| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1981 (although its roots trace back to institutions established in the 19th century)
Type: Public university
Location: La Serena, Coquimbo Region, Chile
Motto: "For a life with meaning"
Rector: The highest authority within the university, elected periodically.
The University of La Serena was officially established in 1981, after merging the regional branches of the Universidad de Chile and the Universidad Técnica del Estado. These institutions had long histories in technical and academic education, particularly focused on mining and industrial development, which are important sectors in the region. The university inherited many of these traditions and areas of expertise.
ULS offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields of study, including:
Engineering (notably mining, industrial, and civil engineering)
Sciences (natural, mathematical, and physical sciences)
Education (teacher training and pedagogy)
Social Sciences (law, economics, sociology)
Humanities (literature, philosophy, history)
Architecture and Design
Research: ULS has research programs focusing on regional needs, such as astronomy, mining, agriculture, and marine biology. La Serena is home to various astronomical observatories due to its clear skies, making astronomy a key area of focus.
Agricultural and Marine Sciences: Given its location, ULS contributes to research on coastal and desert ecosystems, as well as the sustainable development of agriculture and fishing in the region.
Outreach: The university is engaged in community projects and collaborations with regional industries, helping promote sustainable development and innovation in the Coquimbo Region.
Astronomy: La Serena and the nearby area (e.g., the Elqui Valley) are known for having some of the clearest skies in the world, which has led to significant collaboration between the university and international astronomical institutions.
Mining and Engineering: Due to the region's rich mining history, the university has a strong focus on mining engineering and related fields, helping to provide expertise for the region's mining industries.
Sustainability: The university actively promotes sustainable development through various initiatives and research projects focusing on water conservation, renewable energy, and environmental sciences.
The main campus is located in La Serena, with other facilities and research centers scattered throughout the Coquimbo Region. The university's campus hosts modern laboratories, libraries, and sports facilities, supporting both academic and extracurricular activities.
The university collaborates with institutions worldwide, particularly in fields like astronomy, mining, and sustainable development. This often includes student exchange programs and research partnerships with universities and research centers across the globe.
Civil Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mining Engineering
Computer Science and Informatics Engineering
Agricultural Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Bachelor of Astronomy (due to the region's proximity to major astronomical observatories)
Bachelor of Biology
Bachelor of Chemistry
Bachelor of Physics
Bachelor of Geology
Mathematics and Statistics
Environmental Sciences
Marine Biology (due to its coastal location)
Law (LL.B.)
Business Administration
Commercial Engineering (similar to Business Engineering)
Public Accounting and Auditing
Economics
Social Work
Pedagogy in Basic Education (Elementary Education)
Pedagogy in Secondary Education (with specializations such as Mathematics, History, Biology, etc.)
Pedagogy in Early Childhood Education
Pedagogy in Special Education
Pedagogy in Physical Education
Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Linguistics
Bachelor of History
Bachelor of Philosophy
Bachelor of Music Education
Architecture
Graphic Design
Master in Sciences (with specializations in Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry)
Master in Astronomy
Master in Engineering (with specializations in Civil, Electrical, and Industrial Engineering)
Master in Education (with specializations such as Educational Management, Curriculum Development, and Pedagogy)
Master in Social Work
Master in Environmental Management and Sustainable Development
Master in Architecture and Urban Planning
Doctorate in Astronomy (this program is enhanced by access to the region’s many world-class observatories)
Doctorate in Applied Physics
Doctorate in Engineering (with specializations in Mining, Environmental, and Mechanical Engineering)
Doctorate in Educational Sciences
Doctorate in Marine and Coastal Systems
Course Program |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Civil Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Industrial Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Mining Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Computer Science Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Agricultural Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Bachelor in Astronomy |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Bachelor in Biology |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Bachelor in Chemistry |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Bachelor in Physics |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Bachelor in Geology |
5 |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
|
Marine Biology |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Law (LL.B.) |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Business Administration |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Commercial Engineering |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Public Accounting and Auditing |
