Overview
Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas (UCA) is a prestigious private Jesuit university in El Salvador, founded in 1965. Recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to social justice, UCA has played a significant role in Central American higher education and public intellectual life. The university combines rigorous academic programs with a strong emphasis on ethics, human rights, and social transformation.
Located in San Salvador, UCA’s beautiful 22-hectare campus houses modern facilities while maintaining its historical identity. The university is particularly known for its social sciences programs and its legacy of promoting peace during El Salvador’s civil war. Today, UCA continues to produce graduates who become leaders in business, government, and civil society throughout Central America.
General Information
| Name | Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas |
| Established | 1965 |
| Type | Private Jesuit University |
| Location | San Salvador, El Salvador |
| Website | www.uca.edu.sv |
| Student Population | Approx. 8,500 |
| Accreditation | Ministry of Education of El Salvador |
Fee Structure
| Program | Tuition Fee (per semester, approx.) |
| Undergraduate Programs | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Engineering Programs | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Graduate Programs | $1,800 – $2,500 |
| MBA | $2,800 |
Academic Programs
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Law and Social Sciences
- Engineering (Industrial, Systems, Environmental)
- Psychology
- Communications and Journalism
- Master in Development Economics
- Master in Human Rights
Facilities
- Central Library with specialized collections
- Monseñor Romero Center for documentation
- Modern computer and engineering labs
- Radio UCA 89.5 FM station
- Sports facilities including swimming pool
- Conference center and auditoriums
- Social science research institutes
Accommodation
While UCA doesn’t operate dormitories, the university assists students in finding suitable housing options in San Salvador’s safe neighborhoods. Many students share apartments near campus or commute from family homes.
- Shared apartments near campus: $150-$300/month
- Private rooms in student residences: $200-$400/month
- Homestay programs with meals: $250-$450/month
- Short-term housing for exchange students
Contact Information
- Email: info@uca.edu.sv
- Phone: +503 2210-6600
- Address: Boulevard Los Próceres, Antiguo Cuscatlán, San Salvador
- Admissions Office: Edificio de Admisiones, Campus UCA