Name: University of Atacama (Universidad de Atacama, UDA)
Type: Public University
Established: 1857 (originally as the School of Mines of Copiapó; became a university in 1981)
Location: Copiapó, capital city of the Atacama Region in northern Chile
Motto: "Ex umbra in solem" ("From the shadow into the sun")
The University of Atacama was founded as a mining school to support the booming mining industry in the Atacama Desert, particularly in Copiapó, which has historically been a hub for mining operations. It was later expanded to offer a broader range of academic disciplines while maintaining its leadership in mining and geology.
Copiapó is historically significant as one of Chile’s earliest mining centers, making UDA a crucial institution for the country’s mining and engineering sectors.
Main Campus: Located in Copiapó, the capital of the Atacama Region, the main campus houses most of the university’s academic departments, including engineering, sciences, social sciences, and business programs.
Vallenar Campus: Located in the nearby city of Vallenar, this smaller campus supports programs in education, business, and other fields.
The University of Atacama is known for its specialized programs that reflect the needs of the surrounding region, especially in industries tied to mining and engineering. The university has several faculties offering a variety of programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
Faculty of Engineering:
Mining Engineering: UDA’s flagship program, reflecting the rich mining history of the Atacama Region. The program is highly regarded and provides students with practical training in mining operations, mineral extraction, and mine safety.
Geological Engineering: Closely tied to the region’s mineral wealth, this program focuses on geology, resource exploration, and geotechnical engineering.
Mechanical, Electrical, and Civil Engineering: The faculty also offers a range of other engineering programs that complement the university's focus on natural resources.
Faculty of Natural Sciences:
Geology: One of the strongest programs at UDA, offering advanced research opportunities in geology and earth sciences.
Environmental Sciences: Focuses on sustainability, environmental impact assessments, and natural resource management.
Faculty of Health Sciences:
Nursing: One of the newer programs at UDA, aimed at training healthcare professionals for the region.
Medical Technology: Prepares students for careers in medical diagnostics, laboratory work, and health-related technology.
Faculty of Social Sciences and Education:
Education: Offers teaching degrees in various subjects, including mathematics, language, and science education.
Social Work and Psychology: Programs designed to address social and psychological issues in northern Chile, with an emphasis on community development.
Faculty of Business and Economics:
Business Administration: Focuses on management, finance, and entrepreneurship, with a special emphasis on the needs of the regional economy.
Accounting: Prepares students for careers in finance, auditing, and business accounting.
The University of Atacama has made significant contributions to research, particularly in areas such as mining technology, geological exploration, and sustainable resource management. Key areas of research include:
Mining and Resource Exploration: Given the university’s location in a mineral-rich region, UDA focuses heavily on improving mining techniques, developing sustainable mining practices, and exploring new resources.
Renewable Energy: The Atacama Desert is an ideal place for research in solar energy, and UDA is involved in several renewable energy projects aimed at harnessing the region’s solar potential.
Environmental Sustainability: Researchers at UDA work on projects related to water management, soil preservation, and minimizing the environmental impact of mining operations in the Atacama Desert.
UDA’s close collaboration with Chile’s mining sector is one of its strongest assets. The university has partnerships with both national and international mining companies, such as Codelco and Antofagasta Minerals, providing students with internship opportunities and hands-on training.
The university works closely with local government and environmental organizations to ensure sustainable development in the Atacama Region.
The University of Atacama has established international partnerships with universities and institutions around the world. These partnerships offer opportunities for student exchanges, joint research projects, and collaborative academic programs.
International Collaboration: UDA collaborates with institutions in Europe, North America, and other parts of Latin America to conduct joint research, particularly in the areas of mining, geology, and sustainability.
Student Exchange Programs: UDA offers exchange opportunities for both incoming and outgoing students, allowing international students to study in Chile and providing Chilean students the opportunity to gain international experience.
Student Organizations: UDA has a range of student clubs and organizations, including academic clubs (engineering, geology, environmental science), sports teams, and cultural organizations. These groups provide students with a chance to connect with peers and get involved in extracurricular activities.
Sports Facilities: UDA offers various sports and recreation opportunities, including access to soccer fields, basketball courts, and fitness centers.
Support Services: The university provides academic advising, counseling services, and career services to help students succeed both academically and professionally.
