University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) Guide

The University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila) stands as the country’s premier institution for health sciences and medical education. As one of the constituent universities of the University of the Philippines System, UP Manila holds a distinct reputation for academic excellence, social relevance, and research innovation. Located in the historic Ermita district, it serves as both a leading university and a center for public service through the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).

Whether you are an aspiring medical student, researcher, or someone looking to study in a prestigious national university, this guide will provide a detailed overview of UP Manila—from its programs and admission process to campus life and opportunities.

Overview of UP Manila

Founded in 1908 as part of the original UP system and formally established as a separate unit in 1983, UP Manila is known as the “Health Sciences Center of the Philippines.” The campus houses colleges specializing in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, public health, allied medical professions, and arts and sciences.

Its mission revolves around producing highly skilled professionals and leaders who can contribute to improving the health and well-being of Filipinos. UP Manila also leads in biomedical research and public health policy formulation, making it a cornerstone of the country’s healthcare education.

Location and Campus Environment

UP Manila is located along Pedro Gil Street in Ermita, Manila, adjacent to the bustling Taft Avenue. This strategic location places it near major hospitals, government offices, cultural landmarks, and student-oriented establishments.

The campus layout integrates academic buildings, laboratories, and clinical facilities such as the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), which serves as the primary teaching hospital for medical and health-related programs. The area is lively yet secure, with easy access to transportation, food spots, dormitories, and libraries.

Nearby landmarks include Robinsons Place Manila, Intramuros, and Rizal Park—providing both convenience and cultural enrichment to students.

Academic Excellence and Recognition

UP Manila has consistently ranked among the top universities in the Philippines and Southeast Asia, particularly in health sciences and research output.

It is widely recognized for its rigorous programs in medicine, nursing, and public health. Graduates of UP Manila often top national board examinations and hold leadership positions in hospitals, government agencies, and international organizations.

UP Manila is also home to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the country’s leading research institution in biomedical sciences, public health, and policy development.

Colleges and Degree Programs

UP Manila has several colleges offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Here is a summary of its main academic units:

1. College of Medicine

One of the most prestigious medical schools in the country, the UP College of Medicine offers the seven-year Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine (INTARMED) program, designed for highly qualified students who wish to pursue a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree directly after high school.

2. College of Nursing

The UP College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and various graduate programs. It is recognized globally for producing top-caliber nurses who work in local and international healthcare systems.

3. College of Pharmacy

This college trains pharmacists and researchers in drug development, pharmacy practice, and pharmaceutical sciences. The BS Pharmacy and BS Industrial Pharmacy programs are among its top offerings.

4. College of Dentistry

The College of Dentistry provides excellent training for future dental professionals with programs leading to a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). It also runs community outreach programs that offer free dental services.

5. College of Public Health

The College of Public Health (CPH) is known for advancing health promotion and disease prevention in communities. It offers BS and MS degrees in Public Health and collaborates with international agencies like WHO.

6. College of Allied Medical Professions

This college trains professionals in Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech Pathology. Its graduates often pursue international careers and advanced studies abroad.

7. College of Arts and Sciences

While UP Manila is known for health sciences, this college offers foundational programs in biology, political science, organizational communication, and social sciences. Many of its graduates proceed to law, medicine, or public administration.

Admission Process

Admission to UP Manila is highly competitive and managed through the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) or the UP College of Medicine’s separate screening process for advanced programs.

For Undergraduate Students:

• Applicants must take and pass the UPCAT.

• Admission depends on the University Predicted Grade (UPG) and campus-specific cut-offs.

• Some programs, such as INTARMED and Public Health, require interviews and additional testing.

For Graduate and Professional Programs:

• Applicants must have a strong academic record and pass the required entrance examinations or interviews.

• Programs like Medicine and Dentistry may require prerequisite coursework or related undergraduate degrees.

It’s important to check UP Manila’s official website or the Office of Admissions for the latest requirements and deadlines.

Tuition Fees and Financial Assistance

As a state university, UP Manila offers affordable tuition compared to private institutions. Under the Free Tuition Law (RA 10931), qualified Filipino undergraduate students can study for free in UP campuses.

