Urdaneta City University | Tuition Fee | Courses Offered
General Information
Overview
Urdaneta City University (UCU) is a public, nonsectarian higher education institution located in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, Philippines. It was originally founded on February 4, 1966 by Dr. Pedro T. Orata as Urdaneta Community College, making it one of the pioneering community colleges in the country. Over time, it expanded its academic programs, evolved in governance, and eventually became a full-fledged city university under the management of the Urdaneta City government. UCU places strong emphasis on accessible and character-driven education, inspired by the vision of its founder.
It serves students from Urdaneta city and neighboring provinces, offering both traditional degree programs and technical-vocational courses. The university fosters a culture of community engagement, leadership, and values formation, striving to produce graduates who are not only academically competent but also socially responsible, morally grounded, and committed to local and national development. UCU has continued to grow in size and scope, now encompassing a wide range of faculties, modern facilities, and a strong research and extension function aligned with the city’s needs.
Contact Information
Address: San Vicente West, Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, Philippines
Phone Number: (075) 600-1507
Email Address: officeofthepresident@ucu.edu.ph
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Established | February 4, 1966 |
| Type | Public, Local University |
| Founder | Dr. Pedro T. Orata |
| President | Atty. Dar A. Diga |
| Students (circa) | ~12,500 (as reported in 2015) |
| Colors | White, Green, Gold |
| Campus Setting | Urban |
Urdaneta City University Rankings
| Ranking Type | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| National (Philippines) | Not formally ranked among national top universities, but well recognized in its region as a key public local university |
| Global | Not listed in major global ranking systems, due to its local and community-focused mission |
Urdaneta City University Academics
Urdaneta City University Faculties / Departments
- College of Teacher Education
- College of Engineering & Architecture
- College of Business Management & Accountancy
- College of Information & Technology Education
- College of Arts & Sciences
- College of Criminal Justice Education
- College of Health Sciences
- College of Hospitality & Tourism Management
- College of Pharmacy
- College of Human Sciences
- Center for Tech-Voc Programs
- Graduate School
Urdaneta City University Courses and Programs / Majors
- Bachelor of Science in Accountancy
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Financial Management, Human Resource, Marketing, Management Accounting)
- Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
- Bachelor of Special Needs Education
- Bachelor of Secondary Education (English, Filipino, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies)
- Bachelor of Physical Education
- Bachelor of Culture & Arts Education
- Bachelor of Science in Psychology
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Bachelor of Science in Social Work
- Bachelor of Science in Midwifery
- Bachelor of Science in Hotel Management
- Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management
- Bachelor of Science in Architecture
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
- Bachelor in Library & Information Science
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Graduate / Postgraduate: Doctor of Education (Educational Management), Master of Arts in Education (Educational Management, Early Childhood, Special Education), Master in Business Administration, Master in Public Administration, Master of Arts in Nursing, Juris Doctor
Online Learning
Urdaneta City University has responded to modern educational demands by developing an online learning platform known as “iKonek” that was implemented especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. This platform supports synchronous and asynchronous learning, enabling students to engage in virtual classes, submit assignments, and participate in discussions from remote locations. The university’s faculty received training to effectively deliver content in this blended environment while preserving the quality of instruction. Though not all programs may be fully online, UCU continues to expand its digital infrastructure, allowing students greater flexibility in pursuing their studies while balancing other responsibilities or geographic constraints.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Range / Notes |
|---|---|
| SAT / ACT | Not applicable or not required for admission to UCU because admission is based on national frameworks and internal evaluation |
| GRE | Not commonly used for its graduate programs, as admissions largely rely on prior degree performance and other criteria (rather than standardized test scores) |
Retention and Graduation Rates
Urdaneta City University does not publish widely accessible detailed retention and graduation statistics. However, its steady growth in student enrollment and the development of student support services, like academic advising and character formation programs, suggest a relatively stable retention environment. The university’s emphasis on both academic excellence and character development helps foster a supportive campus culture. Furthermore, the availability of technical-vocational programs, graduate degrees, and multiple colleges appeals to a diverse learner profile, which likely influences retention positively by giving students multiple pathways to complete their education.
