The Regional Autonomous University of the Andes (UNIANDES) was established in 1989 as part of Ecuador’s growing effort to expand higher education access beyond its capital. It officially became a regional autonomous university under its current name in 1997 and has become the largest private university in the country.
The university’s main campus is located in Ambato, a city in the central Andean valley of Ecuador.
UNIANDES also has campuses in Babahoyo, Ibarra, Puyo, Quevedo, Riobamba, Santo Domingo, and Tulcán. These regional centres reflect the university’s mission to serve diverse urban and rural communities through decentralised academic delivery.
Academically, the university is structured into several faculties, including health sciences, law, administrative sciences, engineering, and education. Within each faculty are different departments offering a wide range of degree programmes at both undergraduate and graduate level.
The university has established teaching agreements with hospitals, clinics, and public institutions across Ecuador, facilitating hands-on training and professional immersion. Through these partnerships, UNIANDES supports applied research, internship placements, and public engagement in both urban and rural communities.
Research and innovation are an important part of the university’s activity. Dedicated research centres and faculty-led initiatives address local and national challenges in public health, social development, environmental sustainability, and technological advancement.
UNIANDES has established a dedicated International Relations Office which coordinates exchange programmes, international collaborations, and support for international students across all faculties.
