Quito, Ecuador
Quito, Ecuador
Cost Of Living
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Post Graduate Fees International Students
Luis Osvaldo Hurtado Larrea, born in 1939, is a distinguished Ecuadorian author, lawyer, and politician. He served as th... View More
Luis Osvaldo Hurtado Larrea, born in 1939, is a distinguished Ecuadorian author, lawyer, and politician. He served as the President of Ecuador from 1981 to 1984, ascending to the presidency following the death of President Jaime Roldós Aguilera. A graduate of PUCE, Hurtado was instrumental in shaping Ecuador's political landscape during a critical period of its democratic development. Beyond his presidency, he has been an influential political thinker, contributing extensively to political science literature and advocating for democratic principles in Latin America. His academic background and political career have made him a prominent figure in Ecuadorian history View Less
María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés, born in 1964, is an accomplished Ecuadorian diplomat, politician, and academic. A PUCE... View More
María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés, born in 1964, is an accomplished Ecuadorian diplomat, politician, and academic. A PUCE alumna, she made history by becoming the fourth woman and the first from Latin America and the Caribbean to serve as President of the United Nations General Assembly during its 73rd session (2018-2019). Espinosa has held several key positions in Ecuador's government, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Cultural and Natural Heritage. Her extensive experience in international relations and commitment to multilateralism have earned her recognition as a leading voice in global diplomacy View Less
Fanny Carrión de Fierro, born in 1936, is a renowned Ecuadorian poet, literary critic, essayist, and educator. She earn... View More
Fanny Carrión de Fierro, born in 1936, is a renowned Ecuadorian poet, literary critic, essayist, and educator. She earned her Doctorate in Literature from PUCE and has been a prominent figure in Ecuador's literary scene. Carrión de Fierro has received the Gabriela Mistral National Poetry Award four times, reflecting her significant contributions to Ecuadorian literature. Her work often explores themes of politics, culture, and society, and she has been a visiting professor and Fulbright Scholar at various universities in the United States. Her dedication to literature and education has left a lasting impact on Ecuadorian culture. View Less
Iván Carvajal Aguirre, born in 1948, is a distinguished Ecuadorian poet, philosopher, and writer. As a professor at PUC... View More
Iván Carvajal Aguirre, born in 1948, is a distinguished Ecuadorian poet, philosopher, and writer. As a professor at PUCE, he has influenced generations of students through his teachings in philosophy and literature. Carvajal received Ecuador's National Prize for Literature, the "Aurelio Espinosa Pólit" prize, in 1984 for his work "Parajes." His writings often delve into the complexities of Ecuadorian identity, culture, and politics. Beyond his literary achievements, he directs the magazine País Secreto and is involved in various cultural initiatives, contributing significantly to Ecuador's intellectual landscape View Less
Ana Estrella Santos is an esteemed Ecuadorian dialectologist, writer, and professor at PUCE. She has been instrumental i... View More
Ana Estrella Santos is an esteemed Ecuadorian dialectologist, writer, and professor at PUCE. She has been instrumental in the development of the Linguistic Atlas of Ecuador project, aiming to map the linguistic diversity of Ecuador's Spanish-speaking population. In 2013, she received the Aurelio Espinosa Pólit National Literature Prize for her book "La curiosidad mató al alemán y otros centos," which underscores the importance of freedom of expression. Her academic work and literary contributions have enriched the understanding of Ecuador's linguistic and cultural heritage View Less
Natasha Salguero Bravo, born in 1952, is a prominent Ecuadorian novelist, essayist, poet, and journalist. She made histo... View More
Natasha Salguero Bravo, born in 1952, is a prominent Ecuadorian novelist, essayist, poet, and journalist. She made history in 1989 by becoming the first woman to win the Aurelio Espinosa Pólit National Literary Prize for her novel "Azulinaciones," published under a masculine pseudonym. Salguero holds a PhD from PUCE and has been a significant voice in Ecuadorian literature, often addressing themes of gender and identity. Her work has contributed to the broader discourse on women's roles in literature and society in Ecuador View Less
Jorge Jamil Mahuad Witt, born in 1949, is an Ecuadorian lawyer, academic, and former politician. He served as the 41st P... View More
Jorge Jamil Mahuad Witt, born in 1949, is an Ecuadorian lawyer, academic, and former politician. He served as the 41st President of Ecuador from 1998 to 2000. A graduate of PUCE, Mahuad's presidency was marked by significant economic challenges, including a banking crisis that led to the adoption of the U.S. dollar as Ecuador's official currency. Despite the controversies, his administration is noted for signing a peace agreement with Peru, resolving longstanding border disputes. His political career has been a subject of extensive analysis in Ecuador's contemporary history View Less
Fabián Ernesto Alarcón Rivera, born in 1947, is an Ecuadorian lawyer and politician who served as President of Ecuador... View More
Fabián Ernesto Alarcón Rivera, born in 1947, is an Ecuadorian lawyer and politician who served as President of Ecuador from 1997 to 1998. His tenure followed a period of political instability, and he played a crucial role in restoring constitutional order. Alarcón's leadership during this transitional period was pivotal in maintaining democratic governance in Ecuador. A PUCE alumnus, his career reflects the university's influence in shaping national leaders committed to public service. View Less
