Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Madrid, Spain • Founded 1293 • World Rank #152
Updated May 2026
Overview
Established in 1293, the Universidad Complutense de Madrid (Complutense University of Madrid) is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of Madrid (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants), Community of Madrid.
This institution also has a branch campus in Pozuelo de Alarcón. Officially recognized by the Ministerio de Universidades, España (Ministry of Universities of Spain), Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) is a very large-sized coeducational Spanish higher education institution.
Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) 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 730-year-old Spanish higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations.
The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this Spanish higher education organization a moderately selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. UCM also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Where Universidad Complutense de Madrid is located and how to contact its offices. Disability and accessibility information is usually held by a separate student services office worth contacting directly.
Academic Details
Academic statistics for Universidad Complutense de Madrid — including its student body and academic staff numbers. Read these alongside rankings; institution scale changes how rankings should be interpreted.
Academic Structures
The institutional units housing Universidad Complutense de Madrid's programmes. Subject overlap across faculties is normal — interdisciplinary fields like data science or environmental studies often span multiple units.
Unit 26 items
- Faculty of Biological Science
- Faculty of Chemical Science
- Faculty of Commerce and Tourism
- Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering
- Faculty of Dentistry
- Faculty of Economics and Business Administration
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Fine Arts
- Faculty of Geography and History
- Faculty of Geological Science
- Faculty of Language Studies
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Library Science
- Faculty of Mathematical Science
- Faculty of Media & Communication Science
- Faculty of Medicine
- Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry
- Faculty of Optics and Optometry
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Philosophy
- Faculty of Physical Science
- Faculty of Political and Social Science
- Faculty of Psychology
- Faculty of Social Work
- Faculty of Statistical Studies
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Degrees
Universidad Complutense de Madrid offers degrees across multiple levels. Full-time, part-time, and sandwich (with placement year) modes change total time commitment and total cost meaningfully.
Doctoral 13 programs
Doctoral programmes train independent researchers, leading to academic, scientific, and senior advisory careers.
- Art History
- Astrophysics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Fine Arts
- Geology
- Health Sciences
- History
- Linguistics
- Literature
- Physics
- Religion
- Theatre
Other 77 programs
- Accountancy
- Actuarial Science
- American Studies
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Art Therapy
- Arts and Humanities
- Behavioural Sciences
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Biotechnology
- Business Administration
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Classical Languages
- Communication Studies
- Computer Science
- Dentistry
- Design
- Dietetics
- E-Business/Commerce
- Economics
- Education
- Electronics and Automation
- Engineering
- Environmental Management
- Ethics
- Finance
- Gender Studies
- Genetics
- Geography
- Geology
- Health Sciences
- History
- Hotel Management
- Immunology
- Information Management
- Information Technology
- Journalism
- Latin American Studies
- Law
- Library Science
- Literature
- Marketing
- Mathematics
- Medieval Studies
- Meteorology
- Microbiology
- Mineralogy
- Museum Studies
- Music
- Nanotechnology
- Natural Sciences
- Neurosciences
- Optometry
- Paleontology
- Pharmacy
- Philology
- Philosophy
- Physics
- Political Sciences
- Psychiatry and Mental Health
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Social Sciences
- Social Work
- Sociology
- Special Education
- Statistics
- Teacher Training
- Theatre
- Tourism
- Translation and Interpretation
- Urban Studies
- Veterinary Science
- Visual Arts
- Writing
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Ministerio de Universidades, España.
