University of the Andes

The University of the Andes (Universidad de los Andes, Uniandes) is a private research university located in the city center of Bogotá, Colombia.

The University of the Andes was founded in 1948 by a group of Colombian intellectuals led by Mario Laserna Pinzón. Laserna was a businessman and philanthropist who was concerned about the state of education in Colombia at the time. He envisioned a university that would be independent from political or religious influences and that would focus on academic excellence and social responsibility.

The university was initially established with three faculties: Law and Economics, Engineering, and Architecture. In the early years, Uniandes faced a number of challenges, including limited financial resources and political opposition. However, the university quickly gained a reputation for its high standards and innovative programs.

In the 1960s, Uniandes began to expand its academic offerings and research activities. The university also established a number of new faculties, including the Faculties of Medicine, Arts and Sciences, and Social Sciences. In 1964, the Colombian government granted Uniandes university status.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Uniandes continued to grow and develop. The university established new research centers and institutes, and it expanded its international partnerships. Uniandes also played a leading role in the development of new educational programs, such as the first MBA program in Colombia.

In the 1990s and 2000s, Uniandes continued to expand its academic offerings and research activities. The university also established a number of new partnerships with leading universities around the world. In 2009, Uniandes adopted a new set of statutes that affirmed its commitment to academic excellence, social responsibility, and international engagement.

Today, the University of the Andes is one of the leading universities in Latin America. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities. The university is also home to several research centers and institutes, and it has a strong commitment to social responsibility and civic engagement.

Uniandes has produced many of Colombia's top leaders, including former presidents César Gaviria and Juan Manuel Santos. The university's alumni are also well-represented in the Colombian government, business, and academia.

The University of the Andes has a proud history of academic excellence and social commitment. It is a leading university in Latin America, and its graduates are highly sought-after by employers around the world.

University of the Andes is ranked as the #8 top university in Chile during 2025.