Belgium University Rankings

Vrije Universiteit Brussel

country rank  6
world rank  448

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Established in 1970, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (Free University of Brussels) is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Brussels (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants). Officially recognized by the Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België (Flemish Ministry of Education and Training of Belgium), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a large-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 15,000-19,999 students) coeducational Belgian higher education institution. Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 53-year-old Belgian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 20-29% making this Belgian higher education organization a very selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. VUB also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.

University Snapshot

Control

private
Control Type

Entity

non-profit
Entity Type

Size

large-sized
Total Enrollment

Selectivity

very selective
Acceptance rate

Search Engine

University Search Engine

search the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's website

University Identity

Name
Name Free University of Brussels
Acronym VUB
Founded 1970 Origins date back to 1834. Established from a split of Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), that existed since 1834, into a Dutch speaking (VUB) university and French speaking (ULB) University.
Motto Scientia Vincere Tenebras
Conquering darkness through science
Colours Blue, orange and white

University Location

Address Pleinlaan 2
Brussels
1050 Brussels
Belgium
Tel +32 (2) 629 2111
Fax +32

Vrije Universiteit Brussel's location map and satellite view Location Map and Satellite View

Study Areas and Degree Levels

Introduction

What is the difference between generalist and specialized universities?

Generalist universities offer a broad range of subjects and courses that allow students to explore different fields of study, or study areas, before choosing a major. They also provide students with a well-rounded education that can be applied to many different careers. On the other hand, specialized universities focus on a specific field of study and offer more in-depth courses and training in that field. This can be beneficial for students who know exactly what they want to do and want to gain specialized knowledge and skills in their chosen field.
Most higher education institutions offer a range of degree levels, from undergraduate to postgraduate degrees. However, some universities may offer more degree levels than others. In particular, larger-sized universities usually offer a wider selection of undergraduate and postgraduate degree types and levels.


Study Areas and Degree Levels Matrix

The following uniRank Study Areas/Degree Levels Matrix is divided into 6 main study areas and 4 levels of degrees, from the lowest undergraduate degree to the highest postgraduate degree. This uniRank table aims to help quickly identify the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's academic range and degree level offering.




Tip: search for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's courses and programs with the uniRank Search Engine

Programs and courses

Introduction

What are University programs and courses?

University programs and courses are academic programs of study offered by universities, colleges and other higher education institutions. These programs and courses are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a particular field of study or career. In many countries, the terms "university courses" and "university programs" are used interchangeably whereas in the US university programs usually consist of a set of required courses that cover the fundamental concepts and principles of a field of study, as well as a selection of elective courses that allow students to specialize in a particular area of interest.


Programs and courses

uniRank publishes the following list of Vrije Universiteit Brussel 's programs and courses or, if not available, the main fields of study for each level and type of degree offered; feel free to submit any missing course or program.

