University of Caloocan City: Manila University Guide
The University of Caloocan City (UCC) is one of the most recognized public universities in Metro Manila, known for its accessible education, strong community focus, and diverse academic programs designed to support both local residents and students from neighboring cities. As a city-funded institution, UCC plays an important role in shaping future professionals across various fields—from education and business to criminology and information technology.
This Manila University Guide provides a detailed overview of UCC, including its campuses, programs, admission process, facilities, student life, and reasons why many Filipino students choose it as their academic home.
Overview of the University of Caloocan City
The University of Caloocan City is a government-supported higher education institution with multiple campuses in the North and South areas of Caloocan. Founded to provide affordable and quality education, UCC has grown significantly over the years, expanding its programs and improving its facilities to meet modern academic standards.
The university is known for its strong commitment to community development and public service. Many of its graduates are now serving in various government offices, schools, police units, corporations, and private organizations.
UCC offers both undergraduate and graduate programs, making it suitable for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees or advanced studies.
Campuses of UCC
UCC operates several campuses to accommodate its large student population and diverse academic programs. Each campus is strategically located to serve different districts of Caloocan.
UCC North Campus
The North Campus serves as one of the primary hubs for academic activities. It typically houses programs related to education, business, and public administration. The campus is accessible via public transportation and is surrounded by residential areas, making it convenient for local students.
UCC South Campus
The South Campus offers a wide range of programs, including technology, engineering, and social sciences. It is one of the largest campuses and often the most active due to its student population and facilities.
UCC Camarin Campus
Located in the northern part of the city, this campus caters primarily to programs like criminology, information technology, and technical education. It also hosts several events, extracurricular clubs, and training grounds.
UCC Congressional Campus
This campus supports growing academic programs and provides additional space for students pursuing administration, education, and business courses. It is one of the newer but rapidly developing facilities of the university.
Popular Academic Programs
The University of Caloocan City offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Some of the most popular courses include:
Bachelor of Science in Criminology
One of the most in-demand programs at UCC, known for producing graduates who pursue careers in law enforcement, correctional institutions, the military, and investigative agencies.
Bachelor of Secondary Education / Bachelor of Elementary Education
UCC has strong education programs, producing many competent teachers who work in both public and private schools across the Philippines.
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
Majors often include Marketing Management, Financial Management, and Human Resource Management. This program prepares students for roles in corporate offices, entrepreneurship, and business operations.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
An increasingly popular program due to the rise of the IT industry. Students gain skills in programming, systems design, and digital solutions.
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
A program suited for students who want to enter government service, law school, or public policy sectors.
Graduate Programs
UCC also offers master’s degrees in fields such as Education, Public Administration, and Business Administration, allowing professionals to advance their careers.
Admission Requirements and Process
Admission to the University of Caloocan City is competitive, especially for highly popular programs. Here are the general steps:
Basic Requirements
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Completed application form (available online or at the registrar’s office)
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High school report card / Form 138
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PSA Birth Certificate
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Good Moral Certificate
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2×2 ID photos
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Entrance examination results (if required)
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Proof of residency (for priority admission)
Application Process
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Submit requirements to the admissions office or online portal.
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Take the entrance exam, depending on the program.
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Attend orientation or interview for selected academic tracks.
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Wait for the admission results, usually released through official announcements.
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Proceed with enrollment, including payment of minimal fees and selection of subjects.
As a city-funded university, UCC offers lower tuition fees compared to private institutions, making it an ideal option for students seeking quality education at an affordable cost.
Facilities and Learning Environment
UCC continues to enhance its facilities to create a supportive learning environment for students.
Classrooms and Lecture Halls
Classrooms across campuses are equipped with modern resources such as projectors and ventilation systems to improve learning quality.
Libraries and Study Spaces
Each campus features a library with academic books, research materials, and computer access. Students also have study areas for group or independent work.
Laboratories
Programs like IT, criminology, and sciences have dedicated labs for practical training—computer labs, forensics labs, and science facilities.
Multipurpose Halls and Auditoriums
Used for orientations, seminars, student assemblies, and cultural events.
Open Spaces and Student Centers
Many campuses offer outdoor areas for relaxation, sports, and campus activities.
Student Life and Organizations
UCC provides a vibrant student community through various clubs and organizations.
Academic Clubs
Groups related to specific majors help students deepen their knowledge, attend trainings, and build networks.
Arts and Cultural Groups
Dance troupes, theater guilds, and music organizations regularly perform at campus events.
Sports Teams
Basketball, volleyball, badminton, and other teams participate in intercollegiate competitions.
Student Government
The Supreme Student Council (SSC) plays an active role in addressing student concerns and organizing major university events.
Campus Events
Students can enjoy activities such as:
Why Choose the University of Caloocan City?
There are several reasons why UCC remains one of the top choices for students in Metro Manila:
1. Affordable Education
UCC offers significantly lower tuition fees due to government support, making higher education accessible to all.
The university emphasizes public service, encouraging students to participate in volunteer work and civic programs.
3. Diverse Academic Programs
From education and business to IT and criminology, UCC provides many options that match different career paths.
4. Accessible Campus Locations
With campuses spread across Caloocan, students can choose the location closest to them.
5. Growing Facilities and Academic Standards
Continuous improvements in infrastructure and program quality help students prepare for real-world careers.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Graduates of UCC have a wide range of employment opportunities depending on their field of study.
