National University of Southern Patagonia logo

National University of Southern Patagonia

Río Gallegos, AR · Ranking #46

The National University of Southern Patagonia (UNPA), founded in 1980, is a public university located in the southern region of Argentina. In 2025–2026, it plays a key role in higher education across Patagonia, one of the most remote and sparsely populated areas of the country. The university offers programs in engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, education, and humanities. UNPA is particularly focused on regional development, sustainability, and research related to cold climate environments, energy, and natural resources.

National University of Southern Patagonia logo National University of Southern Patagonia

National University of Southern Patagonia

About the university

The National University of Southern Patagonia (UNPA), founded in 1980, is a public university located in the southern region of Argentina. In 2025–2026, it plays a key role in higher education across Patagonia, one of the most remote and sparsely populated areas of the country. The university offers programs in engineering, social sciences, natural sciences, education, and humanities. UNPA is particularly focused on regional development, sustainability, and research related to cold climate environments, energy, and natural resources.

Key information

  • Location: Río Gallegos, AR
  • Ranking #46
  • National ranking #40
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Engineering
  • Education
  • Natural Sciences
  • Social Sciences
  • Environmental Studies

Programs (6)

  • Engineering
  • Tourism and Hospitality
  • Environmental Science
  • Nursing
  • Education
  • Computer Science

Student body

  • Total students: 8,000
  • Undergraduate: 7,000
  • Graduate: 1,000
  • International students: 2%

Campus life

UNPA offers a unique campus experience shaped by its remote southern location. Students engage in academic and cultural activities within a close-knit community. The university emphasizes sustainability, regional identity, and adaptation to cold climates. Campus life includes academic collaboration, cultural events, and outdoor activities typical of Patagonia.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $200 - $700 / per month

Housing options

  • Shared apartments
  • student housing
  • private rentals

Student clubs and organizations

  • Academic groups
  • cultural clubs
  • environmental organizations

Sports

  • Football
  • basketball
  • volleyball
  • athletics

Career & internships

Employment rate: 80%

Partner companies

  • Yacimientos Carboníferos Río Turbio
  • CONICET
  • organismos públicos
  • empresas energéticas
  • instituciones educativas

Internships: In 2025–2026, UNPA offers internships focused on environmental studies, energy, education, and regional development. Students often collaborate with public institutions and local organizations, gaining experience in real-world projects related to Patagonia’s unique environment and economy.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • Secondary school diploma
  • ID
  • application form
  • program requirements

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • $0 - $500 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 75.00%
  • Scholarships available: UNPA provides scholarships mainly through national programs such as Progresar, aimed at supporting students from remote and low-income regions. Additional financial aid may include housing and study support. The university encourages participation in research projects, especially in environmental sciences, energy, and regional development, often supported by public funding.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1980
  • Teaching languages: Spanish, spanish
  • Study formats: offline, hybrid

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