Overview
Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja (UTPL) is a unique private Catholic university in southern Ecuador, founded in 1971. Recognized for its innovative distance education programs, UTPL serves over 45,000 students nationwide through its dual modality system (in-person and online). The university combines academic excellence with Catholic values, focusing on technology, environmental sciences, and social development.
UTPL stands out for its research in biodiversity conservation and renewable energy, leveraging its location near Ecuador’s tropical forests. The main campus in Loja features modern sustainable architecture, while its virtual campus serves students across Ecuador and internationally. UTPL maintains accreditation with Ecuador’s Council of Higher Education (CES) and has received international recognition for its educational model.
2. General Information
| Name | Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja (UTPL) |
| Established | May 3, 1971 |
| Type | Private Catholic University |
| Location | Loja, Ecuador (Main Campus) |
| Website | www.utpl.edu.ec |
| Accreditation | Consejo de Educación Superior (CES) |
| Student Population | Approx. 45,000 (including distance education) |
3. Fee Structure
| Program | Tuition Fee (Annual, in USD) |
| Undergraduate (On-campus) | $2,800 – $4,200 |
| Undergraduate (Distance) | $1,500 – $2,800 |
| Graduate Programs | $3,500 – $6,000 |
| Doctoral Programs | $5,000 – $8,000 |
| Scholarships Available | Up to 40% tuition reduction |
4. Academic Programs
- School of Biological Sciences
- School of Technological Sciences
- School of Business and Economics
- School of Law and Social Sciences
- School of Education and Communication
- School of Health Sciences
- School of Architecture and Arts
5. Facilities
- Innovation and Technology Center (CITTI)
- Distance Education Platform (Virtual UTPL)
- Biological Research Station (San Francisco)
- Modern library with digital resources
- Television and radio production studios
- Sustainable energy research labs
6. Accommodation
UTPL offers on-campus housing for approximately 1,200 students, with priority given to those from other provinces. The university also maintains agreements with local residences.
- On-campus residences: $120-$200/month
- Meal plans: $3-$5 per day
- Recommended student areas: La Argelia, El Valle
- Special housing for international students
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@utpl.edu.ec
- Phone: +593 7 370-1444
- Address: San Cayetano Alto s/n, Loja 110160
- Admissions Office: Central Administration Building
More Universities in Ecuador
- Universidad Central del Ecuador
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito
- Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador
- Universidad de Guayaquil
- Universidad de Cuenca
- Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas
- Universidad de Las Américas Ecuador
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