University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) – A Catholic Institution for Excellence in Business, Education, and Tourism

について University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) is a private Catholic university in Cebu City operated by the Order of Augustinian Recollects. Founded in 1947, it has grown from a small boys’ school into a respected institution for higher education, known for its strong programs in business, tourism, education, liberal arts, and information technology.

USJ-R stands out for its holistic and values-based education rooted in the Recollect philosophy of service, academic excellence, and Christian formation. With a student population of around 10,000, the university fosters a close-knit learning environment while offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs accredited by PAASCU and CHED.

One of the university’s defining features is its commitment to moral education and community involvement. Students are encouraged not only to pursue academic excellence but also to engage in volunteerism, leadership development, and spiritual growth. Regular religious activities, retreats, and campus ministries are part of the university’s core offerings.

Academically, USJ-R has built a strong reputation in the Visayas and Mindanao regions for producing board passers and high-performing graduates in the fields of accountancy, education, hospitality and tourism management, criminology, and communication. It is also one of the few private universities in Cebu to offer senior high school, undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs under one institutional umbrella.

Classes at USJ-R are conducted in English, making the university a viable option for international students seeking a faith-based and academically rigorous education in the Philippines. In recent years, USJ-R has hosted students from Korea, Japan, and African nations, particularly in the areas of business and communication.

If you’re looking for a university that integrates academic rigor, spiritual values, and real-world preparation, USJ-R offers a balanced and mission-driven environment where students are molded into competent and compassionate professionals.

Campus and Location

The University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) operates two main campuses in Cebu City, both strategically located and designed to support specialized academic and student activities. The university’s compact yet functional campus structure ensures that students benefit from a focused and well-maintained learning environment.

1. USJ-R Main Campus (Magallanes Street, Cebu City)

Located in downtown Cebu along Magallanes Street near Colon—the oldest street in the Philippines—the Main Campus is home to most of USJ-R’s higher education departments. These include:

• College of Business and Accountancy
• College of Arts and Sciences
• College of Information, Computer and Communications Technology
• College of Education
• School of Law and Graduate School

This campus is easily accessible by public transportation and surrounded by commercial, historical, and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for students balancing academic life with work or internship opportunities in the city center.

2. Basak Campus (Recoletos Avenue, Basak Pardo, Cebu City)

について Recoletos de Cebu Campus in Basak is primarily dedicated to the Basic Education Department, which includes preschool, elementary, junior and senior high school levels. It also serves as a venue for community outreach, retreat programs, and selected undergraduate courses in tourism and hospitality management.

Set in a quieter, suburban part of the city, the Basak Campus offers more open space and greenery compared to the Main Campus, making it suitable for youth programs and outdoor learning.

Both campuses are equipped with security, cafeterias, student lounges, chapels, and multipurpose halls. Regardless of location, USJ-R maintains a faith-centered and student-friendly atmosphere that encourages discipline, reflection, and engagement.

Key Programs and Academic Strengths

USJ-R offers a wide selection of undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in Catholic values and academic excellence. The university is particularly known for its high-performing departments in Education, Business, Tourism and Hospitality, Communication, Information Technology, and Law. These programs blend theoretical foundations with real-world application to ensure that graduates are both employable and socially responsible.

1. College of Education

USJ-R’s teacher education programs are among the most recognized in Cebu. The university has consistently produced board passers and LET (Licensure Examination for Teachers) topnotchers. Courses include:

• Bachelor of Elementary Education
• Bachelor of Secondary Education (majors in English, Math, Science)
• Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

Students benefit from partnerships with public and private schools for practicum and gain exposure to classroom-based and community-oriented teaching methods.

2. College of Tourism and Hospitality Management

USJ-R is a top choice for students aspiring to enter the tourism and hospitality industries. Courses include:

• BS in Hospitality Management
• BS in Tourism Management

The university provides hands-on training in hotel operations, event planning, and travel services, with simulation rooms and field trips. Cebu’s booming tourism sector gives students access to real internship opportunities with top resorts and airlines.

3. College of Business and Accountancy

USJ-R offers competitive business programs focused on finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. It is also known for its strong performance in the CPA board exams. Available programs include:

• BS in Accountancy
• BS in Business Administration (majors in Financial Management, Marketing)

Students are trained in ethical business practices, financial analysis, and digital business operations.

4. College of Information, Computer and Communications Technology

The IT college is growing in strength, offering programs in:

• BS in Information Technology
• BS in Computer Science

With modern computer labs and project-based learning, USJ-R prepares students for careers in software development, web design, data analytics, and IT support.

5. College of Arts and Sciences – Communication and Liberal Arts

USJ-R offers strong programs in Communication, Political Science, and Psychology. The Communication program includes training in journalism, media production, and digital storytelling—making it ideal for students interested in media or public relations careers.

