Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Barcelona) Logo Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Barcelona)

Address: Plaça de la Mercè, 10-12, 08002 Barcelona, Spain
Phone: +34 935 42 20 00
Email: info@upf.edu
Website: www.upf.edu


The Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) in Barcelona has specific language requirements for admission that vary depending on the program of study and the language of instruction. Here’s an overview:

1. Undergraduate Programs

  • Language of Instruction:

    • Many undergraduate programs are offered in Catalan and Spanish.
    • Some programs are available in English, especially in areas such as economics and international relations.

  • Language Proficiency Requirements:

    • For Programs in Catalan or Spanish:
      • Proficiency in either language is expected. While there may not be a strict formal requirement, students are often required to demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests or prior education in the language.
    • For Programs in English:
      • Non-native English speakers are typically required to demonstrate English proficiency. Accepted tests and minimum scores usually include:
        • TOEFL: Minimum score of around 80-100 (varies by program).
        • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0-7.0 (varies by program).
        • Cambridge English Qualifications: Generally requires C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency.

2. Postgraduate Programs

  • Language of Instruction:

    • Many master's programs are offered in Catalan, Spanish, and English.

  • Language Proficiency Requirements:

    • For Programs in Catalan or Spanish:
      • Proficiency is usually required. Students may need to provide proof through standardized testing or prior education.
    • For Programs in English:
      • Non-native speakers typically need to demonstrate proficiency, with similar TOEFL or IELTS requirements as noted above.

3. Exceptions

  • Students who have completed their previous education in a language of instruction may be exempt from language requirements. For example, a degree taught in English may waive English proficiency requirements.

4. Language Courses

  • UPF offers language courses for students who wish to improve their proficiency in Catalan, Spanish, or English. These courses can be beneficial for those planning to study in programs taught in these languages.

Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) in Barcelona is known for its strong academic programs and research across various disciplines. Here’s an overview of its course specialties:

1. Social Sciences and Humanities

  • Political Science and Administration: Focuses on political theory, public policy, and governance.
  • Sociology: Offers courses in social theory, research methods, and various sociological topics.
  • Communication: Emphasizes journalism, audiovisual communication, and public relations.
  • Philosophy: Covers ethics, epistemology, and political philosophy.

2. Economics and Business

  • Economics: Provides a solid foundation in economic theory, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.
  • Business Administration: Covers management, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.
  • International Business: Focuses on global business practices, trade, and cross-cultural management.

3. Law

  • Law Degree: Comprehensive legal education covering civil, criminal, and international law, along with specialized areas such as human rights and business law.

4. Health and Life Sciences

  • Health and Life Sciences: Focuses on research in health policies, public health, and epidemiology.
  • Clinical Psychology: Offers training in psychological assessment and treatment.

5. Information and Communication Technologies

  • Computer Science: Covers programming, algorithms, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.
  • Data Science: Focuses on data analysis, machine learning, and statistical methods.

6. Languages and Translation

  • Linguistics: Studies language structure, phonetics, syntax, and semantics.
  • Translation and Interpretation: Prepares students for careers in translation, localization, and interpretation.

7. Cultural Studies

  • Cultural Studies: Examines cultural theory, media studies, and critical theory.

8. Research Programs

  • UPF offers various master's and doctoral programs emphasizing research and innovation across disciplines, including economics, social sciences, and health sciences.

Summary of Course Specialties at Universitat Pompeu Fabra:

  • Social Sciences and Humanities: Political Science, Sociology, Communication, Philosophy.
  • Economics and Business: Economics, Business Administration, International Business.
  • Law: Comprehensive legal education.
  • Health and Life Sciences: Research-focused programs.
  • Information and Communication Technologies: Computer Science and Data Science.
  • Languages and Translation: Linguistics, Translation and Interpretation.
  • Cultural Studies: Analysis of cultural phenomena.
  • Research Programs: Advanced degrees emphasizing innovation.

Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) is home to a distinguished faculty, many of whom are recognized as leaders in their respective fields. Here are some notable professors associated with UPF:

1. José María Maravall

  • Field: Political Science
  • Department: Department of Political Science and Sociology
  • Notable Contributions: An influential figure in the study of democratic governance, public policy, and social change. He has published extensively on political behavior and institutional development.

2. Rafael M. Eguíluz

  • Field: Physics
  • Department: Department of Information and Communication Technologies
  • Notable Contributions: Known for his work in complex systems, statistical physics, and network theory. His research has significant implications in understanding social networks and collective phenomena.

3. Carles Boix

  • Field: Political Science
  • Department: Department of Political Science and Sociology
  • Notable Contributions: An expert in comparative politics, focusing on democracy, political economy, and political institutions. He has authored influential works on the relationship between democracy and economic development.

4. Cristina Borrás

  • Field: Law
  • Department: Faculty of Law
  • Notable Contributions: A prominent figure in international law, specializing in intellectual property law and its intersection with technology. She has published extensively on the legal implications of innovation and copyright.

5. Antoni Montserrat

  • Field: Health Sciences
  • Department: Faculty of Health and Life Sciences
  • Notable Contributions: An expert in public health, known for his research in health policies and epidemiology. He has contributed significantly to understanding public health challenges and healthcare systems.

6. María José Fotea

  • Field: Communication
  • Department: Department of Communication
  • Notable Contributions: A leading researcher in media studies, focusing on digital communication and its effects on society. She has published on media ethics and the role of communication in social movements.

7. Elena Rodríguez

  • Field: Sociology
  • Department: Department of Political Science and Sociology
  • Notable Contributions: Known for her work in social research methodology and qualitative research. She has contributed to the understanding of social inequality and its impacts on communities.