5 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Social Work |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Pedagogy in Basic Education |
4 |
$1,800 – $2,800 |
|
Pedagogy in Early Childhood Education |
4 |
$1,800 – $2,800 |
|
Pedagogy in Secondary Education (Various Specializations) |
4-5 |
$1,800 – $2,800 |
|
Architecture |
5 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
History |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Philosophy |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
|
Music Education |
4 |
$2,000 – $3,000 |
MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) in Chile
Master's Program |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master in Sciences (Physics) |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
|
Master in Sciences (Mathematics) |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
|
Master in Sciences (Chemistry) |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
|
Master in Astronomy |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,500 |
|
Master in Environmental Management and Sustainable Development |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
|
Master in Marine Biology |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,500 |
|
Master in Education (Various Specializations) |
2 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Master in Educational Management |
2 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Master in Pedagogy and Curriculum Development |
2 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Master in Engineering (Civil Engineering) |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,500 |
|
Master in Engineering (Electrical Engineering) |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,500 |
|
Master in Industrial Engineering |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,500 |
|
Master in Social Work |
2 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Master in Architecture and Urban Planning |
2 |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
|
Master in Economics and Business Management |
2 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Master in Public Policy and Regional Development |
2 |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
Doctorate Program |
Duration (Years) |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctorate in Astronomy |
4 |
$3,500 – $5,000 |
|
Doctorate in Applied Physics |
4 |
$3,500 – $5,000 |
|
Doctorate in Engineering Sciences |
4 |
$3,500 – $5,000 |
|
Doctorate in Educational Sciences |
4 |
$3,000 – $4,500 |
|
Doctorate in Marine and Coastal Systems |
4 |
$3,500 – $5,000 |
Strong Academic Programs:
ULS has strong programs in astronomy, mining and civil engineering, marine biology, and environmental sciences, making it ideal for students interested in these fields.
The region’s natural surroundings, clear skies, and proximity to world-class astronomical observatories make ULS a popular destination for astronomy students and researchers.
Collaborations with International Institutions:
ULS has partnerships with several international universities, research institutions, and organizations, which provide students opportunities for student exchange, joint research, and internships abroad.
The university collaborates with renowned astronomical institutions and observatories due to its location near some of the world’s leading astronomical facilities.
Rich Cultural and Scenic Environment:
La Serena is one of Chile’s oldest cities, known for its colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and access to the Elqui Valley (famous for its clear skies and astronomical tourism).
International students can immerse themselves in Chile’s rich cultural traditions and enjoy diverse landscapes, from the Pacific coast to the nearby Andes.
Support for International Students:
ULS provides support services for international students, including orientation programs, language support, and assistance with visa applications.
The university offers academic advising, cultural activities, and resources to help international students adjust to life in Chile.
International students must first select a specific undergraduate or postgraduate program (e.g., Bachelor's, Master's, PhD) based on their area of interest.
Review the specific program requirements (academic background, language proficiency, etc.) on the official ULS website or contact the Admissions Office for detailed information.
Most programs at ULS are taught in Spanish, so proficiency in the language is essential.
Students may be required to submit proof of Spanish language proficiency, such as a certificate from an exam like DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) or an equivalent test.
Some programs may offer Spanish language courses or language support for international students who need to improve their Spanish skills.
For the application process, international students must submit the following documents:
Completed Application Form: Available on the ULS website.
Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of high school or university transcripts, depending on the level of study.
Degree Certificates: Certified copies of your previous degrees (Bachelor’s degree for Master's applicants, Master's degree for PhD applicants).
Language Proficiency Proof: If required, provide proof of Spanish proficiency.
Letter of Motivation: A personal statement explaining why you want to study at ULS and in your chosen program.
Letters of Recommendation: Often required for postgraduate programs (Master’s and PhD).
Research Proposal: Required for PhD applicants, describing the intended area of research.
Copy of Passport: A clear and valid copy of your passport.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume may be required for postgraduate applicants.
