University of Cebu (UC) Guide: Courses, Campuses, and Admissions

The University of Cebu (UC) is one of the most prominent private universities in the Visayas region, known for its commitment to accessible, high-quality education. With multiple campuses across Cebu and a wide range of programs in engineering, business, maritime studies, law, and health sciences, UC attracts thousands of students from all over the Philippines and abroad. This guide provides a detailed overview of UC’s history, campuses, programs, admission process, and what makes it one of the top choices for higher education in Cebu.

Overview of the University of Cebu

Founded in 1964 by lawyer and businessman Augusto W. Go, the University of Cebu started as Cebu College of Commerce (CCC). Its goal was to make quality education affordable and within reach for students from all walks of life. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the largest universities in the Visayas, rebranding as the University of Cebu in 1992 after gaining university status.

Today, UC has more than 50,000 students across its campuses, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), and the Department of Education (DepEd).

UC’s slogan — “Education towards global competitiveness” — reflects its mission to produce competent, skilled, and globally competitive graduates.

Campuses of the University of Cebu

The University of Cebu operates several campuses strategically located throughout Cebu City and nearby areas. Each campus specializes in certain programs and caters to different student needs.

1. UC Main Campus (Sanciangko Street, Cebu City)

The main campus is located in downtown Cebu City, close to Colon Street. It houses the colleges of Business and Accountancy, Computer Studies, and Law. The main campus is also home to the University of Cebu Maritime Education and Training Center, a pioneer in maritime education in the region.

UC Main Campus (Sanciangko Street, Cebu City) Guide

2. UC Banilad Campus

The Banilad campus is located along Gov. M. Cuenco Avenue, offering programs in Nursing, Tourism, Hospitality Management, Engineering, and Information Technology. It has modern laboratories and facilities suited for practical and hands-on learning.

UC Banilad Campus Guide

3. UC Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UC-LM)

Situated in Mandaue City, this campus serves students from the northern part of Metro Cebu. It offers programs in Business Administration, Education, Criminology, and Engineering. UC-LM is known for its active student organizations and community extension programs.

UC Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UC-LM) Guide

4. UC METC (Maritime Education and Training Center)

UC-METC, located in Alumnos, Mambaling, Cebu City, is dedicated exclusively to maritime education. It’s one of the most respected maritime training institutions in the Philippines, equipped with ship simulators, training vessels, and MARINA-accredited facilities.

UC METC (Maritime Education and Training Center) Guide

5. UC Pardo-Talisay Campus

This campus caters to students living in southern Cebu and nearby areas. It offers Senior High School programs and select college courses, making UC accessible to students from outside the city center.

UC Pardo-Talisay Campus Guide

Academic Programs

The University of Cebu provides a diverse selection of courses across different colleges. Below are the major programs offered:

College of Engineering

UC’s engineering programs are among the most popular and reputable in Cebu.

• BS Civil Engineering

• BS Electrical Engineering

• BS Electronics Engineering

• BS Industrial Engineering

• BS Mechanical Engineering

• BS Computer Engineering

College of Business and Accountancy

The college offers strong programs designed for business-minded students and future accountants.

• BS Accountancy

• BS Accounting Information System

• BS Business Administration (major in Marketing, Financial Management, HRM)

• BS Management Accounting

College of Computer Studies

• BS Information Technology

• BS Computer Science

• BS Information Systems

College of Nursing and Health Sciences

• BS Nursing

• BS Medical Technology

• BS Pharmacy

College of Tourism and Hospitality Management

• BS Tourism Management

• BS Hospitality Management

College of Maritime Education

UC’s maritime program is one of its flagship departments, producing graduates employed by top shipping companies globally.

• BS Marine Transportation

• BS Marine Engineering

College of Criminal Justice and Education

• BS Criminology

• Bachelor of Secondary Education

• Bachelor of Elementary Education

College of Law

The UC College of Law has produced bar topnotchers and is considered one of the best law schools in Cebu. It offers:

• Juris Doctor (JD) program

Graduate School

UC’s Graduate School offers advanced studies in Business, Education, and Public Administration for working professionals aiming to enhance their careers.

Admission Requirements and Process

UC maintains a straightforward and inclusive admission policy to encourage more students to pursue higher education.

