Study Engineering in Spain

Engineering is a popular degree choice among students in Spain. Getting into engineering means you will enjoy a lucrative and fulfilling career. Engineers are known as the world’s problem-solvers because they are required to apply their scientific and mathematical skills to create solutions for a wide range of technical problems. Depending on the engineering discipline you choose, whether it is chemical, civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering, you are likely to find all the professional knowledge and skills you need in Spain, to create a great career.

Can I Study Engineering in Spain in English? 

Many Spanish universities offer degree programs in engineering taught entirely in English. You can also enroll in degree programs where the instruction language is Spanish, but a few classes are in English. Although many universities offer engineering programs in English, the majority of university programs at Spanish universities use Spanish as the medium of instruction. For example, the top engineering university in Spain, the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, offers bachelor’s degree programs in Civil Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Informatics Engineering entirely in English. 

Spain has over 75 universities, most of which are public universities, supported by the state. Moreover, Spain has its fair share of private and international universities as well. International students also can find engineering degree programs taught in English in Spain’s private or international universities. However, studying at a private university in Spain is more costly than pursuing a degree in one of Spain’s public universities. Spanish universities might ask that you provide proof of English language proficiency as part of their admission requirements.

Here are the top engineering universities in Spain:

Top Engineering Universities in Spain

1. Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC)

The Polytechnic University of Catalonia is the top Spanish university for Engineering and Technology. UPC is a higher education institution of research and education in engineering, architecture, science, and technology. More than 6,000 students, at all levels of study, graduate from this university every year. With around 28,208 students across its 18 schools, the Polytechnic University of Catalonia is renowned for its engineering excellence. It has nine campuses located in Barcelona and the towns nearby including Castelldefels, Manresa, Sant Adrià de Besòs, Sant Cugat del Vallès, Terrassa, and Vilanova i la Geltrú. 

2. Polytechnic University of Madrid

The Polytechnic University of Madrid is also among the best engineering universities in Spain. Although a relatively young university, most of its schools are over a century old, dating back to the 19th century. These schools were grouped together to create what we now know as the Polytechnic University of Madrid. The first school to be founded in the 19th century was the Civil Engineering School (founded in 1802) and later the School of Industrial Engineering in 1850. Today, this university offers degrees in other fields like Chemical, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering among others. 

3. Polytechnic University of Valencia

The Polytechnic University of Valencia has an exceptional focus on science and technology, and as such, it is one of the best universities for engineering in Spain. Thousands of students, national and international, choose the Polytechnic University of Valencia each year to pursue a degree. This university aims to help students enhance their skills through research and knowledge to contribute to society’s technical, economic, and cultural development. Its engineering schools are outstanding in their expertise, and students graduate with substantial skills to make their way into any engineering career.  

4. University of Barcelona

The University of Barcelona is one of Spain’s biggest universities and among the oldest in Catalonia, established in 1450. Currently, over 63,000 students are pursuing their studies at this university, in one of its 16 faculties. This university has one of the highest entry rates into the job market and has been ranked 55th in the world in scientific production. This university’s mission has always been to provide the highest educational quality level through its teaching, research, and knowledge transfer. Every year, over fourteen thousand students decide to pursue their studies at the UB, in fields ranging from science in engineering to social sciences and humanities. 

5. Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB)

The Autonomous University of Barcelona offers academic and professional development in engineering, helping students enter the job market and have successful careers. At this university, students can find a variety of bachelor’s and master’s degrees taught in English, many of which are also in the field of engineering. Postgraduate degrees at this university provide the fundamental skills to develop knowledge and grow professionally. More than 26,272 undergraduate students are currently pursuing their studies at this university in various study fields. UAB consistently ranks among the top for quality in teaching and attracting international talent.

6. University Carlos III de Madrid

University Carlos III de Madrid aims to contribute to society through teaching and research of the highest quality. With a history dating back to 1989, this university constantly encourages students to strive towards personal and professional development. Ranked among the top engineering universities in Spain, University Carlos III de Madrid attracts some of the best students on a national and international level. This university offers two types of studies in English, one where the entire degree program is in English and the other where at least half of the program’s subjects are in English. 

Why Study Engineering in Spain? 

Engineering is a highly popular field of study in Spain. In fact, this country has excellent universities that offer higher education in engineering. Spain is growing in popularity as an international student destination, with approximately 194,743 international students enrolled in Spanish higher education institutions (including mobility programs). But why study engineering in Spain? As a prospective engineering student, you will find plenty of reasons to choose Spain as your go-to destination. Find some of these reasons below: 

1. Affordability and Quality

Not only do Spanish universities rank among the top for engineering and technology, but they are also an affordable option to get a quality education. Polytechnic University of Catalonia and Polytechnic University of Madrid rank among the top 100 for engineering and technology in QS World University Rankings 2021. In addition, the government regulates tuition fees at public universities in Spain, so Spanish university tuition fees are largely affordable for international students.

2. Great Opportunities to Advance

Spanish universities will provide you with great opportunities to advance in engineering. Whether it is theoretical knowledge or hands-on skills, you will get the best of both worlds. International students will advance in their professional careers and have a handful of opportunities to learn a new language, get acquainted with the job market through part-time work and internships, and create plenty of new connections. 

3. Outstanding Culture and Plenty of Sunshine

The world knows Spain for its outstanding culture and 300 days of sunshine per year (on average). The great thing about studying engineering in a country where culture and sunshine thrive is that you tend never to get bored. There is plenty to explore during leisure time, the food culture complements the whole experience, and the cultural activities, including the many festivals, are simply the cherry on top!