Olivarez College: Cebu University Guide

Olivarez College is a well-known private educational institution in the Philippines, recognized for its strong academic programs, long-standing history, and industry-aligned curriculum. Although its main campuses are located in Parañaque and Tagaytay, many students from Cebu and other regions consider Olivarez College when exploring options for higher education or transferring to institutions in Metro Manila. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the college, covering its background, academic programs, campus life, facilities, admission process, tuition expectations, and reasons why students choose the school.

Overview of Olivarez College

Olivarez College is a private, non-sectarian institution founded by Dr. Pablo Olivarez and Dr. Rosario Olivarez. It is built on the vision of providing accessible, quality-driven, and values-centered education across various fields, including health sciences, business, hospitality, education, and information technology.

Over the years, the school has earned a solid reputation for offering strong medical-related programs such as Nursing, Medical Technology, and Radiologic Technology, as well as other professional tracks that prepare students for real-world careers. While it is based outside Cebu, many Cebuano students choose Olivarez College for specialized programs, board exam performance, and its proximity to job opportunities in Metro Manila.

History and Institutional Mission

The institution began as a small healthcare training school before expanding into a full-fledged college with multiple departments. Its long-standing ties with various hospitals, companies, and community organizations have contributed to the institution’s growth and credibility.

Mission highlights include:

• Delivering holistic, values-driven education

• Providing industry-relevant curriculum

• Supporting student development through leadership training and community involvement

• Preparing students for professional licensure and employment

Olivarez College integrates academic rigor with character formation, making it a popular choice for students seeking well-rounded education.

Academic Programs Offered

Olivarez College offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and technical-vocational programs. Below are the major fields of study typically available.

Health and Allied Sciences

The college is best known for its healthcare programs, including:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing

• Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology

• Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology

• Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

• Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy

These programs often include clinical internships in partner hospitals, allowing students to gain practical experience early on.

Business and Management

Popular business programs include:

• BS in Business Administration (various majors)

• BS in Accountancy

• BS in Entrepreneurship

These courses emphasize foundational business knowledge, management skills, and real-world application through case studies and on-the-job training.

Education

Olivarez College provides strong teacher training programs that focus on classroom management, pedagogy, and curriculum development. The offerings often include:

• Bachelor of Elementary Education

• Bachelor of Secondary Education (English, Math, Science, etc.)

Hospitality and Tourism

Given the Philippines’ tourism-driven economy, these programs attract many students:

• BS in Hospitality Management

• BS in Tourism Management

Students typically undergo industry apprenticeship in hotels, resorts, or travel agencies.

Information Technology

The IT department offers:

• BS in Information Technology

• BS in Computer Science

Courses emphasize coding, system design, and industry certifications.

Graduate School

Some campuses also offer graduate studies in business and education, allowing working professionals to pursue advanced degrees.

Campus Facilities and Learning Environment

Olivarez College campuses typically offer a complete set of facilities designed to support academic and extracurricular growth. While facilities may vary per location, students generally have access to:

• Modern classrooms with multimedia equipment

• Science and computer laboratories

• Skills laboratories for Nursing and other health programs

• Libraries with digital and physical resources

• Clinics and guidance offices

• Student activity centers

• Sports facilities, gymnasiums, and open spaces

Its Parañaque campus, one of the most well-known, is especially noted for having extensive medical laboratories, given the strong focus on allied health programs.

Student Life and Organizations

The college encourages students to participate in both academic and non-academic activities. Student organizations cover:

• Academic clubs

• Sports and athletics teams

• Cultural and performing arts groups

• Leadership and community outreach organizations

Events such as intramurals, cultural festivals, seminars, and competitions are common throughout the year. These help students develop confidence, leadership skills, and camaraderie.

Internship and Industry Partnerships

One of the advantages of attending Olivarez College is its close ties with industry partners. Health sciences students typically undergo clinical rotations in affiliated hospitals, while business and hospitality students complete internships with corporations, hotels, and other establishments.

These partnerships help students gain practical experience and improve their employability after graduation.

Admission Requirements

While requirements can vary by program, the general admission process includes:

For Freshmen Applicants

• Completed application form

• Form 138 (report card)

• Birth certificate

• Certificate of Good Moral Character

• 2–4 ID pictures

• Entrance exam (if required by the specific program)

For Transferees

• Transcript of Records or Certification of Grades

• Honorable Dismissal

• Good Moral Certificate

• Evaluation of credited subjects

For Graduate Studies

• College diploma

• Transcript of Records

• Entrance interview

• Additional program-specific requirements

Some highly competitive programs, such as Nursing and Medical Technology, may require additional assessments or interviews.

Tuition and Other Fees

Olivarez College is generally considered moderately priced compared to other private institutions in Metro Manila, especially for health science programs. Tuition varies significantly by course, year level, and laboratory requirements.

Typical cost range:

• PHP 30,000 – PHP 60,000 per semester for most undergraduate programs

• Health science programs may exceed this range due to lab and clinical fees

The college also provides flexible payment schemes and scholarships for qualified students.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance

Olivarez College offers several forms of financial assistance, including:

• Academic scholarships for honor students

• Athletic scholarships

• Discounts for siblings

• Government-funded programs like TES or CHED scholarships (when available)

Students may inquire directly with the scholarship office for updated requirements.

Why Students Choose Olivarez College

Strong Healthcare Programs

Known for solid nursing and medical-related courses, the college attracts students planning to pursue careers in the medical field.

Accessible Education

Tuition fees are more affordable than many private institutions offering similar programs.

Proximity to Metro Manila Job Markets

The Parañaque campus offers location advantages for internships and job opportunities.