Online Application: Most international students apply online through the university’s official admissions platform or portal.
Application Deadlines: Make sure to check the specific application deadlines for your program of choice. These can vary depending on the degree (undergraduate, Master’s, PhD) and the academic calendar.
For the first semester (March-July): Apply by October to December of the previous year.
For the second semester (August-December): Apply by April to June.
Some programs may have rolling admissions, but it’s always best to verify exact dates through the department or program you are interested in.
Some programs may require an application fee. Check the specific program requirements for details on whether this fee is required and how to pay it.
After submitting all documents, the admissions committee will review your application.
If accepted, ULS will send you an official Acceptance Letter. This document is crucial for applying for your student visa to study in Chile.
Acceptance letters typically include important information about your enrollment, course start dates, and any conditions you need to meet before arriving.
With the Acceptance Letter, international students must apply for a student visa through the Chilean Consulate in their home country.
Visa requirements usually include:
Acceptance Letter from ULS.
Proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses.
Health insurance valid in Chile.
Passport, valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
Proof of accommodation in Chile.
It’s important to apply for the visa well in advance to avoid delays.
Once you have your visa and arrive in Chile, you will need to complete the enrollment process in person at the University of La Serena.
This process includes submitting original documents (such as academic certificates and passport), paying tuition fees, and registering for courses.
You may also attend an orientation session specifically for international students, which covers information about academic expectations, life on campus, and Chilean culture.
First Semester (Main Intake):
Start: March
Application Deadline: Typically between October and December of the previous year.
This is the primary intake for most programs and is highly recommended for international students, as it aligns with the Chilean academic calendar.
Second Semester (Mid-Year Intake):
Start: August
Application Deadline: Typically between April and June.
Fewer programs may accept students during this intake, but it can still be a good option for certain postgraduate programs or for students starting a program late in the year.
Undergraduate Programs: Applications should be submitted 6 to 12 months in advance.
Postgraduate Programs (Master’s and PhDs): Applications should be submitted 4 to 6 months before the intake, especially if research proposals or letters of recommendation are required.
Exchange Programs: ULS has partnerships with various international universities, allowing students to study for 1 or 2 semesters. The deadlines for exchange applications will depend on the agreements between ULS and the partner institution.
Basic Eligibility:
High School Diploma (or equivalent) recognized in the applicant’s home country.
Some programs may require specific academic subjects (e.g., mathematics and physics for engineering programs).
Proficiency in Spanish:
As most undergraduate courses at ULS are taught in Spanish, international students are required to demonstrate Spanish language proficiency.
A DELE (Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera) certificate or a similar qualification may be required.
Some students may be exempt from this requirement if they have completed prior education in Spanish-speaking institutions or countries.
Additional Requirements:
Transcripts: High school transcripts with grades translated into Spanish.
Entrance Exam: Some programs may require applicants to take the PSU (Prueba de Selección Universitaria), a national entrance exam used in Chile, or provide an equivalent internationally recognized test score.
Letters of Recommendation: In some cases, especially for competitive programs.
Basic Eligibility:
Bachelor’s Degree (Licenciatura or equivalent) in a related field from an accredited institution.
Applicants must have a relevant academic background that aligns with the intended Master’s program.
Proficiency in Spanish (or English, depending on the program):
Most Master's programs are taught in Spanish, requiring proof of proficiency.
Some international programs or research-based programs may offer courses in English, in which case, proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS) may be required.
Additional Requirements:
Transcripts: Certified copies of the applicant’s previous academic transcripts, translated into Spanish (if applicable).
Letter of Motivation/Personal Statement: A letter explaining the applicant’s interest in the program and their career goals.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two or more letters from academic or professional referees.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): An up-to-date resume outlining academic achievements, work experience, and relevant skills.
Interview: Some programs may require an interview, either in person or online.
Basic Eligibility:
Master’s Degree in a related field, although in some cases, exceptional candidates with only a Bachelor’s degree may be considered (depending on research experience).
