Educational vision

Utrecht University (UU) devotes itself to inspiring and impactful education, focused on more than just knowledge transfer. We encourage students to develop themselves into involved professionals, responsible civilians and resilient individuals who can make a difference in society.

Our education is focused on enabling students to develop themselves as academics and as persons. And that they think on which role they want to take on in society.

Education goals

Utrecht University provides a broad palette of disciplinary and interdisciplinary education for Bachelor's and Master's students, PhD candidates and professionals. Our education is closely connected to our academic research and is in direct interaction with society.

UU education supports students in three important fields:

• Qualification: Students gain academic knowledge and skills, and develop critical attitudes. This shapes them into professionals who can make valuable contributions to society.
• Socialisation: Students learn to move within academic, social and professional cultures, practices and traditions. This way, they develop the skills to effectively function within the university community, their fields of expertise and society as a whole.
• Personal development: Students develop themselves into independent and responsible individuals. They are encouraged to ask themselves questions on what they want to learn, who they are, who they want to become and how they want to contribute to society.

What characterises our education?

• Strong academic foundation: Our education provides students with a solid academic foundation with in-depth knowledge in one or multiple disciplines. In it, the emphasis is on interdisciplinary collaboration and societal relevance. Our Open Science principles and attention for academic integrity provide transparency and quality.
• Involvement in society: At Utrecht University, students learn to look beyond their own disciplines. They collaborate on complex societal issues, develop a critical and constructive attitude, and practice with communicating clearly and acting ethically.
• Space for personal development: We give students the space to make their own choices and develop themselves. Our lecturers help students in the development of skills such as leadership, collaboration and adaptability, which are essential to their futures.

Who are our students?

Our students are the civilians of today and tomorrow. They bring a rich diversity of backgrounds, experiences and talents with them, which enhance our education. At UU, students are a part of an inclusive academic community where they learn to collaborate, reflect and find their way in a changing world.