University of the Andes

University of the Andes Overview

The Universidad de los Andes, a distinguished private institution with campuses in Bogotá and Cartagena, stands as a testament to visionary leadership and a commitment to higher education that has transcended time. Established in 1948 by the visionary mathematician, humanist, politician, and journalist Mario Laserna Pinzón, along with the support of a network of esteemed intellectuals and leaders, the university was conceived with the noble purpose of introducing a new paradigm of higher education to Colombia. It was inspired by the American university model, emphasizing secularism, humanism, economic sustainability through philanthropy, and independence from religious, governmental, and political influences.

With an impressive faculty of 731 professors, 73% of whom hold doctoral degrees, the Universidad de los Andes boasts a vibrant academic community. Organized into 12 academic units, including 10 faculties, the Alberto Lleras Camargo School of Government, and the Interdisciplinary Center for Development Studies, the university offers a comprehensive array of educational programs. It encompasses 43 undergraduate programs, 33 specializations, 76 master's degrees, and 17 doctoral programs, reflecting its commitment to fostering intellectual growth and exploration.

A hallmark of the institution is its dedication to research, evidenced by its accreditation of over 143 research groups. The university's extensive library system is home to an impressive collection of 681,717 volumes spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day, providing scholars with a wealth of knowledge and resources.

The Universidad de los Andes achieved a significant milestone on January 26, 2015, when it received a 10-year Institutional Accreditation of High Quality from the Ministry of National Education. This prestigious recognition reflects the university's unwavering commitment to excellence in education and research.

In the global academic landscape, the university shines as a beacon of distinction. Notably, the Quacquarelli Symonds World University Ranking places it among the top 220 universities worldwide, a feat that underscores its academic prowess and influence. In the Latin American context, it stands proudly as one of the top five institutions, and within Colombia, it holds the distinction of being the premier university. This recognition is a testament to the relentless pursuit of academic excellence that defines the Universidad de los Andes.

Throughout its storied history, the university has undergone transformative growth. From its humble beginnings in the late 1940s with around 70 students occupying repurposed structures such as former women's prisons and convents, the campus has expanded to encompass more than 172,000 square meters dedicated to education and administration. With a commitment to preserving architectural heritage and embracing innovation, the campus seamlessly blends historic structures with modern facilities, creating an inspiring environment for learning and research.

Guided by its founders' vision, the university has cultivated a tradition of nurturing globally-minded leaders. This commitment to internationalization is evident in the numerous agreements with esteemed universities around the world. Through these partnerships, students and faculty members engage in academic and cultural exchanges that enrich their perspectives and contribute to the global academic community.

As a testament to its dedication to research and innovation, the Universidad de los Andes has consistently excelled in producing scholarly output. It is a frontrunner in the Colombian academic landscape, boasting the highest number of peer-reviewed publications according to the Science Citation Index. The university's rigorous pursuit of knowledge is further underscored by its involvement in various international networks and collaborations that foster groundbreaking research and propel academic advancement.

The university's commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals extends beyond the classroom, with a robust network of extracurricular activities and initiatives. From the iconic statue of San Alberto Magno, affectionately known as "El Bobo," which has become a symbol of unity and identity within the campus community, to the endearing mascot Séneca, the university's culture is marked by a sense of belonging and camaraderie.