Bachelor of Arts in History
  • Bachelor of Arts in Art Sciences and Archeology
  • Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Literature
  • Bachelor of Arts in Applied Linguistics
  • Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Moral Sciences
  • Bachelor of Arts in Law
  • Bachelor of Science Commercial Engineer
  • Bachelor of Science in Business Economics
  • Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Adult Educational Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Bioscience Engineering
  • Bachelor of Science in Biology
  • Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
  • Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Criminological Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Physics and Astronomy
  • Bachelor of Science in Medicine
  • Bachelor of Science in Geography
  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering: Architecture
  • Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Movement Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Political Sciences and Sociology
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology
  • Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy
  • Bachelor of Science in Applied Economic Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
  • Educational Master of Science in Cultural Sciences
  • Educational Master of Science in Economics
  • Educational Master of Science in Behavioral Sciences
  • Educational Master of Science in Health Sciences
  • Educational Master of Science in Physical Education
  • Educational Master of Science in Social Sciences
  • Educational Master of Science in Languages
  • Educational Master of Science in Sciences and Technology
  • European Master of Science in Photonics
  • International Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering
  • Master of Arts Digital Communication Leadership
  • Master of Arts in Linguistics and Literary Studies
  • Master of Arts in History
  • Master of Arts in Journalism
  • Master of Arts in Art Sciences and Archeology
  • Master of Arts in Linguistics and Literature
  • Master of Arts in Philosophy and Moral Sciences
  • Master of Arts in Gender and Diversity
  • Master of Arts in Interpreting
  • Master of Arts in Translation
  • Master of Arts in Law
  • Master of Medicine in Medicine
  • Master of Science Commercial Engineer
  • Master of Science in Applied Sciences and Engineering: Applied Computer Science
  • Master of Science in Applied Sciences and Engineering: Computer Science
  • Master of Science in Architectural Engineering
  • Master of Science in Biology
  • Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering
  • Master of Science in Biomedical Research
  • Master of Science in Business Engineering: Business and Technology
  • Master of Science in Chemical and Materials Engineering
  • Master of Science in Chemistry
  • Master of Science in Civil Engineering
  • Master of Science in Communication Studies
  • Master of Science in Educational Sciences
  • Master of Science in Electrical Engineering
  • Master of Science in Electromechanical Engineering
  • Master of Science in Geography
  • Master of Science in International Business
  • Master of Science in Management
  • Master of Science in Marine and Lacustrine Science and Management
  • Master of Science in Molecular Biology
  • Master of Science in Physical Land Resources
  • Master of Science in Physics and Astronomy
  • Master of Science in Political Science: European and International Governance
  • Master of Science in Urban Studies
  • Master of Science in Water Resources Engineering
  • Master of Science in Adult Educational Sciences
  • Master of Science in Business Administration
  • Master of Science in Movement and Sports Sciences
  • Master of Science in Bioscience Engineering: Cell and Gene Biotechnology
  • Master of Science in Bioscience Engineering: Chemistry and Bioprocess Technology
  • Master of Science in Biology
  • Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences
  • Master of Science in Chemistry
  • Master of Science in Communication Sciences
  • Master of Science in Criminological Sciences
  • Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Care
  • Master of Science in Drug Development
  • Master of Science in Geography
  • Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Electromechanics
  • Master of Science in Industrial Sciences: Electronics-ICT
  • Master of Science in Engineering Sciences: Architecture
  • Master of Science in Engineering Sciences: Biomedical Engineering Techniques
  • Master of Science in Engineering: Architecture
  • Master of Science in Engineering Sciences: Chemistry and Materials
  • Master of Science in Engineering Sciences: Computer Sciences
  • Master of Science in Engineering Sciences: Electronics and Information Technology
  • Master of Science in Engineering: Photonics
  • Master of Science in Engineering Sciences: Applied Computer Sciences
  • Master of Science in Engineering Sciences: Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering
  • Master of Science in Physical Education and Movement Sciences
  • Master of Science in Educational Sciences
  • Master of Science in Political Sciences
  • Master of Science in Psychology
  • Master of Science in Rehabilitation Sciences and Physiotherapy
  • Master of Science in Sociology
  • Master of Science in Applied Economic Sciences
  • Master of Science in Applied Informatics
  • Master of Science in Mathematics
  • Master of Science in Health Care Management and Policy
  • Master of Science in Management, Care and Policy in Gerontology
  • Master of Science in Urban Planning and Spatial Planning
  • Research Master of Arts in Philosophy
  • Research Master of Science in Gerontological Sciences
  • Master of Arts in Archival Science: Heritage and Contemporary Document Management
  • Master of Arts in Literature
  • Master of Arts in International and European Law
  • Master of Arts in International and European Law
  • Master of Arts in the Notarial Profession
  • Master of Arts in Social Law
  • Master of Medicine in Occupational Medicine
  • Master of Medicine in General Practice Medicine
  • Master of Medicine in Youth Health Care
  • Master of Medicine in Specialist Medicine
  • Master of Science in Disaster Medicine
  • Master of Science in European Integration
  • Master of Science in Gerontological Sciences
  • Master of Science in Global Health
  • Master of Science in Maritime Science
  • Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering
  • Master of Science in Industrial Pharmacy
  • Master of Science in Manual Therapy
  • Master of Science in Hospital Pharmacy
  • Master of Science in Hospital Hygiene
  • Yearly Tuition

    Introduction

    Yearly tuition refers to the amount of money that a student is charged by a University for one academic year of full-time study...

