Universidad del Valle (Univalle) is one of Colombia’s top public universities, located in Cali, with additional regional campuses throughout the Valle del Cauca department. Founded in 1945, the university is known for its academic rigor, cutting-edge research, and commitment to social development. Whether you’re a local student or an international applicant, Univalle offers a robust academic environment with extensive opportunities for growth.
1. History and Accreditation
Univalle was officially established in 1945 and opened its doors in 1948. Over the decades, it has become one of Colombia’s premier research institutions. The university holds high-quality accreditation from Colombia’s Ministry of Education and is renowned for its strong public mission and regional development impact.
2. Campuses and Faculties
The main campus is located in Meléndez, Cali, covering over 100 hectares. Other key campuses are in Buenaventura, Tuluá, Palmira, Buga, and Cartago. These regional centers help provide equitable access to higher education.
Univalle is home to faculties such as:
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Natural and Exact Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences and Economics
- Education and Psychology
- Administration
- Integrated Arts
3. Academic Programs
Univalle offers more than:
- 200 undergraduate programs
- 60+ master’s degrees
- 10 doctoral programs
Popular programs include:
- BSc in Civil, Electrical, and Systems Engineering
- Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry
- Economics, Psychology, Sociology
- Business Administration, Public Accounting
- Licentiate programs in Education, Mathematics, and Languages
For students exploring admission, platforms like MyUnigate offer helpful resources for applying to top Latin American universities, including Univalle.
4. Research Excellence
Univalle is consistently ranked among the top 5 universities in Colombia for research. It hosts:
- 450+ research groups
- State-of-the-art laboratories
- Specialized centers like CINARA (Water and Environmental Research), CEDETES (Public Health), and CIMNE Colombia (Applied Mathematics and Engineering)
The university has also contributed significantly to fields such as biotechnology, engineering, materials science, and public health.
5. Scholarships and Financial Aid
Univalle provides:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Socioeconomic need-based financial aid
- Research assistantships
- Access to ICETEX loans for Colombian nationals
International applicants can find guidance on scholarship opportunities via trusted platforms such as MyUnigate, which specializes in academic consultation and support for study abroad.
6. Campus Life and Student Services
Univalle promotes a holistic student experience:
- Student housing and dining
- Sports and recreation facilities
- Cultural and music groups
- Counseling and career development
The Meléndez campus is known for its green spaces, theaters, libraries, and inclusive environment, creating a vibrant student community.
7. Internationalization and Global Impact
Univalle collaborates with global institutions through exchange programs, dual degrees, and international research partnerships. It also offers Spanish-taught programs suitable for international students interested in Latin American studies, science, and social development.
Contact Information
Universidad del Valle – Main Campus (Cali)
Address: Calle 13 # 100-00, Ciudad Universitaria Meléndez, Cali, Colombia
Phone: +57 (2) 321-2100
Conclusion
Whether you’re pursuing a degree in engineering, medicine, arts, or social sciences, the University of the Valley (Univalle) offers a world-class education in the heart of Colombia. With outstanding research output, inclusive policies, and affordable tuition, it stands out as a top choice for both local and international students.
