Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) Logo

Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp)

Address: Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp), Rua Gercino Pimentel, 333, Campinas - SP, 13083-859, Brazil
Phone: +55 19 3521-4000
Email: info@unicamp.br
Website: www.unicamp.br


About Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp)

The University of Campinas is a public university, funded by the State of São Paulo. It was established in 1966 in the city of Campinas, with the goal to become an academic center of excellence, producing world-class basic and applied research, providing high- standards undergraduate and graduate education and serving as a catalyst for economic and social development. Currently UNICAMP offers undergraduate degrees in 66 majors, including medicine, dentistry, several engineering specializations, basic natural and human sciences, applied sciences, teaching and arts. Its admission process is one of the most competitive in Brazil, with nearly 52,000 candidates for 3310 incoming students. Undergraduate education at UNICAMP is provided by the State of São Paulo for all its students free of charge. In addition, housing, meals, transportation and a living stipend may also be provided on a need basis, so that of the 16,700 undergraduate students at UNICAMP, over 2,200 receive some support.Undergraduate education at UNICAMP operates in three campuses: the School of Dentistry in Piracicaba, the College of Applied Sciences and the College of Technology in Limeira, offering undergraduate degrees in technology and business administration, among others, and its main Campus in Campinas, with eighteen other Schools and Colleges. In addition, UNICAMP operates a large teaching and research hospital complex in Campinas, serving as center of reference for millions of people, and runs several community hospitals in nearby cities. The university has 1,800 faculties, with a large research output - close to 10% of all indexed scientific papers in Brazil have a UNICAMP co-author. In addition, UNICAMP is the Brazilian organization with the largest technological output, with over 50 patents requested each year since 2002. The University budget for 2011 was close to US$1,6 million, with 80% originating from the State budget. Overall, UNICAMP is an internationally recognized center of academic excellence, with a very distinct profile among Brazilian higher education institutions as a leader in technology, health sciences, natural sciences, human sciences and the arts.

Why Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp)

The Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) is renowned for several key reasons:

1. Research Excellence

  • Strong Focus on Research: Unicamp is recognized as one of the leading research institutions in Brazil and Latin America. It consistently ranks high in global university rankings for its research output and impact.
  • Innovative Projects: The university is involved in numerous groundbreaking research projects across various fields, including health, engineering, and natural sciences.

2. Academic Reputation

  • High-Quality Education: Unicamp is known for its rigorous academic programs and high standards of education. It offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs that are well-regarded nationally and internationally.
  • Influential Alumni: Many notable figures in Brazilian politics, science, and culture have graduated from Unicamp, contributing to its reputation.

3. Interdisciplinary Approach

  • Integration of Disciplines: The university promotes an interdisciplinary approach to education and research, encouraging collaboration between different fields. This fosters innovation and comprehensive solutions to complex problems.

4. Strong Industry Ties

  • Partnerships with Companies: Unicamp has established strong links with industry, facilitating technology transfer and collaborative research. This connection enhances its programs and provides students with practical experience.

5. Diverse Programs

  • Wide Range of Specialties: The university offers diverse programs in various fields, including health sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and arts. This diversity attracts a broad student population and enhances the university's academic environment.

6. Innovation and Technology

  • Tech Hub: Unicamp is a hub for technological innovation in Brazil, contributing to advancements in fields like biotechnology, information technology, and renewable energy. Its emphasis on innovation has led to numerous patents and startups.

7. Community Engagement

  • Social Responsibility: Unicamp is committed to social responsibility and engages in various initiatives that address societal challenges. This includes outreach programs and community service, enhancing its role as a public institution.

8. Cultural Impact

  • Cultural Contributions: The university has a vibrant cultural scene, supporting various artistic and cultural activities, which enrich the academic experience and community life.

9. International Collaboration

  • Global Partnerships: Unicamp actively collaborates with international institutions, promoting research and exchange programs that enhance its global presence.

The Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) has specific language requirements for admission, particularly for international students. Here’s an overview:

1. Undergraduate Programs

  • Language of Instruction: Most undergraduate programs at Unicamp are taught in Portuguese.
  • Language Proficiency: Non-Portuguese speaking applicants are generally required to demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese. This can typically be done through:
    • Exams: Providing results from recognized language proficiency tests, such as CELPE-Bras (Certificado de Proficiência em Língua Portuguesa para Estrangeiros).
    • Language Courses: Completing a Portuguese language course may also be acceptable.

2. Graduate Programs

  • Language of Instruction: Graduate programs (master's and doctoral) may be offered in Portuguese or English, depending on the specific program and department.
  • Language Proficiency:
    • For programs taught in Portuguese, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Portuguese, similar to undergraduate requirements.
    • For programs taught in English, applicants may need to provide proof of proficiency in English through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

3. International Students

  • Visa and Admission Requirements: International students should also check visa requirements, which may necessitate proof of language proficiency as part of their application.
  • Additional Support: Unicamp may offer preparatory language courses or resources for international students to help them improve their language skills before starting their academic programs.

