University of Puerto Rico

University of Puerto Rico (UPR) is a public university system in Puerto Rico.

The history of the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) dates back to 1900, when the Escuela Normal Industrial (Normal Industrial School) was established in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. This was the first institution of higher education in Puerto Rico dedicated to train those who would become teachers and educators. At the time it only had 20 students and 5 professors. In 1903, the UPR was officially founded, and the Escuela Normal Industrial was moved to Río Piedras. The UPR's initial enrollment was 273 students.

The early years of the UPR were marked by financial challenges and political instability. However, the university persevered and gradually expanded its academic offerings. In 1924, the UPR appointed its first rector, and in 1926, the School of Commerce (later School of Business Administration) and the School of Tropical Medicine were established.

In the 1940s and 1950s, the UPR experienced a period of rapid growth. The university established new campuses in Mayagüez, Ponce, and Humacao. New academic programs were also added, including engineering, architecture, and nursing. During the 1960s and 1970s, the UPR was a center of student activism and political dissent. Students protested against the Vietnam War, for Puerto Rican independence, and for greater student representation in university governance.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the UPR continued to grow and expand its academic offerings. The university also established new research centers and programs. In 1993, the UPR became a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU).

The UPR has played a vital role in the development of Puerto Rico, providing high-quality education to students from all walks of life and helping to drive innovation and growth on the island.

University of Puerto Rico is ranked as the #1 top university in Puerto Rico during 2025. This is the same rank as last year.