Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico
Tuition per year
$9,870
$20,955 with room and board
Peer median $34,392
Undergraduates
3,670
Student-faculty ratio 18:1
Peer median 13 : 1
Graduation rate
1.3%
4-year; 6-year rate 20.1%
Peer median 44.6%
“Peers” are all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico (UPPR) is a distinguished institution known for its strong emphasis on engineering, technology, and architecture. Established in 1966, UPPR has built a solid reputation for providing high-quality education and fostering innovation among its students. The university's motto, "In the service of Puerto Rico and the world," reflects its commitment not only to local development but also to global challenges. UPPR is strategically located in San Juan, the capital city, which offers students a vibrant urban environment rich in culture and opportunities for professional growth.
UPPR boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources, facilitating a hands-on learning experience for its students. The university features modern laboratories, research centers, and collaborative spaces designed to support innovation and creativity. The faculty at UPPR is composed of highly qualified professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience into the classroom. This strong faculty-student ratio ensures personalized attention and mentorship, enhancing the overall educational experience. Additionally, the university actively promotes student involvement in various extracurricular activities, including sports, cultural events, and student organizations, encouraging a well-rounded college experience. As a result, graduates from UPPR are well-prepared for successful careers, contributing positively to both local and international communities.
Trends in Tuition, Graduation Rates, and Student Retention
The data from the Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico reveals significant trends in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention over the years. Starting with tuition, there is a notable upward trajectory. For in-state undergraduate tuition, it increased from $7,548 in 2014 to $9,810 in 2024, representing a rise of 30% over a decade. This consistent increase in tuition can have implications for student enrollment and affordability, especially as many students face financial burdens from rising education costs.
In terms of graduation rates, the statistics indicate a concerning situation. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates fluctuated between 0.0037 and 0.1091 from 2013 to 2023, with a significant peak in 2019 at 10.91%. However, subsequent years show a decline, with rates dropping to 2.43% in 2023. This decline could signal potential issues in academic support, curriculum relevance, or student engagement, which may deter students from completing their degrees in a timely manner.
Retention rates, on the other hand, show a more stable pattern, oscillating between 74.9% and 88.9% during the same period. The highest retention rates were observed in 2018 at 88.9%, indicating a strong level of student satisfaction or support during that year. However, the slight drop to 76.6% in 2023 suggests that while students may initially enroll, maintaining their commitment to the institution remains a challenge.
Overall, the increasing tuition costs juxtaposed with fluctuating graduation and retention rates point to a complex landscape for students at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the university to enhance student outcomes and ensure a sustainable educational environment.
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In San Juan
- Nearest international airport
- Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU), about 4 mi
- Academic calendar
- Trimester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Ernesto Vazquez-Martinez (President)
- Phone
- 7876228000
- City
- Hato Rey, Puerto Rico
- Address
- 377 Ponce de Leon Ave, Hato Rey, PR 00919
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Science1 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Engineering/Industrial Management · Master's35 (0% international)
- Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician · Master's21 (0% international)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General · Master's18 (0% international)
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's16 (0% international)
- Manufacturing Engineering · Master's15 (0% international)
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other · Master's10 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduate Data from Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico
The data from Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico for the year 2023 reveals intriguing insights into the distribution of graduates across various disciplines. Notably, the engineering fields dominate the bachelor’s degree category, with Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering producing the highest number of graduates at 72. This trend reflects the increasing demand for expertise in health-related technological fields, driven by a global push towards innovation in healthcare solutions.
Interestingly, there were no international students graduating with bachelor's degrees in any of the listed engineering programs, suggesting a potential area for growth in attracting international talent. In contrast, the master's level data indicates a more diverse distribution, particularly within Engineering/Industrial Management and Manufacturing Engineering, which produced 45 and 36 graduates respectively. This may indicate a strategic focus on advanced education in management and production technologies, aligning with industry needs in a rapidly evolving job market.
