🎓 University of the Visayas (UV)

1. Overview

The University of the Visayas (UV) is one of the most prominent and historic private universities in the Philippines. Founded in 1919, UV became the first university in Cebu and has since played a significant role in shaping the region’s educational and social landscape.

With a strong mission to provide education for all, UV offers a wide range of academic programs across basic education, undergraduate, and graduate levels, including fields such as medicine, law, engineering, maritime, business, education, and health sciences. It has multiple campuses across Cebu Province, with the main campus located in Colon Street, the historic downtown area of Cebu City.

UV is known for its commitment to academic accessibility, quality instruction, and social responsibility. The university serves thousands of students every year—many from rural areas and low-income backgrounds—by maintaining affordable tuition and offering flexible payment plans and scholarships.

Over the past century, UV has produced numerous board topnotchers, community leaders, and national figures. Its alumni include physicians, educators, engineers, government officials, and even sports champions—earning it the reputation as a “university for the people.”

2. Popular Programs

The University of the Visayas (UV) offers a comprehensive selection of academic programs across a wide range of disciplines. From professional fields like medicine, law, and engineering, to high-demand areas such as maritime, criminology, business, and health sciences, UV caters to both local and international students seeking affordable, high-impact education.

🩺 College of Medicine and Health Sciences

UV is especially known for its Gullas College of Medicine, one of the most established medical schools in the Visayas. It attracts both local and foreign students, particularly from India, Nepal, and the Middle East.

Programs offered:

  • Doctor of Medicine (MD)

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing

  • Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology

  • Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

  • Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology

Clinical practice is conducted at UV Gullas Hospital and affiliated hospitals in Cebu, giving students significant patient exposure.

⚖️ College of Law

UV’s College of Law is one of the oldest in Cebu, known for producing lawyers who go on to serve in government, judiciary, and private legal practice. It offers:

  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB) / Juris Doctor (JD)

Law students are trained in courtroom procedures, constitutional law, and legal research through moot courts and legal aid clinics.

🧑‍✈️ Maritime Education

With the Philippines being a global leader in maritime manpower, UV offers strong maritime programs that meet STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) standards.

  • Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT)

  • Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE)

These programs include simulator training, onboard ship internships, and partnerships with shipping companies.

🏗️ College of Engineering and Architecture

UV offers a range of engineering disciplines with a balance of classroom instruction and hands-on training:

  • Civil Engineering

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Electrical Engineering

  • Electronics Engineering

  • Architecture

Students participate in design competitions, construction projects, and licensure review support.

💼 College of Business Administration

UV’s business programs are designed to foster entrepreneurship and leadership, especially in a regional economic setting. Majors include:

  • Financial Management

  • Marketing Management

  • Human Resource Development

  • Entrepreneurship

Many graduates work in Cebu’s booming BPO, tourism, retail, and banking industries.

👮 College of Criminal Justice Education

UV also offers:

  • Bachelor of Science in Criminology

A popular choice for students planning careers in law enforcement, forensic science, and correctional administration. Practical training includes firearms simulation and crime scene investigation labs.

🎓 Graduate Studies and Basic Education

UV offers:

  • Master’s and Doctoral Programs in Education, Business, Public Administration, and more

  • Senior High School (Academic and Technical-Vocational Tracks)

  • Basic Education (Elementary to High School)

In summary, UV’s wide program offerings are rooted in community service, practical training, and affordable access—making it a top choice for students seeking real-world careers without the high tuition burden.

3. Campus Life & Facilities

The University of the Visayas (UV) offers a well-balanced campus experience that combines academic rigor, community involvement, and vibrant student life. With multiple campuses across Cebu, the main campus in Colon Street, Cebu City serves as the academic and administrative center of the university.

🏫 Academic Facilities

UV has continually expanded and upgraded its facilities to support its broad academic offerings. Key facilities include:

  • Modern Lecture Rooms and Amphitheaters – Air-conditioned and multimedia-equipped for interactive learning.

  • Science and Medical Laboratories – For nursing, pharmacy, med-tech, and pre-med students.

  • Engineering and Maritime Labs – Equipped with tools and simulators for real-world practice.

  • Architecture Studios and Drafting Rooms – For design and structural visualization work.

  • Computer Labs – Available for IT, business, and research students.

Additionally, the Gullas College of Medicine and UV hospitals provide world-class clinical training environments.

📚 Library and E-Resources

The university library system includes:

  • Extensive physical collections of academic books and periodicals

  • Online academic databases

  • Study halls, group discussion rooms, and research zones

Libraries are distributed across campuses to serve specific college departments.

