The University of Malta (Maltese: L-Università ta' Malta, UM, formerly UOM) is a public research university in Malta.
The history of the University of Malta can be traced back to the founding of the Collegium Melitense, a Jesuit college, in 1592. The college was originally located in an old house in Valletta, but a purpose-built college was constructed between 1595 and 1597.
In 1769, the Order of St. John officially established a college and a university on the premises. After a brief suspension of studies during the reign of Grand Master Ximenes (1773-1775), the university was re-inaugurated in April 1779 by Grand Master de Rohan.
The university initially offered courses in theology, law, medicine, and philosophy. In 1823, the university was closed by the British colonial government, but it was reopened in 1839 as a lyceum, offering courses in secondary education.
In 1921, the university was reopened as a full-fledged university, offering courses in a variety of fields. The university continued to grow and expand in the following decades, and today it is one of the leading universities in the Mediterranean region.
The university has played an important role in Maltese society throughout its history. It has produced many of the country's leading politicians, scientists, and artists. The university has also been a center of research and scholarship, and it has made significant contributions to Maltese culture and heritage.
In recent years, the university has undergone a number of reforms. In 1988, the university was granted autonomy from the government. In 2000, the university introduced a new system of credits and grades. In 2004, the university adopted the Bologna Process, which is a European framework for higher education.
Today, the University of Malta is a modern and vibrant institution of higher education. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of fields. The university is also home to a number of research centers and institutes.
The university is committed to excellence in teaching and research. It is also committed to providing its students with a high-quality education and a well-rounded university experience.