Pontifical Catholic University of Peru

Pontifical Catholic University of Peru is a private research university located in Lima, Peru.

The Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP) was founded in 1917 as a private university in Lima, Peru. It was the first private non-profit institution of higher learning in the country. The university was founded with the support and approval of the Catholic Church, and its mission was to provide a quality education based on Christian values.

PUCP began its operations with two schools: Letters and Laws. The classes were held in some free classrooms of the La Recoleta school, near to the Plaza Francia square. In 1918, the university was renamed as the Catholic University of Peru.

In 1933, PUCP added two more schools: Engineering and Political and Economic Sciences. In 1935, the School of Education was created. The Academy of Catholic Art was founded in 1939, and it became one of very few higher education institutions to offer an arts major in Peru.

In 1942, PUCP received the honorary title of Pontifical University by the Vatican. This title was granted in recognition of the university's commitment to Catholic education and its outstanding academic achievements.

In 1949, PUCP was classified by law in the category of national universities and entitled to award degrees and titles under the same conditions. This classification was a major milestone in the university's history, and it further cemented its reputation as one of the leading universities in Peru.

In 1969, PUCP was reorganized and the faculties were replaced by major academic programs. This reorganization was designed to make the university more flexible and responsive to the needs of students and society.

PUCP is a vibrant and dynamic university that is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service. It is a place where students can learn and grow in a supportive and challenging environment. PUCP is also a place where scholars can conduct cutting-edge research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, Pontifical Catholic University of Peru is positioned as the #359 top university in the world, which makes it the #1 top university in Peru. The university's global rank decreased by 23 points from last year.