University of San Carlos
Faith, Knowledge, Service. Since 1595.
📍 Cebu City, Philippines 🇵🇭
🏆 #5 in Philippines · QS World #1401 · THE World #1001
Quick Facts about University of San Carlos
- Type: Private
- Students: 25,000
- International: 1%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $1,500 – $3,500/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 1:20
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About University of San Carlos
Academics
USC offers a comprehensive range of programs across seven schools: Arts and Sciences, Architecture, Fine Arts and Design, Business and Economics, Engineering, Education, Healthcare Professions, and Law and Governance. The university is recognized by the Philippine Commission on Higher Education with eight Centers of Excellence and twelve Centers of Development, particularly in fields like anthropology, engineering, business administration, and teacher education. USC emphasizes a strong foundation in science and healthcare principles within its School of Health Care Professions, integrating classroom learning with practical training.
International Students
The University of San Carlos has a dedicated External Relations and Internationalization Office (ERIO) to assist international students with the admission process. As of a previous report, USC had nearly 200 international students enrolled in its undergraduate and graduate programs. The university values cultural integration and offers various student organizations to help students engage with the community. English is widely used as the medium of instruction, and an English proficiency requirement (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL) is part of the admission criteria for international applicants.
Campus & Location
USC boasts five campuses across Cebu City, with the Talamban Campus being the largest, spanning 78 hectares. The Downtown Campus primarily houses the Schools of Business and Economics, and Law and Governance, while the Talamban Campus is home to Engineering, Architecture, Fine Arts, Sciences, Education, and Healthcare Professions. Cebu City offers a balance of urban convenience and cultural richness, providing an affordable and student-friendly environment. Campus facilities include modern buildings, libraries, laboratories, sports amenities, and a stadium at the Talamban Campus.
Career Outcomes
USC is known for producing graduates who are recognized by companies both in Cebu and nationwide. The university's programs, particularly in Business and Economics, focus on developing analytical thinking, communication skills, teamwork, and business literacy to prepare students for practical outcomes such as employment or entrepreneurship. USC also has an Office of Alumni Affairs and Job Placement, which is part of its comprehensive student support services. The university actively engages in research and maintains industry linkages, with initiatives such as collaborating with the Department of Trade and Industry Cebu to develop a database of business establishments.
Information for International Students at University of San Carlos
University of San Carlos in Cebu City, Philippines welcomes international students, with 1% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 1% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for University of San Carlos
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of San Carlos:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 60
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
Programs at University of San Carlos (20 programs)
University of San Carlos offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (12)
- Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores human behavior and mental processes through various psychological theories and research methods. Students gain an understanding of individual and group dynamics, cognitive processes, and emotional development.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychometrician, Guidance Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of information and computation, along with practical techniques for their implementation and application in computer systems. Students learn programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Systems Analyst, Data Scientist, Network Administrator - Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a broad understanding of living organisms, their structures, functions, evolution, and interactions with the environment. It covers areas like genetics, ecology, microbiology, and physiology.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist, Medical Technologist - Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program prepares students for a career in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. It covers structural analysis, hydraulics, transportation engineering, and construction management.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Urban Planner - Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the design, operation, and optimization of chemical processes and plants. Students learn about thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, and reaction engineering.
Field: Chemical Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research and Development Engineer, Environmental Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSc) — 48 months · English
This program provides comprehensive knowledge and skills in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting. Students are prepared for professional careers in public practice, industry, government, and academe.
Field: Accountancy
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Analyst, Tax Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on optimizing complex processes, systems, and organizations. Students learn about operations research, supply chain management, quality control, and human factors engineering to improve efficiency and productivity.
Field: Industrial Engineering
Career outcomes: Industrial Engineer, Process Improvement Specialist, Logistics Manager, Management Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program trains students in the art and science of designing buildings and other physical structures. It covers architectural history, theory, building technology, urban planning, and sustainable design principles.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Construction Manager, Interior Designer - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program trains compassionate and competent nurses to provide holistic patient care in various healthcare settings. It covers fundamental nursing principles, medical-surgical nursing, maternal and child care, and community health.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator - Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program deals with the design, development, and application of electronic circuits, devices, and systems. It covers areas such as telecommunications, control systems, microelectronics, and signal processing.
