University of São Paulo (USP)

Mission Statement

USP’s main mission is to contribute to the sustainable and socially just development of Brazil, as well as to the construction of a democratic society that promotes innovative and responsible transformations, through the production and dissemination of scientific knowledge in the most diverse areas, integrating education, research, and public outreach. It is also USP mission to promote the education of citizens equipped with technical skills and ethical principles, as well as to maintain its position as Brazilian main center of scientific production, reinforcing the role of the public university as a vector for social transformation, contributing for the education of future generations committed to the sustainable development of the planet. FAU-USP’s mission is to train professionals with specific skills that enable them to respond to the complex demands of society in matters of public and environmental interest related to the design, production and use of the built environment, artifacts and services.

International Role

Internationalization is one of the University of São Paulo strategic pillars, promoting the integration of academic staff with the global scientific community and driving processes of modernization, innovation, competitiveness and international integration. In recent years, the university has created several Multidisciplinary Research Centers, which bring together different specialties in the search for solutions to complex problems on a global scale, in addition to establishing international research laboratories. Among the more than one thousand international agreements currently in force at USP, important networks and consortia stand out, such as the Erasmus Plus Program, the University Global Partnership Network (UGPN), the Unión Iberoamericana de Universidades (UIU), International Universities Climate Alliance (IUCA), and the Rede Magalhães. Also noteworthy are broad agreements for double-PhD degrees, involving several areas of knowledge and admitting a variety of students.

FAU-USP currently has more than 50 international agreements in force, involving specifically the areas of Architecture and Urbanism, and of Design, including partnerships with European, Latin American and Asian universities. Among these, agreements for dual undergraduate degrees and dual doctoral degrees stand out.

FAU-USP annually receives an average of 70 exchange students from different countries to carry out academic exchanges for 1 or 2 semesters. A growing number of visiting professors and researchers from abroad are also welcomed for short or longer period exchanges.

National Role

FAU-USP plays a fundamental role in Brazil due to its contribution to the development of the country in various areas, especially in architecture, urban planning, and design. Its importance can be highlighted by its capacity to train qualified professionals, develop research and innovation, foster social and cultural development, and lead public policy discussions.
The University of São Paulo is one of the most renowned educational institutions in Brazil. FAU-USP educational programs are widely recognized as some of the best in the country. It is also known as a hub for cultural and social activities, promoting reflection on contemporary issues such as gender, racism, social inequality, and accessibility. 
Since its inception, FAU-USP had an active role in the formulation of public policies, particularly those related to urbanism, infrastructure, and sustainability. Its research and academic practices influence the planning of Brazilian cities, with an increasing focus on inclusion and sustainable development.

Main Focus

FAU-USP main focus are generalistic studies in Design, and integrated studies in Architecture and Urbanism.