Discover complutense university of Madrid- The largest university in Spain

Complutense University of Madrid is one of the most historic and prestigious universities in Europe, welcoming thousands of students from around the world each year. With a rich history spanning nearly 800 years, the university stands out not only for its unique architecture and modern learning environment but also as a cradle of talent and great thinkers. Join EI Group in exploring this iconic Spanish institution in the article below!

Basic Information about Complutense University of Madrid

Complutense University of Madrid is one of the oldest and largest universities in Spain and Europe. Below are the key details about the university:

• English Name: Complutense University of Madrid
• Spanish Name: Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM)
• Number of Students: Approximately 86,000 students
• Address: Avda. Séneca, 2, 28040 Madrid, Spain
• Website: www.ucm.es

Complutense University of Madrid

History of UCM

Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Initially founded in 1293 in the city of Alcalá de Henares by King Sancho IV of Castile under the name Studium Generale, it served as an educational center for outstanding students of that era. In 1499, Cardinal Cisneros, a prominent figure in Spanish history, reestablished the institution as Universidad Complutense, named after the Latin name of Alcalá. Under Cisneros’ leadership, the university flourished, becoming a major academic hub with diverse faculties ranging from philosophy and languages to natural sciences and theology.

In the 19th century, UCM relocated from Alcalá de Henares to Madrid to integrate more closely with the political and cultural center of the country, fostering the growth of education and research in the capital. After the move, the university was renamed Universidad Central before officially adopting the name Universidad Complutense de Madrid as it is known today.

Throughout the 20th century, UCM experienced significant growth and expansion, becoming one of the largest universities in Europe with tens of thousands of students. The university played a vital role in Spain’s democratic and progressive movements, particularly during the transition to democracy following the end of Franco’s dictatorship.

Today, Complutense University of Madrid stands as one of Spain’s leading educational and research institutions, making substantial contributions to academic and scientific fields on an international scale.

History of UCM

Outstanding Faculties

Complutense University of Madrid (UCM) boasts numerous distinguished faculties, renowned both in Spain and internationally for their diverse and high-quality academic programs. Below are some of the university’s most notable faculties:

Faculty of Humanities: The Faculty of Humanities at UCM is among the top in Spain, offering a wide range of programs in languages, literature, history, philosophy, and archaeology. UCM has been the cradle of many renowned scholars and writers, standing out in the fields of culture and humanities research.

Faculty of Law: UCM hosts one of the oldest and most prestigious law faculties in Spain, with comprehensive programs in civil law, criminal law, international law, and constitutional law. Many of Spain’s prominent judges, lawyers, and legal experts are alumni of this faculty.

Faculty of Social and Political Sciences: Known for its robust programs in political science, sociology, communication, and international relations, this faculty has contributed to key policies and social movements in Spain and across Europe.

Faculty of Medicine: With a long-standing history, UCM’s Faculty of Medicine is one of the largest medical education centers in Spain. The faculty collaborates with major hospitals in Madrid, providing students with internship opportunities and access to clinical research programs.

Faculty of Natural Sciences: Covering disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, and geology, this faculty is highly regarded for its natural sciences research. UCM has produced internationally influential studies and offers modern, up-to-date academic programs.

Thanks to these prominent faculties, Complutense University of Madrid attracts students from around the world, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a comprehensive and high-quality education.

Outstanding Faculties

Achievements of the University

Complutense University of Madrid ranks among the top 100 universities worldwide and is listed in the top 70 universities in Europe.

The university is particularly renowned for the following programs, which are highly ranked globally:

• Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and Modern Languages: All ranked in the top 50 worldwide.
• Pharmacy, Geography, History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Linguistics, Classics, Communication, and Law: All ranked in the top 100 worldwide.

Currently, Complutense University of Madrid holds these distinctions:

• The third-largest university in Europe for in-person education.
• The greenest university in Spain.
• One of the 50 greenest universities globally.

Notable Alumni

Among the eight Spanish Nobel Prize laureates, seven have studied or taught at Complutense University of Madrid. Distinguished awardees include:

• Nobel Prize in Medicine: Severo Ochoa and Santiago Ramón y Cajal
• Nobel Prize in Literature: José Echegaray, Camilo José Cela, Vicente Aleixandre, Jacinto Benavente, and Mario Vargas Llosa

The university has also been home to numerous prominent figures in Spanish art, science, philosophy, and politics, such as:

• Antonio Machado, Federico García Lorca, Gregorio Marañón, Manuel Azaña, Miguel de Unamuno, and José Ortega y Gasset.
• Miguel de Unamuno and José Ortega y Gasset were also the founders of the Madrid School of Philosophy, centered at the Faculty of Philosophy and Literature of Complutense University (now the Faculty of Philosophy).

Several members of the Spanish royal family have also studied at this institution:

• King Juan Carlos I studied Law, Economics, and Public Finance, graduating in 1961 as the Prince of Spain.
• Infanta Cristina de Borbón, his daughter, graduated in Political Science in 1989.
• Queen Letizia, his daughter-in-law, graduated in Journalism in 1995.

Conclusion

If you are considering studying abroad in Spain, Complutense University of Madrid is an excellent choice to shape your future. Visit EI Group now to receive detailed guidance on your study abroad journey!

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