University of the Visayas (UV) Guide: Courses, Campuses, and Admissions

Introduction

The University of the Visayas (UV) is one of the oldest and most respected private universities in Cebu. Known for its strong academic tradition and commitment to accessible education, UV has produced generations of professionals, educators, and leaders across the Visayas and beyond. Whether you are a local student or an international applicant, this guide will provide a detailed look into UV’s programs, campuses, and admission process.

Overview of the University of the Visayas

Founded in 1919 by Vicente Gullas, the University of the Visayas began as the Visayan Institute, the first educational institution in Cebu to offer secondary education. Later, it expanded to include tertiary programs, becoming a full-fledged university in 1948.

Today, UV is part of Cebu’s educational heritage—recognized for its excellence in health sciences, law, education, and maritime studies. With multiple campuses across the province, it continues to uphold its motto: Amor, Servitium, Humanitas (Love, Service, Humanity).

UV’s Mission and Vision

UV’s mission is to provide affordable, quality education that nurtures both intellect and character. Its vision is to develop globally competitive graduates who are morally upright and socially responsible, contributing positively to their communities and the nation.

Campuses and Locations

The University of the Visayas has nine campuses spread across Cebu Province, allowing accessibility to students from different areas.

1. Main Campus (Colon Street, Cebu City)

Located at the heart of downtown Cebu, the main campus houses most of the university’s major colleges, administrative offices, and laboratories. It’s easily accessible by public transport and surrounded by student-friendly amenities.

2. Gullas College of Medicine (Banilad Campus)

The Banilad Campus is home to the Gullas College of Medicine, one of the top choices for medical education in the Visayas. It features modern laboratories, simulation centers, and affiliations with hospitals for clinical training.

3. Pardo and Mandaue Campuses

These campuses focus on basic education, business programs, and teacher training. They serve as community hubs, providing education to students in southern and northern Cebu.

4. Talisay and Toledo Campuses

These campuses extend UV’s reach beyond Metro Cebu, offering programs in engineering, criminology, and information technology.

Academic Programs Offered

The University of the Visayas offers a comprehensive range of programs from basic education to graduate studies. Its flexible offerings and affordable tuition make it a popular choice among local and international students.

Undergraduate Programs

Some of the most sought-after bachelor’s degree programs include:

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

• Bachelor of Science in Criminology

• Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering

• Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd)

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA)

• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT)

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE)

• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science

Graduate and Postgraduate Programs

UV offers a wide range of Master’s and Doctoral programs, including:

• Master of Arts in Education

• Master in Business Administration (MBA)

• Doctor of Education (EdD)

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

• Doctor of Medicine (MD, Gullas College of Medicine)

Senior High School (SHS) Tracks

The university also offers Senior High School programs under the K-12 system, including:

• Academic Track: STEM, ABM, HUMSS, GAS

• Technical-Vocational Track: ICT, HE, Maritime

Gullas College of Medicine

A distinct feature of UV is its Gullas College of Medicine, which attracts students from around the world, including India, Nepal, and Africa. It is recognized by several international medical councils and offers:

• A 5-year Doctor of Medicine program

• Extensive clinical training at Vicente Gullas Memorial Hospital

• Modern facilities such as anatomy labs, simulation centers, and e-learning systems

UV Maritime Education

The College of Maritime Education is among the leading maritime schools in Cebu. It offers programs that meet international standards set by MARINA and CHED:

• Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation (BSMT)

• Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSMarE)
  Students undergo practical training onboard ships through the university’s partnerships with maritime companies.

Law and Criminology Programs

UV’s College of Law and College of Criminology have strong reputations. The law school has produced numerous bar passers, while the criminology program is known for its discipline and field readiness, producing graduates who often serve in law enforcement and government agencies.

Admission Requirements

The University of the Visayas maintains an open admissions policy, welcoming students from all backgrounds.

For Local Applicants

Requirements:

• Filled-out application form

• High school report card (Form 138)

• Certificate of Good Moral Character

• Birth Certificate (PSA copy)

• Two recent ID photos

For International Students

Requirements:

• Authenticated Transcript of Records

• Student Visa or Special Study Permit (SSP)

• Copy of Passport and Birth Certificate

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)

• Medical certificate

Note: The Gullas College of Medicine has additional requirements, including a screening exam and interview.

Tuition and Scholarships

UV is known for its affordable tuition rates compared to other private universities in Cebu.
Approximate tuition ranges from ₱25,000–₱50,000 per semester, depending on the program.

Scholarships are available for:

• Academic excellence

• Varsity athletes

• Financially challenged students

• Government-funded programs (CHED, DOST, LGUs)

Student Life at UV

Student life at the University of the Visayas is vibrant and community-oriented. The university promotes a balance between academics and extracurricular involvement.

Student Organizations

There are dozens of student-led groups, including:

• Debate and public speaking clubs

• Medical and engineering societies

• Cultural and music groups

• Environmental and community outreach organizations

Facilities and Support Services

• Modern classrooms and computer labs

• Libraries and online resources

• Laboratories for science, engineering, and health courses

• Vicente Gullas Memorial Hospital (for medical students)

• Dormitories and nearby affordable housing

Notable Alumni

UV boasts a long list of notable alumni who have excelled in various fields, such as:

• Hilario Davide Jr. – Former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines

• Eduardo Gullas – Former Congressman and UV President

• Tomas Osmeña – Former Cebu City Mayor

• Many others who have served in education, politics, and public service

Why Choose the University of the Visayas

• Over a century of educational excellence

• Wide range of accredited programs

• Affordable tuition with scholarship options

• Accessible campuses across Cebu

• Strong focus on service, humanity, and leadership

• Recognized medical and maritime programs

How to Apply

1. Visit the UV Admissions Office or apply online through their official website.

2. Submit required documents and pay the application fee.

3. Attend an orientation or interview (if required).

4. Receive your admission confirmation and enroll for the upcoming semester.

Contact Information

Main Campus: Colon Street, Cebu City, Philippines
Phone: +63 (32) 256-2231
Email: info@uv.edu.ph
Website: https://www.uv.edu.ph

Final Thoughts
The University of the Visayas (UV) remains a cornerstone of higher education in Cebu, offering affordable yet high-quality academic programs for both local and international students. With its century-long legacy, strong community values, and diverse offerings—from medicine to maritime studies—it continues to empower learners and leaders across the Visayas and beyond.

