Overview
Universidad de Pinar del Río “Hermanos Saíz Montes de Oca” is the westernmost university in Cuba and a key educational institution in the tobacco-growing region of Vuelta Abajo. Established in 1976, the university has developed particular strengths in agricultural sciences, environmental studies, and teacher education. Nestled in Cuba’s picturesque western landscape, the campus combines academic rigor with the distinctive cultural identity of Pinar del Río province.
As one of Cuba’s younger universities, it has cultivated a reputation for innovation in sustainable development and rural education. The institution serves about 6,000 students across its faculties, offering both traditional classroom programs and distance learning options to serve Cuba’s western communities. Its research initiatives frequently focus on local agricultural challenges and ecological preservation in the region’s unique ecosystems.
2. General Information
| Name | Universidad de Pinar del Río “Hermanos Saíz Montes de Oca” |
| Established | July 2, 1976 |
| Type | Public University |
| Location | Carretera a Luis Lazo km 2½, Pinar del Río, Cuba |
| Website | www.upr.edu.cu |
3. Fee Structure
| Program | Tuition Information |
| Undergraduate Programs | Free for Cuban nationals* |
| Graduate Programs | Scholarship-based, varies by specialty |
| International Students | Contact Departamento de Relaciones Internacionales |
*Standard for Cuban public higher education; some material fees may apply.
4. Academic Programs
- Agricultural Engineering
- Forestry Engineering
- Environmental Sciences
- Education Sciences
- Computer Science
- Business Economics
- Sociocultural Studies
- Master’s in Sustainable Agriculture
5. Facilities
- Specialized agricultural research stations
- Center for Tobacco Studies
- Modernized computer labs with agricultural modeling software
- University farm for hands-on training
- Regional pedagogical resource center
- Sports facilities including baseball fields
6. Accommodation
The university operates several student residences near campus, primarily serving students from other provinces. Accommodations are modest but functional, with an emphasis on creating learning communities. International students typically stay in dedicated housing with additional support services.
- Secure campus housing with 24/7 access
- Shared rooms with study spaces
- On-campus dining options featuring local produce
- Recreational areas with cultural programming
- Walking distance to academic buildings
7. Contact Information
- Email: rector@upr.edu.cu
- Phone: +53 48 77 8436
- Address: Carretera a Luis Lazo km 2½, Pinar del Río, Cubau
More Universities in Cube
- University of Havana
- University Marta Abreu
- University of Information Sciences
- University of Cienfuegos
- Universidad de Matanzas
- University of Holguín
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