For Freshmen (New Students)

Requirements:

• Original Form 138 (High School Card)

• Certificate of Good Moral Character

• PSA Birth Certificate (Photocopy)

• 2×2 ID Pictures (2 copies)

• Entrance Examination (if applicable)

Steps:

1. Fill out the online or in-person application form.

2. Submit the required documents to the registrar’s office.

3. Take the entrance exam (some courses only).

4. Pay the registration fee and other initial payments.

5. Secure your official enrollment slip.

For Transferees

Requirements:

• Honorable Dismissal / Transfer Credential

• Transcript of Records or Certified Copy of Grades

• Good Moral Certificate

• PSA Birth Certificate

For Foreign Students

UC welcomes international students, especially in maritime and business courses. Requirements include:

• Student Visa / Special Study Permit (SSP)

• Authenticated Transcript of Records

• Medical Clearance

• Certificate of English Proficiency

Tuition and Scholarships

The University of Cebu is known for its affordable tuition compared to other private universities in the Philippines. Average tuition fees range from ₱20,000 to ₱35,000 per semester, depending on the program and campus.

UC also offers various scholarship programs, including:

• Academic Scholarships (for students with high grades)

• Athletic Scholarships

• Performing Arts Scholarships

• Government-funded scholarships (CHED, TES, DOST, etc.)

These opportunities make UC accessible to students from different financial backgrounds.

Student Life and Facilities

UC fosters a vibrant campus life with numerous organizations, clubs, and events. Students can join:

• Student government and leadership programs

• Academic and cultural clubs

• Sports teams (UC Webmasters)

• Volunteer and community outreach groups

The university is also equipped with:

• Modern computer laboratories

• Engineering and maritime simulators

• Multimedia classrooms

• Libraries and study halls

• Student lounges and cafeterias

The UC Webmasters, its official varsity team, are highly active in basketball and other collegiate sports, representing the university in national competitions.

Why Choose the University of Cebu

1. Affordable Quality Education – UC offers top-notch education at a lower cost than many private universities.

2. Strong Industry Connections – UC maintains partnerships with shipping lines, BPO companies, and tech firms for internships and job placement.

3. Global Recognition in Maritime Studies – UC is internationally recognized for its maritime programs and global-ready seafarers.

4. Accessible Campuses – Multiple locations across Metro Cebu make UC convenient for students living in different areas.

5. Commitment to Character Formation – UC emphasizes not just academic excellence but also discipline and social responsibility.

Contact Information

University of Cebu – Main Campus
Sanciangko Street, Cebu City, Philippines
Phone: (032) 255-7777
Email: info@uc.edu.ph
Website: www.universityofcebu.edu.ph

Conclusion

The University of Cebu continues to uphold its mission of providing affordable and quality education that equips students for global success. Whether you are pursuing a degree in maritime education, engineering, business, or law, UC offers the academic excellence, facilities, and support system needed to build a successful career.

For aspiring students in Cebu and beyond, UC remains a top choice — where education truly meets opportunity.

FAQs

What makes the University of Cebu (UC) a good choice?

UC combines affordability with breadth of programs across engineering, business, maritime, law, health sciences, IT, education, and more. Multiple campuses around Metro Cebu make commuting easier, while strong industry linkages—especially in shipping, BPO, and tech—translate into internships and job opportunities. UC’s labs, simulators, and outcomes-based curricula are designed to build practical, work-ready skills for local and global careers.

Which campuses does UC have and how do they differ?

UC operates several campuses with distinct strengths: Main (Sanciangko) for business, IT, and law; Banilad for nursing, tourism, hospitality, and engineering; Lapu-Lapu–Mandaue for business, education, criminology, and engineering; METC (Mambaling) focused on maritime; and Pardo–Talisay for SHS and select college programs. Choose based on your degree’s home college and your preferred commute.

What undergraduate programs are most popular?

Flagship tracks include Engineering (CE, EE, ECE, ME, IE, CpE), Business and Accountancy (Accountancy, BA majors), Computer Studies (IT, CS, IS), Maritime (BSMT, BSMarE), Nursing and Health Sciences, Education, Tourism, Hospitality, and Criminology. Competitive programs often require early application and may include qualifying exams or interviews.

How do I apply as a freshman?