Faculty |
Program Name |
Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Faculty of Engineering |
Mining Engineering |
6 years |
|
|
Geological Engineering |
6 years |
|
|
Civil Engineering |
6 years |
|
|
Mechanical Engineering |
6 years |
|
|
Electrical Engineering |
6 years |
|
|
Environmental Engineering |
6 years |
|
|
Industrial Engineering |
6 years |
|
|
Computer Science Engineering |
6 years |
|
Faculty of Natural Sciences |
Geology |
6 years |
|
|
Environmental Science |
5 years |
|
Faculty of Health Sciences |
Nursing |
5 years |
|
|
Medical Technology |
5 years |
|
|
Midwifery (Obstetrics) |
5 years |
|
Faculty of Business and Economics |
Business Administration |
5 years |
|
|
Accounting and Auditing |
5 years |
|
|
Commercial Engineering (Business Economics) |
5 years |
|
Faculty of Social Sciences and Education |
Social Work |
5 years |
|
|
Psychology |
5 years |
|
|
Pedagogy in Mathematics |
5 years |
|
|
Pedagogy in Language and Communication |
5 years |
|
|
Pedagogy in Early Childhood Education |
5 years |
Faculty |
Program Name |
Degree Level |
Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Faculty of Engineering |
Master’s in Mining Engineering |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
Master’s in Mechanical Engineering |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
Master’s in Industrial Engineering |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
Master’s in Energy and Sustainability |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
PhD in Mining Engineering |
PhD |
3-4 years |
|
Faculty of Natural Sciences |
Master’s in Geology |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
PhD in Earth Sciences |
PhD |
3-4 years |
|
Faculty of Health Sciences |
Master’s in Nursing |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
Master’s in Public Health |
Master's |
2 years |
|
Faculty of Business and Economics |
Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
Master’s in Finance and Economics |
Master's |
2 years |
|
Faculty of Social Sciences and Education |
Master’s in Education |
Master's |
2 years |
|
|
Master’s in Psychology |
Master's |
2 years |
Program Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Mining Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Geological Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Civil Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Environmental Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Computer Science Engineering |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Geology |
6 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Environmental Science |
5 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Nursing |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Medical Technology |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Midwifery (Obstetrics) |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Business Administration |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Accounting and Auditing |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Commercial Engineering (Business Economics) |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Social Work |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Psychology |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Pedagogy in Mathematics |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Pedagogy in Language and Communication |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Pedagogy in Early Childhood Education |
5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master’s in Mining Engineering |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Master’s in Geological Engineering |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Master’s in Mechanical Engineering |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Master’s in Industrial Engineering |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Master’s in Energy and Sustainability |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Master’s in Geology |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Master’s in Environmental Sciences |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Master’s in Nursing |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Master’s in Public Health |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Master’s in Economics and Finance |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Master’s in Education |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Master’s in Psychology |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Estimated Tuition Fees (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Mining Engineering |
3-4 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
PhD in Earth Sciences (Geology) |
3-4 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Sciences |
3-4 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
UDA offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate (master’s and PhD) programs in various disciplines, with a particular focus on areas relevant to the Atacama Desert's natural resources and industries.
Popular options include:
Mining Engineering
Geological Engineering
Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering
Geology
Environmental Engineering
Business Administration
Nursing
Master’s and PhD in Mining Engineering
Master’s and PhD in Geology and Earth Sciences
Master’s in Business Administration (MBA)
PhD in Environmental Sciences
Primary Language: Most programs at UDA are taught in Spanish, so international students are typically required to have proficiency in Spanish.
Language Proficiency Requirements: Students may need to demonstrate Spanish language proficiency by submitting a recognized certificate such as DELE or by passing a language test provided by the university.
Language Support: UDA offers Spanish language courses for international students to help improve their language skills if necessary.
Undergraduate Programs: UDA offers various undergraduate degrees in fields like mining engineering, geology, civil engineering, nursing, business administration, and more.
Graduate Programs (Master’s/PhD): UDA’s graduate programs are primarily focused on mining engineering, geological sciences, environmental sciences, and business administration.
Application Considerations:
Check program-specific requirements: Some programs, especially in engineering or geology, may have additional prerequisites or entrance exams.
Language Requirements: Most programs are taught in Spanish, so proficiency in Spanish is essential for most courses.
A. Undergraduate Programs:
High School Diploma: International students must have a secondary education diploma equivalent to Chile’s high school diploma.
Spanish Proficiency: Proof of Spanish language proficiency is required. Acceptable certifications include:
DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera).