Field: Electronics Engineering
Career outcomes: Electronics Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Control Systems Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program explores the diverse life forms and ecosystems found in marine environments. Students learn about marine ecology, oceanography, conservation, and the biology of marine organisms.
Field: Marine Biology
Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Environmental Scientist, Aquaculturist, Conservationist - Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSc) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students for leadership roles in the dynamic hospitality industry, covering hotel and restaurant operations, tourism management, event planning, and customer service excellence.
Field: Hospitality Management
Career outcomes: Hotel Manager, Restaurant Manager, Event Planner, Tourism Officer
Master Programs (5)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · English
This program develops strategic business leaders with a strong foundation in management, finance, marketing, and operations. It emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making in a global business context.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Entrepreneur, Consultant, Marketing Director - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program deepens students' knowledge in theoretical and applied computer science, focusing on research, advanced algorithms, artificial intelligence, and software engineering. It prepares graduates for leadership roles in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Specialist, Research Scientist, IT Consultant - Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English
This program enhances the pedagogical skills and theoretical knowledge of educators, focusing on curriculum development, educational leadership, and research in various specializations. It prepares graduates for advanced roles in teaching and administration.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Administrator, Curriculum Developer, Master Teacher, Educational Consultant - Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This graduate program offers advanced study and research opportunities in specialized areas of civil engineering, such as structural engineering, transportation engineering, or water resources engineering. It prepares students for advanced technical roles and research.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Senior Civil Engineer, Engineering Consultant, Researcher, Project Director - Master of Arts in Literature (MA) — 24 months · English
This program provides an in-depth study of literary works, theories, and criticism across various periods and cultures. Students develop advanced analytical and research skills in literary scholarship.
Field: Literature
Career outcomes: Literary Critic, Academic Researcher, Editor, University Lecturer
PhD Programs (3)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program prepares scholars and researchers to contribute original knowledge to the field of education through rigorous research and advanced theoretical study. It focuses on critical analysis of educational issues and policy development.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Researcher, Policy Analyst, School Superintendent - Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration (PhD) — 36 months · English
This program is designed for aspiring academics and high-level executives who wish to conduct advanced research and contribute to business theory and practice. It emphasizes rigorous methodology and innovative solutions to complex business challenges.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: University Professor, Management Consultant, Senior Executive, Business Researcher - Doctor of Philosophy in Anthropology (PhD) — 36 months · English
This program offers advanced training in anthropological theory and research methods, focusing on cultural, archaeological, biological, and linguistic anthropology. Students conduct original research to contribute to the understanding of human societies and cultures.
Field: Anthropology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Museum Curator, Cultural Heritage Specialist, Social Researcher
Scholarships & Tuition at University of San Carlos
Annual tuition for international students: $1,500 – $3,500/year
✅ University of San Carlos offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of San Carlos
- National Ranking: #5 in Philippines
- QS World University Ranking: #1401
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1001
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at University of San Carlos
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Oldest university in Asia
- Catholic, prestigious institution
- Strong academic reputation
- Multiple campuses in Cebu
- Welcomes international students
Accreditation
- Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU)
- Federation of Accrediting Associations of the Philippines (FAAP)
- Philippine Technological Council-Accreditation and Certification Board for Engineering and Technology (PTC-ACBET)
- Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Autonomous Status
- ISO 9001:2015
Fields of Study at University of San Carlos
- Engineering
- Business
- Law
- Education
- Architecture
Notable Alumni
- Sergio Osmeña Jr.
- Carla Abellana
- Tomas Osmeña
- Max Collins
- John Henry Osmeña
Frequently Asked Questions about University of San Carlos
What is University of San Carlos?
University of San Carlos is a private university located in Cebu City, Philippines. It has approximately 25,000 students, with 1% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of San Carlos?
Tuition fees at University of San Carlos for international students range from $1,500 – $3,500/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of San Carlos?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 60. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%).
What language are courses taught in at University of San Carlos?
Courses at University of San Carlos are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does University of San Carlos offer?
University of San Carlos offers 20 programs: 12 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of San Carlos ranked?
#5 in Philippines · QS World #1401 · THE World #1001.
Does University of San Carlos offer scholarships?
Yes, University of San Carlos offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of San Carlos provide visa support?
Yes, University of San Carlos provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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