About us

University College Utrecht offers the English-language undergraduate Liberal Arts & Sciences programme at Utrecht University. Founded in 1998 as the first university college in the Netherlands, we presently have around 750 students with close to 70 different nationalities. We offer students complete freedom to compose their individual curriculum from over 200 different courses in humanities, science and social science. In this they are supported by individual tutors. The students live and study on campus, a close-knit community and vibrant hub of intellectual exploration and social engagement. University College Utrecht is where worlds meet.

All students follow a three-year bachelor programme. They graduate with a degree from Utrecht University, either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts.

Liberal Arts and Sciences

According to the Association of American Colleges and Universities, “liberal education is an educational philosophy rather than a body of knowledge, specific courses, or type of institution. By drawing on a broad range of knowledge, it asks students to grapple with complicated, important issues, and usually expects them to learn about at least one subject in greater depth and at an advanced level. Intellectual growth occurs as both broad and deep learning challenge previously held beliefs.”

Active Learning

Learning is at the centre of our education; our teachers facilitate students in their learning process. The small-scale and interactive class format creates optimal opportunity for learning. Students write papers, give presentations, lead discussions about reading materials, engage in debate, work on assignments in small groups, analyse data and so on. They receive feedback on their work in order to improve their academic skills and levels of understanding.

Studying at University College Utrecht requires good planning; students have four classes every semester and each has deadlines for reading assignments, presentations and papers. Every student has a personal tutor available for help if they encounter problems in study planning.

University College Utrecht taught me how to manage my time.

Campus life

University College Utrecht is modelled broadly on American college campuses: all buildings are located together on our historic site, including student accommodation, classrooms, social facilities and staff offices. Our students are selected against criteria which highlight their academic and extra-curricular potential.

At University College Utrecht, students are strongly encouraged to take active roles both on and off the campus, whether it be organising student activities, volunteering in the local neighbourhood, participating in cultural or academic workshops, or playing sports. A unique spirit of community and participation at University College Utrecht means that students learn, develop and enjoy life both inside the classroom and outside it.

Read our Strategic Plan 2025
Read our mission statement
Read more about our curriculum
Read more about how to apply

Please note: University College Utrecht offers a traditional Liberal Arts and Sciences curriculum. Utrecht University also offers a non-residential Liberal Arts and Sciences programme, the School of Liberal Arts, that is not affiliated with University College Utrecht.