage, sustainable tourism, and travel operations, preparing them for roles in the tourism industry.
    Field: Hospitality and Tourism
    Career outcomes: tourism manager, tour operator, hotel manager, destination marketer
  • Mining Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    Students are trained in the principles and practices of mineral extraction, processing, and mine management. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable mining techniques, safety, and environmental impact assessment.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: mining engineer, geologist, mine safety officer
  • Accountancy (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
    Students acquire expertise in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting. The program prepares graduates for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and government.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: accountant, auditor, financial analyst
  • Computer Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    Students in this program learn to design, develop, and implement computer hardware and software systems. The curriculum covers programming, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, operating systems, and network security.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: software engineer, hardware engineer, network administrator, systems analyst
  • Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish · STEM
    Students in this program acquire comprehensive knowledge in animal health, welfare, and production. The curriculum covers anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, surgery, and animal husbandry, preparing graduates for diverse roles in veterinary care and livestock management.
    Field: Veterinary Science
    Career outcomes: veterinarian, animal nutritionist, livestock manager, animal researcher
  • Nursing (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
    The Nursing program prepares students to provide holistic patient care, promote health, and prevent illness across diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience in areas such as medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and public health.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: registered nurse, clinical nurse specialist, public health nurse, nurse educator
  • Accounting (BSc) — 60 months · Spanish
    This program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting. Graduates are prepared to analyze financial data, ensure compliance, and provide strategic financial advice to organizations.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: accountant, auditor, financial controller, tax consultant

Master Programs (4)

  • Master in Environmental Management (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program provides advanced training in environmental policy, management, and conservation. Students learn to analyze complex environmental issues, develop sustainable solutions, and implement effective environmental management strategies in various contexts.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: environmental manager, conservation scientist, environmental consultant, policy maker
  • Master in Public Health (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish
    The Master in Public Health focuses on promoting and protecting the health of populations through interdisciplinary approaches. Students gain expertise in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and community health interventions.
    Field: Health Sciences
    Career outcomes: public health specialist, epidemiologist, health program manager, health policy analyst
  • Master in Education (MA) — 24 months · Spanish
    This program offers advanced studies in educational theory, research, and practice. Students can specialize in areas such as educational leadership, curriculum development, or educational psychology, enhancing their skills as educators and researchers.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: educational leader, curriculum specialist, university lecturer, educational researcher
  • Master in Agricultural Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Spanish · STEM
    This master's program deepens knowledge in advanced agricultural practices, research methodologies, and sustainable food systems. Students specialize in areas such as crop science, animal production, or agricultural economics, contributing to innovation in the sector.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: agricultural researcher, agribusiness consultant, university lecturer, policy advisor

PhD Programs (4)

  • PhD in Agricultural Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · Spanish · STEM
    The PhD program in Agricultural Sciences prepares students for advanced research and academic careers in various agricultural disciplines. Candidates conduct original research, contributing new knowledge and innovations to sustainable agriculture and food security.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: university professor, senior researcher, agricultural policy advisor, R&D director
  • PhD in Engineering Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Spanish · STEM
    This program offers advanced research opportunities in various engineering disciplines, such as civil, mining, or environmental engineering. Students undertake in-depth studies and contribute to engineering knowledge.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: university professor, R&D engineer, engineering consultant
  • PhD in Social Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · Spanish
    The PhD in Social Sciences offers advanced research opportunities in various social science disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, and political science. Students conduct original research to deepen understanding of social phenomena and contribute to theoretical and empirical knowledge.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: university professor, social researcher, policy analyst, international development specialist
  • PhD in Environmental Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · Spanish · STEM
    This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in environmental science, addressing complex ecological, social, and economic aspects of environmental issues. Students develop expertise in interdisciplinary research methods and contribute to environmental solutions.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: environmental scientist, university professor, environmental policy analyst, research director

Scholarships & Tuition at National University of the Altiplano

Annual tuition for international students: $100 – $400/year

Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.

Rankings of National University of the Altiplano

  • National Ranking: #10 in Peru
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at National University of the Altiplano

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

  • Historic 1856 founding
  • Diverse 37 professional schools
  • Research-oriented curriculum
  • Puno, Lake Titicaca location
  • International student mobility
  • Regional development focus

Accreditation

  • Ministerio de Educación, Peru
  • SUNEDU
  • SINEACE
  • ICACIT

Fields of Study at National University of the Altiplano

  • Engineering
  • Agriculture
  • Education
  • Social Sciences
  • Veterinary Medicine

Notable Alumni

  • Hernando Cevallos Calle
  • Walter Aduviri
  • Susana Vilca Achata
  • Óscar Catacora
  • Michael Espinoza Coila

Frequently Asked Questions about National University of the Altiplano

What is National University of the Altiplano?

National University of the Altiplano is a public university located in Puno, Peru, founded in 1856. It has approximately 19,160 students.

How much does it cost to study at National University of the Altiplano?

Tuition fees at National University of the Altiplano for international students range from $100 – $400/year.

What are the admission requirements for National University of the Altiplano?

Application deadline: January 28, 2026 (Extraordinary Exam); March 15, 2026 (General Exam).

What language are courses taught in at National University of the Altiplano?

Courses at National University of the Altiplano are taught in Spanish and English and French and Portuguese and Italian and German and Quechua and Aymara.

How many programs does National University of the Altiplano offer?

National University of the Altiplano offers 32 programs: 24 Bachelor's, 4 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is National University of the Altiplano ranked?

#10 in Peru.

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