🌳 Campus Environment

The Colon Street main campus is centrally located and easily walkable, with shaded outdoor seating, green spaces, and student gathering areas.

Other UV campuses (Pardo, Mandaue, Minglanilla, Danao, etc.) cater to local students and offer less crowded, community-style environments.

👩‍🎓 Student Organizations and Activities

UV encourages students to take part in:

  • Academic societies (law, medicine, maritime, education)

  • Cultural groups (dance, music, theater)

  • Student Government (SSG and local councils)

  • Varsity sports teams, including basketball, volleyball, and athletics

  • Community service clubs that participate in outreach and volunteer work

The university holds annual events like:

  • Foundation Day

  • Intercampus Competitions

  • Cultural Festivals

  • Medical and legal missions

🏐 Sports and Fitness Facilities

UV has:

  • Gymnasiums for indoor sports

  • Open courts for basketball and volleyball

  • Access to fitness and training facilities (especially for PE and Criminology students)

🍴 Convenience and Dining

Students have access to:

  • Campus canteens and nearby food stalls offering budget-friendly meals

  • Internet cafés, bookstores, and printing shops

  • Dormitories and boarding houses within walking distance (₱3,000–₱7,000/month)

In summary, UV offers a dynamic and inclusive student experience supported by practical facilities, community events, and a strong emphasis on values-based, socially responsible education.

4. Why Choose UV?

The University of the Visayas (UV) stands out as a university that truly lives up to its founding mission: education that uplifts lives, regardless of background. With over a century of academic service, UV remains a top choice for students who seek quality, affordability, and social impact in their education.

🏛️ Over 100 Years of Educational Service

Established in 1919, UV was the first university in Cebu and has since educated generations of leaders, professionals, and community builders. It holds a special place in the academic history of the Philippines, not only for its longevity but for its enduring mission of service.

📚 Wide Range of Programs Across Multiple Campuses

UV offers one of the most diverse program selections in the region—from Medicine, Law, and Maritime to Education, Business, Criminology, and Health Sciences. It also has campuses in multiple locations, including:

  • Colon (Main Campus)

  • Banilad

  • Pardo

  • Minglanilla

  • Mandaue

  • Danao

  • Toledo

  • Compostela

  • Dalaguete

This network allows UV to serve students across urban and rural Cebu, increasing access to higher education.

💰 Affordable, Flexible Tuition Options

True to its mission, UV maintains low tuition fees and offers:

  • Flexible installment plans

  • Academic scholarships

  • Grants-in-aid for financially challenged students

  • Discounts for siblings and employees’ dependents

Education at UV is made possible even for students from low-income families.

🧑‍⚕️ Strong Professional Track Record

UV produces board topnotchers and highly employable graduates, especially in fields such as:

  • Nursing and Medical Technology

  • Law

  • Marine Engineering and Transportation

  • Education and Criminology

Licensure review support and practical training help prepare students for success after graduation.

🌱 Community-Driven and Values-Based Education

UV is deeply involved in outreach programs, legal and medical missions, and local development projects. Students are encouraged to develop not only technical competence, but also compassion, leadership, and service-mindedness.

This emphasis on “scholarship with a heart” is a hallmark of the UV experience.

🌍 Open to International Students

With English as the medium of instruction and a growing international student population (especially in the College of Medicine), UV is a great choice for students from South Asia, the Middle East, and ASEAN countries seeking affordable, recognized education.

In short, UV is the ideal university for those who want to study with purpose, access, and pride—an institution that not only builds careers but transforms lives.

5. Location and Access

The University of the Visayas (UV) maintains a network of campuses strategically located across Cebu Province, ensuring accessibility for students from both urban and rural areas. Its main campus is located in Colon Street, Cebu City, the historic and commercial center of the city.

📍 Main Campus: Colon Street, Cebu City

The UV Main Campus is situated on Colon Street, the oldest national road in the Philippines and one of the most accessible areas in Cebu. This location places the university at the heart of the city, surrounded by:

  • Government offices

  • Shopping centers (e.g., Gaisano Metro, E-Mall)

  • Public transport terminals

  • Review centers and banks

Students commuting from anywhere in Cebu can reach the campus via:

  • Jeepneys (multiple routes pass through Colon)

  • MyBus and modern PUVs

  • Grab, taxis, or motorcycle taxis (habal-habal)

  • Walking distance from South Bus Terminal

🏫 Other UV Campuses and Their Accessibility

UV operates eight satellite campuses to serve students across the province:

  1. Pardo Campus – Southern Cebu residents

  2. Minglanilla Campus – Close to schools and subdivisions

  3. Mandaue Campus – Near industrial zones

  4. Banilad Campus – Accessible to Talamban and Banilad areas

  5. Danao Campus – North Cebu students

  6. Toledo Campus – For western Cebu

  7. Dalaguete Campus – Serving southeastern communities

  8. Compostela Campus – Northern residential zone

Each campus is located near main roads and public transportation hubs, making commuting easy and affordable.