Balanced Training Approach

Academic learning is supplemented with real-world exposure, leadership development, and values formation.

Tips for Students from Cebu Considering Olivarez College

Consider Proximity and Lifestyle

Moving to Metro Manila—especially to Parañaque—means adjusting to a fast-paced urban environment.

Compare Health Science Programs

If you’re planning to take Nursing, Medical Technology, or Radiologic Technology, compare board exam performance and training facilities across schools.

Plan Accommodation Early

There are numerous dormitories, apartments, and boarding houses near the campus, but prices vary greatly.

Research Internship Opportunities

Check available industry partners to see if they align with your career goals.

Conclusion

Olivarez College remains a reputable private institution offering high-quality programs—especially in health sciences, business, and education. Whether you are from Cebu or other regions, the school provides a well-rounded academic experience supported by industry partnerships, facilities, and an environment focused on character and professional growth.

This guide serves as an essential starting point for understanding what Olivarez College offers and why it continues to be a popular choice for students pursuing higher education in the Philippines.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is Olivarez College located in Cebu?

Olivarez College is not located in Cebu. Its main campuses are in Parañaque and Tagaytay in Luzon. However, many students from Cebu and other parts of the Visayas choose to study there, especially for healthcare and professional programs. This guide is meant for Cebu-based or Cebu-interested students who are researching options for studying in Metro Manila, including Olivarez College.

Why is this called a “Cebu University Guide” if the campus is in Parañaque or Tagaytay?

The phrase “Cebu University Guide” reflects the perspective of students and families who are researching from Cebu and considering schools across the Philippines. The guide is designed to answer questions that Cebu-based or Visayas-based students may have about Olivarez College, including its programs, costs, location, and lifestyle, even though the campus itself is in Metro Manila or nearby areas.

What is Olivarez College best known for?

Olivarez College is widely known for its strong health and allied sciences programs, particularly Nursing, Medical Technology, Radiologic Technology, and other medical-related courses. It is also recognized for business, education, hospitality, and information technology programs. The institution emphasizes values-based education, practical training, and industry partnerships, especially with hospitals and companies in Metro Manila and nearby cities.

What undergraduate programs are offered at Olivarez College?

Olivarez College typically offers a variety of undergraduate programs, including degrees in Nursing, Medical Technology, Radiologic Technology, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, Business Administration, Accountancy, Entrepreneurship, Education, Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, and Information Technology. Specific offerings may vary by campus, so students should always confirm the latest list of programs directly with the school before applying.

Does Olivarez College have strong Nursing and Medical Technology programs?

Yes. Olivarez College is often chosen for its nursing and allied health programs, thanks to its medical laboratories, experienced faculty, and affiliations with hospitals and health institutions. Students usually undergo clinical rotations or internships as part of the curriculum, gaining real-world experience in patient care and laboratory work. Prospective Nursing or MedTech students from Cebu often include Olivarez in their shortlist when comparing health science schools.

What are the typical admission requirements for new college students?

For incoming freshmen, admission requirements usually include a filled-out application form, Form 138 (report card), birth certificate, certificate of good moral character, and several ID photos. Some programs, especially in the health sciences, may require an entrance exam, interview, or additional screening. Requirements for transferees and graduate students are slightly different and involve transcripts, honorable dismissal, and evaluations of previous coursework.

How much is the tuition fee at Olivarez College?

Tuition fees vary based on the program, year level, and number of laboratory subjects. Generally, many undergraduate programs fall in the approximate range of around PHP 30,000 to PHP 60,000 per semester. Health-related courses with more laboratory and clinical components may cost more. These figures are only rough estimates, so students should always check directly with the Registrar or Finance Office for updated and accurate tuition information.

Are scholarships or financial assistance available?

Olivarez College typically offers several forms of financial support such as academic scholarships for honor students, athletic scholarships for varsity players, sibling discounts, and occasionally government-funded assistance through CHED or other programs when available. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria, grade requirements, and application deadlines. Interested students should coordinate with the school’s Scholarship or Student Affairs Office for the most current details and documentary requirements.

What kind of facilities can students expect on campus?

Students can usually expect standard higher-education facilities such as lecture rooms, science laboratories, computer labs, and a well-stocked library. Health science students benefit from specialized skills laboratories that simulate clinical environments. Many campuses also feature a clinic, guidance office, student lounges, sports and PE areas, and spaces for clubs or activities. Facilities may differ between campuses, so campus tours or online orientations are helpful before enrolling.

What is student life like at Olivarez College?

Student life at Olivarez College is generally active and community-oriented. There are academic organizations, cultural and performing arts groups, sports teams, and community outreach clubs. Students frequently participate in intramurals, seminars, student leadership training, outreach projects, and campus celebrations. This mix of academic work and extracurricular activities helps students build confidence, leadership skills, and friendships beyond the classroom environment.

Is Olivarez College a good option for students coming from Cebu?

For students from Cebu who are willing to study in Metro Manila or Tagaytay, Olivarez College can be a strong option, especially for Nursing, MedTech, and other health science programs. It offers industry-linked training, a values-centered environment, and access to urban job markets. However, students must also consider relocation costs, accommodation, travel, and their readiness to live away from home. Comparing Olivarez with Cebu-based schools is advisable before making a final decision.

How can Cebu-based students prepare if they plan to enroll at Olivarez College?

Cebu-based students should begin by researching programs, checking admission dates, and preparing documents early. It is wise to budget for relocation expenses, dormitory or apartment rent, and living costs in Parañaque or Tagaytay. Joining official school pages or student groups on social media can help future students understand campus culture, find potential roommates, and ask practical questions about commuting, safety, and daily life near the campus.