University of San Jose-Recoletos

University of San Jose-Recoletos is a private Roman Catholic university in Cebu City, Philippines.

The university's history dates back to 1878, when the Recollects, a Spanish religious order, established a college in Cebu City. Initially intended to serve the Spanish community, the college quickly began attracting students from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the growing need for quality education in the region. In 1898, following the Spanish-American War, the Recollects were compelled to leave the Philippines. The American government took over the college, renaming it the Cebu Normal School. This transition marked a significant shift in the institution's mission, as it began to focus on training educators to meet the demands of a newly developing educational system.

By 1920, the Cebu Normal School was elevated to university status, signifying its growth and increasing importance in the region’s educational landscape. The university continued to develop its programs and infrastructure, gaining recognition for its contributions to education in the Philippines. However, the university faced significant challenges during World War II. In 1941, it was occupied by Japanese forces, leading to considerable damage to its facilities and a temporary closure. The impact of the war was profound, but the resilience of the institution shone through in the years that followed.

After the war, the university underwent extensive rebuilding and reopened its doors to students. The post-war period marked a time of significant growth and expansion, as the university introduced new programs and adapted to the evolving needs of society. It established itself as a center of academic excellence and became a vital contributor to the intellectual and cultural life of the region.

Today, the university is recognized as one of the leading institutions in the Philippines, offering a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields. Its commitment to academic quality, community engagement, and the holistic development of its students continues to shape its mission, ensuring that it remains a key player in the country’s educational landscape. The university's rich history and tradition of service and excellence continue to inspire future generations of learners.