Prepare your Form 138 (report card), Good Moral Certificate, PSA birth certificate, ID photos, and take any required entrance assessment for your chosen program. Complete the application (online or on campus), submit documents to the Registrar or Admissions, pay initial fees, and secure your enrollment slip. Keep digital copies to speed up processing.

What is the process for transferees?

Transferees submit Transfer Credentials/Honorable Dismissal, Transcript of Records or certified grades, Good Moral Certificate, and PSA birth certificate. Program heads evaluate course equivalencies; some majors may require bridging subjects or validation exams. Ask early about credit transfer to estimate time-to-graduation and total cost.

Can international students enroll at UC?

Yes. Foreign applicants typically need an SSP or Student Visa, authenticated academic records, medical clearance, and proof of English proficiency if applicable. Start the visa process early and coordinate with UC’s international admissions office for timelines, document formats, and medical insurance requirements.

How much is tuition and what scholarships exist?

Tuition is generally lower than many private universities in the Philippines and varies by course and campus. UC offers academic, athletic, and performing arts scholarships, as well as access to government programs (e.g., CHED, TES, DOST). Maintain required GPAs and unit loads to keep awards; application windows may be early, so watch announcements.

Does UC offer flexible payment plans?

Installment options are commonly available each term. Review the schedule of fees, due dates, and penalties to avoid surcharges or class access holds. If finances change mid-semester, contact the Accounting or Finance Office promptly to explore adjusted arrangements before deadlines.

Are there entrance exams for all programs?

Not always. Some programs use placement tests, interviews, or minimum grade thresholds. Competitive tracks (e.g., Accountancy, Nursing, Maritime, Law) may have stricter screening and retention policies. If you’re borderline on cutoffs, strengthen your application with grades in core subjects and relevant certifications.

What facilities can students expect?

UC provides modern computer labs, engineering workshops, simulation rooms, maritime bridge simulators and training vessels (METC), nursing and health science laboratories, libraries, and multimedia classrooms. Student lounges and cafeterias are available across campuses. Facilities vary by location, so visit the campus that hosts your college.

How strong is UC in maritime education?

UC METC is recognized for comprehensive seafarer training with simulators and MARINA-aligned standards. The programs in Marine Transportation and Marine Engineering emphasize hands-on competencies, safety culture, and shipboard readiness, supporting graduates’ employability with shipping company partners and cadetship pathways.

What is student life like at UC?

UC hosts active student councils, academic societies, cultural and volunteer groups, and competitive varsity teams (UC Webmasters). Expect leadership training, outreach projects, and inter-school competitions. Join early to build networks, leadership experience, and a stronger resume alongside academics.

Does UC have dorms or recommended housing?

On-campus housing is limited. Most students rent nearby apartments or boarding houses around each campus zone. Prioritize safety, commute time, and budget. Consider visiting in person, checking night-time surroundings, and confirming internet reliability before signing a lease.

Can I work while studying?

Many students balance part-time work or paid internships, especially in BPO and tech. Plan schedules carefully to meet attendance and lab requirements. International students must follow visa restrictions. Ask your college about industry partnerships and credit-bearing OJT options.

Does UC offer online, hybrid, or weekend classes?

Delivery modes can include on-site, hybrid, or online depending on course outcomes and lab needs. Working learners often prefer evening or weekend sections when available. Confirm the current mode per subject during enrollment, as policies may shift across terms.

How do retention policies work in selective programs?

Programs like Accountancy, Nursing, Engineering, and Maritime may enforce minimum GPAs and passing rates in gateway courses. Failing to meet standards can lead to probation or program shifts. Use tutoring centers, study groups, and faculty consultations early to stay on track.

What about board exam and bar performance?

UC colleges in Nursing, Engineering, Criminology, and Accountancy, and the College of Law (JD) highlight licensure-readiness. Review historical passing trends and school review support. Intensive review classes, mock exams, and mentoring are common in the lead-up to licensure tests.

When are application and enrollment periods?

Semestral calendars typically open applications months before classes begin. Popular programs and time slots fill quickly. Monitor official announcements, gather documents early, and complete medicals or clearances ahead of payment deadlines to avoid queues.

How do I contact the right UC office?

Start with Admissions or the Registrar for entry, documents, and credit transfers; the Accounting Office for fees and payment plans; your College Dean’s office for curricula and retention rules; and the Guidance Office for counseling and support services. Visit or call the campus that hosts your program for the fastest response.

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