4. Other Considerations

  • Documentation: When applying, students must provide documentation proving their language proficiency, including certificates or test results.
  • Department-Specific Requirements: Some departments may have additional language requirements or recommendations, so it's advisable for prospective students to check with their specific program of interest.

The Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) is one of Brazil's top universities, known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. Here are some of the key course specialties offered at Unicamp:

1. Engineering

  • Areas: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Production Engineering.
  • Specialty: Engineering programs at Unicamp are highly regarded, emphasizing practical and theoretical knowledge, with strong ties to industry.

2. Natural Sciences

  • Areas: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environmental Sciences.
  • Specialty: Unicamp is known for its research output in natural sciences, offering cutting-edge programs that prepare students for advanced scientific careers.

3. Health Sciences

  • Areas: Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, and Pharmacy.
  • Specialty: The university’s medical school is recognized for its rigorous training and research in health-related fields, including public health and biomedical research.

4. Social Sciences

  • Areas: Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, and Political Science.
  • Specialty: Unicamp offers comprehensive programs that explore social dynamics, cultural studies, and public policy.

5. Humanities

  • Areas: History, Philosophy, Linguistics, and Literature.
  • Specialty: The humanities programs at Unicamp focus on critical thinking, cultural analysis, and historical context, preparing students for diverse career paths.

6. Arts

  • Areas: Music, Visual Arts, Theater, and Design.
  • Specialty: Unicamp offers programs that promote creativity and artistic expression, supported by a vibrant cultural environment.

7. Information Technology and Computer Science

  • Specialty: Programs in Computer Science and Information Technology are robust, focusing on software development, data science, and emerging technologies.

8. Business Administration and Economics

  • Areas: Business Management, Economics, and International Business.
  • Specialty: Unicamp’s business programs emphasize entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic theory, with strong connections to the local and international business communities.

9. Education

  • Specialty: The Faculty of Education at Unicamp focuses on pedagogical theories, educational policies, and teaching methodologies.

10. Interdisciplinary Programs

  • Specialty: Unicamp also offers interdisciplinary courses that combine elements from different fields, such as bioinformatics, environmental management, and health promotion.

The Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) is renowned for its extensive and impactful research across various fields. Here are some key aspects of its research activities:

1. Research Centers and Institutes

  • Diverse Focus Areas: Unicamp hosts several research centers and institutes that specialize in fields such as health sciences, engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, and arts.
  • Interdisciplinary Research: Many centers encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, addressing complex societal challenges by integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines.

2. Key Research Areas

  • Health and Biomedical Sciences: Unicamp is particularly strong in health research, with notable contributions to medical science, biotechnology, and public health. Research includes studies on diseases prevalent in Brazil and developing new treatments and technologies.
  • Engineering and Technology: The university has a strong engineering program, focusing on areas such as renewable energy, materials science, information technology, and telecommunications.
  • Social Sciences and Humanities: Unicamp is also known for research in social sciences, including sociology, political science, and education, often addressing pressing social issues and contributing to policy development.
  • Natural Sciences: Research in physics, chemistry, and environmental sciences is also prominent, with investigations into sustainability, climate change, and the Amazon rainforest.

3. Publications and Impact

  • High Publication Rate: Unicamp researchers publish extensively in high-impact journals, contributing to global knowledge in their respective fields.
  • Citations and Influence: The university ranks highly in terms of citation impact, indicating that research outputs are widely referenced and influential.

4. Collaboration and Funding

  • National and International Collaboration: Unicamp collaborates with various universities and research institutions globally, facilitating joint research projects and exchange programs.
  • Funding Opportunities: The university receives funding from governmental and private sources, supporting a wide range of research initiatives. The São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) is a significant funding body for research at Unicamp.

5. Innovation and Technology Transfer

  • Technology Park: Unicamp has established a technology park that promotes innovation and supports startups, fostering the translation of research into practical applications and commercial products.
  • Patents and Startups: Researchers at Unicamp have filed numerous patents, and many have launched startups based on their research findings, contributing to Brazil’s innovation ecosystem.

6. Social Responsibility and Outreach

  • Community Engagement: Unicamp is committed to social responsibility, and many research initiatives aim to address local and national issues, contributing to community development and welfare.
  • Educational Initiatives: The university engages in programs that educate the public and promote scientific literacy, ensuring that research benefits society at large.

Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) offers various scholarship opportunities for both domestic and international students. Here’s an overview of the scholarship information available:

1. Types of Scholarships

  • Undergraduate Scholarships:

    • Student Financial Aid: Available for low-income students, aimed at covering tuition fees and living expenses.
    • Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships reward academic excellence and high performance in entrance exams.
  • Graduate Scholarships:

    • Research Scholarships: Offered for master's and doctoral programs to support students conducting research projects. This can include monthly stipends and funding for research activities.
    • FAPESP Scholarships: The São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP) provides scholarships for graduate students pursuing research in various fields. These scholarships are competitive and highly sought after.
  • International Scholarships:

    • Unicamp collaborates with various international organizations to provide scholarships for international students. These can cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.
    • Programs like the Brazilian Government's Science Without Borders initiative (though now ended) previously supported international students and researchers at Brazilian institutions.

