Universidad Central de Bayamon

UCB offers associate, bachelor’s, certificate, and master’s degrees across four colleges: Health Sciences, Liberal Arts, Business Development, and Education ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/universidad-central-de-bayamon), [Appily](https://www.appily.com/colleges/universidad-central-de-bayamon)). Its most specialized programs include theology (11 degrees awarded annually) and philosophy/religious studies, reflecting its faith-based roots ([Data USA](https://datausa.io/profile/university/universidad-central-de-bayamon)). Education degrees are also prominent (31 awarded). The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary dialogue aligned with Thomist philosophy ([UCB Monitoring Report](https://ucb.edu.pr/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/UCB-Monitoring-Report-August-29-2014.pdf)), blending faith with professional training.

Life at UCB revolves around its small, close-knit community (undergraduate enrollment is modest) and faith-infused activities. Campus ministries, choral groups, and theater are highlighted ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/universidad-central-de-bayamon/campus-life)), alongside ROTC programs. The university fosters service-oriented values, with student support services designed to develop "individual and professional" growth ([UCB Catalog](https://ucb.edu.pr/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Undergraduate-Catalog-2022_2027_rev-October-2025.pdf)). Bayamón itself offers Caribbean urban culture—students enjoy local cuisine, music, and festivals ([College-Find](https://www.college-find.com/medical-schools/universidad-central-del-caribe-school-of-medicine/student-life)).

UCB’s 6-year graduation rate is 36% ([Research.com](https://research.com/best-colleges/universidad-central-de-bayamon/graduation-rate-and-career), [EDsmart](https://www.edsmart.org/schools/universidad-central-de-bayamon/)), below the national average, though its first-year retention rate is stronger at 80%. Outcomes data is sparse, but the institution emphasizes teacher certification (noting PCMAS exam preparation in internal reports ([UCB Achievement PDF](https://ucb.edu.pr/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/UCB-Students-Achievement-2017_21.pdf))). Median earnings data isn’t available, but the university’s focus on health sciences and education suggests alignment with Puerto Rico’s workforce needs.

UCB is highly affordable by U.S. standards, though exact tuition figures aren’t public. A net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator is available ([UCB](https://ucb.edu.pr/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/index1.html)). Comparable institutions in Puerto Rico, like Universidad Central del Caribe, report average net prices of ~$8,000 after aid ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/universidad-central-del-caribe/tuition-and-costs)), with aid packages averaging $5,077. UCB likely follows similar patterns, given its mission to serve local students.

UCB’s faith-integrated curriculum and Caribbean setting make it unique among small Puerto Rican universities. Its open admissions policy (no test scores, 66% acceptance) and strong retention rates (80%) suggest a supportive environment for students who might struggle elsewhere. While low graduation rates are a concern, its specialized theology and health sciences programs—plus ROTC opportunities—cater to niche interests. For students seeking a low-cost, values-driven education with local roots, UCB offers a distinctive alternative to larger mainland institutions.