Universidad Católica Santa María La Antigua - USMA Facultad de Negocios

Universidad Católica Santa María La Antigua’s Facultad de Negocios is part of Panama’s first private university, founded in 1965. The institution emphasizes holistic academic formation, blending scientific learning, ethical grounding, and social commitment. With a coeducational environment and Catholic affiliation, USMA delivers personalized education supported by a modest enrollment that encourages close faculty interaction and a strong sense of community.

Located in urban Panama City with regional branches across the country, USMA offers extensive study options along with official national accreditation. Its mission centers on preparing ethical, competent professionals who contribute meaningfully to Panama’s economic and social development.

USMA’s business graduates benefit from a 31,000‑member alumni network that spans Panama’s banking, logistics, consultancy, and entrepreneurship sectors. Extensive partnerships with national and multinational companies open pathways to internships that frequently transition into full-time employment.

The university’s career services provide mentoring, employer matchmaking, and professional development workshops. Many graduates progress to leadership positions due to their strong ethical foundations and practical preparation. Regional campuses further support local job pipelines, ensuring students from diverse areas of Panama access strong career mobility.

Students choose USMA for its longstanding reputation as Panama’s pioneering private university and its accredited, high‑quality business education. Small class sizes ensure continuous mentoring, while a flexible academic calendar supports efficient progress. Interdisciplinary learning across six faculties expands academic possibilities.

The university’s Catholic identity reinforces an ethical vision of leadership crucial to today’s business climate. Modern tools, real‑world cases, and industry immersion strengthen professional readiness. Combined with regional accessibility and strong student support systems, USMA delivers a comprehensive educational experience that balances academic rigor with character development.

USMA drives innovation through applied research in entrepreneurship, digital business, finance, and sustainability. Business incubators and innovation labs help students transform ideas into viable ventures, supported by faculty with expertise in Panama’s service-driven economy. Programs increasingly incorporate digital transformation, including ERP and fintech training.

Sustainability initiatives reflect the university’s commitment to ethical stewardship, with projects addressing eco-accounting and responsible trade. Collaboration with other faculties fosters interdisciplinary solutions, while partnerships with local industries extend research impact. These efforts position USMA as an active contributor to national development and competitive regional innovation.

What makes USMA’s business programs different? They integrate ethical formation, personalized mentoring, and unique student associations, offering a combination of values-based education and practical learning unavailable elsewhere.

Do international students receive support? Yes. Services include admissions assistance, exchange opportunities, financial aid options, and guidance on housing and campus life, ensuring a welcoming, multicultural environment.

 How does USMA support employability? A strong alumni network, corporate partnerships, internships, and career services ensure students gain direct access to opportunities in finance, logistics, and entrepreneurship.

Admission requires submission of academic records, identification, and an entrance exam for undergraduate applicants. Graduate candidates must present a bachelor’s degree and, in many cases, work experience. Applications are processed year‑round under a quarterly academic calendar. Decisions typically follow within several weeks.

Tuition varies by program, with scholarships and financial aid widely available. While USMA does not offer on‑campus housing, students receive support in finding nearby accommodations. International applicants must secure visas and health insurance. Programs are primarily taught in Spanish, making language proficiency essential.