Established in 1827, Universidad de Cartagena (University of Cartagena) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the metropolis of Cartagena (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Bolivar. This institution also has branch campuses in the following locations: Claustro de la Merced, Zaragocilla, Piedra de Bolívar. Officially recognized by the Ministerio de Educación Nacional, Colombia (Ministry of National Education of Colombia), Universidad de Cartagena (UDEC) is a large coeducational Colombian higher education institution. Universidad de Cartagena (UDEC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees in several areas of study. This 195 years old Colombian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. UDEC also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.