The presence of graduates in fields like Business Administration and Management is also noteworthy, albeit with a limited number of graduates. This highlights the importance of interdisciplinary studies in today’s job landscape, where business acumen is increasingly essential alongside technical skills. The data also shows minimal output in the associate degree category, with only a few graduates, pointing towards a potential gap in early-stage engineering education that may need addressing.
Overall, the trends exhibited in the graduation data suggest a robust emphasis on engineering disciplines while also highlighting opportunities for expanding international student enrollment and improving associate degree offerings, which could further enhance the university's educational impact.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bioengineering and Biomedical Engineering. | $36,584 | ||||
| Chemical Engineering. | - | ||||
| Civil Engineering, General. | $37,594-$64,557 | ||||
| Computer Engineering, General. | $38,750 | ||||
| Computer Engineering, Other. | $38,750 | ||||
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | $47,386 | ||||
| Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering. | - | ||||
| Mechanical Engineering. | $45,286 | ||||
| Industrial Engineering. | $48,200 | ||||
| Engineering, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician. | $67,309 | ||||
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians, Other. | - | ||||
| Surveying Technology/Surveying. | - | ||||
| Engineering/Industrial Management. | $88,699 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $38,973-$66,956 | ||||
| Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||||
| Computer Software and Media Applications, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture. | $24,978 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interior Design. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum and Instruction. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Historic Preservation and Conservation, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geographic Information Science and Cartography. | - |
Students
4,223 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 70:30 · Freshman retention 78.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 2,947
- First-year undergraduates 501
- Graduate students 553
- Transfers and others 222
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (3,670)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Student Demographics at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico in 2023
The data for the 2023 academic year reveals some interesting insights into the student demographics at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico. The total number of undergraduate freshmen is 547, with a notable male representation of 71.1%, compared to 28.9% for females. This trend of higher male enrollment continues across the board, with undergraduate seniors showing 72.1% male and 27.9% female. Such a significant gender disparity raises questions about the factors influencing male dominance in these fields, potentially reflecting broader societal trends in educational choices and career paths.
Among undergraduate transfer students, there is a slightly lower male representation at 68.7%, while graduate students exhibit the lowest male ratio at 63.2%. The overall male-to-female ratio suggests that the university is experiencing a gender imbalance, particularly in undergraduate programs.
The breakdown of student demographics by ethnicity remains sparse, with limited data available. Notably, the number of white students across various categories is very low, indicating that the university has a diverse student body, primarily composed of Hispanic and other underrepresented groups. This aligns with ongoing discussions about the importance of diversity in higher education and the need for institutions to create inclusive environments for all students.
Overall, the data highlights the gender and ethnic dynamics within the Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico, prompting further exploration into the underlying causes and potential strategies for fostering a more balanced and inclusive educational experience.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico
The age distribution of students at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico reveals insightful trends regarding the demographic makeup of the university. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 56.6% of the total male students and 52.8% of the total female students. This indicates a robust enrollment of traditional-aged college students, which is often associated with higher retention rates and campus engagement.
As we move into the 20-21 age bracket, we see a slight decline in male enrollment, with a total of around 47.5% of male students in this age range, while female enrollment remains relatively stable. Interestingly, the 22-24 age group shows an increase in both male and female students, suggesting that many students may be pursuing their degrees at a more flexible pace, possibly due to work or other commitments.
The data indicates a notable presence of graduate students, particularly among males aged 25-29, where about 45.1% of male graduate students are represented. This could reflect a growing trend in advanced education, aligning with national statistics showing an increase in individuals pursuing graduate degrees for career advancement.
However, the number of students aged 50 and above remains strikingly low, with only a handful of students in this category. This may reflect broader societal trends where higher education is predominantly sought by younger populations, although there is a growing movement towards lifelong learning that could influence future enrollment in older age brackets.
Overall, this age composition data highlights a youthful and diverse student body at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico, aligned with trends seen across many higher education institutions today.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Commentary on International Student Trends at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico
The international student population plays a crucial role in enriching the academic environment of universities. At Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico, the statistics regarding both undergraduate and graduate international students could provide insights into the institution’s global engagement and appeal. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, universities that attract a diverse student body often benefit from enhanced cultural exchanges and broader perspectives in academic discourse.
