Aalborg University

Aalborg University (AAU) is a public research university in Aalborg, Denmark.

The idea of a university in the North Jutland Region started in 1961 when the North Jutland Committee for higher education institutions was established. On 19 August 1969 the Aalborg University Association was founded and a planning group was established with Eigil Hastrup as chairman.

Aalborg University Centre (AUC) was opened in 1974 with the aim of providing a new approach to higher education in Denmark. AUC was based on the principles of problem-based learning, group work, and close collaboration with industry. These principles are still central to AAU's teaching and learning methods today.

In 1994, AUC changed status to Aalborg University (AAU). In 1995, AAU merged with School of Engineering in Esbjerg, and in 2003, AAU opened a department in Copenhagen. In 2010, the School of Medicine was created.

AAU is also a highly international university, with over 20% of its students coming from outside of Denmark. The university offers a number of English-taught programs and has strong partnerships with universities around the world.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2024, Aalborg University is positioned as the #336 top university in the world, which makes it the #5 top university in Denmark.