6. School of Law and Graduate School

The university also has a law school and several master’s and doctoral programs. The Recoletos Law Center hosts legal forums, bar reviews, and community legal aid, supporting students aiming to become practicing lawyers in the Philippines.

With its well-balanced mix of professional and liberal education, USJ-R ensures that students are prepared to meet academic, ethical, and industry standards—both in the Philippines and abroad.

Admission and Tuition

Admission Requirements (Undergraduate Programs)

USJ-R accepts both Filipino and international students across its undergraduate and graduate programs. The application process is straightforward and managed by the Admissions and Scholarships Center.

For local applicants:

• Senior High School diploma or equivalent (K-12 compliant)
• Form 137 / Transcript of Records
• 品行方正証明書
• Birth Certificate
• 2×2 photo, completed application form

For international students:

• Authenticated academic records (diplomas and transcripts)
• Valid passport and visa (Tourist or Student visa 9F)
• Certificate of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or waived via interview)
• Medical clearance and police clearance
• 財政支援証明

International applicants are assisted by the International Relations Office, which also provides visa conversion support, airport pickup, and housing guidance.

Estimated Tuition Fees

USJ-R is known for its affordability among private Catholic universities. Below are approximate annual tuition fees:

• Education, Liberal Arts, IT: USD 1,000 – 1,500/year
• Business & Accountancy: USD 1,200 – 1,800/year
• Tourism & Hospitality Management: USD 1,200 – 1,600/year
• Law & Graduate Studies: USD 1,500 – 2,000/year

Fees vary depending on the number of units, laboratory use, and payment method. Flexible installment plans are available, and scholarships are offered to academic achievers, athletes, and student leaders.

Scholarships and Discounts

USJ-R offers a variety of financial aid options including:

• Academic and merit-based scholarships
• Athletic scholarships for varsity players
• Recoletos Alumni grants and family discounts
• Government programs like CHED UniFAST or TES

Tuition affordability, combined with values-based formation, makes USJ-R a competitive choice for quality Catholic education in Central Visayas.

Student Life and Facilities

USJ-R provides a well-rounded and faith-centered student life experience that combines academics with personal growth, social responsibility, and spiritual development. With a strong Catholic foundation, student life at USJ-R is values-driven yet vibrant and inclusive.

Campus Ministry and Religious Life

As a Catholic institution, USJ-R integrates spiritual formation into campus life. Students are encouraged to participate in:

• Weekly Mass and holy day celebrations
• Retreats and recollections
• Volunteer missions and outreach programs
• Religious education and ethics classes

について Recoletos Campus Ministry Office supports both Catholic and non-Catholic students in their spiritual journeys and community involvement.

Student Organizations and Leadership

USJ-R is home to many active student organizations, including:

• Academic societies (e.g., Josenian Educators Guild, Tourism Student Alliance)
• Cultural and performing arts groups
• Recoletos Student Government (RSG)
• Debate, journalism, and public speaking teams

Leadership trainings and student development seminars are held throughout the academic year, nurturing students to be socially aware and community-oriented leaders.

Campus Facilities

Despite being a mid-sized institution, USJ-R maintains well-equipped facilities to support student life:

• Air-conditioned classrooms and IT-enabled labs
• Libraries and e-learning centers
• Chapel, prayer rooms, and reflection spaces
• Multi-purpose halls and audio-visual rooms
• Cafeterias, student lounges, and study areas

Safety and Support

USJ-R places a high priority on student well-being and campus security. Trained guards are stationed at all entry points, and the school maintains a clean, organized, and safe environment. Counseling services and academic advising are also available.

Overall, USJ-R provides a balanced student life experience where faith, discipline, creativity, and community engagement go hand in hand.

SED’s Perspective: Is USJ-R Right for You?

で スタディ・イングリッシュ・ダイレクト（SED）, we view the University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) as an excellent option for students who are seeking a values-driven, career-oriented education in the Philippines. Especially for those interested in education, tourism, business, IT, and liberal arts, USJ-R provides the right balance of academic rigor and ethical formation.

The university’s Catholic identity gives it a unique character—fostering discipline, service, and critical thinking alongside academic achievement. Students are not only trained to pass board exams but also to become socially responsible professionals who contribute to their communities.

We especially recommend USJ-R to:

• Aspiring teachers and educators who want to train in a supportive, board-exam–ready environment
• Students pursuing tourism or hospitality careers with practical industry exposure in Cebu
• Business-minded learners looking for affordable, ethics-based education in management or accountancy
• ESL students transitioning from English training to undergraduate or graduate studies in an English-speaking academic environment

Many students completing their ESL course in Cebu find USJ-R a natural next step. Its central campus location, English-medium instruction, and strong student support system make the transition smooth for foreign learners.

If you’re looking for a university that shapes both the mind and the heart, USJ-R offers a strong community, quality education, and an environment that encourages growth in knowledge, character, and faith.

With the right motivation and mindset, USJ-R can help transform your ambition into meaningful impact.