Manila, Metro Manila
The Faculty of Engineering is an academic unit within the University of Santo Tomas (UST), located in Manila, Philippines. Established in 1907, it functions as one of the oldest engineering schools in the country. As a constituent faculty of the university, it operates under the administration of the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, which is situated in the Sampaloc district of Manila. The faculty follows the institutional framework of the university, contributing to the broader academic mission of the institution while maintaining specialized focus on technical and scientific disciplines.
The academic structure of the faculty is organized into several departments that oversee specific engineering specializations. These include the Department of Chemical Engineering, the Department of Civil Engineering, the Department of Electrical Engineering, the Department of Electronics Engineering, the Department of Industrial Engineering, and the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Each department is responsible for curriculum development, research initiatives, and faculty management within its respective field. These programs are designed to meet the requirements set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines and align with the professional standards mandated by the Philippine Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
The faculty’s facilities are integrated into the larger UST campus infrastructure. Students have access to laboratories designed for physical, chemical, and mechanical testing, alongside computer laboratories equipped with industry-standard software for engineering design and simulation. These facilities support the practical component of the curriculum, allowing students to engage in experimental work and technical projects. The campus also provides access to the university's centralized library system, which houses technical journals, research databases, and engineering literature, as well as common student spaces and administrative offices that support the daily operations of the faculty.
Accreditation and quality assurance are managed through both national and international frameworks. The programs offered by the Faculty of Engineering are recognized by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU), which periodically evaluates the academic standards, faculty qualifications, and facilities. Furthermore, several programs hold accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET, an international body that evaluates applied and natural science, computing, and engineering programs. These accreditations serve as indicators of the faculty's adherence to established educational benchmarks and technical competencies.
The academic approach of the faculty combines theoretical instruction with laboratory-based application. The curriculum for each engineering degree typically spans four to five years, depending on the specific program requirements. The first year often consists of foundational courses in mathematics, natural sciences, and general education, followed by specialized technical courses in subsequent years. Students are required to complete capstone projects or thesis work, which involves the application of engineering principles to solve practical problems. This structure is intended to prepare students for the licensure examinations administered by the Philippine government, which are necessary for professional practice in the country.
Research remains a component of the faculty's activities, involving both faculty members and students. Research output is often directed toward areas such as sustainable infrastructure, material science, renewable energy, and industrial systems optimization. The faculty encourages participation in technical seminars, local and international engineering competitions, and collaborative projects with industry partners. This engagement is intended to provide exposure to current industry practices and technological developments. The faculty also maintains connections with professional engineering organizations, facilitating student memberships and professional development opportunities during their period of study.
Admission to the Faculty of Engineering is subject to the university-wide admission process, which includes the University of Santo Tomas Entrance Test (USTET). Prospective students are evaluated based on their performance in standardized examinations, which measure aptitude in mathematics, science, and English proficiency. Upon admission, students are expected to maintain academic standing in accordance with the university’s policies. The faculty provides academic advising and student support services to assist with progress through the degree programs and to manage the transition from academic study to professional engineering practice.
