Overview
Universidad Don Bosco (UDB) is a private Catholic university in El Salvador founded in 1984 by the Salesians of Don Bosco. Focused on technical and technological education, UDB combines career-oriented academics with the Salesian educational philosophy of reason, religion, and loving-kindness. For students looking at engineering, technology, and business-focused degrees, UDB is often considered for its strong hands-on learning approach and its links to real industry needs.
UDB is located in Soyapango, just outside San Salvador, and its campus includes modern laboratories and workshop spaces designed to support applied learning. The university emphasizes project work, practical skill development, and entrepreneurship, which is especially relevant in fast-changing fields such as automation, mechatronics, and digital design. UDB also supports students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds through scholarship programs and through partnerships with organizations in the local business community.
2. General Information
| Name | Universidad Don Bosco (UDB) |
|---|---|
| Established | 1984 |
| Type | Private Catholic University |
| Location | Soyapango, San Salvador, El Salvador |
| Website | www.udb.edu.sv |
| Student Population | Approx. 6,000 |
| Accreditation | Ministry of Education of El Salvador |
3. Fee Structure
| Program | Tuition Fee (per semester, approx.) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Technical) | $900 – $1,200 |
| Undergraduate (Engineering) | $1,100 – $1,500 |
| Business Administration | $1,300 |
| Graduate Programs | $1,500 – $2,000 |
Tuition can vary by academic intake, program track, and any scholarship or payment plan applied. Students comparing options in the same region may also want to review how costs align at other engineering- and technology-oriented universities, such as Universidad Tecnológica de El Salvador.
4. Academic Programs
UDB offers a mix of engineering degrees, technology-focused programs, and graduate studies. The program list below reflects the university’s main academic areas and can help applicants match interests with the right track.
- Industrial Engineering
- Computer Systems Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Business Administration
- Graphic Design and Digital Animation
- Technical Programs (2-3 year degrees)
- Master in Project Management
- Master in Educational Innovation
5. Facilities
- Advanced engineering laboratories
- Innovation and entrepreneurship center
- Automation and robotics workshops
- Professional-grade design studios
- University radio station
- Sports complex and soccer fields
- Salesian spiritual center
If you are comparing campus resources across institutions in El Salvador, you may find it useful to compare similar profiles at Universidad Politécnica de El Salvador, especially where programs emphasize technical training and applied learning.
6. Accommodation
UDB offers limited on-campus housing primarily for students from rural areas. Most students commute daily or arrange private accommodations in Soyapango or nearby San Salvador. Because availability can be restricted, applicants planning to live on or near campus are encouraged to confirm housing options early in the admission cycle.
- University residence halls: $100/month (limited availability)
- Shared apartments nearby: $150-$250/month
- Private rooms in student housing: $200-$350/month
- Homestay options with local families
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@udb.edu.sv
- Phone: +503 2251-2400
- Address: Urbanización Lomas de San Francisco, Soyapango
- Admissions Office: Edificio Central, Campus UDB
For students who want to broaden their options beyond UDB, exploring the broader university landscape can help narrow choices. For example, El Salvador’s public higher education option, Universidad de El Salvador, and other private institutions like Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas may align differently with academic goals and campus life preferences.
More Universities in El Salvador
- Universidad de El Salvador
- Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas
- Universidad Tecnológica de El Salvador
- Universidad Francisco Gavidia
- Universidad Evangélica de El Salvador
- Universidad Dr. José Matías Delgado
- Universidad Politécnica de El Salvador
- Universidad Salvadoreña Alberto Masferrer
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