Current trends suggest that many universities, particularly in the United States, have seen fluctuations in international student enrollment due to various factors, including changes in immigration policies and the global pandemic. Institutions are now adapting their strategies to attract and retain international talent, which is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in research and innovation.
It is important to recognize that international students contribute significantly to the local economy and cultural vibrancy of their host institutions. They foster international collaborations and networks, which can be beneficial for both academic and professional opportunities. As educational institutions like Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico continue to navigate these challenges, it will be interesting to observe how they adapt their outreach and support services to ensure a welcoming environment for international students.
In conclusion, while specific data is currently unavailable for Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico, the ongoing global trends highlight the importance of maintaining a robust international student community for the overall development of the university and its stakeholders.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$20,955
- Undergraduate tuition
- $9,870
- Room and board
- $11,085
- Graduate tuition
- $6,150
Peer median tuition + room and board $47,329 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Tuition rose 23% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose -7%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$50.9M
Expenses$38.7M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Volleyball | 12 | 14 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 8 | 4 |
| Basketball | 10 | - |
| Beach Volleyball | 4 | 4 |
| Other Sports | 5 | 1 |
| Weight Lifting | 3 | 2 |
| Table Tennis | 4 | - |
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Volleyball | 13 | 15 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 13 | 5 |
| Basketball | 11 | - |
| Other Sports | 5 | 3 |
| Weight Lifting | 6 | 2 |
| Beach Volleyball | 2 | 4 |
| Table Tennis | 6 | - |
| Other | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Volleyball | 11 | 13 |
| Basketball | 15 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 9 | 2 |
| Weight Lifting | 8 | 3 |
| Other Sports | 5 | 4 |
| Beach Volleyball | 2 | 2 |
| Table Tennis | 4 | - |
Nearby & Safety
Data insights
Here are some notable universities around the Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico:
-
University of Florida - Ranked 28th in the 2024 US News rankings, the University of Florida is a major public research university located in Gainesville, Florida. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation.
-
University of Miami - Ranked 67th, the University of Miami is a private research university located in Coral Gables, Florida. It offers a variety of programs across various fields and is known for its vibrant campus life and diverse student body.
-
Florida State University - With a ranking of 53, Florida State University is located in Tallahassee, Florida. It is recognized for its strong academic programs, particularly in the arts, sciences, and business.
-
University of South Florida - Ranked 89th, the University of South Florida is a public research university in Tampa, Florida. It is known for its commitment to research and community engagement, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
-
Florida International University - With a ranking of 124, Florida International University is located in Miami, Florida. It is a public research university that emphasizes multicultural education and offers a variety of degree programs.
These institutions offer a range of academic opportunities and contribute to the vibrant educational landscape in Florida.
Peer median 4.0 · all 406 private master's colleges and universities in the U.S.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Data at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico
The crime statistics for Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico over the years reveal a notable decline in recorded incidents from 2013 to 2023. The data indicates a peak in 2013 with a crime rate of 1.48 per 1000 students, which corresponds to seven reported crimes. However, subsequent years show a significant reduction, culminating in a complete absence of reported crimes from 2017 onward, resulting in a zero crime rate for several years.
Specifically, the trend exhibits a progressive decrease in crime rates, with 2014 recording a rate of 0.65, and it further declined to 0.00 by 2017 and remained constant through to 2023. This substantial drop could be attributed to various factors, including improved campus security measures, effective community outreach programs, or changes in student behavior and engagement.
Furthermore, the breakdown of specific offenses, such as gun-related arrests and drug-related incidents, suggests that the university environment has transformed into a safer space for students. It is also vital to consider the broader societal context, including national trends in crime reduction and increased awareness around campus safety.
Overall, the data reflects positively on the administration’s efforts to ensure safety and security, contributing to a more conducive learning environment. As crime rates continue to decline, it is crucial for the university to maintain vigilance and implement ongoing preventive strategies. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.