The Catalan capital has become a university city par excellence, as it has prestigious higher education institutions with a wide academic offer and a high degree of internationalisation of studies. In this article we present all the universities in Barcelona and the different options on what degree to study.
Why study in Barcelona?
If you were wondering what degree to study, first of all you should know why study in Barcelona. Barcelona’s universities are characterised by their solid and prestigious trajectory, with long years of academic history at national and international level. The quality of their teaching is reflected in their educational programmes and in their constant pedagogical renovation that adapts to the most current demands. The institutions offer a wide variety of degrees that allow students to specialise in different areas of knowledge, covering a broad academic spectrum.
In addition, they offer students a comprehensive university experience, as they have support services such as fully equipped libraries, language services that enable and facilitate students to learn new languages. Sports facilities also allow students to balance their studies with a healthy lifestyle by encouraging them to practice different sports. Job opportunities and career guidance programmes are ideal for students to enter the labour market, regardless of the sector.
What universities are there in Barcelona?
Barcelona is characterised by its wide range of high-level educational offerings and is home to some of the most prestigious universities in Spain and Europe. These institutions reflect the quality in the city’s higher education system, with a wide variety of educational programmes and a multidisciplinary approach that responds to different needs.
University of Barcelona
The University of Barcelona, founded in 1450, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Barcelona and in the country in general. Its wide range of academic offerings covers different branches.
Autonomous University of Barcelona
The Universitat Autónoma de Barcelona, located on the Bellaterra campus on the outskirts of Barcelona, is characterised by its focus on research and innovation. It is also one of the leading universities in the field of social sciences, humanities and experimental sciences.
Polytechnic University of Catalonia
The Polytechnic University of Catalonia stands out for its training in engineering, architecture and applied sciences. Technology and its international projection make it a clear reference in research and development in these areas.
Pompeu Fabra University
Pompeu Fabra University has become one of the best universities in the world for its academic excellence in areas such as social sciences, communication, economics and law.
Abat Oliva University
The Abat Oliva University is a private university that is characterised by its academic offer in law, communication, economics and business management.
Ramon Llull University
The Ramon Llull University, also private, includes institutions such as ESADE and Blanquerna. This university offers a wide range of education in business, engineering, architecture, communication sciences and humanities. ESADE is one of the most important and prestigious business schools in Europe, offering undergraduate, postgraduate and MBA programmes in business management, law and finance. Blanquerna is characterised by its training in communication, psychology, education and health sciences.
International University of Catalonia
The International University of Catalonia, a private institution with an international focus, offers a wide range of education in the fields of health, architecture, education and law.
Which degree to study in Barcelona?
Deciding which degree to study can be influenced by many factors such as interests, skills, job opportunities, cut-off marks, etc. From Unihabit we detail some of the most relevant university degrees and with more professional opportunities nowadays:
Engineering and technology
With increasing digitisation, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), software development, cybersecurity, big data, 5G and connectivity technologies, some of the most prominent careers are:
- Computer engineering
- Industrial engineering
- Telecommunications engineering
- Renewable energy engineering
Health sciences
In the health sector, there is a constant demand for doctors, especially in specialised areas such as geriatrics, oncology and general medicine. In this case, careers such as
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Biotechnology
- Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences
Business, Economics and Finance
The global and digital economy, the rise of online shopping and new ways of understanding advertising have generated an increase in university degrees:
- Business Administration and Management
- Economics
- Digital Marketing
- Advertising and Public Relations
The boom in mental health and emotional wellbeing, digital platforms and the long and traditional trajectory of law, offers students careers such as:
- Psychology
- Law
- Communication and Journalism
Design and Digital Arts
Visual communication and digital platforms, such as the video game industry, are very important in Barcelona. For this reason, universities are expanding their academic offerings with university degrees such as:
- Graphic design and multimedia
- Animation and Video Games
Environmental Science and Sustainability
Climate change and sustainability are global challenges that require professionals to manage them and propose innovative solutions. Barcelona’s institutions include in their training offer:
- Environmental Sciences
- Environmental Engineering
Tips for choosing a university
We know that choosing a university is equally or even more important than knowing what career to study. Therefore, at Unihabit we bring you some tips that you should take into account when choosing your future university:
- Define your interests and goals. Research what areas you are passionate about and in which sector you would like to work in the future. Also, consider how the university can help you achieve these goals.
- Check out the academic offerings. Consider the quality of the educational programme, the teaching methodology and how up-to-date the programme is with the new demands of the labour market.
- Pay attention to its location and lifestyle. The location of the university, the cost of living and extracurricular opportunities are very important factors to consider when choosing your university.
- Check job opportunities and offers. Knowing about job and internship opportunities and employability rates is also essential in making the right choice, taking into account your main goals.
- Explore facilities and resources. If possible, visit the campus before making a decision, as it will allow you to get to know the facilities and interact with other students or professors. You will also learn about the reputation of the university and meet the alumni network.
- Consider the cost and financing options. Knowing the tuition fees and whether the university offers scholarships and financial aid can also help you make your decision.
If after choosing which degree course to study in Barcelona and the university you need accommodation, don’t hesitate to come and visit our Unihabit halls of residence. These are located in Barcelona, Sant Cugat, Girona and Manresa.