    However, the cost of yearly tuition can vary widely depending on the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's program of study, the specific type of degree, the student's residency status and other criteria. Moreover, tuition is just one component of the overall cost of attending university. Other expenses, such as room and board, textbooks and personal expenses can add significantly to the total cost of attendance and depends on Belgium's cost of living.


    Yearly Tuition Range Matrix

    This uniRank Tuition Range Matrix is divided into 2 types of students (local and international students) and 2 degree levels (undergraduate and postgraduate degrees) and aims to help students to have an approximate idea of the yearly tuition range they might expect to pay at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

    uniRank Tuition Range Matrix
    Undergraduate Postgraduate
    Local
    students
    1,000-2,499 US$
    (910-2,280 Euro)
    1,000-2,499 US$
    (910-2,280 Euro)
    International
    students
    2,500-4,999 US$
    (2,280-4,555 Euro)
    2,500-4,999 US$
    (2,280-4,555 Euro)

    Tip: search for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's tuition fees with the uniRank Search Engine

    Admissions Info

    Introduction

    Admission is the first step towards achieving students' academic and career goals and accessing the many opportunities and resources that a university has to offer...

    Admission policies may change by country, type of higher education institution and the specific programs or majors offered by the institution. Prospective students should carefully review the admission policies and requirements of each institution they are considering to determine their eligibility and, if the institution is selective and does not have an open admission policy, prepare a strong application.


    Admission Info and stats

    uniRank publishes below an overview of the most important information about the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's admission policy and statistics.


    Admission Info

    uniRank publishes below some basic admission information for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

    Admission Gender

    This institution admits Men and Women (coed).


    Admission Selection

    Has the Vrije Universiteit Brussel a selective admission policy? Yes, based on students' past academic records and grades.


    Acceptance Rate Admission Rate

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel's acceptance rate range is 20-29% making this institution a very selective higher education institution.


    International Admissions

    International students are welcome to apply for admission at this institution.


    Admission Office Admission Office

    Pleinlaan 9
    Brussels 1050



    Tip: search for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's admission policy with the uniRank Search Engine

    Size and Profile

    Introduction

    University size and profile can be important factors to consider when choosing a university or assessing its value. Here are some potential reasons why...

    • Resources: a larger university may have more resources available to its students, including research facilities, libraries, and extracurricular activities. However, a smaller university may offer a more personalized experience and smaller class sizes.
    • Diversity: the size and profile of a university can impact the diversity of its student body, faculty and curriculum. Larger universities may attract more international students and offer a wider range of academic programs, while smaller universities may have a more homogenous population.
    • Networking: a larger university may offer more opportunities for networking and building connections with other students and professionals in your field, but smaller universities may offer a tighter-knit community and more personalized networking opportunities.
    • Quality of Education: a university with a lower student-staff ratio typically means that students will receive more personalized attention from their instructors. This can lead to more individualized instruction, more opportunities for feedback and guidance and a better learning experience overall.
    • Location: campus setting can have an impact on students' access to resources, cost of living, transportation, social life and safety.
    • Religious affiliation: while it may not be the most important factor for everyone, understanding the religious affiliation of a university can help students determine if it aligns with their personal beliefs and provide a unique academic and spiritual experience.

    Overall, the importance of university size and profile can vary depending on the student's individual goals, beliefs and priorities. It is important to consider these factors along with other important criteria, such as academic programs, location, cost and university culture.


    Size and Profile

    uniRank publishes below some major size and profile indicators for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.

    Student Enrollment

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel has a student enrollment range of 15,000-19,999 making it a large-sized institution.


    Academic Staff

    This institution has a range of 800-899 academic employees (Faculty).


    Control Type Control Type

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel is a private higher education institution.


    Entity Type

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel is a non-profit higher education institution.


    Academic Calendar

    This institution adopts a Semesters type of academic calendar.


    Campus Setting Campus Setting

    This institution's main campus is located in a Urban setting.


    Religious Affiliation

    The Vrije Universiteit Brussel does not have any religious affiliation.


