University of the Bío Bío

University of the Bío Bío Overview

The Universidad del Bío-Bío, a distinguished Chilean state-funded institution of higher education, is situated in the Biobío and Ñuble regions, with campuses in Concepción and Chillán. It stands as one of the twenty-five universities belonging to the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities and is a proud member of the Association of Regional Universities of Chile.

Endorsed by the Chilean National Accreditation Commission (CNA-Chile), the university has received accreditation for a five-year term (out of a maximum of seven) from August 2019 to August 2024. It holds the 21st position among Chilean universities according to the SCImago Institutions Rankings (SIR) 2022, and it's placed 15th in the AméricaEconomía 2021 ranking.

The university's origins trace back to 1947 when, as a result of the University Reform and the application of the development pole theory, traditional universities established satellite campuses across the country. In the Biobío Region, campuses of the Universidad Técnica del Estado and the Universidad de Chile were established in Chillán (Sede Ñuble) in 1966.

In 1981, Chile's university system underwent a significant transformation. The Sede Ñuble of the Universidad de Chile transformed into the Instituto Profesional de Chillán (IPROCH), and the Sede Concepción of the Universidad Técnica del Estado (UTE) evolved into the "Universidad de Bío-Bío." This transformation was prompted by the inclusion of architecture programs, one of the twelve designated as university-level studies.

Through the enactment of Law No. 18 744 on September 29, 1988, the "Universidad del Bío-Bío" was created by integrating the Universidad de Bío-Bío (formerly Universidad Técnica del Estado UTE de Concepción) and the Instituto Profesional de Chillán. Initially, the UBB had a student enrollment of 4,300. Today, its student body surpasses ten thousand, spread across 39 undergraduate programs and 2 Bachelor's degree programs (across Concepción and Chillán campuses) offered through six faculties: Architecture, Construction and Design; Engineering; Sciences; Business Sciences; Education and Humanities; and Health Sciences and Food.

The university's organizational structure includes the General Directorate of Research, Development, and Innovation, focused on connecting internal knowledge with the productive sector through technology transfer, training, technical assistance, and research.

Thus, built upon the legacy of its founding institutions – rooted in the Industrial School of Chillán and the Agricultural School of Concepción – and sustained by constant growth since its inception, the UBB holds a prominent position among higher education institutions in the country, particularly among its autonomous university counterparts.

The university's administrative structure encompasses various key bodies, starting with the Honorable Board of Directors, the highest collegial authority responsible for shaping global development policies and long-term plans. Below, the Rectorate serves as the legal representative overseeing day-to-day operations, while the Prorectorate coordinates both academic and administrative matters. Further divisions include the Vice-Rectorate for Academic Affairs, managing academic affairs and faculty coordination, and the Vice-Rectorate for Economic Affairs, responsible for administrative and financial policies. The General Secretariat acts as the official spokesperson and document custodian, while the University Comptroller ensures legality and proper fund utilization. Additionally, the university consists of six faculties, each housing various departments that contribute to its academic and research missions.

The university encompasses multiple campuses and facilities, with Concepción Campus serving as the primary hub housing administrative offices and faculties like Engineering, Basic Sciences, Architecture, Construction, and Design. The Chillán Campus, which includes La Castilla and Fernando May campuses, hosts faculties specializing in Education and Humanities, as well as Health Sciences and Food. La Castilla Campus stands out for its excellence in teacher training and research within the realm of Education and Humanities. The Fernando May Campus, named after a generous benefactor, accommodates Health Sciences and Food faculties and also houses the Faculties of Business Sciences and Engineering.

Regarding infrastructure and facilities, the university boasts an extensive library network spread across various locations. These libraries feature comprehensive collections tailored to support the institution's academic programs, coupled with modern technology and comfortable study spaces that facilitate both learning and research. Additionally, the university has its own anthem, composed by Germán Bécker Ureta and arranged by Vicente Bianchi Alarcón, which encapsulates its values, heritage, and dedication to knowledge. In the realm of cultural engagement, the university actively encourages artistic pursuits by involving students in a range of arts-related groups, workshops, and activities. This initiative aims to create an enriching environment where students can nurture their artistic talents and deepen their appreciation for the arts.