Alternatively, UDA may offer a Spanish proficiency test for non-Spanish speakers.
Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from your secondary school must be submitted and translated into Spanish (if they are in another language).
Entrance Exam: Chilean students typically take the Prueba de Transición Universitaria (PTU) for university admissions, but international students can apply with their high school diploma and equivalent standardized test scores (such as IB, A-Levels, or SAT scores).
Passport: A valid passport is required for identification and visa processes.
Additional Documents: Some programs may require a letter of intent or motivation letter explaining why you are applying for the course and your future goals.
B. Graduate Programs (Master’s/PhD):
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree: For Master’s programs, applicants need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. PhD applicants must have a Master’s degree in a related field.
Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts of all previous academic work must be submitted and translated into Spanish (if necessary).
Spanish Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in Spanish is required unless the program is offered in English (some business programs may be available in English).
Letters of Recommendation: Usually, two or three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A CV or resume detailing your academic background, research interests, and professional experience.
Research Proposal (for PhD applicants): A detailed research proposal outlining your intended research area and goals.
Statement of Purpose: A personal statement or motivation letter explaining your academic goals and why you are applying for the specific program at UDA.
Document Translation: All documents, such as diplomas, transcripts, and certificates, must be translated into Spanish by a certified translator if they are not originally in Spanish.
Legalization and Apostille: Some documents may need to be legalized or apostilled (depending on your home country’s agreements with Chile) to ensure they are valid in Chile.
Undergraduate Programs:
Online Application: International students must apply through UDA’s online admissions portal. The application form will ask for personal details, educational background, and supporting documentation.
Upload Documents: Once registered, you can upload the required documents, including academic transcripts, Spanish language certification, and any additional program-specific documents.
Application Fee: There may be an application fee, which typically ranges between $50 and $100 USD.
Graduate Programs (Master’s/PhD):
Application Submission: Graduate applicants also apply through the online portal. The process includes uploading the necessary documents such as degree certificates, academic transcripts, and research proposals (for PhD programs).
Application Fee: Graduate programs often have a higher application fee, usually ranging between $50 and $150 USD.
Application Deadlines:
March Intake: Most programs at UDA begin in March. The application deadline for international students is typically between October and December of the previous year.
Mid-Year Intake: Some programs, particularly at the graduate level, may offer an August or mid-year intake. The deadlines for these are usually around May or June.
Processing Time: The university typically takes 4 to 8 weeks to process applications, depending on the program and time of year.
Notification: Applicants will be notified via email of the admission decision. If accepted, you will receive an official acceptance letter from UDA, which you will need for your student visa application.
Application Period: For the main intake, applications are typically open from October to December of the previous year.
Classes Start: The academic year begins in March.
This is the primary intake for most undergraduate and graduate programs.
Some graduate programs, such as Master’s and PhD programs, may offer a mid-year intake in August.
Application Period: For the mid-year intake, applications are generally open from April to June.
Classes Start: The academic year begins in August for these programs.
International students applying for undergraduate programs need to meet the following criteria:
High School Diploma: International students must have a secondary education diploma equivalent to the Chilean high school diploma (Licencia de Educación Media).
Standardized Test Scores: While Chilean students typically take the Prueba de Selección Universitaria (PSU) or Prueba de Transición Universitaria (PTU) for admission, international students may be required to provide equivalent test scores, such as:
SAT (USA)
International Baccalaureate (IB) (Global)
A-Levels (UK)
Spanish Language Proficiency: Since most programs are taught in Spanish, applicants must provide proof of proficiency in Spanish. Accepted certifications include:
DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) or other equivalent Spanish proficiency tests.
Alternatively, UDA may offer a Spanish language test if you do not have certification.
Academic Transcripts: Certified and translated (into Spanish) copies of your academic transcripts from high school.
Letter of Intent: Some programs may ask for a motivation letter explaining why you want to study at UDA and your goals.
Passport: A copy of your valid passport for identification and visa purposes.
For international students applying to Master’s or PhD programs, the following eligibility criteria apply:
Bachelor’s Degree (for Master’s applicants): Applicants need a recognized bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Master’s Degree (for PhD applicants): Applicants must have a master’s degree or equivalent in a related area of study.
Spanish Proficiency: Since most graduate programs are taught in Spanish, proof of Spanish proficiency is generally required. Programs that are partially or fully taught in English may require proof of English proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores.
