Universities and Colleges in Davao City, Philippines

Davao City, known as the “King City of the South” is not only the economic heartbeat of Mindanao but also its premier educational hub. Whether you are looking for top-tier research institutions, high-performing medical schools, or specialized technical colleges, Davao City offers a diverse academic landscape.

Based on the latest UniRank 2024, Webometrics, and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) data, here is an in-depth look at the educational institutions in Davao.

The “Big Three” of Davao Education

According to recent rankings from EduRank and UniRank, three institutions consistently lead the pack in terms of web presence, research, and reputation.

Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU)

Ranked as the #1 university in Davao City by EduRank, ADDU is a premier Jesuit institution. It is world-renowned for its programs in Law, Business, and Liberal Arts. It is a member of the International Association of Jesuit Universities (IAJU) and is consistently recognized for its high accreditation levels (PAASCU).

University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP)

As the leading state university in the region, USEP is a powerhouse for Engineering, Agriculture, and Teacher Education. It frequently shines in Webometrics rankings, placing high among Philippine schools for its research output and digital presence.

University of Mindanao (UM)

UM is the largest private, non-sectarian university in Mindanao. It is famous for its “Diamond” status in several board exams. The UM Main (Bolton) and Matina campuses are consistent producers of board exam topnotchers in Architecture, Criminology, and Engineering.

Top Schools for Board Exam Performance

Davao City is a consistent “topnotcher factory”. According to Davao Eagle and PRC data, these schools excel in professional licensure exams:

  • San Pedro College (SPC): A leader in Nursing, Pharmacy, and Medical Technology.
  • Davao Doctors College (DDC): Highly regarded for Radiologic Technology and Nursing.
  • Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF): One of the top-performing medical schools in the country with a high passing rate for the Physician Licensure Exam.
  • University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC): A top choice for Pharmacy and Chemistry.

Comprehensive List of Institutions in Davao City

To help you find the right fit, we have categorized the city’s schools:

Major Universities

  • University of the Philippines Mindanao (UPMin): The Mindanao constituent of the national university, focusing on Mindanao studies, architecture, and science.
  • Lyceum of the Philippines – Davao: One of the newest major players, offering world-class facilities in the northern part of the city.
  • Jose Maria College (JMC): Rapidly expanding, particularly known for its College of Law and modern campus near the airport.

Specialized & International Schools

  • Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku (MKD): The first Japanese-style college in the Philippines.
  • Malayan Colleges Mindanao (A Mapúa School): Focused on cutting-edge Engineering and IT.
  • DMMA College of Southern Philippines: The go-to institution for Maritime and Seafaring careers.
  • Stockbridge American International School: Offering international standard basic education and early childhood programs.
  • Faith International Academy: Serving the international community with a Christian-based curriculum.

Notable Colleges (By Category)

Health & Sciences:

  • Mindanao Medical Foundation College
  • Brokenshire College
  • St. Paul College – Davao

Technology & Business:

  • STI College of Davao
  • AMA Computer University / AMA College
  • Philippine College of Technology
  • Interface Computer College
  • MATS College of Technology

General Education & Arts:

Culinary & Hospitality:

  • Joji Ilagan International Schools
  • Center of Asian Culinary Studies (CACS)
  • Institute of Culinary and Hospitality Entrepreneurship (ICHE)

Why Study in Davao City?

  1. High Passing Rates: Davao schools are frequent fixtures in the PRC Top 10 lists for Nursing, Engineering, and Education.
  2. Affordability: Compared to Metro Manila, the cost of living and tuition in Davao are significantly more manageable.
  3. Safety & Discipline: Known for its strict local ordinances, Davao offers a conducive and safe environment for students.
  4. Regional Hub: Studying in Davao provides networking opportunities within the most rapidly developing region in Mindanao.

Are you a student or a parent? Choosing a school is a big decision. We recommend visiting the official websites of ADDU, USEP, or UM to check for scholarship opportunities and entrance exam schedules for the 2024-2025 academic year.

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