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Universidade de São Paulo

Address: Universidade de São Paulo, Rua da Praça do Relógio, 109, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo - SP, 05508-900, Brazil
Phone: +55 11 3091-3111
Email: info@usp.br
Website: www.usp.br


About Universidade de São Paulo

Founded in 1934, University of São Paulo, is the largest institution of higher education and research in Brazil. In fact, it accounts for a significant proportion of the country’s master’s and doctoral degrees. USP is known in Brazil for its pursuit of excellence in teaching and research and for its contribution to advances in science and technology. Proof of this is its performance in academic rankings. USP is a public, state-operated university and does not charge tuition fees. The campuses are distributed in eight cities in the State of São Paulo: Bauru, Lorena, Piracicaba, Pirassununga, Ribeirão Preto, Santos, São Carlos and São Paulo, which is the State Capital.  

The university, which is also known simply as USP, consists of 42 schools, six specialized institutes, four hospitals, four museums, 67 libraries and a considerable number of well-equipped laboratories. This structure serves approximately 59,000 undergraduate and 30,000 graduate students. The faculty consists of about 5,600 professors, backed up by a staff of 13,700 people. Internationalisation is one of USP’s major features. Since its earliest days, the university has welcomed people from all over the world, and continues to do so through partnerships and networks. In 2018, about 3,000 international students were received in its undergraduate and graduate programs. USP’s International Cooperation Office handles the University’s initiatives in internationalization, including undergraduate and graduate exchange programs.  

Find out more about life at the Universidade de São Paulo via its social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn. 

Why Universidade de São Paulo

The Universidade de São Paulo (USP) is renowned for several reasons that contribute to its standing as one of the top universities in Brazil and Latin America:

1. Academic Excellence

  • USP consistently ranks among the best universities in Brazil and Latin America in various global university rankings. Its commitment to high academic standards and quality education attracts top students and faculty from around the world.

2. Research Leadership

  • USP is a leading research institution in Brazil, producing a significant portion of the country’s scientific output. The university engages in advanced research across a wide range of disciplines, contributing to innovations in science, technology, health, and social sciences.

3. Diverse Programs

  • The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple fields, including humanities, natural sciences, engineering, health sciences, and social sciences. This diversity caters to a broad spectrum of academic interests and career paths.

4. Strong Faculty

  • USP boasts a distinguished faculty, including many prominent researchers and scholars who are recognized nationally and internationally. Their expertise and contributions to their fields enhance the university’s reputation and academic rigor.

5. Cultural Impact

  • USP plays a vital role in Brazil’s cultural and intellectual life. It hosts numerous cultural events, conferences, and seminars that engage with contemporary issues and promote intellectual discourse.

6. Influential Alumni

  • The university has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, science, literature, and business. This influential network enhances USP’s reputation and showcases its impact on society.

7. International Collaborations

  • USP actively engages in international collaborations and partnerships with other leading universities and research institutions around the world. These collaborations facilitate academic exchange, joint research projects, and global networking opportunities for students and faculty.

8. Commitment to Public Service

  • As a public university, USP is committed to serving society through education, research, and outreach. It addresses societal challenges and promotes public policies that enhance quality of life in Brazil and beyond.

9. Innovation and Technology

  • USP is at the forefront of technological innovation in Brazil, particularly in areas such as agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. Its research initiatives often focus on developing solutions to pressing challenges, including sustainability and healthcare.

10. Campus and Facilities

  • The university’s expansive campus in São Paulo is equipped with modern facilities, libraries, and laboratories, providing students with an excellent environment for learning and research.

These factors contribute to USP’s prestigious reputation and its significant role in shaping education, research, and culture in Brazil and the broader Latin American region.

The Universidade de São Paulo (USP) has specific language requirements for its programs, particularly for non-Portuguese speakers. Here’s an overview of the language requirements:

1. Portuguese Language Proficiency

  • Most undergraduate programs at USP are taught in Portuguese, so proficiency in the language is essential for students who are not native speakers.
  • Non-Portuguese speakers may be required to demonstrate their language skills through recognized proficiency tests or certifications.

2. Accepted Language Tests

  • Commonly accepted tests for demonstrating proficiency in Portuguese include:
    • CELPE-Bras (Certificate of Proficiency in Portuguese for Foreigners): This is the official Portuguese language proficiency certificate recognized in Brazil.
  • Students should check the specific program requirements as different programs may have varying criteria.

3. Exemptions

  • Students who have completed their previous education in Portuguese or those who are native speakers may be exempt from providing proof of language proficiency.

4. Support for International Students

  • USP offers Portuguese language courses to help international students improve their language skills. These courses are designed to enhance students' communication abilities, making their academic experience smoother.
  • Many departments may also provide assistance or resources for international students to adapt to the language and culture.

5. Graduate Programs

  • Some graduate programs may be offered in English, particularly in fields such as business, engineering, and health sciences. For these programs, applicants may need to provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as:
    • TOEFL
    • IELTS
  • Specific requirements can vary by program, so it’s important for prospective students to check the details for their chosen course of study.

6. Preparation for Admission

  • Prospective students are encouraged to improve their language skills before applying, as being proficient in Portuguese (or English for relevant programs) is crucial for academic success at USP.

Overall, meeting the language requirements is an essential part of the admission process at USP, and prospective students should prepare accordingly to ensure they can fully engage in their studies.

 

 

 

 

The Universidade de São Paulo (USP) is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Brazil and Latin America. It offers a wide array of programs across various fields. Here are some key course specializations at USP:

1. Engineering

  • Civil Engineering: Focuses on infrastructure design, construction management, and urban planning.
  • Electrical Engineering: Covers topics such as electronics, telecommunications, and power systems.
  • Mechanical Engineering: Involves mechanics, materials science, and manufacturing processes.