    Facilities and Services

    Introduction

    What are University facilities and services and what facilities and services does the Vrije Universiteit Brussel offer?

    University facilities and services refer to the physical infrastructure and resources provided by a university to support its academic and research activities, as well as the well-being of its students, faculty and staff. Some examples of university facilities and services are classrooms and lecture halls, libraries, laboratories, housing, dining services, health services, sports and fitness facilities, financial aids, career or academic counseling services, technology and computing resources, distance learning and study abroad services.


    Facilities and Services

    uniRank provides below an overview of the facilities and services offered by the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.


    Library

    This institution has a physical Library for its students.


    Housing

    This higher education institution provides on-campus residences or dormitories and/or off-campus accommodation to its students.


    Sport Facilities

    This institution has sporting facilities and organizes sports activities for its students.


    Financial Aids

    This higher education institution offers one or more types of financial aid (i.e. scholarships, grants, loans, tuition waivers, emergency financial aid, etc.) for eligible students.


    Study Abroad

    This institution provides study abroad and exchange program opportunities for its students.


    Distance Learning

    Not reported


    Academic Counseling Academic Counseling

    This institution provides students with guidance and support in their academic pursuits.


    Career Services Career Services

    This higher education institution offers career counseling, career assessments, job and internship postings, career events, alumni networking or other career-related services to assist students transition successfully from academic life to professional life.


    Institutional Hospital Institutional Hospital

    This institution has an institutional hospital that is owned and operated by the university. Institutional hospitals are typically affiliated with medical schools and provide a range of medical services to patients, while also serving as a teaching hospital for medical students and residents.



    Tip: search for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's facilities and services with the uniRank Search Engine

    Recognition and Accreditation

    Introduction

    There are different types of legal recognition and quality assessment of higher education institutions around the world, depending on the country and its legal and higher education system...

    • Institutional legal recognition: institutional legal recognition of a University refers to the formal recognition of the university's legal status by the government of a country. Legally recognized higher education institutions are chartered, registered and/or licensed by government bodies to be legal entities authorized to teach at the tertiary level.
    • Institutional accreditation: institutional accreditation is a type of additional quality assessment that evaluates the overall quality of an institution as a whole. Institutional accrediting bodies assess a University's overall mission, governance, leadership, faculty qualifications, student support services, financial stability and academic offering. Institutional accreditation is a concept that mainly exists in the US higher education system and a few other countries. So if you plan to study in the United States make sure that the University you choose is not only registered or licensed but officially accredited by a recognized accrediting body. In the US uniRank only includes accredited institutions.
    • Programmatic or specialized accreditation: programmatic or specialized accreditation, on the other hand, is a type of accreditation that evaluates and accredits specific academic programs within a University. Programmatic accreditation, granted by specialized national or international accrediting bodies, assesses the quality and rigor of a program's curriculum, faculty qualifications, student outcomes and resources and is focused on ensuring that a specific program or course meets industry standards and requirements.

    uniRank provides, for each University, the name of the organization that has officially granted institutional legal recognition or accreditation. For some Universities uniRank also provides a list of programmatic or specialized accreditations that, however, might be not complete or up-to-date.


    Institutional Recognition or Accreditation

    The Vrije Universiteit Brussel is legally recognized and/or accredited by: Vlaams Ministerie van Onderwijs en Vorming, België


    Year of first Recognition or Accreditation

    1970


    Specialized or Programmatic Accreditations

    uniRank publishes the following list of the most important Vrije Universiteit Brussel 's programmatic accreditations; feel free to submit any relevant missing specialized accreditations.

    • Nederlands-Vlaamse Accreditatieorganisatie (NVAO)


    Tip: search for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's accreditations with the uniRank Search Engine

    Memberships and Affiliations

    Introduction

    University memberships and affiliations to external organizations can be important for several reasons...