English Proficiency (if applicable): For programs taught in English (such as certain business programs), international students may need to demonstrate English proficiency.
Academic Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from your previous degree(s), translated into Spanish if necessary.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting your academic background, research interests, and any professional experience relevant to your field of study.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, 2 or 3 letters from academic or professional references.
Research Proposal (for PhD applicants): PhD applicants are generally required to submit a research proposal detailing their intended research area, objectives, and potential contributions to the field.
Statement of Purpose: A personal statement explaining your academic and professional goals, and why you are interested in the program.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Programs Covered |
Coverage |
Application Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UBD Merit-Based Scholarship |
- High academic performance. |
Undergraduate and Graduate |
Partial or full tuition coverage based on merit. |
October - December |
|
Chilean Government Scholarship (Becas Chile) |
- International students pursuing Master’s or PhD programs. |
Graduate (Master’s and PhD) |
Full tuition, living expenses, research funding, travel expenses. |
October - November |
|
Becas Juan Gómez Millas |
- International students from Latin America or the Caribbean. |
Undergraduate Programs |
Full tuition and monthly stipend for living expenses. |
October - December |
|
ANID National Doctoral Scholarship (PhD) |
- International students. |
PhD programs |
Full tuition, living stipend, research expenses, and travel allowance. |
October - November |
|
UBD Need-Based Scholarship |
- Demonstrated financial need. |
Undergraduate and Graduate |
Partial tuition coverage. |
October - December |
|
PUENTE Scholarship for Latin American Students |
- International students from Latin American countries. |
Undergraduate and Graduate |
Partial tuition and living expenses. |
October - December |
|
Fulbright Chile Scholarships |
- U.S. citizens. |
Graduate (Master’s and PhD) |
Full tuition, living expenses, travel costs. |
(annual call for applications). |
|
Government of Chile OAS Scholarships |
- Students from OAS member countries. |
Graduate (Master’s and PhD) |
Full tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. |
country and program. |
|
CONICYT National Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies |
- Master’s and PhD students. |
Graduate (Master’s and PhD) |
Full tuition, monthly stipend, research expenses. |
October - November |
Campus Location |
Accommodation Type |
Cost (Per Month, USD) |
Facilities & Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Copiapó Main Campus |
University Residence Halls |
$200 - $300 |
Shared rooms, study areas, Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, laundry services, 24/7 security, walking distance to campus. |
|
|
Off-Campus Apartments (Private) |
$350 - $600 |
Private or shared apartments, furnished or unfurnished, Wi-Fi, utilities (water, electricity), kitchen, and living areas. |
|
|
Homestay with Local Families |
$300 - $500 |
Private room, meals included (optional), cultural immersion, laundry services, utilities included. |
Rigorous Academics: UDA is well-known for its strong programs in mining engineering, geology, environmental sciences, and engineering disciplines. It also offers programs in business administration, health sciences, and social sciences.
Hands-on Learning: Students benefit from UDA’s close ties to local industries, particularly in the mining sector, offering opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and research. Many programs integrate practical experience with academic studies, especially in geology and mining engineering.
Research Opportunities: Students, especially at the graduate level, have opportunities to engage in research on topics such as mineral extraction, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability.
Student Clubs and Organizations:
UDA hosts a variety of student organizations and clubs where students can pursue their interests outside of academics. These include:
Engineering Societies (focused on various branches of engineering).
Environmental Clubs (focused on sustainability and conservation).
Cultural Clubs (which organize events showcasing Chilean and international cultures).
Student Government: UDA students are actively involved in campus life through the Student Federation (Federación de Estudiantes de la Universidad de Atacama, FEUDA), which organizes events, advocates for student needs, and facilitates communication between students and university administration.
UDA regularly hosts cultural events, including music performances, theater, and art exhibitions. The university frequently organizes traditional Chilean festivals, giving international students the chance to immerse themselves in Chilean culture.
Regional Festivities: The university’s location in Copiapó provides a unique opportunity for students to participate in local cultural festivals, including celebrations tied to mining history and indigenous heritage.
Sports Teams and Clubs:
UDA promotes a variety of sports activities for students, offering everything from competitive sports teams to recreational clubs. Popular sports include:
Soccer (football) – a major sport in Chile.
Basketball.
Volleyball.
Tennis.
Sports Facilities: UDA has well-equipped sports facilities on campus, including:
Soccer fields.