Urdaneta City University Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Since UCU is a local public university in the Philippines, admission does not typically depend on SAT or ACT scores. Instead, prospective students are evaluated based on their high school academic credentials, including grades from their national secondary school examinations or certificate of graduation, relevant subject grades, and other internal admission criteria set by the university’s colleges.
Urdaneta City University Acceptance Rate
| Category | Approximate Rate / Note |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Not publicly disclosed; acceptance depends on program demand and capacity in each college |
| Graduate | Not specified; admissions are selective and based on degree performance and internal criteria |
Urdaneta City University Application Requirements
To apply to UCU, prospective students are required to complete the university’s admission form and submit certified copies of their high school transcript or equivalent credentials. They may also need to provide recommendation letters, proof of identity, and other supporting documents depending on the program and college. For graduate programs, applicants generally need to submit a bachelor’s degree transcript, a curriculum vitae or resume, and potentially a statement of purpose. International or technical-vocational students may have additional documentation requirements. The university ensures the process is transparent, with its Office for External Affairs and Linkages helping manage applications and partnerships that support student mobility and academic exchange.
Application Process
- Obtain or download the application form from UCU’s admissions office or portal
- Complete the form and gather required documents (transcripts, ID, proof of graduation)
- Submit the application and attachments to the university’s admission office
- Wait for evaluation by the relevant college committee
- Receive an admission decision or offer
- Upon acceptance, complete registration, payment of fees, and attend orientation
Urdaneta City University Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Application Period | Varies by college and program; prospective students usually submit applications before start of semester |
| Registration | Happens at the start of each semester for new and returning students |
| Orientation | Conducted at the beginning of the academic year / semester |
Essay Prompt
UCU does not typically require a standard essay as part of its undergraduate admission process; admission relies more heavily on academic records, program prerequisites, and internal review by the colleges rather than a written personal statement.
Urdaneta City University Scholarships
As a public university operated by the city government, UCU offers various financial assistance programs, local scholarships, and tuition subsidies to deserving students. These aid programs are designed to help low-income students, academically high-performing students, and community-oriented learners. The university’s Office for External Affairs and Linkages also works to build partnerships with national and international institutions to create scholarship opportunities, exchange programs, and funding options for its students.
Urdaneta City University Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Student Category | Estimated Cost / Notes |
|---|---|
| Local Undergraduate Students | Subsidized as a public university; fees vary by college and program |
| Graduate Students | Tuition varies depending on the master’s or doctoral program |
| Tech-Voc / Short-Term Programs | Lower cost relative to full degree programs; typically designed to be affordable and accessible |
Student Profile and Demographics – Urdaneta City University
Student Demographics
Urdaneta City University enrolls a diverse student body drawn from Urdaneta City and surrounding provinces such as Pangasinan, Ilocos Region, Nueva Vizcaya, and Tarlac. The student population includes both younger learners fresh out of secondary school and older, working students who take advantage of the tech-voc or graduate programs. Gender distribution is relatively balanced across most programs, with women well-represented in education, health sciences, communication, and social work majors. Given UCU’s public role and mission, it attracts individuals from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds, including those from rural areas or low-income families seeking upward mobility through affordable, quality education.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
UCU’s status as a municipal university enables it to provide meaningful financial assistance to students from lower-income households through scholarships and subsidized tuition. The local government’s ownership helps ensure that funding is allocated to support access and equity. Though specific public data on students with disabilities is not widely published, UCU’s commitment to inclusive education is demonstrated in its community outreach initiatives and character-based programs, which aim to nurture every student regardless of background or personal challenges. The Office for External Affairs and Linkages also fosters partnerships that may support accessibility and special learning needs.
