University of Santo Tomas–Legazpi

University of Santo Tomas - Legazpi (UST-Legazpi), also known as Bicol Dominican University, is a Catholic higher educational institution in Legazpi City, Albay, Philippines. It is the only Dominican university in the Bicol region, dedicated to the holistic formation of students through academic excellence, moral development, and emotional maturity. The institution offers a comprehensive educational pathway from pre-elementary through graduate studies, including pre-elementary, elementary, high school (with General Curriculum, Special Program in the Arts, and a PAASCU Level III-candidate Science High School), Senior High School, and 23 college programs. These programs are organized into four colleges: Arts, Sciences and Education; Business Management and Accountancy; Health Sciences; and Engineering, Architecture and Fine Arts. Notable programs include BS Pharmacy (the first and only in the region) and BS Medical Technology, both supervised by UST-Manila. The Peñaranda campus houses the College of Business Management and Accountancy, College of Law (a Center of Excellence in Legal Education in Bicol), the Graduate School, and the Center for Continuing Education. UST-Legazpi emphasizes high-end facilities, esteemed faculty, industry exposure, and a holistic student life. Its mission focuses on academic pursuit, moral integrity through prayer and service, emotional maturity, and cultural advocacy for Catholic Filipino and Bicol identity. The vision aims to be a Christ-centered community, a respected higher education institution with globally competitive programs, a leader in fields like Law, Teacher Education, Business, Engineering, and Health Sciences, a center for Bicol studies and environmental protection, and a deregulated university by 2025. Recent activities include research festivals, career guidance, and community service events.