Basketball and tennis courts.
Gymnasium and fitness centers where students can participate in organized classes like yoga, Zumba, and aerobics.
Location: The university is situated in the Atacama Desert, one of the most unique environments in the world, providing students with opportunities for outdoor activities like:
Hiking in the desert or nearby mountains.
Sandboarding on desert dunes.
Stargazing: The Atacama Desert is known for its clear skies and is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Students often participate in organized astronomy events and night outings.
Weekend Getaways: Students can also take weekend trips to nearby coastal towns like Caldera and Bahía Inglesa to enjoy beaches and water sports.
International Office:
UDA’s International Office is dedicated to supporting international students, helping them adjust to life in Chile. Services include:
Orientation programs for new international students to help them understand the academic system, life in Copiapó, and Chilean culture.
Visa and legal support, ensuring students meet the necessary immigration requirements.
Assistance with finding accommodation and language support for non-Spanish speakers.
Buddy Program:
UDA’s buddy program pairs international students with local students to help them integrate into student life. Buddies assist with practical matters like navigating the city, improving Spanish language skills, and making friends.
Accommodation:
On-Campus Residence Halls: UDA provides on-campus accommodation for students, offering affordable shared rooms with access to communal facilities like kitchens, laundry, and study areas.
Off-Campus Apartments: Many students, including internationals, prefer renting off-campus apartments in Copiapó. These can be shared with other students, providing more independence.
Homestays: Another option for international students is staying with local families, allowing for a cultural exchange experience.
Living Costs:
Copiapó is a relatively affordable city compared to larger urban areas like Santiago. Monthly expenses (including rent, food, and transportation) typically range from $500 to $800 USD depending on the type of accommodation and lifestyle.
Rent: Around $200 - $600 USD depending on the accommodation type (university residence, apartment, or homestay).
Food: Eating out and groceries cost around $150 - $300 USD per month.
Transportation: Public buses and taxis are affordable, with monthly transportation costs usually around $30 - $50 USD.
Academic Support:
Advising Services: Academic advising is available to all students to help with course selection, academic planning, and navigating university policies.
Tutoring: UDA offers tutoring and study workshops for students needing additional help in specific subjects.
Mental Health and Counseling:
UDA provides counseling services for students, offering support for mental health, academic stress, and personal challenges. These services are free and confidential.
Career Services:
Career Development: UDA’s career services office helps students prepare for their careers after graduation by offering:
Resume building workshops.
Interview preparation.
Networking events with local companies, particularly in the mining sector, which is a major employer of UDA graduates.
Health Services:
UDA offers basic healthcare services through its on-campus health center, providing care for common illnesses and medical issues. International students are required to have health insurance, and the International Office can assist with finding appropriate coverage.
City Overview: Copiapó is a medium-sized city with a strong connection to Chile’s mining industry. It offers a quiet, safe environment with access to necessary amenities like supermarkets, shopping centers, and restaurants.
Cultural Experience: The city has a rich history connected to Chile’s mining past and provides students with numerous opportunities to explore local museums, historical sites, and enjoy regional festivals.
UDA has deep-rooted partnerships with major players in the mining and natural resources sectors, such as Codelco, Antofagasta Minerals, and CAP Minería, as well as various energy and engineering companies.
These industry connections help UDA students secure internships and hands-on training in key industries throughout their studies, particularly for engineering, geology, mining, and environmental science programs.
Mandatory Internships: Many undergraduate programs at UDA, especially in engineering and mining, require students to complete internships as part of their degree requirements. These internships typically take place during the final years of study and provide practical industry experience.
Internship Duration: Internships typically last between 3 to 6 months, during which students work directly with companies on real-world projects related to their fields.
Areas of Focus:
Mining Engineering and Geological Engineering: Students often intern in local and international mining operations, focusing on mineral extraction, safety protocols, and environmental sustainability.
Environmental Sciences: Internships are available in sectors such as sustainability consulting, renewable energy, and environmental impact assessments for mining and industrial projects.
Business Administration and Economics: Internships are available in the finance, operations, and human resources departments of local companies, particularly those supporting the mining sector.
The Career Services Office (Oficina de Vinculación con el Medio) at UDA is dedicated to helping students with career development, networking, and job search processes. The office provides various services to ensure students are well-prepared to enter the job market after graduation.