Mauricio Montalvo Samaniego, born in 1961, is a seasoned Ecuadorian diplomat and lawyer. A graduate of PUCE, he has held... View More
Mauricio Montalvo Samaniego, born in 1961, is a seasoned Ecuadorian diplomat and lawyer. A graduate of PUCE, he has held several significant positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs (2021-2022) and Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva. Montalvo's diplomatic career spans various international postings, reflecting his expertise in foreign policy and international relations. His contributions have been vital in representing Ecuador's interests on the global stage View Less
Juan Ignacio Larrea Holguín (1927–2006) was an influential Ecuadorian lawyer and archbishop. He was a founding studen... View More
Juan Ignacio Larrea Holguín (1927–2006) was an influential Ecuadorian lawyer and archbishop. He was a founding student of PUCE, where he studied law before pursuing further education in Italy. Larrea Holguín became the first member of Opus Dei in Ecuador and was ordained a Catholic priest in 1962. He served as Archbishop of Guayaquil and was known for his extensive writings on jurisprudence, authoring over 60 books. His dual contributions to law and the Catholic Church have left a lasting legacy in Ecuadorian society View Less
The below information is required while
completing the university application :
Admission requirements for pursuing a bachelor's degree at the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador (PUCE):
High School Diploma (Título de Bachiller): Applicants must possess a recognized secondary school certificate or an authenticated foreign equivalent.
Completed Application Form: Submission of the official online application form is required.
Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee, typically around $39.50, must be paid.
Letters of Recommendation: Generally, two letters from academic or professional references are required to support the application.
Language Proficiency Certificate: For programs taught in Spanish, a local language certificate may be needed. If the program is in English, a TOEFL certificate or equivalent proof of English proficiency is required.
Additional Documents: Applicants should also prepare a motivation letter, health and life insurance documentation, passport-sized photographs, proof of fee payment, a valid passport, and, if applicable, a student visa.
Know more
In 2023, PUCE launched PUCE TEC, a specialized unit dedicated to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Recognized as a UNEVOC Centre by UNESCO, PUCE TEC focuses on developing innovative programs that align with both national and international market demands. The initiative emphasizes hybrid learning models, combining online and face-to-face instruction, to provide flexible and inclusive educational opportunities for students across Ecuador
In 2022, PUCE achieved a significant milestone by being ranked 56th in the QS Latin America Rankings, the highest position attained by an Ecuadorian university. This recognition reflects PUCE's dedication to academic excellence, research output, and its growing reputation in the international academic community. The university's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation has solidified its status as a leading institution in the region
PUCE researchers made a remarkable contribution to biodiversity studies in 2022 by discovering six new species of frogs in Ecuador. This discovery underscores the university's active role in ecological research and its commitment to preserving the rich biodiversity of the region. Such findings not only enhance scientific understanding but also highlight the importance of conservation efforts in Ecuador's unique ecosystems
In a groundbreaking project, PUCE scientists successfully revived a yeast strain from 1566, enabling the recreation of one of the oldest beers in the Americas. This endeavor combined historical research with modern microbiology, offering insights into ancient brewing techniques and microbial preservation. The project exemplifies PUCE's innovative approach to research, bridging the gap between history and science
Responding to the evolving needs of society and the job market, PUCE introduced the PUCE INNOVA initiative in 2022. This program offers cutting-edge academic courses in fields such as Bioengineering, Data Science, and Biomedical Sciences. By integrating interdisciplinary approaches and practical training, PUCE INNOVA aims to equip students with the skills necessary to address contemporary challenges and drive innovation in various sectors
In 2016, PUCE, in collaboration with Ohio University, inaugurated the Center for Research on Health in Latin America (CISeAL) in Quito. This state-of-the-art facility focuses on addressing pressing health issues in the region, such as Chagas disease, through interdisciplinary research and community engagement. CISeAL serves as a hub for scientific innovation, providing opportunities for faculty and students to conduct impactful research aimed at improving public health outcomes in Latin America
Between 2015 and 2020, PUCE demonstrated its research prowess by publishing over 1,000 scientific articles indexed in prestigious databases such as Scopus and Scimago Journal Rank. This prolific output highlights the university's commitment to advancing knowledge across various disciplines, particularly in the biological sciences. PUCE's research initiatives have significantly contributed to Ecuador's scientific community and its global academic standing
In 2015, PUCE had the honor of hosting Pope Francis during his visit to Ecuador, reflecting the university's prominence within the Catholic educational community. The papal visit underscored PUCE's alignment with the values of service, compassion, and social justice, reinforcing its mission to provide education that fosters holistic human development.
