University of Santo Tomas
Asia's oldest, Catholic, and largest university.
📍 Manila, Philippines 🇵🇭
🏆 #4 in Philippines · QS World #851 · THE World #601
Quick Facts about University of Santo Tomas
- Type: Private
- Students: 44,812
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $2,500 – $6,000/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About University of Santo Tomas
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Manila, Philippines, is a private Catholic research university with a rich history, founded on April 28, 1611. It holds the oldest extant university charter in Asia and is recognized as one of the world's largest Catholic universities by enrollment on a single campus. UST is also the main campus of the University of Santo Tomas System.
Academics
UST offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including over 180 undergraduate and graduate specializations across 22 degree-granting colleges. It is particularly renowned for its health sciences and medical programs, and houses the country's first and oldest engineering, law, medical, and pharmacy schools. The university has 26 programs recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as Centers of Excellence and Centers of Development, including Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Medical Technology, Biology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Teacher Education, Philosophy, Psychology, Tourism & Hospitality Management, and Music. The teaching approach emphasizes a progressive, student-centered, discipline-based curriculum, blending theory with hands-on practice and incorporating cutting-edge educational technology.
International Students
UST had 790 international students as of a 2018 report, with the majority coming from Asian countries. The university offers English-taught programs, making it accessible to a wider international audience. While specific diversity statistics beyond the number of international students were not immediately available, the university fosters a vibrant student activity program that provides avenues for learners to take on leadership roles in student governance, advocacy, media, and interest-based organizations. Student organizations are supervised by the UST Office of Student Affairs, and many have college-based units.
Campus & Location
The UST main campus is located on España Boulevard in the Sampaloc district of Manila, spanning 21.5 hectares. It is the largest university in the city of Manila and is part of the University Belt. The campus features significant historical structures, including the UST Main Building, which is the first earthquake-resistant building in Asia, and four structures declared National Cultural Treasures by the National Museum of the Philippines. Manila offers a dynamic city life, with the campus being easily accessible by various modes of public transportation like buses and trains. Nearby attractions include Intramuros, the historic walled city, and various shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife spots.
Career Outcomes
The University of Santo Tomas consistently ranks well in graduate employability. In the 2022 QS Graduate Employability Rankings, UST was second among Philippine universities, placing in the 251-300 bracket globally. The university shows strong performance in metrics such as graduate employment rate and employer-student connections. UST graduates consistently achieve top ranks in board examinations across various fields, including Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Accountancy, Education, Physical Therapy, Engineering, and Architecture, indicating the quality of its academic programs. The university's Office of Alumni Relations assists with career-related inquiries and job postings.
Information for International Students at University of Santo Tomas
University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for University of Santo Tomas
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Santo Tomas:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- GPA minimum: 2
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: January 19, 2026
Programs at University of Santo Tomas (62 programs)
University of Santo Tomas offers 62 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (43)
- Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the science of food and its impact on human health, preparing students to become registered nutritionists-dietitians who promote healthy eating habits and manage nutritional care.
Field: Nutrition and Dietetics
Career outcomes: Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian, Clinical Dietitian, Food Service Manager - Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students learn to design, operate, and optimize chemical processes and equipment, applying principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to transform raw materials into useful products.
Field: Chemical Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research and Development Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students learn about the planning, development, and management of tourism destinations, attractions, and services, including hospitality operations and sustainable tourism practices.
Field: Tourism Management
Career outcomes: Tourism Manager, Hotel Manager, Tour Operator, Event Planner - Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn about drug discovery, development, manufacturing, and dispensing, along with patient counseling and pharmaceutical care.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Drug Researcher, Pharmaceutical Sales Representative - Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program equips students with skills in software development, network administration, database management, and cybersecurity, preparing them for the IT industry.
Field: Information Technology
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Network Administrator, Database Administrator, IT Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students learn to optimize complex processes, systems, and organizations by integrating people, materials, information, and equipment.
Field: Industrial Engineering
Career outcomes: Industrial Engineer, Process Improvement Specialist, Logistics Manager - Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems, from small components to large machinery.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, HVAC Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students learn to assess, diagnose, and treat physical impairments and disabilities, helping patients restore movement and function through therapeutic exercises and modalities.
Field: Physical Therapy
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Sports Physical Therapist - Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program covers the design, development, and application of electronic systems, including telecommunications, control systems, and microelectronics.
Field: Electronics Engineering
Career outcomes: Electronics Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Interior Design (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students learn to design functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces, considering human needs, building codes, and environmental sustainability.
Field: Interior Design
Career outcomes: Interior Designer, Space Planner, Furniture Designer - Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students are trained in the art and science of designing buildings and other physical structures, considering aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer - Bachelor of Arts in Legal Management (BA) — 48 months · English
This program provides a strong foundation in legal principles and business management, preparing students for careers in legal support, compliance, or further law studies.