2. Eligibility Criteria

  • Academic Performance: Scholarships often require a strong academic record, especially for merit-based scholarships.
  • Financial Need: Many undergraduate scholarships are based on financial need, requiring documentation of the student’s economic situation.
  • Research Proposal: For graduate research scholarships, students typically need to submit a research proposal outlining their intended study.

3. Application Process

  • Online Applications: Students must apply for scholarships through the Unicamp website or specific departmental portals.
  • Documentation: Required documents may include academic transcripts, proof of income (for financial aid), research proposals (for graduate scholarships), and letters of recommendation.

4. Deadlines

  • Scholarship application deadlines can vary depending on the program and type of scholarship. It’s essential for students to check the specific deadlines on the Unicamp website or contact the admissions office for the most accurate information.

5. Other Funding Opportunities

  • Assistantships: Graduate students may also have the option of teaching or research assistantships, which provide stipends and can help cover tuition fees.
  • Exchange Programs: Some partnerships with foreign universities offer scholarships for exchange students, allowing them to study at Unicamp for a semester or year.

6. Contact Information

  • For more detailed and specific information regarding scholarships, students can contact the Unicamp financial aid office or the specific department they are interested in.

The Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) has a number of renowned professors who are recognized for their significant contributions to their fields. Here are some of the top professors associated with Unicamp:

1. Fernando Henrique Cardoso

  • Field: Sociology and Political Science
  • Contributions: Former President of Brazil (1995-2002), Cardoso is a distinguished sociologist known for his work on social theory and public policy. He has published extensively on issues related to development, inequality, and democracy.

2. Aldo Rebelo

  • Field: Political Science
  • Contributions: A former Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation in Brazil, Rebelo has contributed to research and discussions on technology, innovation, and public policy.

3. José Goldemberg

  • Field: Physics and Energy Studies
  • Contributions: A prominent physicist and former rector of Unicamp, Goldemberg is recognized for his work on energy policy and sustainable development, particularly in the context of Brazil’s energy matrix.

4. Edison Luizi de Araújo

  • Field: Engineering
  • Contributions: Known for his research in electrical engineering, particularly in signal processing and telecommunications, Araújo has published numerous articles and has guided many successful graduate students.

5. Antônio Carlos P. de Mello

  • Field: Mathematics
  • Contributions: A prominent mathematician specializing in functional analysis and operator theory, Mello has made significant contributions to both research and teaching in mathematics.

6. Adriana de Souza e Silva

  • Field: Communication and Media Studies
  • Contributions: An expert in the intersection of technology, communication, and culture, Silva has conducted influential research on mobile communication and its impact on social interaction.

7. Lydia de Lima

  • Field: Education
  • Contributions: Known for her work in educational theory and policy, De Lima has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving educational practices in Brazil.

8. Jorge Wilheim

  • Field: Architecture and Urban Planning
  • Contributions: An influential architect and urban planner, Wilheim has significantly contributed to urban development projects and has been involved in various public policy initiatives.

9. Paulo Artaxo

  • Field: Environmental Science
  • Contributions: A leading researcher in climate change and atmospheric sciences, Artaxo has contributed to several international environmental assessments and is known for his work on Amazonian ecology.

10. Mariana P. V. de Souza

  • Field: Neuroscience
  • Contributions: A respected researcher in neurobiology, Souza has made significant contributions to understanding neural mechanisms and brain plasticity.

The Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Unicamp) has a distinguished reputation in Brazil and globally, but it does not have any Nobel Prize laureates directly affiliated with the institution. However, several faculty members and researchers have been involved in significant research efforts, collaborations, or have been recognized in other prestigious contexts. Here are a few notable mentions:

1. José Goldemberg

  • Field: Physics and Environmental Studies
  • Contributions: While not a Nobel Prize winner, Goldemberg has been influential in global discussions on sustainable development and energy policy. His work has had significant impacts on environmental research and public policy.

2. Fernando Henrique Cardoso

  • Field: Sociology and Political Science
  • Contributions: As a former President of Brazil and a renowned sociologist, Cardoso has been recognized for his contributions to social theory and public policy, although he has not won a Nobel Prize.

3. Collaboration with Nobel Laureates

  • Faculty and researchers at Unicamp may collaborate with Nobel laureates in various fields, especially in scientific research and social sciences, which further enhances the university’s academic environment.

4. Recognition in Other Awards

  • Faculty members at Unicamp have received various national and international awards for their research and contributions to academia, reflecting the university's strong commitment to excellence in education and research.