Austral University of Chile

The Austral University of Chile (UACh) is a public research university based primarily in Valdivia, with satellite campuses in Puerto Montt and Coyhaique. It is one of the eight original Chilean Traditional Universities.

The history of the Austral University of Chile (UACh) dates back to the early 1950s, when a group of community leaders in Valdivia, Chile, began to advocate for the establishment of a regional university. They were motivated by a desire to provide access to higher education for the youth of the region and to promote the development of the region through research and innovation.

In 1954, the Chilean government granted permission for the establishment of UACh. The university was founded on September 7, 1954, and was officially inaugurated on March 12, 1955.

Initially, UACh offered only a few undergraduate programs in the fields of education, engineering, and agriculture. However, the university quickly expanded its offerings, and today it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields.

UACh has also grown in terms of its size and geographic reach. In addition to its main campus in Valdivia, the university also has campuses in Puerto Montt and Coyhaique. UACh is also involved in a number of educational and research partnerships with institutions all over the world.

Over the years, UACh has played a leading role in the development of the Valdivia region and Chile as a whole. The university's graduates have gone on to become leaders in business, government, and academia. UACh's research has also had a significant impact on the region's economy and society.

Today, UACh is one of the leading universities in Chile and is recognized for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. The university is committed to serving the community and to promoting the sustainable development of the region.

Austral University of Chile is ranked as the #9 top university in Chile during 2025.