University of Groningen taking the lead

When founded in 1614 the young University of Groningen was already an outstanding example of an international community. Almost half of the students and lecturers came from outside the Netherlands – for instance the first Rector Magnificus, Ubbo Emmius. But at the same time there was a close relationship between the university, the city and the surrounding region.

In the nineteenth century the university was given a research as well as an educational task, laying the foundations for the present research university. The University of Groningen developed apace during the first decades of the 20th century. The number of faculties and programmes grew steadily while the number of students showed an explosive growth.

In line with this rich academic tradition, the University of Groningen still enjoys an international reputation as a leading research university. Its wide range of degree programmes covers the Bachelor, Master, and PhD levels. Research and knowledge, combined with an interdisciplinary approach form the basis of its programmes, taught by passionate scholars. The degrees awarded are all internationally acknowledged.  

• Founded in 1614
• Over 26,000 students, 5,500 staff
• Annual turnover € 525 million 
• Faculties: Arts, Behavioural and Social Sciences, Economics & Business, Law, Mathematics & Natural Sciences, Medical Sciences, Philosophy, Spatial Sciences, Theology & Religious Studies

• Of the thousands of universities in the world, the University of Groningen belongs to the top 200. Furthermore, the University of Groningen belongs to the top 25 of European universities. According to the German Centre for Higher Education Development (CHE), the University of Groningen is a member of the so-called Excellence Group of the best universities in Europe.