Field: Legal Management
Career outcomes: Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Compliance Officer - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program prepares students to provide comprehensive patient care, promote health, prevent illness, and assist in the recovery of individuals, families, and communities.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator - Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students explore human behavior and mental processes through various psychological theories and research methods, with applications in clinical, industrial, and educational settings.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychometrician, Human Resources Specialist, Guidance Counselor, Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students explore the theoretical foundations of information and computation, and their practical application in designing and developing computer systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Systems Analyst - Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on helping individuals with physical, mental, or developmental conditions achieve independence in daily living and participate in meaningful activities.
Field: Occupational Therapy
Career outcomes: Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Counselor, Special Education Therapist - Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSc) — 60 months · English
Students gain comprehensive knowledge in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting, essential for professional accounting careers.
Field: Accountancy
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst - Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores various forms of communication, including broadcasting, journalism, advertising, and public relations, preparing students for media-related careers.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Journalist, Broadcast Producer, Public Relations Specialist, Advertising Executive - Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program trains students in laboratory procedures for disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, covering areas like clinical chemistry, microbiology, and hematology.
Field: Medical Technology
Career outcomes: Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Research Assistant - Doctor of Medicine (MD) (MD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This professional degree program trains future physicians in the art and science of medicine, covering basic medical sciences, clinical rotations, and patient care, leading to medical licensure.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Physician, Medical Specialist, Medical Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the science of food and its impact on human health, preparing students to become registered nutritionists-dietitians who promote healthy eating habits and manage nutritional care.
Field: Nutrition and Dietetics
Career outcomes: Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian, Clinical Dietitian, Food Service Manager - Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students learn to design, operate, and optimize chemical processes and equipment, applying principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to transform raw materials into useful products.
Field: Chemical Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research and Development Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students learn about the planning, development, and management of tourism destinations, attractions, and services, including hospitality operations and sustainable tourism practices.
Field: Tourism Management
Career outcomes: Tourism Manager, Hotel Manager, Tour Operator, Event Planner - Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn about drug discovery, development, manufacturing, and dispensing, along with patient counseling and pharmaceutical care.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Drug Researcher, Pharmaceutical Sales Representative - Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program equips students with skills in software development, network administration, database management, and cybersecurity, preparing them for the IT industry.
Field: Information Technology
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Network Administrator, Database Administrator, IT Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students learn to optimize complex processes, systems, and organizations by integrating people, materials, information, and equipment.
Field: Industrial Engineering
Career outcomes: Industrial Engineer, Process Improvement Specialist, Logistics Manager - Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the design, analysis, manufacturing, and maintenance of mechanical systems, from small components to large machinery.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, HVAC Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students learn to assess, diagnose, and treat physical impairments and disabilities, helping patients restore movement and function through therapeutic exercises and modalities.
Field: Physical Therapy
Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Sports Physical Therapist - Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program covers the design, development, and application of electronic systems, including telecommunications, control systems, and microelectronics.
Field: Electronics Engineering
Career outcomes: Electronics Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer - Bachelor of Science in Interior Design (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students learn to design functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces, considering human needs, building codes, and environmental sustainability.
Field: Interior Design
Career outcomes: Interior Designer, Space Planner, Furniture Designer - Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
Students are trained in the art and science of designing buildings and other physical structures, considering aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer - Bachelor of Arts in Legal Management (BA) — 48 months · English
This program provides a strong foundation in legal principles and business management, preparing students for careers in legal support, compliance, or further law studies.
Field: Legal Management
Career outcomes: Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Compliance Officer - Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program prepares students to provide comprehensive patient care, promote health, prevent illness, and assist in the recovery of individuals, families, and communities.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator - Bachelor of Science in Psychology (BSc) — 48 months · English
Students explore human behavior and mental processes through various psychological theories and research methods, with applications in clinical, industrial, and educational settings.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychometrician, Human Resources Specialist, Guidance Counselor, Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students explore the theoretical foundations of information and computation, and their practical application in designing and developing computer systems.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Systems Analyst - Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on helping individuals with physical, mental, or developmental conditions achieve independence in daily living and participate in meaningful activities.
Field: Occupational Therapy
Career outcomes: Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Counselor, Special Education Therapist - Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSc) — 60 months · English
Students gain comprehensive knowledge in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting, essential for professional accounting careers.
Field: Accountancy
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst - Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores various forms of communication, including broadcasting, journalism, advertising, and public relations, preparing students for media-related careers.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Journalist, Broadcast Producer, Public Relations Specialist, Advertising Executive - Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program trains students in laboratory procedures for disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, covering areas like clinical chemistry, microbiology, and hematology.
Field: Medical Technology
Career outcomes: Medical Technologist, Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Research Assistant - Doctor of Medicine (MD) (MD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This professional degree program trains future physicians in the art and science of medicine, covering basic medical sciences, clinical rotations, and patient care, leading to medical licensure.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Physician, Medical Specialist, Medical Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as buildings, roads, bridges, and water systems.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Construction Manager, Structural Designer - Doctor of Medicine — 60 months · English · STEM
A professional degree program that trains future physicians in medical knowledge, clinical skills, and ethical practice for patient care and public health.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Physician, Medical Specialist, Medical Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Food Technology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the scientific principles and processes involved in food production, preservation, quality control, and development of new food products.
