The University of Santo Tomas (UST), also known as the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas, or simply as UST, is a private, Catholic research university in Manila, Philippines. Founded on 28 April 1611 by Miguel de Benavides, OP, and administered by the Order of Preachers, it is the oldest existing university in the Philippines and in Asia.**
Here is the background of UST:
- UST was established in 1611 by the Dominican friars under the patronage of St. Thomas Aquinas.
- It was originally named Colegio de Santo Tomas, and it offered courses in philosophy, theology, and canon law.
- In 1624, it was elevated to the status of a university by Pope Gregory XV, and it began to offer courses in medicine, law, and pharmacy.
- In 1682, it was granted the title of Royal University by King Charles II of Spain.
- Over the centuries, UST has grown into one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the Philippines.
- It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study, including medicine, law, engineering, business, and the arts.
- UST is also home to several research institutes and centers, and it has a strong commitment to community service.
The university has over 40,000 students and a faculty of over 3,000. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide variety of fields, including medicine, law, business, engineering, and the arts. UST is also home to a number of research institutes and centers, including the UST Hospital, the UST Law Center, and the UST Graduate School of Business.
UST is a leading research university in the Philippines. Its research initiatives are focused on a wide range of areas, including medicine, science, engineering, and social sciences. The university has also established a number of research centers and institutes, such as the UST Research Center for the Natural and Applied Sciences, the UST Research Center for Social Sciences and Humanities, and the UST Research Center for Innovation and Technology Transfer.
UST is also a leading center for community service. The university offers a variety of community service programs, including medical clinics, legal aid services, and educational programs. UST also partners with a number of non-governmental organizations and government agencies to provide community service programs.
UST is a leading university in the Philippines and is committed to providing quality education, research, and community service. The university has a long history of excellence and is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing quality education to its students.