FAQs

What is the University of the Visayas (UV) known for?

UV is a historic private university in Cebu recognized for accessible, values-centered education and strong programs in health sciences, maritime, education, criminology, engineering, business, and law. Its motto—Amor, Servitium, Humanitas—guides teaching, research, and community engagement. UV’s multi-campus presence makes it convenient for students across Cebu Province.

Where are UV’s campuses located?

UV operates several campuses across Cebu, including the Main Campus on Colon Street (Cebu City), the Banilad campus for Gullas College of Medicine, and additional campuses in Pardo, Mandaue, Talisay, and Toledo. Specific program availability varies by campus, so applicants should confirm offerings before applying.

Which undergraduate programs are most popular?

UV offers a broad portfolio. Popular choices include BS Nursing, BS Criminology, BS Marine Engineering, BS Marine Transportation, BS Information Technology, BS Civil Engineering, BEEd/BSEd, BSBA, and BA Political Science. Many colleges feature industry-aligned curricula and practical training.

Does UV offer graduate and professional degrees?

Yes. UV provides master’s and doctoral degrees (e.g., MA in Education, MBA, EdD, PhD) and a Doctor of Medicine (MD) via the Gullas College of Medicine. Programs emphasize applied research, leadership, and professional practice.

What makes the Gullas College of Medicine notable?

GCM attracts local and international students with a clinically oriented MD program, modern labs, simulation learning, and affiliations for hospital rotations—often at Vicente Gullas Memorial Hospital. Admissions typically involve academic screening and interviews, with additional requirements for foreign applicants.

How do I apply as a first-year student?

Complete the application form, prepare your Form 138 or equivalent, Certificate of Good Moral Character, PSA birth certificate, and ID photos. Some programs may require entrance tests, interviews, or program-specific assessments. Submit documents online (if available) or at the Admissions Office, then wait for confirmation and enrollment instructions.

What are the requirements for international students?

International applicants usually submit authenticated transcripts, a passport copy, a birth certificate, a medical certificate, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent), and must secure a Student Visa or Special Study Permit. Medicine and other regulated programs may add entrance exams or interviews.

How much is tuition and what financial aid exists?

UV is known for comparatively affordable tuition, which varies by program and laboratory requirements. Financial aid options include merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, varsity support, and external scholarships from government or LGU programs. Applicants should inquire early to align deadlines with award cycles.

Does UV have Senior High School (SHS)?

Yes. UV offers SHS Academic tracks (STEM, ABM, HUMSS, GAS) and Tech-Voc tracks (e.g., ICT, HE, Maritime). SHS students benefit from university facilities and can smoothly transition into UV’s tertiary programs, subject to program-specific entry criteria.

Are there entrance exams or cut-offs?

UV maintains an open-admissions orientation for many programs; however, selective colleges (e.g., Medicine, Maritime, Nursing, Engineering) may set additional benchmarks such as standardized tests, qualifying exams, interviews, or medical screenings. Always check the latest college-level policies.

How are internships, clinicals, and practicum handled?

UV integrates experiential learning through partnerships with hospitals, schools, agencies, and companies. Health sciences students complete clinical rotations; maritime students undergo shipboard training; education majors fulfill practice teaching; and business/IT students engage in internships. Placement support is coordinated by college internship offices.

What facilities and learning resources are available?

Facilities typically include libraries, computer labs, science and engineering laboratories, simulation centers for health programs, and campus clinics. Many courses use blended learning with LMS support. Program-specific resources (e.g., workshops, drafting rooms, maritime simulators) are maintained by the respective colleges.

Is on-campus housing available?

Housing options vary by campus. While some students find dormitories or accredited boarding houses near the campuses, availability can fluctuate each term. UV student affairs offices generally provide guidance on nearby accommodations and safety considerations.

How does UV support student life and organizations?

UV hosts academic societies, debate and cultural clubs, student publications, sports teams, and outreach groups. Leadership programs, campus events, and community service activities foster holistic development aligned with UV’s service-oriented mission.

Is UV accredited and recognized?

UV’s programs operate under CHED and relevant regulatory bodies (e.g., MARINA for maritime, PRC-related standards for board programs). Select programs may hold additional accreditation or recognition; prospective students should review the latest status per college.

What is the admissions timeline?

UV commonly follows semestral intakes, with application and enrollment periods announced ahead of each term. Medicine and some specialized programs may open earlier and require longer processing for screening and visas. Prospective students should start several months in advance.

Can transferees and second coursers apply?

Yes. Transferees submit their official transcripts, course descriptions for credit evaluation, good moral certificates, and other standard documents. Second coursers are welcome, particularly in fields with bridging requirements (e.g., Nursing, Education). Residency and credit-transfer rules apply by college.

Are there online or hybrid classes?

UV has adopted flexible modalities where appropriate, combining face-to-face sessions with digital platforms for lectures, assessments, and support. The extent of online delivery depends on program requirements, lab components, and regulatory guidance.

How do I contact UV for the latest updates?

For current program lists, entry requirements, deadlines, and fees, reach out to the UV Admissions Office or the specific college. Because policies and schedules can change, always rely on the most recent official announcements and direct advisories.

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