The University of Twente offers research and degree programmes in technology, and in the social and behavioural sciences. In keeping with its enterprising spirit, the University is committed to making an economic and social contribution to the region of the Netherlands where it is based. The University was founded in 1961 as the Technische Hogeschool Twente.

The University of Twente was built on the former country estate of Drienerlo, situated between Hengelo and Enschede. On this beautifully landscaped 140 hectare estate, comprising woodland, meadows and water, architects Van Tijen and Van Embden designed the Netherlands’ first - and so far the only - campus university along American lines. The campus is home to excellent sports and cultural facilities.

The degree programmes at the University of Twente range from business studies and applied physics, to biomedical technology and philosophy. The curriculum is broad, flexible and relevant to the labour market. Most students combine coursework in their major subject with a coherent set of minors in another discipline. Almost all postgraduate programmes are taught in English, and half of all PhD students come from outside the Netherlands.

The University of Twente has a world class research programme. In the applied sciences, the emphasis is on nanotechnology, process technology, engineering, information & communication technology, and the biomedical sciences. The University also has a strong track record in Governance studies and the behavioural sciences.

The University of Twente sets great store by the useful application of knowledge in society. Patents, life-long learning programmes, and spin-off companies testify to this commitment, as does UT’s intensive involvement in research programmes that enhance knowledge infrastructure in the Netherlands. So far, the UT has produced 600 spin-off companies; more than any other Dutch university.