Strong academic and research background relevant to the PhD program.
Proficiency in Spanish (or English, depending on the field and research area).
Additional Requirements:
Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal outlining the topic of study, research objectives, methodology, and potential contributions to the field. This is often the most critical part of the application for PhD candidates.
Transcripts: Certified copies of undergraduate and Master’s degree transcripts, translated into Spanish.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two or three letters from academic referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential and academic abilities.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed resume highlighting academic achievements, publications, research experience, and professional work.
Interview: Many PhD programs will conduct an interview to discuss the applicant’s research interests and background.
Supervisor Approval: Some programs require applicants to secure a faculty member who will act as their supervisor prior to admission.
Scholarship Name |
Level of Study |
Eligibility |
What it Covers |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Becas Chile (ANID) (National Agency for Research and Development) |
Master’s & PhD |
- International students enrolled in Chilean postgraduate programs. |
- Tuition fees. |
(usually October-November for most calls) |
|
CONICYT Scholarship (Now part of ANID) |
Master’s & PhD |
- Chilean and international students with excellent academic records. |
- Full tuition. |
generally once per year |
|
University of La Serena Institutional Scholarships |
Undergraduate & Postgraduate |
- Based on academic performance or financial need. |
- Partial tuition fee reductions. |
program and department |
|
Mobility Scholarships for Exchange Students |
Undergraduate & Postgraduate (for exchange programs) |
- International students from partner universities in exchange programs. |
- Covers living expenses during exchange. |
Depends on the exchange program deadlines |
|
Latin American Regional Scholarships |
Master’s & PhD |
- International students from Latin American countries. |
- Tuition fee reductions. |
(depends on specific scholarship provider) |
|
ULS Excellence Scholarship |
Master’s & PhD |
- Awarded to top-performing postgraduate students. |
- Partial or full tuition waiver. |
department and program |
|
OAS Academic Scholarship Program (Organization of American States) |
Master’s & PhD |
- International students from OAS member states. |
- Full or partial tuition. |
(usually opens in January) |
|
Fulbright Scholarships for Chile |
Master’s & PhD |
- U.S. citizens applying for postgraduate studies or research in Chile. |
- Covers tuition and fees. |
(usually opens in February or March) |
|
DAAD Scholarships (Germany) |
Master’s & PhD (Exchange and full programs) |
- International students from Germany (or studying in Germany) for exchange programs at ULS. |
- Covers living expenses and some travel. |
(usually April-May) |
|
Erasmus+ Scholarships |
Undergraduate & Postgraduate (Exchange Programs) |
- Students from partner universities in the EU. |
- Covers travel and living expenses. |
program and institution |
Facility |
Description |
Cost (USD per Month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
- ULS has multiple campuses located in La Serena, a coastal city known for its colonial architecture and access to astronomical observatories. The main campuses include: |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing |
- ULS offers limited on-campus housing options, typically reserved for local Chilean students. International students are usually directed to private housing options off-campus. |
$200 – $300 (approx.) |
|
Off-Campus Shared Apartments |
- International students often opt for shared apartments near the university campuses. |
$250 – $400 |
|
Private Off-Campus Housing |
- International students looking for more privacy can rent private apartments. |
$350 – $500 |
|
Homestays with Local Families |
- Some international students prefer to stay in homestays with local Chilean families. This option provides a cultural immersion experience. |
$300 – $450 (includes meals) |
|
Student Residences (Private) |
- Several private student residences are located near the ULS campuses. These are similar to dormitories but are run by private companies. |
$250 – $400 |
|
Hostels/Temporary Accommodation |
- For students looking for temporary accommodation while they search for a permanent place, hostels near the campus are an affordable option. |
$15 – $25 per night (approx.) |
|
Utilities (Water, Electricity, Gas, Internet) |
- In off-campus accommodations, utilities such as water, electricity, gas, and internet are usually not included in the rent. |
$50 – $100 (average per person) |
|
Meal Costs (Self-Catered) |
- Most off-campus accommodation options do not include meals, so students typically need to buy groceries and cook for themselves. |
$150 – $250 (self-catered) |
High-Quality Education: ULS is known for its strong programs in fields such as astronomy, engineering, marine biology, and education. Students can expect rigorous academic standards, access to modern facilities, and opportunities for research.