Student Body
| Metric | Approximate Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | ~12,500 (reported in 2015) |
| Full-Time Undergraduate | Majority of total enrollment |
| Graduate / Postgraduate | Significant number in various master’s and doctoral programs |
| Technical-Voc Students | Enrolled through tech-voc center / programs |
University Diversity
UCU’s diversity is rooted in its mission to serve a broad demographic across Pangasinan and neighboring provinces, making it a regional education hub. Students come from rural, semi-urban, and urban communities, carrying different cultural, economic, and educational experiences. This diversity enriches the classroom environment, where learners bring varied perspectives and motivations: some pursue education to uplift their families, others to serve the city or region, and many to find practical, skilled employment through tech-voc tracks. UCU’s programs cater to both traditional and non-traditional learners, and the institution places strong emphasis on character development, community engagement, and civic responsibility. Through community extension projects, volunteerism, and leadership programs, students of different backgrounds bond and contribute jointly to local development, reinforcing unity and the shared goal of progress.
Average Earnings
Graduates of UCU often enter fields relevant to their degree programs, and their earnings vary accordingly. For example, graduates in business management and accountancy may find employment in local enterprises, government agencies, or corporate offices within Pangasinan or nearby regions, where salaries may scale with experience and specialization. Those from education programs commonly become public school teachers, earning government wages and receiving benefits aligned with national teacher pay scales. Health sciences graduates—such as those who complete nursing or pharmacy degrees—may work in hospitals, clinics, or community health centers, contributing to healthcare delivery while earning professional compensation. Tech-voc and technical graduates may find jobs in local industries or service sectors, often earning steady income quickly and contributing to the local economy. Over time, UCU alumni may further increase their earnings by pursuing postgraduate studies, taking leadership roles, or engaging in entrepreneurial ventures in their communities.
Urdaneta City University Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The teaching staff at UCU comprises experienced professors, lecturers, instructors, and technical educators drawn from different disciplines—education, business, engineering, health sciences, humanities, and law. Administrative and support staff provide essential services in admissions, student affairs, quality assurance, research coordination, and community extension. The university’s leadership structure includes a President, Vice Presidents for Academic and Administrative Affairs, and various vice offices that ensure operational efficiency and academic integrity. The Office for External Affairs and Linkages helps facilitate partnerships, exchanges, and international activities, while student services and counseling teams support holistic development.
Faculty Profiles
Many faculty members at UCU hold advanced degrees and bring professional experience in teaching, research, and community engagement. Their expertise spans diverse fields such as educational management, business administration, engineering disciplines, criminal justice, and health sciences. Some are actively engaged in research that aligns with UCU’s priority themes, including governance, education, environment, health, and social services. Others contribute to extension projects, applying their scholarship to local development. The university values not just academic credentials but also character and civic commitment, so faculty often participate in outreach programs, community development, and student mentoring—nurturing the next generation of socially responsible professionals.
Urdaneta City University Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
The main UCU campus is located in San Vicente West in Urdaneta City. Over the years, the campus has expanded to include multiple academic buildings, specialized laboratories, a multimedia library, a gymnasium, and student centers. While the university may not offer extensive on-campus housing like large national universities, students often live in nearby neighborhoods, boarding houses, or rented apartments in Urdaneta City, making daily commuting possible. Student life is vibrant and community-centered: clubs, student organizations, service-oriented groups, and character-based programs like the “Nobility Program” (which honors the legacy of the university’s founder) are very active. Community outreach, extension services, and local development initiatives bring students into the city’s social fabric, reinforcing UCU’s identity as both a city university and a driver of regional transformation.
Transportation
Urdaneta City University is accessible by public transportation within Urdaneta City and neighboring municipalities. Students commonly commute using city jeepneys, tricycles, and local buses. The city’s road network is well-connected, enabling students to travel from surrounding areas into campus. Within campus, walkable pathways connect academic buildings, administrative offices, and student facilities. For students who come from farther spots—such as nearby provinces—the city’s transport infrastructure supports both daily commuting and periodic travel to campus, making education at UCU reachable for a broad portion of the regional population.