Field: Food Technology
Career outcomes: Food Technologist, Quality Control Analyst, Product Development Scientist, Food Safety Officer
Master Programs (11)
- Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English
This program offers advanced studies in educational theories, research, and practices, with specializations available in various fields like educational management or curriculum development.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Administrator, Curriculum Developer, Educational Researcher, College Instructor - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
This program develops leadership and management skills, covering core business functions such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Executive - Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program provides specialized knowledge in areas like structural engineering, transportation engineering, or water resources engineering, with a focus on research and design.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Senior Civil Engineer, Engineering Consultant, Researcher, Project Manager - Master of Science in Medical Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in medical technology, focusing on research methodologies, specialized laboratory techniques, and quality management in clinical laboratories.
Field: Medical Technology
Career outcomes: Clinical Laboratory Manager, Medical Technology Educator, Research Scientist - Master of Arts in Education (MA) — 24 months · English
This program offers advanced studies in educational theories, research, and practices, with specializations available in various fields like educational management or curriculum development.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Administrator, Curriculum Developer, Educational Researcher, College Instructor - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
This program develops leadership and management skills, covering core business functions such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Executive - Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program provides specialized knowledge in areas like structural engineering, transportation engineering, or water resources engineering, with a focus on research and design.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Senior Civil Engineer, Engineering Consultant, Researcher, Project Manager - Master of Science in Medical Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in medical technology, focusing on research methodologies, specialized laboratory techniques, and quality management in clinical laboratories.
Field: Medical Technology
Career outcomes: Clinical Laboratory Manager, Medical Technology Educator, Research Scientist - Master of Science in Clinical Pharmacy (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in patient-centered pharmaceutical care, drug therapy management, and clinical research.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmacy Consultant, Pharmaceutical Researcher - Master of Science in Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in various biological disciplines, such as ecology, genetics, microbiology, or molecular biology.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Researcher, Environmental Scientist, Educator - Master of Science in Pharmacy (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced studies in pharmaceutical sciences, including drug discovery, pharmaceutical analysis, and clinical pharmacy, preparing graduates for specialized roles in industry, academia, or research.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmaceutical Researcher, Clinical Pharmacist Specialist, Academia
PhD Programs (8)
- Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in various medical fields, contributing to new knowledge and innovations in health sciences.
Field: Medical Science
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, University Professor, Biotechnology Scientist - Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in educational theories, policies, and practices, preparing scholars to contribute new knowledge and lead innovations in the field of education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Policy Analyst, Research Director, School Superintendent - Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides the highest level of academic training in civil engineering, emphasizing original research and advanced problem-solving in areas such as structural dynamics, geotechnical engineering, or sustainable infrastructure.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: University Researcher, Lead Engineer, Engineering Consultant, Academia - Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in various medical fields, contributing to new knowledge and innovations in health sciences.
Field: Medical Science
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, University Professor, Biotechnology Scientist - Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in educational theories, policies, and practices, preparing scholars to contribute new knowledge and lead innovations in the field of education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Policy Analyst, Research Director, School Superintendent - Doctor of Philosophy in Civil Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides the highest level of academic training in civil engineering, emphasizing original research and advanced problem-solving in areas such as structural dynamics, geotechnical engineering, or sustainable infrastructure.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: University Researcher, Lead Engineer, Engineering Consultant, Academia - Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program involves advanced research in various branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, contributing to scientific discovery.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, University Professor, Materials Scientist - Doctor of Philosophy in Literature (PhD) — 48 months · English
This program offers rigorous training in literary theory, criticism, and research, allowing students to specialize in various literary periods or genres.
Field: Literature
Career outcomes: Literary Critic, University Professor, Writer, Editor
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Santo Tomas
Annual tuition for international students: $2,500 – $6,000/year
✅ University of Santo Tomas offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Santo Tomas
- National Ranking: #4 in Philippines
- QS World University Ranking: #851
- Times Higher Education (THE): #601
- Ranking tier: Top 1000
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at University of Santo Tomas
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
Key Highlights
- Asia's oldest extant university
- Largest Catholic university by enrollment
- Renowned health sciences programs
- Multiple CHED Centers of Excellence
- Diverse international student body
Accreditation
- Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
- Federation of Accrediting Agencies of the Philippines (FAAP)
- Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA)
Fields of Study at University of Santo Tomas
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Law
- Pharmacy
- Architecture
Notable Alumni
- Manuel Quezon
- Cesar Climaco
- Fernando Lopez
- John Lapus
- Maricar Reyes-Poon
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Santo Tomas
What is University of Santo Tomas?
University of Santo Tomas is a private university located in Manila, Philippines. It has approximately 44,812 students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Santo Tomas?
Tuition fees at University of Santo Tomas for international students range from $2,500 – $6,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Santo Tomas?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. GPA minimum: 2. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: January 19, 2026.
What language are courses taught in at University of Santo Tomas?
Courses at University of Santo Tomas are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does University of Santo Tomas offer?
University of Santo Tomas offers 62 programs: 43 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and 8 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Santo Tomas ranked?
#4 in Philippines · QS World #851 · THE World #601.
Does University of Santo Tomas offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Santo Tomas offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
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