Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte
Natal, Brazil • Founded 1958 • World Rank #1117
Overview
Founded in 1958, the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte) is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Natal (population range of 500,000-1,000,000 inhabitants), Rio Grande do Norte.
This institution also has branch campuses in Macaíba, Currais Novos, Santa Cruz and Caicó. Officially recognized by the Ministério da Educação, Brazil (Ministry of Education of Brazil), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) is a very large-sized coeducational Brazilian higher education institution.
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 65-year-old Brazilian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations.
The acceptance rate range is 10-19% making this Brazilian higher education organization an extremely selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. UFRN also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Need to mail, call, or visit Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte? Address, phone, and digital contact options below. Religious and cultural accommodation queries route through specific student services.
Academic Details
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte at the institutional level: enrolment, staffing, and accreditation summary. Accreditation has expiry and renewal cycles worth checking on the awarding body site for currency.
Academic Structures
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte's academic units, organised by type. Recently formed faculties (post-merger or post-split) often have updated curricula and may carry less institutional history than older units.
Unit 12 items
- Applied Social Sciences Center
- Biosciences Center
- Education Center
- Exact and Earth Sciences Center
- Health Sciences Center
- Health Sciences College of Trairi
- Humanities, Letters and Arts Center
- Jundiaí Agriculture School
- School of Music
- School of Sciences and Technology
- Seridó Higher Education Center
- Technology Center
Degrees
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte's qualification tiers and the degrees within each. Foundation years for international students often run separately and feed into year-one of a bachelor's programme.
Other 64 programs
- Accountancy
- Administration
- Aquaculture
- Architecture
- Art Education
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Biomedicine
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- Communication Studies
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Dentistry
- Development Studies
- Documentation Techniques
- Earth Sciences
- Ecology
- Economics
- Education
- Electrical Engineering
- Engineering
- Environmental Studies
- Genetics
- Geography
- Geophysics
- Health Sciences
- Information Technology
- Latin
- Law
- Linguistics
- Materials Engineering
- Mathematics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medicine
- Modern Languages
- Molecular Biology
- Music
- Natural Sciences
- Nursing
- Nutrition
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Oral Pathology
- Pedagogy
- Pharmacy
- Philosophy
- Physical Education
- Physical Therapy
- Physics
- Production Engineering
- Psychology
- Public Administration
- Public Health
- Radiology
- Regional Studies
- Sanitary Engineering
- Social Sciences
- Social Work
- Statistics
- Textile Technology
- Tourism
- Urban Studies
- Zoology
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Ministério da Educação, Brazil.
Applied Social Sciences (Centre) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Accountancy
- Administration
- Economics
- Law
- Library Science
- Pedagogy
- Social Work
- Tourism
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Bioscience (Centre) 10 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Botany
- Cell Biology
- Ecology
- Genetics
- Marine Science and Oceanography
- Parasitology
- Physiology
- Zoology
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Earth and Exact Sciences (Centre) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Geology
- Materials Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Statistics
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Health Sciences (Centre) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Dentistry
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Nutrition
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology
- Pharmacy
- Physical Education
- Physical Therapy
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Higher Education (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Higher Education
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Human Sciences, Letters and Arts (Centre) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arts and Humanities
- Communication Studies
- Fine Arts
- Geography
- History
- Philosophy
- Psychology
- Social Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Natural Sciences (Centre) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Aquaculture
- Biological and Life Sciences
- Biomedicine
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Technology (Centre) 10 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Architecture
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Production Engineering
- Technology
- Textile Technology
- Town Planning
- Zoology
Programs Offered
The programmes you can apply for at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte are grouped by degree level. Programme-level accreditation (separate from institutional) matters for regulated professions like law, medicine, and engineering.
Bachelor's Degree
79 programmes
Browse 79 programmes at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte for undergraduate entry. Each combines core theory with the credits needed to progress toward honours or a master's.
