Via, Veritas, Vita (The Way, The Truth, The Life) · Est. 1901
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Quick Facts
Founded
1901
School Type
Private
Run By
United Church of Christ in PH
Location
Dumaguete, Negros Oriental
Campus
62 hectares
Colleges
10+
CHED Status
Autonomous
Sports Team
SU Warriors
Tuition & Fees
Estimated Tuition Range: ₱1,000 to ₱2,500 per unit
Tuition varies by college. Scholarships and financial aid available through the Office of Student Affairs.
| College / Program | Estimated per Unit | Estimated per Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Medical School | ₱2,000 to ₱2,500 | ₱55,000 to ₱80,000 |
| College of Nursing | ₱1,500 to ₱2,200 | ₱40,000 to ₱60,000 |
| College of Engineering and Design | ₱1,500 to ₱2,000 | ₱35,000 to ₱55,000 |
| College of Business Administration | ₱1,200 to ₱1,800 | ₱30,000 to ₱45,000 |
| College of Arts and Sciences | ₱1,000 to ₱1,500 | ₱25,000 to ₱38,000 |
| College of Education | ₱1,000 to ₱1,500 | ₱25,000 to ₱35,000 |
These are estimates only and may not reflect current rates. Always confirm with the Silliman Finance Office or your official assessment slip via mySU.
About the School
Silliman University (SU) is a private Protestant university in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. Founded in 1901 by Presbyterian missionary Dr. David S. Hibbard, it is the first American-founded university in the Philippines and the first Protestant institution in the country.
Silliman’s sprawling 62-hectare campus along the coast is recognized as a CHED Autonomous university and a Center of Excellence in multiple disciplines. It is affiliated with the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP).
Known for its marine biology program and anthropological museum, Silliman has a strong tradition of community service and environmental stewardship. The university’s Dumaguete location makes it a popular destination for both Filipino and international students.
Marine Biology, Nursing, Medicine, Education, and Anthropology — the Philippines’ premier Protestant university with a strong community service tradition.
Silliman is a private Protestant institution affiliated with the UCCP. Scholarships, grants, and work-study programs are available.
Silliman is in the mid-range of private university tuition — generally affordable compared to Manila-based schools, benefiting from the lower cost of living in Dumaguete.
History & Background
1901
Presbyterian missionary Dr. David S. Hibbard founded Silliman Institute with 15 students — the first American-founded school in the Philippines.
1910
Silliman began offering collegiate programs, becoming one of the first institutions outside Manila to provide higher education.
1938
Silliman Institute was elevated to Silliman University, recognizing its growth into a comprehensive educational institution.
1953
Silliman’s Marine Laboratory was founded, later becoming one of the premier marine biology research centers in Southeast Asia.
1992
Silliman received CHED Autonomous status, the highest recognition of institutional quality in Philippine higher education.
Today
Silliman continues as a center of academic excellence, marine research, and community service in the heart of Dumaguete.
Notable Programs & Courses
College of Medicine
Doctor of Medicine (MD) — A historic medical program established in 1901, known for community-based medical education and strong PRC board performance.
College of Nursing
BS Nursing — One of the top nursing programs in the Visayas with high NLE passing rates and globally recognized graduates.
College of Arts and Sciences
BS Biology, Marine Biology — Nationally recognized marine biology program with the Silliman University Marine Laboratory, a premier research facility in the Visayas.
College of Education
Bachelor of Elementary/Secondary Education — CHED Center of Excellence in Teacher Education with a long tradition of training educators in the Philippines.
Divinity School
Master of Divinity, Theology — The oldest Protestant theological school in the Philippines, training church leaders and religious educators across Asia.
College of Business Administration
BS Accountancy, BS Business Administration — Strong business programs in the Visayas with solid CPA board exam results and industry connections.
Silliman offers 80+ programs as the oldest American-founded university in Asia. See the full list at su.edu.ph.
FAQs About Silliman University
Is Silliman a private or public university?
Silliman is a private Protestant university in Dumaguete City, affiliated with the United Church of Christ in the Philippines. It was the first American-founded university in the Philippines, established in 1901.
How much is the tuition fee at Silliman?
Tuition at Silliman typically ranges from ₱1,000 to ₱2,500 per unit depending on the program. A typical undergraduate semester may cost around ₱20,000 to ₱45,000.
What is Silliman known for?
Silliman is known for being the first Protestant university in the Philippines, its marine biology and anthropology programs, its scenic beachfront campus in Dumaguete, and its strong tradition in liberal arts education.
Where is Silliman located?
Silliman is located along Hibbard Avenue in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. Its campus stretches along the coast, making it one of the most scenic campuses in the Philippines.
Does Silliman have a marine laboratory?
Yes. The Silliman University Marine Laboratory is one of the oldest and most established marine research facilities in the Philippines, conducting research on coral reefs and coastal ecosystems.
Is Silliman the oldest American school in Asia?
Silliman was established in 1901, making it the first American-founded university in the Philippines and one of the earliest American educational institutions in Asia.