    • Collaboration and networking: they can provide opportunities for collaboration and networking with other universities, academic institutions and industry partners. This can lead to joint research projects, sharing of resources and expertise and collaborations on educational programs and initiatives.
    • Access to resources: they can provide access to a wide range of resources, including research facilities, academic journals and funding opportunities. This can be especially beneficial for smaller or less well-resourced universities, which may not have the same level of access to resources as larger and more established institutions.
    • Quality assurance: membership in professional or industry organizations can provide a level of quality assurance for Universities, ensuring that they meet certain standards and requirements in terms of academic programs, research and student support services. However, membership in an organization does not necessarily imply a formal accreditation or quality assurance process for the University's programs.
    • Recognition and reputation: membership in prestigious or exclusive organizations can enhance the reputation and recognition of a university, both locally and internationally. This can lead to increased visibility and opportunities for collaboration and partnerships.
    • Internationalization: memberships and affiliations can facilitate internationalization efforts, including student and faculty exchange programs, joint research initiatives and collaborations with international partners. This can help to broaden the global perspective of a university and provide opportunities for students and faculty to gain international experience and exposure.

    Overall, university memberships and affiliations can provide a range of benefits for Universities and its stakeholders (students, faculty and staff), including collaboration and networking opportunities, access to resources, quality assurance, recognition, reputation and internationalization.


    Affiliations and Memberships

    uniRank publishes the following list of the most important Vrije Universiteit Brussel 's affiliations and memberships; feel free to submit any relevant missing higher education-related organizations this university is affiliated with.

    • Network of Universities from the Capitals of Europe (UNICA)
    • European University Association (EUA)

    Academic Structure

    Introduction

    Most higher education institutions' first-level academic divisions are, depending on the country, one of the following...

    • Colleges
    • Faculties
    • Schools
    • Institutes
    • Academies
    • Departments
    • Divisions
    • Centers

    Academic divisions can provide valuable insights into the range of disciplines and study areas a University focuses on and the institution's level of specialization. Generalist Universities typically offer a wide range of academic programs and have many academic divisions and subdivisions across different disciplines, while Specialized Universities tend to focus on a narrower range of programs within a specific field or industry and have fewer academic divisions and a simplified organizational structure.


    Academic Structure

    uniRank provides below a structural diagram of the first-level academic divisions of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel 's organizational structure; feel free to submit any relevant missing division.


    |



    Tip: search for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's faculties or academic divisions with the uniRank Search Engine


    Social Media

    Introduction

    Social media can be a powerful tool for Universities to communicate with current students, alumni, faculty, staff and the wider community. But how can social media be important for prospective students?

    Here are some ways in which the official Vrije Universiteit Brussel's social media channels can help potential students to understand and assess this or any university:

    • Researching universities: social media can be a useful tool for researching universities that prospective students may be interested in attending. By following the Vrije Universiteit Brussel on social media, potential students can learn more about the university's culture, values, academic programs and campus life. They can also engage with current students and alumni to get a sense of their experiences and valuable perspectives from the inside.
    • Engagement with the University: social media allows the Vrije Universiteit Brussel to engage with prospective students by answering questions, sharing news and events and showcasing the university's offerings. Potential students can appraise how up-to-date and relevant is the content published through social media and how prompt and efficient the Vrije Universiteit Brussel is in answering their queries.

    Overall, social media can provide valuable insights to prospective students and other stakeholders into the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's profile and level of engagement.


    Social Media

    uniRank publishes brief reviews, rankings and metrics of some Vrije Universiteit Brussel's social media channels as a starting point for comparison and an additional selection tool for potential applicants.


    Facebook Facebook

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Facebook page review Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official Facebook page

    Twitter Twitter

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Twitter page review Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official Twitter page

    YouTube YouTube

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel's YouTube channel review Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official YouTube channel

    Instagram Instagram

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel's Instagram page review Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official Instagram channel

    LinkedIn LinkedIn

    Vrije Universiteit Brussel's main LinkedIn profile

    TikTok TikTok

    n.a.

    Tip: search for the Vrije Universiteit Brussel's online or distance education courses with the uniRank Search Engine


    Wikipedia

    Video Presentation


    Related Resources

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    Feedback, Errors and Update

    We appreciate your feedback and error reports. Vrije Universiteit Brussel's official representatives can claim this institution and request to update this entire university profile free of charge by clicking on UPDATE ALL

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    Site last updated: Monday, 5 June 2023

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