🏠 Nearby Housing and Dormitories

UV does not operate its own dormitories, but all campuses are surrounded by:

  • Boarding houses

  • Student dorms

  • Apartments

In downtown Cebu, monthly rent typically ranges from ₱3,000 to ₱6,500, depending on room type and amenities. Many accommodations are within walking distance of the Colon campus.

🏙️ Cebu City as a Learning Environment

Cebu City offers UV students:

  • Access to hospitals, courts, and government offices (ideal for internships)

  • A safe, affordable urban setting compared to Metro Manila

  • Exposure to diverse industries including BPO, tourism, shipping, and healthcare

In summary, UV’s multi-campus presence and prime downtown location make it one of the most accessible universities in Cebu. Whether you live in the city center or in the province, there’s likely a UV campus near you.

6. For International Students

The University of the Visayas (UV), particularly through its Gullas College of Medicine, has become an increasingly popular destination for international students, especially from India, Nepal, the Middle East, and other parts of Asia. With its English-based instruction, affordable tuition, and comprehensive medical education, UV offers a strong alternative to more expensive Western universities.

🌍 English as the Medium of Instruction

All programs at UV are taught in English, allowing international students to fully participate in lectures, group discussions, and clinical practice. This also enables smooth preparation for global licensing exams, such as:

  • USMLE (United States)

  • FMGE/NExT (India)

  • PLAB (UK)

🩺 Gullas College of Medicine: A Hub for International Students

This medical school is UV’s primary gateway for foreign enrollees. Key features include:

  • A 4-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) program aligned with U.S. and Indian medical curricula

  • Experienced faculty, many with international credentials

  • Clinical exposure through UV Gullas Medical Center and partner hospitals

  • Affordable tuition compared to Western or Manila-based institutions

The college provides special orientation, student support, and visa processing assistance for international students.

📝 Admissions and Visa Support

UV’s International Admissions Office assists with:

  • Submission of academic transcripts and passport

  • Equivalency evaluation and entrance requirements

  • Visa conversion (from tourist visa to student visa)

  • Airport pickup and accommodation referrals

Foreign students are encouraged to apply 3–4 months prior to their intended intake.

🏠 Housing and Student Life

UV recommends partner accommodations for foreign students, offering:

  • Furnished dormitories and studios

  • Wi-Fi, security, and study areas

  • Proximity to the medical campus (Banilad) and Colon main campus

Living expenses in Cebu average $300–$500 USD/month, including rent, food, and transportation.

🌐 Other Programs Open to Foreigners

Besides medicine, UV also welcomes international students to programs in:

  • Nursing

  • Medical Technology

  • Business Administration

  • Marine Engineering

All are taught in English and designed for employability at home or abroad.

🤝 Cultural Integration and Support

International students at UV benefit from:

  • A dedicated International Student Affairs Office

  • Peer support groups and cultural organizations

  • Access to religious services (Christian, Hindu, Muslim-friendly)

The Cebuano community is known for being warm, English-speaking, and respectful, making it easy for students to adapt.

✈️ Why International Students Choose UV

  • 🏥 Strong medical and health science programs

  • 🌎 Globally recognized curriculum

  • 💰 Affordable tuition and living costs

  • 🧳 Visa and housing support

  • 📚 Proven board exam preparation

In short, UV provides a reliable, supportive, and internationally recognized education experience for foreign students—especially those aiming for careers in medicine, healthcare, or global business.

7. Summary

The University of the Visayas (UV) is one of Cebu’s most respected and historically significant private universities. With a legacy that spans over 100 years, UV has maintained its mission of delivering accessible, values-based, and practical education to a broad population—both in the Philippines and beyond.

Here’s why UV remains a top choice:

  • 🎓 Wide academic offerings in Medicine, Law, Engineering, Business, Maritime, Criminology, and more

  • 💡 Affordable tuition and flexible payment options for students of all backgrounds

  • 🏛️ Multiple campuses across Cebu, improving access for rural and urban learners

  • 🧑‍⚕️ Gullas College of Medicine, an internationally recognized medical school with hundreds of international students

  • 🌍 English-medium instruction and full visa support for foreign enrollees

  • 🤝 Community-centered education, grounded in service, leadership, and moral responsibility

Whether you’re a future doctor, engineer, educator, or public servant, UV offers the structure, support, and spirit you need to build a better future—not only for yourself but for your community.