Autonomous University of Barcelona Faculty of Communication

Barcelona, Spain
65.0%
Acceptance Rate
1150
Avg SAT
24
Avg ACT
3.25
Avg GPA

The Autonomous University of Barcelona Faculty of Communication stands as a leading center for media and communication studies in Spain and Europe. Established as part of UAB's expansion in the 1970s, this faculty has developed into a comprehensive institution offering innovative programs that combine theoretical foundations with practical skills essential for careers in journalism, advertising, audiovisual communication, and public relations. The faculty has cultivated strong relationships with major media organizations throughout Catalonia and Spain, providing students with exceptional opportunities for internships and professional experience. Its graduates have gone on to hold prominent positions in television networks, newspapers, digital media companies, and communication agencies across the Spanish-speaking world. The faculty's commitment to preparing students for the evolving media landscape has made it particularly attentive to digital transformation and emerging communication technologies. With state-of-the-art facilities including television studios, radio stations, and digital production laboratories, students gain hands-on experience with professional-grade equipment and workflows. The faculty maintains a culture of creativity and critical thinking, encouraging students to develop both technical competencies and the analytical skills necessary to understand media's role in society. International exchange programs and collaborations with communication schools worldwide further enrich the educational experience.

Admissions
Acceptance Rate
65.0%
SAT Range
1050–1250
ACT Range
N/A
Avg GPA
3.25
Campus & Students
Size
N/A
Type
N/A
Student:Faculty
N/A
Setting
N/A
Outcomes & Cost
Graduation Rate
N/A
Retention Rate
N/A
Tuition (In-State)
N/A
Tuition (Int'l)
N/A

Student Life & Environment

Student life at UAB unfolds on a true campus rather than in scattered city buildings, which creates a more cohesive community than urban universities often achieve. The Bellaterra campus includes dormitories, dining facilities, sports centers, libraries, and green spaces where students gather between classes. The Faculty of Communication building brings together students across programs who share interests in media and creative work. Student organizations address cultural, political, and recreational interests. The university radio and television stations provide hands-on experience and serve as social hubs for communication students. Film screenings, journalism workshops, and guest lectures by professionals add to the formal curriculum. Political activism has a long tradition at UAB, and communication students often engage with questions about media freedom and democratic discourse. The commute from Barcelona to Bellaterra takes about 45 minutes by regional train and university bus, which represents a real consideration for students wanting to live in the city. Some choose campus housing to avoid daily travel, while others accept the commute for the sake of urban life. Weekend social activities often happen in Barcelona proper, where entertainment options far exceed what suburban Bellaterra offers.

Location & Surroundings

The UAB campus occupies a suburban location between Barcelona and the inland hills, with mountain views and more space than urban universities enjoy. The Bellaterra area itself is quiet and residential, which supports focused study but provides limited entertainment beyond campus. The regional train connection makes Barcelona accessible for those willing to commute. Barcelona itself ranks among Europe's most desirable cities for quality of life. The Mediterranean climate brings mild winters and warm summers, beaches accessible by metro, and outdoor cafe culture that makes public space enjoyable much of the year. Architecture from Gaudi to contemporary buildings creates visual interest everywhere you look. The food scene spans traditional Catalan cuisine to international restaurants reflecting the city's cosmopolitan character. Living costs in Barcelona have risen substantially but remain below Madrid and well below northern European capitals. Finding affordable housing has become challenging, especially for those wanting to live in central neighborhoods. Students often share apartments with roommates to manage costs. The city's compact layout and excellent public transportation reduce the need for cars, which helps offset housing expenses.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Tuition at UAB follows Catalan public university fee structures, with EU residents paying significantly less than students from outside Europe. Fees have increased in recent years but remain far below American or British university costs. A typical undergraduate year might run 1,500 to 2,500 euros in tuition depending on specific circumstances, with graduate programs priced somewhat higher. Living expenses in Barcelona require realistic budgeting. Rent takes the largest share, with shared apartments costing several hundred euros monthly per person depending on neighborhood and quality. Food, transportation, entertainment, and other costs add up but remain manageable with careful choices. Part-time work opportunities exist, though balancing employment with demanding academic programs requires discipline. Career outcomes for communication graduates vary with specialization and individual effort. Journalism has contracted as traditional media business models have struggled, making entry more competitive. Advertising and marketing employ many graduates, as do corporate communications departments. Audiovisual production offers opportunities in Spain's film and television industries. Some graduates use their communication training as foundation for careers in public relations, politics, or fields where persuasive communication matters.

Campus Location

Rankings
#150
QS World

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