Centro de Enseñanza Superior Real Centro Universitario Escorial-María Cristina (Centre) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Business Administration
- Law
European Economics (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- European Studies
Common Career Paths
- Economist
- Policy Analyst
- Financial Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
European Law (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- European Union Law
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Biology (Faculty) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Biology
- Cell Biology
Common Career Paths
- Biologist
- Lab Technician
- Research Scientist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Chemistry (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Chemistry
Common Career Paths
- Chemist
- Lab Researcher
- Quality Control Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Computer Science (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Computer Science
Common Career Paths
- Software Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Systems Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Dentistry (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Dentistry
Common Career Paths
- Dentist
- Oral Surgeon
- Dental Researcher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Economics and Business Administration (Faculty) 4 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Actuarial Science
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance
Common Career Paths
- Business Analyst
- Operations Manager
- Strategy Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Education (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Education
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Fine Arts (Faculty) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Fine Arts
- Heritage Preservation
Common Career Paths
- Artist
- Curator
- Art Educator
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Geography and History (Faculty) 5 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Archaeology
- Art History
- Geography
- History
- Musicology
Geology (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Geology
Information Sciences (Faculty) 4 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Advertising and Publicity
- Information Sciences
- Journalism
- Public Relations
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Law (Faculty) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Labour and Industrial Relations
- Law
- Political Sciences
Common Career Paths
- Lawyer
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Library Science (Faculty) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Documentation Techniques
- Library Science
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Mathematics (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Mathematics
Common Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Statistician
- Actuary
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Medicine (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Medicine
Common Career Paths
- Physician
- Medical Researcher
- Clinical Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podology (Faculty) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Nursing
- Orthopaedics
- Physical Therapy
Common Career Paths
- Registered Nurse
- Clinical Nurse
- Public Health Nurse
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Optics and Optometry (Faculty) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Optics
- Optometry
Pharmacy (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Pharmacy
Common Career Paths
- Pharmacist
- Clinical Pharmacist
- Pharmaceutical Researcher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Philology (Faculty) 9 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Arabic
- French
- German
- Hebrew
- Islamic Studies
- Italian
- Latin
- Philology
- Slavic Languages
Philosophy (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Philosophy
Physics (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Physics
Common Career Paths
- Physicist
- Research Scientist
- Data Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Political Science and Sociology (Faculty) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Political Sciences
- Sociology
Common Career Paths
- Sociologist
- Researcher
- Community Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Psychology (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Psychology
Common Career Paths
- Psychologist
- Counsellor
- Clinical Researcher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Statistics (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Statistics
Common Career Paths
- Statistician
- Data Analyst
- Actuary
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Teacher Training (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Teacher Training
Veterinary Science (Faculty) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Veterinary Science
Common Career Paths
- Veterinarian
- Animal Health Specialist
- Wildlife Researcher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Astronomy and Geodesy (Institute) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Astronomy and Space Science
- Environmental Engineering
- Mathematics
Biochemistry (Institute) 2 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Common Career Paths
- Chemist
- Lab Researcher
- Quality Control Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Geoscience (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Geology
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Mathematics (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Mathematics
Common Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Statistician
- Actuary
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Musicology (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Musicology
Nutrition and Bromatology (Institute) 3 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Food Science
- Immunology
- Nutrition
Public Health (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Public Health
Common Career Paths
- Public Health Officer
- Epidemiologist
- Health Policy Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Religion Studies (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Religious Studies
Programs Offered
Universidad Complutense de Madrid's degree-level programme breakdown, with search. Industry-sponsored programmes often have bonded service or employment commitments — read the terms before accepting any sponsored place.
342 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Spain
Bachelor's Degree 102 programmes
Showing 10 of 102.
Master's Degree 182 programmes
Showing 10 of 182.
Doctorate 58 programmes
Showing 10 of 58.
How to apply to Universidad Complutense de Madrid
How to apply to Universidad Complutense de Madrid — a five-step structure with notes on documents, channels, and timing for each phase.
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1
Identify the right programme
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Universidad Complutense de Madrid offers 342 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Check entry requirements
Each programme at Universidad Complutense de Madrid 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.
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3
Prepare your application documents
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.
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4
Submit via the institution
Apply directly via Universidad Complutense de Madrid's online portal at www.ucm.es. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +34 913944099. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Below are the key facts most prospective students ask about Universidad Complutense de Madrid, drawn directly from institutional records.
When was Universidad Complutense de Madrid founded?
Universidad Complutense de Madrid was established in 1293 (approximately 733 years ago).
Where is Universidad Complutense de Madrid located?
Universidad Complutense de Madrid is located in Madrid, Spain.
What is Universidad Complutense de Madrid's control type?
Universidad Complutense de Madrid operates as a public institution.
What is the student enrolment at Universidad Complutense de Madrid?
Student enrolment at Universidad Complutense de Madrid is around over-50,000.
How is Universidad Complutense de Madrid ranked?
It ranks #152 globally and #3 in Spain.
What degrees does Universidad Complutense de Madrid offer?
Universidad Complutense de Madrid delivers doctoral programmes across its academic units.
What is Universidad Complutense de Madrid's academic structure?
Universidad Complutense de Madrid is organised into 26 academic units across its disciplines.
Who recognises Universidad Complutense de Madrid?
Yes, Universidad Complutense de Madrid is recognised by Ministry of Universities.
How do I find Universidad Complutense de Madrid online?
The institution's website is www.ucm.es.
Members of European University Association (EUA)
Network-level rankings exist for some European University Association (EUA) groupings (e.g., U21, Universitas 21). These differ from country rankings and reflect coordinated members' shared performance.
Faculties at nearby universities
Universities geographically close to Universidad Complutense de Madrid are listed below — useful if commute, campus visits, or regional culture factor into your shortlist. Many students compare nearby options before committing to a final choice.
Where Else to Study Natural Sciences & Mathematics
Industry advisory boards on Natural Sciences & Mathematics programmes signal employer engagement and curriculum currency. Check whether each Spain alternative to Universidad Complutense de Madrid publishes its industry partners.
Universities Compared with Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Peer cohort post-graduation outcomes — employment rates, graduate-school placement, salary data — often track closely across institutions at Universidad Complutense de Madrid's level. Comparable cohorts tend to land in comparable places.
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