Financial Aid Options Include:

• Iskolar ng Bayan Program – for top graduates of public high schools.

• Student Loan Program – allows deferred payment with minimal interest.

• UP Manila Financial Assistance Program (UPMFAP) – for students in need of support based on family income.

• Private and NGO Scholarships – many foundations offer grants for nursing, medicine, and public health students.

Campus Life and Student Experience

Life at UP Manila combines academic rigor with community involvement. Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, leadership organizations, and public service initiatives.

Student Organizations

There are more than 100 student groups on campus, covering academic societies, advocacy groups, sports clubs, and cultural organizations.

Facilities

The campus provides modern libraries, laboratories, and the PGH for clinical training. There are also study lounges, student centers, and Wi-Fi zones.

Accommodation

Many students live in nearby dormitories or apartments in Ermita and Malate. UP Manila also offers limited dorm slots for undergraduates and medical students.

Safety and Transportation

The campus maintains security personnel, and the area is accessible via jeepney, LRT (Pedro Gil Station), and bus routes.

Research and Innovation

UP Manila’s research arm, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), drives innovation in healthcare policy, disease control, and public health systems.

Students and faculty frequently publish in international journals and collaborate with organizations like WHO, UNICEF, and DOH. Research projects often focus on topics such as tropical diseases, mental health, and health system strengthening.

Community Service and Public Health Programs

A hallmark of UP Manila’s education is its commitment to public service. Students regularly participate in medical missions, health education campaigns, and disaster response initiatives.

Through the Philippine General Hospital, UP Manila provides healthcare access to thousands of indigent patients each year—making it both an educational and humanitarian institution.

Career Opportunities for Graduates

Graduates of UP Manila enjoy a strong advantage in employment due to their academic background and clinical experience.

Many go on to work as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and therapists both in the Philippines and abroad. Others pursue research, teaching, or policy-making positions in universities, hospitals, NGOs, or government agencies.

Notable Alumni

UP Manila has produced many leaders in medicine, healthcare, and public service, including:

• Dr. Jose B. Cruz Jr. – pioneer in cardiology and academic researcher

• Dr. Jaime Galvez-Tan – former DOH Secretary and public health advocate

• Dr. Carmencita Padilla – Chancellor of UP Manila and geneticist

• Dr. Willie Ong – physician and social media health educator

Their work reflects UP Manila’s mission of serving the nation through science, compassion, and integrity.

How to Reach UP Manila

Address: Pedro Gil Street, Ermita, Manila, Philippines
Nearest Landmarks: Philippine General Hospital, Robinsons Place Manila, LRT Pedro Gil Station
Transportation Options: Jeepneys, buses, taxis, Grab, and the LRT Line 1

Final Thoughts

The University of the Philippines Manila represents the highest standard of health education and service in the country. More than just a medical university, it is a hub for innovation, research, and social responsibility.

For students passionate about medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or public health, UP Manila offers not only academic prestige but also the opportunity to make a lasting impact on Filipino society.

By joining the UP community, you don’t just study—you serve, innovate, and lead.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is UP Manila the same as UP Diliman?

No. UP Manila is a constituent university of the University of the Philippines System that specializes in health sciences and related fields, while UP Diliman is the flagship campus offering a broad range of disciplines. Degrees, admissions processes, and campus life differ across units.

What programs is UP Manila best known for?

UP Manila is recognized for medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, public health, allied medical professions (physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology), and select arts and sciences programs (e.g., biology, organizational communication). Clinical training is heavily integrated through the Philippine General Hospital.

How competitive is admission to UP Manila?

Admission is highly competitive. Most undergraduate applicants are screened through the UP admission process, which evaluates academic readiness. Some programs conduct additional screening such as interviews, skills assessments, or program-specific prerequisites. Strong grades and clear motivation for health sciences significantly help.

Does UP Manila offer INTARMED (the 7-year MD program)?

