Overview

The University of Amsterdam is one of the largest comprehensive universities in Europe. With some 40,000 students, 6,000 staff, 3,000 PhD candidates, and an annual budget of more than 850 million euros, it is also one of Amsterdam’s biggest employers.

There is an inseparable link between the university and its host city. The freedom and creativity with which Amsterdam has long been associated have worked their way into the fabric of the university. This is a place where individuality, authenticity and diversity are celebrated as sources of stimulation, inspiration and innovation.

Professional and personal development, challenges and collaboration are undertaken in a versatile and multidimensional (inter)national ecosystem with leading stakeholders. Staff at the UvA make a meaningful contribution to uncovering solutions to some of the world’s most significant problems and to developing the next generation of talent.

Mission and vision

Innovative and independent

We are an innovative, committed and independent university that is working towards a sustainable and prosperous future. Interdisciplinary research, cooperation and innovation are the key to scientific innovation. We rank among the international top institutions of higher education.

More than knowledge alone

We promote an open and curious attitude. We want to equip students not only with knowledge, but also with the skills to navigate a dynamic world. This requires diversity of perspective, agility and resilience. Students have the freedom to ask questions and engage in debate. We do this with respect for the contribution, background and beliefs of each and every individual, so that everyone feels welcome and safe.

Since 1632

Since its foundation in 1632, the UvA has grown into one of the leading universities across the full spectrum of the arts, humanities, natural sciences, social sciences and medical sciences. Its 6,000 staff, 3,000 PhD candidates and 40,000 students work and study together at various locations in Amsterdam.

This is how we look towards the future

Digitalisation in research is transforming the methods of all disciplines and the teaching of the future. For this reason, we invest in new areas of expertise, teamwork and a state-of-the-art infrastructure for research and new, innovative teaching methods. This leads to closer cooperation between disciplines – helped by our strength in artificial intelligence, data science and complexity – and to a smart combination of on-campus and online teaching, allowing for more interaction and a more intensive learning experience.

The UvA is a partner

Working with partners strengthens our teaching, research and impact. Together with the city, region and national and international partners, we seek an optimal interaction between science, practice and policy.

If you would like to know more about our ambitions, motives and challenges for the coming years, read our Strategic Plan or take a look at our Vision on Teaching and Learning.