Research Opportunities: Especially in programs like astronomy, students at ULS have access to world-class observatories, such as Cerro Tololo and La Silla, providing them with hands-on experience in groundbreaking research.
International Collaboration: ULS has partnerships with universities worldwide, encouraging student exchanges, joint research projects, and global learning opportunities.
Campus Facilities: ULS has modern classrooms, well-equipped libraries, laboratories, sports centers, and common areas for students. Facilities vary by campus:
Andrés Bello Campus: The central hub for administration, humanities, and education faculties.
Isabel Bongard Campus: Focused on engineering and sciences, featuring modern labs and workshops.
Libraries: ULS has several libraries with access to online databases, research papers, and study spaces. Students can make use of digital and physical resources for their academic work.
Cafeterias and Dining Options: Several cafeterias are available across the different campuses, offering affordable meals and snacks for students.
Student Organizations and Clubs: ULS offers a range of student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and volunteer organizations. These groups are great for meeting other students and engaging in activities outside of academics.
Sports and Recreation: The university has facilities for sports such as soccer, basketball, tennis, and volleyball. Students can also join sports teams and participate in inter-university tournaments. The university’s sports department promotes fitness and healthy lifestyles.
Arts and Culture: ULS promotes student engagement in music, theater, and visual arts. The Student Art House (Casa de las Artes) often holds exhibitions, music performances, and theater productions that showcase student talent.
Astronomy Clubs: Given La Serena's prominence as a key location for astronomical research, ULS has astronomy clubs where students can participate in stargazing events, seminars, and research projects in collaboration with nearby observatories.
Cultural Festivals and Events: La Serena hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the La Serena International Film Festival, Semana de la Serena (a week-long festival celebrating the city's founding), and traditional Chilean festivals. ULS students often participate in or attend these events.
Weekend Trips and Travel: The location of La Serena makes it easy for students to take weekend trips to explore the Atacama Desert, Elqui Valley (famous for its clear skies and astronomical tourism), and nearby cities. Students often visit Vicuña, Pisco Elqui, and Coquimbo for their scenic beauty and cultural significance.
Beaches: La Serena is a coastal city, and students can enjoy its beautiful beaches. Popular beaches like Avenida del Mar and Playa La Herradura are perfect for relaxing after classes or on weekends.
International Student Office: ULS has a dedicated office to assist international students with visa processes, housing, and academic orientation. The office also organizes orientation sessions to help international students adjust to life in Chile.
Counseling and Mental Health: The university offers counseling services to students who may need emotional or psychological support during their studies.
Academic Support: Tutoring services and study groups are available for students who may need extra academic assistance.
Career Services: ULS provides career counseling, internship placements, and job fairs to help students transition from academic life to the professional world.
Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to larger cities like Santiago, La Serena has a relatively affordable cost of living. Monthly expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment, typically range between $600 and $900 USD.
Accommodation Options: While on-campus housing is limited, most students find affordable off-campus accommodation, including shared apartments, private rooms, and homestays with local families. Rental costs typically range between $200 to $400 USD per month depending on the type of accommodation.
Public Transport: La Serena has a reliable bus system that connects the university campuses and surrounding areas. The cost of public transportation is affordable, typically costing $30-$50 USD per month.
Walking and Biking: Many students opt to walk or bike to campus as it’s a relatively small and safe city. ULS campuses are within easy reach of student accommodation areas.
Traveling Around Chile: Students can easily travel to major cities like Santiago (about 5-6 hours by bus or 1 hour by plane) or visit natural wonders such as Valle del Elqui and Atacama Desert.