2. Natural Sciences

  • Biology: Offers specializations in molecular biology, ecology, and biodiversity.
  • Chemistry: Covers analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry.
  • Physics: Specializations in theoretical physics, astrophysics, and condensed matter physics.

3. Health Sciences

  • Medicine: A comprehensive program covering clinical medicine, public health, and specialized medical fields.
  • Pharmacy: Focuses on pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, and drug development.
  • Nursing: Offers training in patient care, nursing theory, and healthcare management.

4. Social Sciences

  • Psychology: Specializations in clinical psychology, educational psychology, and organizational psychology.
  • Sociology: Focuses on social theory, social research methods, and various sociological topics.
  • Political Science: Covers areas like international relations, political theory, and public policy.

5. Humanities

  • History: Focuses on historical research, historiography, and specific historical periods or themes.
  • Philosophy: Involves the study of various philosophical traditions, ethics, and logic.
  • Linguistics: Specializations in phonetics, syntax, and sociolinguistics.

6. Arts

  • Fine Arts: Covers visual arts, painting, sculpture, and contemporary art practices.
  • Music: Involves music theory, performance, and composition.
  • Theater: Focuses on acting, directing, and theater production.

7. Business and Economics

  • Business Administration: Covers management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.
  • Economics: Focuses on microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.

8. Technology and Information Science

  • Information Systems: Focuses on database management, software development, and information technology.
  • Computer Science: Covers programming, artificial intelligence, and data science.

9. Agricultural Sciences

  • Agronomy: Focuses on crop production, soil science, and sustainable agriculture.
  • Animal Science: Covers livestock management, animal nutrition, and veterinary science.

Research and Innovation

USP is also known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation across these disciplines. It collaborates with various national and international institutions to advance knowledge and address societal challenges, contributing significantly to Brazil's scientific and technological landscape.

Overall, USP's diverse course offerings cater to a wide range of interests and career paths, making it a leading choice for students in Brazil and beyond.

The Universidade de São Paulo (USP) has many distinguished professors known for their contributions to academia, research, and their respective fields. Here are some notable faculty members who have earned recognition:

1. César Milstein

  • Field: Medicine
  • Contributions: Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine (1984) for his work on monoclonal antibodies. Milstein’s research has had a profound impact on medical diagnostics and therapies.

2. Joaquim Nabuco

  • Field: Law and Social Sciences
  • Contributions: Renowned for his work in law, sociology, and abolitionism. Nabuco is known for his influential writings on social justice and human rights.

3. Marcio Barbosa

  • Field: Engineering
  • Contributions: An expert in civil engineering and project management, Barbosa has played a significant role in shaping infrastructure development in Brazil.

4. Jorge Wilheim

  • Field: Architecture and Urbanism
  • Contributions: An influential architect and urban planner, Wilheim has contributed significantly to urban development projects in Brazil.

5. Paulo Artaxo

  • Field: Environmental Sciences
  • Contributions: A prominent researcher in climate change and atmospheric sciences, Artaxo has contributed to several international environmental assessments.

6. Eli I. T. Chagas

  • Field: Biotechnology
  • Contributions: Known for his work in biotechnology and genetic engineering, Chagas has made significant contributions to agricultural sciences.

7. Maria de Fátima de Almeida

  • Field: Social Sciences
  • Contributions: A leading researcher in gender studies and social inequalities, she has published extensively on these topics.

8. Hélio P. C. T. B. de Araújo

  • Field: Physics
  • Contributions: Recognized for his work in quantum optics and laser physics, Araújo has published numerous papers in high-impact journals.

9. Marina Silva

  • Field: Environmental Studies and Politics
  • Contributions: A former Minister of Environment in Brazil and a leading figure in environmental policy, Silva is also an alumna and has been involved in academia.

10. Lúcia G. R. Queiroz

  • Field: Biochemistry
  • Contributions: A well-respected researcher in biochemistry and molecular biology, Queiroz has made significant contributions to understanding metabolic pathways.

The Universidade de São Paulo (USP) has had several notable alumni and faculty members who have been awarded the Nobel Prize. Here are some key figures associated with USP who have received this prestigious honor:

1. Oswaldo Cruz

  • Field: Medicine
  • Award: Although Oswaldo Cruz was never a Nobel Laureate himself, he is often associated with public health advances in Brazil, particularly his work in combating epidemics and diseases like yellow fever and bubonic plague. His legacy influenced many in the field, including later researchers at USP.

2. César Milstein

  • Field: Physiology or Medicine
  • Award: Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (1984)
  • Contribution: Milstein was awarded for his work on monoclonal antibodies, which has had a profound impact on medical research and diagnostics. He conducted significant research while associated with the University of São Paulo during his career.

3. Fernando Henrique Cardoso

  • Field: Economics
  • Award: While not a Nobel laureate himself, he was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his contributions to social sciences, particularly in the context of development and social policies. He served as the President of Brazil and has been influential in Brazilian politics and economics.

4. Doutor José Goldemberg

  • Field: Environmental Sciences
  • Contributions: Although not a Nobel Laureate, Goldemberg has been recognized internationally for his work in sustainable development and energy. He served as the rector of USP and has significantly influenced environmental policies.

5. Other Notable Figures

  • USP has had many other alumni and faculty who have been influential in various fields, contributing to scientific advancements and policy development in Brazil and globally. While not all of them have received a Nobel Prize, their work often intersects with Nobel-recognized research themes.