University for Peace

San José, Costa Rica Founded 1980

Overview

English Name: University for Peace
Acronyms: UPEACE
Founded: 1980
Control Type: Private

Based in San José, Costa Rica, University for Peace is a private university that traces its founding to 1980. It functions as a higher-education provider within Costa Rica's higher-education sector.

The academic catalogue at University for Peace runs across multiple qualification levels, with several faculties hosting a catalogue of active programmes. Each unit administers its own admissions and curriculum framework.

Location & Contact

Planning a visit to University for Peace or following up with admissions? Location and contact details are listed below. Admissions email typically replies within 5–10 business days during peak season.

Address: Apartado 138-6100, Ciudad Colón
Map:

Academic Details

Below: the academic-side numbers and recognition that shape University for Peace's reputation. Recognition and accreditation are distinct — recognition is government-level, accreditation programme-specific.

Academic Year: September to June
Accrediting Agency: Sistema Nacional de Acreditación de la Educación Superior (SINAES)
Admission Requirements: Bachelor's degree with sufficient average grade, TOEFL and entrance examination (essay)

Degrees

Pick your degree level at University for Peace from the breakdown. Late-entry and transfer options vary by level and country — fewer universities accept mid-degree transfers at master's than at bachelor's.

Other 5 programs
  • Environmental Studies
  • Gender Studies
  • Human Rights
  • International Law
  • Peace and Disarmament

Faculties & Divisions

Find which faculty at University for Peace covers your subject area. Cross-listed subjects (taught across multiple faculties) require checking which faculty owns the credentialing for your degree.

Environment and Development (Department/Division) 6 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Development Studies
  • Economics
  • Environmental Studies
  • International Relations and Diplomacy
  • Peace and Disarmament
  • Political Sciences
International Law (Department/Division) 3 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Human Rights
  • Peace and Disarmament
  • Religion

Common Career Paths

  • Lawyer
  • Legal Consultant
  • Compliance Officer

Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.

Peace and Conflict Studies (Department/Division) 5 subjects offered

Specialisations & Subjects

  • Economics
  • Government
  • Human Rights
  • International Relations and Diplomacy
  • Peace and Disarmament

Programs Offered

Every programme University for Peace currently runs, grouped by degree level and searchable. Status and intake details vary by programme — verify with the institution before committing to applications.

Master's Degree

5 programmes

University for Peace offers 5 programmes at master's level — postgraduate programmes that deepen a specialism, usually over one to two years after a bachelor's degree.

M.A. in Environment, Development, and Peace Environmental Sciences
M.A. in Gender Studies Gender & Sexuality Studies
M.A. in Human Rights Law
M.A. in International Law International Law
M.A. in Peace and Disarmament Peace and Development Studies

How to apply to University for Peace

Practical steps to apply to University for Peace, suitable as a starting checklist before contacting the admissions team directly.

  1. 1
    Browse the programme catalogue

    Use the programme finder to browse University for Peace's 5 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.

  2. 2
    Check eligibility for your chosen programme

    Programme-level requirements at University for Peace typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.

  3. 3
    Get your documents ready

    Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.

  4. 4
    Apply through the official channel

    University for Peace processes applications through www.upeace.org. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.

  5. 5
    Reach out and track your application

    Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.

Frequently Asked Questions about University for Peace

Quick answers to the most common questions about University for Peace — covering location, founding, ranking, programmes, and admissions context.

When did University for Peace open?

University for Peace traces its founding to 1980 (approximately 46 years ago).

What city is University for Peace in?

University for Peace operates from San José, Costa Rica.

What is University for Peace's control type?

It is a private higher-education institution.

Who recognises University for Peace?

Yes, University for Peace is recognised by Sistema Nacional de Acreditación de la Educación Superior (SINAES).

How do I find University for Peace online?

University for Peace's official website is www.upeace.org.

Top-Ranked Universities in Costa Rica

Subject-specific rankings sometimes diverge from overall national rankings. A university below University for Peace overall may lead in your subject — worth checking subject tables separately.

Faculties at Nearby Universities

Students considering University for Peace often compare it against universities in the same region. Below are nearby institutions with comparable academic departments and student support structures, useful for cross-shortlisting.

Universities Often Compared with University for Peace

Students considering University for Peace frequently compare it against the universities listed below. The comparison set reflects revealed-preference data from how applicants actually build shortlists.

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