International Community: ULS has a growing international student community, with students from Latin America, Europe, and other regions. This provides a diverse and multicultural environment, perfect for students seeking global connections.
Chilean Friendships: Chileans are known for their warmth and hospitality. Many international students at ULS form strong bonds with local students, which enhances their cultural experience and helps with learning Spanish.
Student Parties and Gatherings: Students at ULS frequently organize parties, barbecues, and beach gatherings, offering a balance between academic responsibilities and social life. There are also various bars, cafes, and clubs in the city center, where students hang out after classes.
Healthcare Services: ULS provides basic medical services on campus, and students have access to local hospitals and clinics in La Serena. International students are required to have health insurance during their stay in Chile, either through ULS or private providers.
Safety: La Serena is generally considered a safe city, but like in any city, students are encouraged to take basic precautions, especially when out late at night or traveling to unfamiliar areas.
Language Exchange Programs: ULS offers language exchange programs where international students can practice Spanish with local students in exchange for helping them improve their English or other languages.
Spanish Language Classes: The university may offer Spanish courses for international students, helping them improve their proficiency and fully engage in their academic and social life in Chile.
The University of La Serena provides a variety of services and resources to help students and graduates transition into the professional world:
Mandatory Internships: Many degree programs at ULS, especially in fields like engineering, education, and business, require students to complete a professional internship (práctica) as part of their curriculum. These internships help students gain practical, hands-on experience in their chosen field.
Internship Partners: ULS has partnerships with various companies, government organizations, and research institutions, especially in sectors like mining, astronomy, education, and marine biology. These sectors are particularly important in the Coquimbo Region, where La Serena is located.
Internship Duration: The duration of the internships varies depending on the program but typically ranges from a few months to a full semester.
Career Counseling: ULS offers career guidance and counseling services for students nearing graduation. These services include CV writing workshops, interview preparation, and general career advice.
Job Fairs (Ferias Laborales): The university regularly organizes job fairs in collaboration with local and national companies. During these events, students have the opportunity to interact with potential employers, submit resumes, and learn about job openings.
Industry Connections: ULS has strong ties with various industries, especially in sectors like mining, engineering, astronomy, education, and agriculture, which increases students' chances of employment in these fields.
Partnerships with Industry: The university has collaborations with key industries in the Coquimbo Region, including:
Mining: Given the region's rich mining history, ULS has strong ties with local and international mining companies.
Astronomy: La Serena is located near several world-class astronomical observatories, such as Cerro Tololo and La Silla, providing opportunities for students in astronomy and astrophysics to gain research and job experience in this field.
Marine Biology: The university collaborates with government and private entities focused on marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices, offering job opportunities for students in environmental sciences.
Research Collaborations: ULS encourages research collaboration between students and companies, especially in fields like engineering, renewable energy, and sustainability, where students can work on real-world problems and gain skills that improve their employability.
Strong Employment Rates: Graduates of ULS typically have good employability, especially in fields that align with regional strengths, such as:
Mining and Engineering: Many ULS graduates in mining engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering find jobs in the mining sector, which is a key industry in the north of Chile.
Astronomy: Astronomy graduates from ULS often find employment in research institutions or observatories, or they pursue postgraduate studies to further specialize in their field.
Education: The Faculty of Education at ULS has a good reputation, and many graduates in education find teaching positions in schools across Chile, often in the Coquimbo Region.
Alumni Network: ULS has an active alumni network that helps connect current students with former graduates working in industry, providing valuable networking opportunities.
Support for Startups: ULS offers support to students who wish to start their own businesses. The university encourages entrepreneurship through workshops, seminars, and mentorship programs.
Innovation Hub: ULS collaborates with government programs and private sector initiatives to promote innovation and entrepreneurship among students, particularly in areas related to sustainability, renewable energy, and technology.