Yes. The College of Medicine offers INTARMED, an accelerated pathway leading to the MD degree for a small number of highly qualified students. Selection involves rigorous screening beyond the standard undergraduate admission process and is intended for applicants with exceptional academic and non-academic profiles.

Are tuition fees free for eligible undergraduates?

Qualified Filipino undergraduates may study with free tuition and miscellaneous fees under national policy for state universities, subject to eligibility rules. Students should verify coverage, required documentation, and any exclusions each academic year with UP Manila’s official announcements.

What financial aid or scholarships are available?

UP Manila offers need-based assistance, student loans, and campus-managed grants. External scholarships from government agencies, NGOs, and private foundations are common, particularly for medicine, nursing, and public health. Application timelines, income documentation, and service-return agreements vary by program.

Can international students apply to UP Manila?

Yes. International applicants are accepted in selected programs subject to admission requirements, English proficiency, and immigration regulations. Some clinical programs may have additional licensure or practice constraints. It is advisable to contact the target college for program-specific guidance before applying.

How strong is UP Manila in research?

UP Manila is a national leader in biomedical and public health research, anchored by the National Institutes of Health. Faculty and students collaborate on priority areas such as infectious diseases, genetics, health systems, and policy. Research assistants and graduate students often participate in funded projects.

What is the role of Philippine General Hospital (PGH) in training?

PGH serves as UP Manila’s primary teaching and referral hospital. Students gain hands-on exposure to diverse cases, interprofessional teams, and community-oriented care. This clinical immersion is central to the practical training of medicine, nursing, dentistry, and allied health students.

Is UP Manila only for health-related courses?

No. While health sciences are the core, UP Manila’s College of Arts and Sciences offers programs in the social sciences, natural sciences, and communication. Many graduates from these programs proceed to medicine, law, research, government, or industry roles.

What is campus life like around Ermita and Malate?

The campus sits in a busy urban district near hospitals, government offices, museums, and malls. Students balance rigorous academics with organizations focused on service, research, culture, and advocacy. Commuting options include the LRT, jeepneys, buses, ride-hailing, and walking between adjacent buildings.

Are there dormitories or nearby housing options?

Limited university-managed dorm spaces may be available; many students rent apartments or boarding houses in Ermita and Malate. When choosing off-campus housing, consider safety, lighting, flood history, proximity to campus buildings, and travel time during peak traffic.

How does UP Manila support student well-being and safety?

Student services include guidance and counseling, campus security, health services, and organizations promoting wellness. Colleges often conduct orientations on safety, academic integrity, and professional conduct. Students are encouraged to register emergency contacts and follow official advisories during weather disruptions.

What are typical class sizes and learning formats?

Class sizes vary by college and course level. Foundational lectures may be larger, while laboratories, seminars, and clinical rotations are smaller and more intensive. Teaching methods combine lectures, case analyses, problem-based learning, simulations, and supervised clinical practice.

Do graduates perform well on board and licensure exams?

UP Manila graduates have a strong record in national licensure examinations across medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health fields. The combination of rigorous coursework, early clinical exposure, and research culture contributes to consistent outcomes.

What career paths can students expect after graduation?

Alumni pursue clinical practice, residency and specialization, public health leadership, academia, pharmaceutical and device industries, health informatics, policy and program management, and international development. Many also engage in research careers or pursue graduate and professional degrees abroad.

How can students get research or volunteer experience?

Opportunities exist through the National Institutes of Health, college-based centers, faculty laboratories, and community health programs. Students may assist in data collection, fieldwork, literature reviews, or protocol development, and join medical missions or health education campaigns in underserved areas.

What should applicants prepare before applying?

Prepare strong academic records, standardized requirements, and relevant experiences such as science competitions, community health work, or research exposure. For selective programs, craft a concise statement of purpose, secure thoughtful recommendations, and review prerequisites early to avoid delays.

How do I verify current requirements and deadlines?

Always refer to official UP Manila and specific college announcements for the latest admission guidelines, document lists, calendars, and fee policies. Requirements can change by program and academic year, so applicants should monitor updates and contact offices directly when uncertain.

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