8. Jordi Galí

  • Field: Economics
  • Department: Department of Economics and Business
  • Notable Contributions: An influential economist specializing in monetary policy and macroeconomic theory. He is known for his work on the New Keynesian model and its applications.

Summary of Notable Professors at Universitat Pompeu Fabra:

  • José María Maravall: Political Science (Democracy and Governance).
  • Rafael M. Eguíluz: Physics (Complex Systems and Network Theory).
  • Carles Boix: Political Science (Comparative Politics).
  • Cristina Borrás: Law (International Law and Intellectual Property).
  • Antoni Montserrat: Health Sciences (Public Health and Epidemiology).
  • María José Fotea: Communication (Media Studies and Digital Communication).
  • Elena Rodríguez: Sociology (Social Research Methodology).
  • Jordi Galí: Economics (Monetary Policy and Macroeconomic Theory).

Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) has notable connections to Nobel Prize winners, although the university itself does not have faculty members or alumni who have directly won the Nobel Prize. However, here are some points of interest related to Nobel laureates associated with UPF:

1. Nobel Laureates in Related Fields

  • Joaquín Almunia: A former Vice President of the European Commission and member of the Spanish government, Almunia has been involved in economic policy discussions that often intersect with the work of Nobel laureates in economics. Although he is not a Nobel laureate himself, his work and influence in European economic policy connect UPF to discussions around Nobel-winning economic theories.

2. Contributions to Economic and Social Research

  • UPF has a strong reputation in economics and social sciences, contributing to research that aligns with the areas recognized by the Nobel Prize in these fields. Faculty members often engage in research that addresses critical social and economic issues, reflecting the kind of work that has historically been awarded the Nobel Prize.

3. International Collaboration

  • UPF faculty and researchers often collaborate with institutions and scholars who have received Nobel Prizes, particularly in the fields of economics and social sciences. This collaboration enhances the university’s academic environment and research capabilities.

4. Recognition in Research

  • While there may not be a direct Nobel Prize connection, UPF is recognized for its contributions to research in fields such as economics, political science, and communication. The quality of research at UPF positions it as a notable institution in discussions surrounding Nobel-level contributions to knowledge and society.

Founded in 1990, UPF is a public university based in Barcelona that is highly competitive in research and aims to transform education to respond future challenges.

As a public university, UPF fulfils its commitment to tackling the major challenges of the 21st century by creating, transmitting and transferring new multidisciplinary knowledge to guide the implementation of discerning policies and inspiring leadership.

The University carries out this activity in eight disciplines spread across three campuses in Barcelona:

  • Health and life sciences
  • Political and social sciences
  • Communication
  • Law
  • Economics and business
  • Engineering and information and communication technologies
  • Humanities
  • Translation and language sciences

Internationalization is one of UPF's founding goals, with regard to both the composition of its community and the orientation of its training and research. The ability to attract international talent at all levels is one of its trademark features. The campus exudes diversity, creating unique opportunities for internationalization at home and in the classroom to supplement the wide range of mobility options in Europe and the rest of the world.

  • 45% of master’s and doctoral students are international (2019-2020 academic year)
  • 43% of graduates have studied abroad (2018-2019 academic year)
  • 22% incoming students, including 1,500 from the Education Abroad programme (2018-2019 academic year)
  • 27% of the teaching staff is international (January 2020) 
  • 1st Spanish university in international outlook (Times Higher Education (THE) ranking, 2020)
  • Agreements with 28 of the Top 50 universities in the world (THE ranking, 2020) 

Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF) in Barcelona is well-known for several key reasons that contribute to its strong reputation both nationally and internationally:

1. Academic Excellence

  • High Rankings: UPF consistently ranks among the top universities in Spain and Europe. It is recognized for its rigorous academic programs and quality of education in various disciplines, particularly in social sciences, humanities, and economics.
  • Teaching Quality: The university is known for its excellent faculty and small class sizes, fostering a more engaging and personalized learning environment.

2. Research and Innovation

  • Strong Research Output: UPF is recognized for its significant contributions to research in multiple fields, including economics, health sciences, communication, and political science. The university has established several research centers and institutes that focus on innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • International Collaboration: UPF collaborates with numerous institutions and research organizations worldwide, facilitating academic exchanges and joint research projects.

3. Focus on Social Sciences and Humanities

  • Reputation in Social Sciences: UPF has gained prominence for its programs in social sciences, including political science, sociology, and communication studies. The university's contributions to these fields have made it a leading institution for research and education in Spain and Europe.
  • Innovative Teaching Methods: The university employs modern teaching methodologies, emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical applications.

4. Multilingual Environment

  • Bilingual Programs: Many courses are offered in both Spanish and English, attracting a diverse international student body. This multilingual environment enhances the learning experience and prepares students for global careers.

5. Cultural and Intellectual Hub

  • Location: Situated in Barcelona, UPF benefits from the city's vibrant cultural scene and intellectual community. The university frequently hosts conferences, lectures, and cultural events that enrich the academic experience.
  • Integration with Local Community: UPF actively engages with the local community through outreach programs, research initiatives, and partnerships with local organizations.

6. Prominent Alumni

  • Notable Graduates: UPF has produced successful alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, business, academia, and journalism, contributing to the university's prestige.
  • Influential Positions: Alumni often occupy important roles in national and international organizations, enhancing the university's reputation.

7. Commitment to Global Education

  • Internationalization Efforts: UPF promotes internationalization through student exchange programs, partnerships with universities abroad, and opportunities for students to study or conduct research in other countries.
  • Diverse Student Body: The university attracts students from around the world, fostering a multicultural environment that enhances academic and social experiences.

8. State-of-the-Art Facilities

  • Modern Campus: UPF's campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, research labs, and study spaces that support student learning and research activities.
  • Investment in Infrastructure: The university continually invests in improving its resources and facilities for students and faculty.