Engenharia Mecatrônica Electrical Engineering On-campus
Geologia Earth Sciences & Geology On-campus
Geofisica Earth Sciences & Geology On-campus
Fonoaudiologia Rehabilitation Sciences On-campus
Fisioterapia Rehabilitation Sciences On-campus
Filosofia Education & Teaching On-campus
Farmácia Pharmacy On-campus
Estatística Applied Mathematics & Statistics On-campus
Engenharia Têxtil Industrial & Systems Engineering On-campus
Engenharia Química Chemical Engineering On-campus
Engenharia Mecânica Mechanical Engineering On-campus
Engenharia Elétrica Electrical Engineering On-campus
Engenharia De Telecomunicações Electrical Engineering On-campus
Engenharia De Software Software Engineering On-campus
Engenharia De Petróleo Mining & Oil Engineering On-campus
Engenharia De Materiais Materials Science On-campus
Engenharia De Aquicultura Marine Science On-campus
Engenharia De Alimentos Food Science On-campus
Engenharia Da Computação Electrical Engineering On-campus
Engenharia Civil Civil Engineering & Construction On-campus
Música Performing Arts On-campus
Tecnologia Da Informação Computer Sciences On-campus
Teatro Education & Teaching On-campus
Serviço Social Social Work On-campus
Saúde Coletiva Public Health On-campus
Relações Internacionais Social & Cultural Studies On-campus
Química Do Petróleo Chemistry On-campus
Psicologia Psychology On-campus
Odontologia Dentistry On-campus
Nutrição Rehabilitation Sciences On-campus
Engenharia Biomédica Electrical Engineering On-campus
Meteorologia Earth Sciences & Geology On-campus
Letras - Língua Portuguesa E Libras Education & Teaching On-campus
Letras - Inglês Education & Teaching On-campus
Letras - Francês Education & Teaching On-campus
Jornalismo Communication Studies On-campus
Interdisciplinar Em Humanidades Social & Cultural Studies On-campus
Interdisciplinar Em Ciência E Tecnologia Natural Sciences On-campus
Gestão De Políticas Públicas Business Administration On-campus
Engenharia Ambiental Environmental Engineering On-campus
Ciência Da Computação Software Engineering On-campus
Ciências Atuariais Applied Mathematics & Statistics On-campus
Ciências Econômicas Economics On-campus
Ciências Sociais Social & Cultural Studies On-campus
Comunicação Social - Audiovisual Communication Studies On-campus
Comunicação Social - Publicidade E Propaganda Advertising & Digital Marketing On-campus
Dança Education & Teaching On-campus
Design Applied Design On-campus
Ecologia Environmental Sciences On-campus
Educação Intercultural Indígena Education & Teaching On-campus
Enfermagem Nursing On-campus
Comunicação Social - Radialismo Communication Studies On-campus
Medicina Medicine On-campus
Direito Law On-campus
Ciências Contábeis Accounting On-campus
Química Education & Teaching On-campus
Pedagogia Education & Teaching On-campus
Matemática Education & Teaching On-campus
Letras - Língua Portuguesa Education & Teaching On-campus
História History On-campus
Geografia Education & Teaching On-campus
Física Education & Teaching On-campus
Educação Física Education & Teaching On-campus
Educação Especial Inclusiva Education & Teaching Online
Administração Pública Business Administration On-campus
Ciências Biológicas Education & Teaching On-campus
Sistemas De Informação Software Engineering On-campus
Administração Business Administration On-campus
Engenharia De Produção Industrial & Systems Engineering On-campus
Letras - Lingua Espanhola Education & Teaching On-campus
Letras - Português E Inglês Education & Teaching On-campus
Turismo Tourism & Leisure On-campus
Engenharia Agronômica Agriculture On-campus
Engenharia Florestal Forestry & Natural Resources On-campus
Zootecnia Agriculture On-campus
Arquitetura E Urbanismo Architecture On-campus
Artes Visuais Education & Teaching On-campus
Biblioteconomia Library Science On-campus
Biomedicina Biomedical & Laboratory Sciences On-campus
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Associate, Certificate & Other Qualifications
3 programmes
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte offers 3 programmes as shorter-cycle and preparatory qualifications, a flexible tier for skills-focused learners or those bridging into undergraduate study.
Gestão De Cooperativas Business Administration On-campus
Gestão Hospitalar Business Administration On-campus
Análise E Desenvolvimento De Sistemas Software Engineering On-campus
No programmes match your filter in this level.
How to apply to Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte
Step-by-step guidance for applying to Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, covering the typical sequence from programme selection to admissions follow-up.
- 1 Find a programme that fits your goals
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte offers 82 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
- 2 Confirm you meet the requirements
Each programme at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
- 3 Assemble your application package
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
- 4 Submit your application
Apply directly via Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte's online portal at ufrn.br. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
- 5 Contact admissions and follow up
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +55 (84) 3215 3119. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte
Quick answers to the most common questions about Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte — covering location, founding, ranking, programmes, and admissions context.
How old is Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte?
The institution opened in 1958 (approximately 68 years ago).
Where is Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte located?
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte is located in Natal, Brazil.
Is Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte public or private?
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte operates as a public institution.
What is the student enrolment at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte?
Student enrolment at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte is around 40,000-44,999.
What is Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte's ranking?
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte holds rank #1117 globally and #11 in Brazil.
How many faculties does Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte have?
Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte is organised into 12 academic units across its disciplines.
Is Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte officially recognised?
Yes, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte is recognised by Ministry of Education.
What is Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte's official website?
The institution's website is ufrn.br.
Top-Ranked Universities in Brazil
Subject-specific rankings sometimes diverge from overall national rankings. A university below Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte overall may lead in your subject — worth checking subject tables separately.
Members of Conselho de Reitores das Universidades Brasileiras (CRUB)
The universities below share Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte's Conselho de Reitores das Universidades Brasileiras (CRUB) membership, often coordinating on academic standards. Coordination simplifies credit transfer and joint-programme delivery between member institutions.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
Regional admissions cycle quirks (early-deadline schemes, regional aid programmes) apply consistently across the universities near Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte. Worth knowing during shortlisting.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
If Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte is on your shortlist for studying Education & Teaching, these peer institutions in Brazil offer comparable academic depth, industry links, and graduate outcomes. Cross-applying to multiple is common practice in this discipline.
Universities Often Compared with Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte
Universities at a similar tier to Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte appear below, useful for cross-comparison on academic credentials. Comparable institutions often share faculty mobility patterns and external recognition signals.