Careers for Criminology Graduates
Careers for Education Graduates
Careers for IT Graduates
Careers for Business Graduates
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Marketing assistant
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Office administrator
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Entrepreneur
Public Service Careers
Many UCC graduates pursue government service, especially in local government units (LGUs), public administration offices, and community development sectors.
Conclusion
The University of Caloocan City is a respected public institution that continues to expand its academic programs, modernize its facilities, and strengthen its service to the community. Whether you’re looking for an affordable education, career-focused training, or a supportive campus environment, UCC offers a solid foundation for both personal and professional growth.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the University of Caloocan City (UCC)?
The University of Caloocan City (UCC) is a local government-funded public university in Caloocan, Metro Manila.
It offers affordable tertiary education to residents of the city and nearby areas, with programs in education,
business, criminology, information technology, political science, and other fields. The university aims to
provide quality, community-oriented higher education and to prepare students for both public and private sector careers.
Where is the University of Caloocan City located?
UCC has multiple campuses spread across Caloocan, generally grouped into North and South campuses and additional locations
such as Camarin and Congressional. Each campus hosts specific colleges or programs. The campuses are accessible by public
transportation and are strategically located near residential communities, making it convenient for local students to attend classes.
What academic programs does UCC offer?
UCC offers a broad range of undergraduate and some graduate programs. Popular bachelor’s degrees include:
- Bachelor of Science in Criminology
- Bachelor of Secondary Education and Bachelor of Elementary Education
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (various majors)
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
The university may also offer master’s programs in areas like Education, Business Administration, and Public Administration,
allowing professionals to pursue advanced studies.
Is the University of Caloocan City a public or private institution?
The University of Caloocan City is a public, city-funded institution. This means it is supported by the local government of
Caloocan and is committed to providing affordable higher education to its residents and qualified students from other areas.
How much is the tuition fee at UCC?
Tuition fees at UCC are generally much lower than those at private universities because it is a local government-funded institution.
In some cases, tuition may be heavily subsidized, and students pay only minimal fees related to miscellaneous or administrative costs.
For the most accurate and updated fee schedule, applicants should check the official UCC website or visit the registrar or admissions office.
Who is eligible to apply to the University of Caloocan City?
Senior high school graduates from public and private schools may apply to UCC, subject to admission requirements.
Residents of Caloocan may receive priority as the university is a local government institution, but non-residents can also
be considered depending on available slots and policies. Some programs may have additional qualifications or grade requirements.
What are the basic admission requirements?
Typical admission requirements for incoming first-year students include:
- Accomplished application form
- Senior High School report card or Form 138
- Birth certificate (usually PSA)
- Certificate of Good Moral Character
- Recent ID photos
- Proof of residency (if required for priority)
Depending on the course, an entrance examination, interview, or additional documents may be requested.
Does UCC require an entrance examination?
Many programs at UCC require applicants to take an entrance exam as part of the selection process.
The exam helps assess the applicant’s readiness for college-level work and may include sections on English, mathematics, and general knowledge.
Some programs with high demand, such as criminology or education, may use entrance exam scores for ranking and selection.
Can I work while studying at the University of Caloocan City?
Yes, many UCC students work part-time while studying, especially because the university serves a large population of working students.
However, balancing work and study requires good time management. Students should consider their class schedules, commuting time, and
academic workload before taking on employment. Evening or weekend jobs are often more compatible with full-time study.
What facilities are available on UCC campuses?
Facilities vary by campus but commonly include classrooms, lecture halls, libraries, computer laboratories, science or criminology labs,
multipurpose halls, and open spaces. Some campuses have student centers and sports courts for physical activities and events.
These facilities support both academic learning and student life on campus.
What is student life like at the University of Caloocan City?
Student life at UCC is active and community-focused. Students can join academic organizations, cultural and arts groups, sports teams,
and student councils. Events such as intramurals, foundation day celebrations, seminars, and outreach programs give students opportunities
to build friendships, develop leadership, and engage with the community beyond the classroom.
Are there student organizations and clubs at UCC?
Yes, UCC has a variety of student organizations, including academic societies linked to specific programs, cultural and performing arts groups,
religious organizations, and sports clubs. A student government or supreme student council represents the student body and organizes many
university-wide activities and initiatives.
What career opportunities do UCC graduates have?
Career paths depend on the program completed:
- Criminology graduates may work in law enforcement, corrections, security, or investigative agencies.
- Education graduates often become teachers in public or private schools or pursue further studies in education.
- Business graduates can work in corporate offices, sales, marketing, human resources, or start their own businesses.
- IT graduates may become programmers, technical support staff, systems analysts, or developers.
- Political science and public administration graduates can enter government service, NGOs, or policy-related fields.
Does the University of Caloocan City offer scholarships or financial assistance?
Because UCC is already highly subsidized, tuition is relatively low. However, there may still be scholarship opportunities or financial
assistance programs sponsored by the local government, private partners, or external organizations. Students are encouraged to inquire at
the scholarship or student affairs office for updated information on available grants and eligibility criteria.
How can I get more information about UCC?
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on programs, admission schedules, requirements, and fees, you should visit the official
University of Caloocan City website or follow its verified social media pages. You may also contact the registrar or admissions office,
or personally visit one of the campuses during office hours for direct assistance.