Here are some of the main sectors where ULS graduates find employment:
1. Mining and Engineering
The Coquimbo Region is home to several large mining companies, and ULS graduates from the Faculty of Engineering are in demand for jobs in mining operations, project management, and safety engineering.
International companies operating in Chile’s mining sector often seek ULS graduates, particularly in mining engineering and civil engineering.
2. Astronomy and Astrophysics
La Serena is a major hub for astronomy, and students from the Department of Physics and Astronomy often work in observatories or research institutions.
Graduates often continue with postgraduate studies or gain positions as research assistants, technicians, or data analysts at observatories.
3. Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences
The Faculty of Sciences at ULS focuses on environmental sustainability, particularly in marine biology and coastal management.
Graduates can work for government agencies, non-profits, or private companies engaged in marine research, aquaculture, or environmental protection.
4. Education
ULS is a leader in teacher training in northern Chile, and many graduates from the Faculty of Humanities and Education secure teaching positions in primary and secondary schools across the country.
The demand for trained teachers is strong, and ULS graduates are highly regarded in the field of education.
5. Business and Economics
Graduates from the Faculty of Social and Economic Sciences often find work in the public and private sectors in roles related to accounting, business management, economics, and public administration.
Many students also enter consulting or pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
Admission via PSU/PDT Exam:
Admission to undergraduate programs at ULS is primarily based on the results of the national PSU (Prueba de Selección Universitaria), now replaced by PDT (Prueba de Transición Universitaria).
Programs such as engineering, law, and astronomy tend to be more competitive due to higher demand and limited spots.
ULS generally admits students who achieve above-average scores on the PDT, but the exact cutoff scores vary each year depending on the program and the number of applicants.
For programs like education and social sciences, the competition may be slightly less intense than in fields like engineering or natural sciences.
Regional Impact:
ULS is one of the key universities in the Coquimbo Region, serving local students as well as students from other parts of Chile. Since it's a public institution, it is accessible to a broad range of students, but top programs will require strong academic credentials.
Acceptance Rate Estimate:
While ULS does not publicly report an official acceptance rate, public universities in Chile often have acceptance rates around 20-50% for more popular programs.
For less competitive or niche programs, the acceptance rate could be higher.
Postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) Programs:
Admission Criteria:
Master’s and PhD programs at ULS have more specific admission criteria, often based on academic performance during the undergraduate years, relevant work or research experience, and sometimes interviews or research proposals.
Programs in fields like astronomy, engineering, and environmental sciences can be more selective, especially if they are tied to competitive research grants or collaboration with international research institutions.
Acceptance Rate:
While exact numbers aren't published, postgraduate programs are typically more selective due to the limited number of spots and the competitive nature of research-based programs (especially PhDs).
Master’s programs might have a slightly higher acceptance rate depending on the field of study and the number of applicants.
Program Popularity: Competitive programs like astronomy, mining engineering, and marine biology often have lower acceptance rates due to high demand and limited seats.
Academic Performance: Strong academic records, especially in high school (for undergraduates) or undergraduate studies (for postgraduate applicants), play a significant role in admissions.
International Students: For international students, the application process may be slightly less competitive, but applicants still need to meet specific academic and language proficiency requirements (especially Spanish proficiency for most programs).
Campus Name |
Location |
Faculties and Departments |
|---|---|---|
|
Andrés Bello Campus |
Av. Raúl Bitrán s/n, La Serena |
- Main administrative offices. |
|
Isabel Bongard Campus |
Av. Benavente 980, La Serena |
- Faculty of Engineering (Departments of Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, and Civil Engineering). |
|
Ignacio Domeyko Campus |
Av. Cisternas 1200, La Serena |
- Faculty of Engineering (Departments of Mining and Geology). |
|
Colina El Pino Campus |
Colina El Pino s/n, La Serena |
- Faculty of Natural Sciences (Marine Biology and Agricultural Engineering). |
|
Astronomy Department (Campus Raúl Bitrán) |
Raúl Bitrán Campus, La Serena |
- Department of Physics and Astronomy. |