Demonstrating its commitment to accessible education, PUCE expanded beyond its original Quito campus, establishing branches in various regions of Ecuador. The first expansion occurred in 1976 with the opening of the Ibarra campus, followed by campuses in Esmeraldas (1981), Ambato (1982), Manabí (1993), Santo Domingo de los Colorados (1996), and the Amazon branch in Lago Agrio (2021). This strategic growth allowed PUCE to serve diverse communities across the nation, offering a wide range of academic programs and fostering regional development
In 1946, the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador (PUCE) was established in Quito, marking a significant milestone in Ecuador's higher education landscape. The university's first rector was the esteemed writer and Jesuit priest, Aurelio Espinosa Pólit, who played a pivotal role in shaping PUCE's academic and cultural foundations. Under his leadership, PUCE emphasized a comprehensive education rooted in Christian humanism and the teachings of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. This foundational philosophy aimed to cultivate individuals committed to serving society with integrity and excellence
In 2025, PUCE researchers developed an innovative cold asphalt mix incorporating Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) and aircraft tire dust from Quito's airport. This sustainable approach addresses environmental concerns by recycling waste materials into road construction. The new asphalt mix offers enhanced durability and performance while reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional asphalt production. Such advancements in construction materials contribute to sustainable infrastructure development and exemplify PUCE's commitment to environmental stewardship
In 2022, researchers from PUCE made a significant contribution to biodiversity by discovering six new species of frogs in Ecuador. This discovery not only highlights the rich amphibian diversity of the region but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts in the face of habitat loss and climate change. The identification of these new species adds valuable information to the scientific community's understanding of amphibian evolution and ecology, and it emphasizes Ecuador's role as a biodiversity hotspot. Such findings are crucial for developing effective conservation strategies and for raising awareness about the ecological significance of amphibians
PUCE researchers achieved a remarkable feat by reviving a yeast strain from 1566, enabling the recreation of one of the oldest beers in the Americas. This endeavor involved meticulous analysis of historical brewing techniques and the successful cultivation of ancient yeast cells. The project not only offers insights into historical fermentation practices but also opens avenues for exploring the genetic evolution of yeast strains over centuries. Such research bridges the gap between history and science, providing a unique perspective on the cultural and biological aspects of brewing traditions
Dr. Katya Susana Romoleroux, a botanist at PUCE, has significantly contributed to the discovery and classification of indigenous plant species in Ecuador, particularly within the Rosaceae family. Her extensive research in high Andean flora has led to the identification of numerous previously unknown species, enriching the scientific understanding of Ecuador's botanical diversity. As curator and director of the QCA Herbarium at PUCE, Dr. Romoleroux's work supports conservation efforts and provides valuable resources for further botanical studies
Dr. Alexandra Narváez Trujillo, a professor at PUCE, has conducted pioneering research on the bioactivity of Ecuadorian fungal endophytes. Her studies focus on evaluating the antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties of these endophytes, which reside within plant tissues without causing harm. This research holds promise for the development of novel pharmaceuticals and contributes to the broader understanding of plant-microbe interactions. Dr. Narváez's work exemplifies the potential of Ecuador's rich biodiversity in advancing medical science
In 2019, PUCE expressed interest in producing medications derived from cannabinoids, focusing on the therapeutic potential of non-psychoactive cannabis compounds. The university planned to cultivate hemp and utilize CO2 extraction methods to obtain high-quality cannabinoid extracts. This initiative aimed to provide alternative treatments for various medical conditions, such as chronic pain and epilepsy, while ensuring product safety and efficacy through rigorous scientific research. PUCE's endeavor reflects a progressive approach to integrating traditional medicine with modern pharmacology.
Dr. Eugenia del Pino, a developmental biologist at PUCE, has made significant contributions to the study of embryonic development in marsupial frogs. Her research has provided insights into the unique reproductive strategies of these amphibians, enhancing the understanding of developmental processes across species. Dr. del Pino's work has garnered international recognition, including her election to the United States National Academy of Sciences, highlighting the global impact of her scientific endeavors.
In 2009, PUCE's Center for Research on Health in Latin America (CISeAL) launched the Healthy Living Initiative (HLI) to combat Chagas disease in southern Ecuador. Recognizing that medical treatment alone was insufficient, the initiative adopted a holistic approach addressing infrastructure, income generation, and health education. By collaborating with local communities, HLI implemented sustainable solutions, such as improving housing conditions to reduce vector habitats. This comprehensive strategy not only mitigated disease transmission but also enhanced overall community well-being, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrated public health interventions
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