Over the years, Plovdiv has established itself as a significant educational center in the country, thanks to its numerous higher education institutions that offer a wide variety of degree programs. Every year, thousands of young people come to the city not only from across Bulgaria but also from abroad. Among international students, the most preferred fields are medicine and dental medicine.
Here are the universities and the programs they offer in Plovdiv:
University of Plovdiv “Paisii Hilendarski”
Established in 1961, the Plovdiv University is the largest higher education institution in the region. It offers education in over 80 bachelor's and master's programs, as well as PhD programs in a wide range of academic fields—humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and pedagogical studies. In 2022, it was granted the status of a "research university" highlighting its scientific and academic significance.
According to last year’s application data, the most in-demand programs were marketing, followed by business management, economics and business, law, software engineering, preschool and primary pedagogy, and psychology.
Medical University – Plovdiv
Founded in 1945, the Medical University is a leading institution for training professionals in the healthcare sector. It offers degrees in medicine, dental medicine, pharmacy, and public health. The university has modern facilities, accredited programs, and active cooperation with international institutions. It is also designated as a "research university" in Bulgaria.
Medical College – Plovdiv
The Medical College is a structural unit of the Medical University – Plovdiv. Established in 1942, it prepares professional bachelor’s graduates in fields such as nursing, midwifery, rehabilitation, radiologic and medical laboratory technology, public health inspection, and more. Graduates receive the necessary professional training to work effectively in the healthcare system.
Agricultural University – Plovdiv
Founded in 1945, the Agricultural University specializes in training professionals for the agricultural sector. It offers programs in agronomy, agroecology, plant protection, agricultural economics, and other disciplines related to farming and sustainable development.
University of Food Technologies – Plovdiv
This university is a leading institution in the field of food industry and related engineering sciences. It offers programs in food technologies, biotechnology, thermal engineering, automation of production, and food industry economics.
Academy of Music, Dance and Fine Arts "Prof. Asen Diamandiev" – Plovdiv
This academy specializes in education in music, dance, and visual arts. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs for performers, composers, choreographers, artists, and other creative professions. The institution plays a key role in the cultural life of both the city and the country.
University of Agribusiness and Rural Development (UARD)
UARD is a private higher education institution offering programs in economics, public administration, tourism, and agribusiness management. The university focuses on applied knowledge and training professionals for local and regional development.
Higher School of Security and Economics
This specialized institution offers programs in security, criminology, public safety, as well as business and economics. It trains studenyl for the public administration, private sector, and security services.
Technical University of Sofia – Plovdiv Branch
The Plovdiv branch of the Technical University of Sofia offers engineering education in areas such as electronics, computer systems, automation, and mechatronics. It is one of the most preferred higher education institutions in the city for technical specialties.
