The University of San Carlos was among the top universities in the Philippines that qualified in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2023 which assesses universities around the world against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Out of the 17 UN goals, USC submitted and was assessed on Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6), and Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11). A fourth SDG, namely Partnership for the Goals (SDG 17), is mandatory for all submissions.

Globally, a total of 1,591 institutions from 112 countries and regions were measured and only 29 higher education institutions (HEIs) from the Philippines qualified. 

USC is home to several research centers and department or school-based research groups that focus on a range of topics, from renewable energy to social justice. 
The University also offers undergraduate courses and postgraduate programmes within the following Schools: architecture, fine arts and design, arts and sciences, business and economics, education, engineering, healthcare professions, and law and governance.