Job Search Assistance: UDA’s Career Services Office maintains a job board that lists available positions in mining, engineering, geology, and environmental sciences. It also provides students with resources to search for jobs in both local and international markets.
Resume and CV Workshops: UDA conducts workshops to help students craft effective resumes and cover letters tailored to the industries they wish to enter.
Interview Preparation: Mock interviews and coaching sessions are available to help students improve their interviewing skills and confidence.
Career Fairs: The university organizes career fairs where companies from various industries, particularly mining and energy, come to recruit students for internships and full-time employment. These fairs are an excellent opportunity for students to meet potential employers, network, and learn about available job opportunities.
Professional Networking Events: UDA regularly hosts networking events, where industry leaders give talks and students have the chance to interact with professionals from their chosen fields.
Graduates from UDA, especially those in engineering, mining, geology, and environmental sciences, have strong job placement records, with many securing employment in mining and resource extraction companies, consulting firms, and government agencies.
Engineering and Mining Graduates: Over 80% of students in these fields find employment within 6 months of graduation. This high rate is driven by UDA’s strong industry ties and the demand for skilled professionals in Chile’s mining industry.
Geology and Environmental Science Graduates: Due to the university’s focus on earth sciences and sustainability, graduates often secure positions with mining companies, environmental consulting firms, and government agencies. Many students also find work in renewable energy projects related to solar energy and water management in the Atacama Desert.
Mining Companies:
Codelco (Corporación Nacional del Cobre de Chile) – Chile’s state-owned copper mining company.
Antofagasta Minerals – One of Chile’s largest mining groups.
CAP Minería – A major player in the iron ore industry.
Energy and Environmental Companies:
Enel Chile – An energy company focusing on renewable energy, particularly in solar power (a key industry in the Atacama Desert).
Sonda – An IT services company that works in mining technology and automation.
Environmental Consultancies: Firms providing environmental assessments and sustainability strategies for large mining projects.
Public Sector:
National Geological and Mining Service (SERNAGEOMIN) – The Chilean governmental agency responsible for geological exploration and mining safety.
Ministry of the Environment (Chile) – Employs UDA graduates for environmental management and sustainable development projects.
In addition to local job placements, UDA provides opportunities for students to pursue international careers or participate in global research collaborations.
International Research Programs: UDA has partnerships with universities and research institutions across the globe, particularly in countries that have strong mining and geological industries like Australia, Canada, and Germany. This allows UDA students to participate in exchange programs and joint research projects, particularly in fields like mining technology and sustainable energy.
Multinational Companies: Many UDA graduates go on to work for multinational corporations operating in Chile and around the world, particularly in sectors like energy, mining, and environmental management. Companies like BHP, Rio Tinto, and Anglo American have historically recruited UDA graduates.
UDA is also supportive of student entrepreneurs who are looking to start their own ventures, especially in industries related to sustainability, mining technology, and renewable energy.
Entrepreneurship Workshops and Seminars: UDA offers workshops to help students develop the necessary skills to launch and run their own businesses.
Incubators and Accelerators: The university has connections with business incubators that help students and alumni with promising business ideas in sectors like mining technology, environmental sustainability, and innovation.
UDA maintains a strong alumni network that supports both current students and recent graduates in their career paths. The university hosts alumni events where graduates can share their professional experiences and offer guidance to students entering the job market.
Mentorship Programs: Alumni often participate in mentorship programs, providing students with advice on internships, job searches, and career development.
Given the factors mentioned, the estimated acceptance rate for UDA varies by program, but it can be summarized as follows:
Highly Competitive Programs (Mining Engineering, Geological Engineering, Environmental Sciences):
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 30% - 40%.
These programs are closely tied to Chile's mining industry, which makes them more selective due to higher demand.
Moderately Competitive Programs (Business, Social Sciences, Health Sciences):
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 40% - 60%.
These programs tend to have a more moderate level of competitiveness and slightly higher acceptance rates.
Graduate Programs (Master’s and PhD):
Estimated Acceptance Rate: 40% - 60% for most graduate programs.
Admission to graduate programs depends largely on the applicant's academic background and research interests, particularly in fields aligned with UDA’s research focus, such as mining, geology, and sustainability.
Campus |
City |
Region |
Location Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus |
Copiapó |
Atacama Region |
- Capital of Atacama Region, located about 800 km north of Santiago. |
|
Vallenar Campus |
Vallenar |
Atacama Region |
- Smaller campus supporting additional educational programs. |
