National University of Costa Rica

National University of Costa Rica Overview

The National University of Costa Rica (UNA) stands as one of the five state universities in the nation, alongside the University of Costa Rica, the Costa Rica Institute of Technology, the State Distance University, and the National Technical University.

Based on the latest international standards for university evaluation, the UNA holds the 55th position in Latin America and ranks 701 globally.

Established in 1973, the UNA, located in the province of Heredia, emerged under the visionary leadership of Uladislao Gámez Solano, Minister of Public Education during President José Figueres Ferrer's administration. Its creation was officially ratified on February 15, 1973, through Law 5182, bearing the motto "Truth Sets Us Free."

The UNA welcomed its first students on March 14, 1973, inheriting the legacy of the Costa Rica Normal School and the Superior Normal School. Rooted in a humanistic foundation, it became known as the "Necessary University," devoted to offering equal access to higher education for the less privileged sectors of Costa Rican society.

Committed to humanism, the university offers a diverse academic portfolio, spanning over 100 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields of knowledge such as natural and exact sciences, earth and marine sciences, education, social sciences, health sciences, philosophy, literature, and arts.

In alignment with 21st-century challenges, the UNA continuously introduces new undergraduate and postgraduate options, including innovative Master's programs in Remote Sensing Systems and Bioethics.

The UNA's historical lineage includes the Instituto Pedagógico Centroamericano, an institution established to jointly educate Central American teachers. While initially part of the first Washington system, it transitioned into an exclusive Costa Rican entity known as the Escuela Normal, which eventually evolved into the UNA in 1973.

At the heart of the university's organization lie five pivotal Vice-Rectorates that collaboratively shape its endeavors. The Research Vice-Rectorate champions innovation and knowledge dissemination, catalyzing transformative research. Engaging with the broader community, the Extension Vice-Rectorate addresses social disparities through academic outreach. Within the Teaching Vice-Rectorate, a commitment to excellence is nurtured through coordinated and innovative pedagogical approaches. Focusing on holistic growth, the Student Life Vice-Rectorate conducts research, delivers diverse teaching, and offers administrative services. Meanwhile, the Administration Vice-Rectorate provides indispensable support, overseeing academic and operational functions. This dynamic framework is complemented by essential Centers and specialized Faculties, spanning from the Center for General Studies to the Center for Artistic Research, Teaching, and Extension (CIDEA), encompassing various domains including exact sciences, social sciences, philosophy, letters, health sciences, and earth and marine sciences. This integrated structure reflects the university's dedication to comprehensive education, impactful research, and meaningful societal engagement.

The UNA's central campus, Omar Dengo, situated across Heredia's provinces, accommodates most faculties and administrative buildings. It honors the legacy of renowned Costa Rican educator Omar Dengo Guerrero, who studied at the precursor institution and later lent his name to the campus.

In recent years, the UNA has expanded its infrastructure, rejuvenating facilities like the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters and the Faculty of Social Sciences through a UNA-BCIE agreement. The campus continues to grow with the inauguration of new buildings, including the Registration-Financial Building and the Megastudent Laboratory, a significant achievement for language and laboratory-based courses.

The university's commitment to community extends to its regional campuses and research centers, catering to students from diverse backgrounds and geographical locations.

Entrance to UNA requires a comprehensive admission test evaluating verbal and mathematical reasoning, along with psychosocial analysis and academic history. Specialized programs may necessitate an additional Specific Aptitude Test.

Promoting a vibrant sports culture, UNA excels in various disciplines, from basketball and baseball to swimming, chess, athletics, and soccer. The institution's dedication to sports has been demonstrated in national tournaments and leagues.

With an unwavering focus on its vision and commitment to education, research, and societal transformation, the National University of Costa Rica remains a beacon of knowledge and opportunity in the heart of Central America.