Erasmus University
Netherlands
Founded1913
Faculty3,000
Updated February 6, 2026
Overview
Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) is an internationally oriented research university founded on November 8, 1913. Originally established as the Nederlandsche Handels-Hoogeschool to support the port of Rotterdam, it has grown into a leading global institution with over 30,000 students and nearly 4,000 employees. The university's mission is to create a positive societal impact, guided by values of entrepreneurship, connectedness, and world citizenship.
The institution is composed of several prestigious faculties covering economics, business, law, social sciences, philosophy, history, and health policy. It is particularly well-known for its "Triple Crown" accredited Rotterdam School of Management and the Erasmus School of Economics. The university offers a wide range of academic paths, including 29 Bachelor’s and over 120 Master’s programs, with a strong emphasis on lifelong learning and professional education.
Location
The university operates across four primary locations in the Netherlands. The central hub is Campus Woudestein, which serves as the main location for most faculties and has recently undergone significant modernization with sustainable additions like the Langeveld Building. The Erasmus MC site houses the medical faculty and the largest academic hospital in the country.
In the heart of Rotterdam's city center, Erasmus University College (EUC) offers a Liberal Arts and Sciences program. Additionally, the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) is located in The Hague. The campuses are characterized by a mix of modern infrastructure and unique installations, such as the futuristic microbial installation known as "POND."
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Also in: Rotterdam, Netherlands · Rotterdam, Netherlands · The Hague, Netherlands
Campuses
Campus Woudestein
MainRotterdam· Netherlands
Erasmus MC
Rotterdam· Netherlands
Erasmus University College (EUC)
Rotterdam· Netherlands
International Institute of Social Studies (ISS)
The Hague· Netherlands
Campus Culture
Student life at the university is defined by major traditions and a vibrant community. Key annual events include the Opening of the Academic Year, the Dies Natalis on November 8, and Eurekaweek, which is the largest introduction week in the Netherlands. The university emphasizes "Erasmian values," which include societal engagement, entrepreneurship, connectedness, open-mindedness, and world citizenship.
The campus environment is designed to be modern and inclusive, featuring a smoke-free policy and high digital accessibility standards. Students can participate in diverse extracurricular programs through the Erasmus Honours Academy, which focuses on contemporary societal challenges. The university also supports a wide range of academic interests through specialized schools and unique dual-degree programs that encourage interdisciplinary collaboration.
Notable Alumni
Erasmus University Rotterdam fosters a global alumni network of over 175,000 former students. The university's prestige is highlighted by its association with notable figures, including Nobel Prize winners Jan Tinbergen (1969) and Guido Imbens (2021). The institution maintains strong connections with its graduates, positioning itself as a lifelong knowledge partner through its extensive continuing education and professional development portfolios.
Rankings
Erasmus University Rotterdam is consistently ranked within the top 3% of universities worldwide. It holds prominent positions in major international tables, including being ranked #79 by the National Taiwan University Ranking, #94 by the Center for World University Rankings, and #99 by Times Higher Education. The QS World University Rankings place the institution at #140 globally.
The university is recognized as an international leader specifically in the fields of economics, business administration, and medical sciences. Its reputation is further bolstered by the "Triple Crown" accreditation of the Rotterdam School of Management and its status as a major hub for doctoral research in Europe.
Research
With a staff of over 3,000 scientists, the university focuses its research on five urgent societal impact domains: trust in society, fair and sustainable economy, just and sustainable society, accessible healthcare, and the safe use of smart technology. The institution is a major center for graduate research, with more than 300 PhDs obtained annually through joint institutes like the Erasmus Research Institute of Management (ERIM) and the Tinbergen Institute.
Notable research infrastructure includes a joint MRI facility and the "Macroscope" project, which recently received €16.8 million in funding. The university's research legacy is anchored by two Nobel Prize winners in economics and continues to drive innovation in fields such as AI, sustainability transitions, and healthcare management.