Overview of the University of Alicante
The University of Alicante (Universidad de Alicante, UA) is a prominent public institution founded in 1979 and located in San Vicente del Raspeig, near the city of Alicante on Spain’s Mediterranean coast. Building upon the legacy of the historic University of Orihuela (est. 1545), UA has matured into a comprehensive, research-intensive university. Today, it hosts over 28,000 students and employs more than 2,000 academic staff. The institution comprises six main faculties and several specialized research institutes, all within a modern, unified campus known for its architectural design and green spaces.
UA is renowned for academic excellence in fields such as Computer Science, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Law, and Translation & Interpreting. Its interdisciplinary educational model emphasizes both foundational learning and practical skills, facilitated through a modular course structure and robust international mobility programs. The university participates in multiple global consortia, including the European University EUniWell alliance. Recent metrics position UA among the top 650 institutions worldwide (QS World University Rankings 2024) and within Spain’s top 15 for research output. The university’s leadership in areas such as applied computing, archaeological research, and renewable energy technologies is underscored by numerous competitive research grants, patents, and collaborative projects with industry.
Student life at the University of Alicante is vibrant and inclusive, fostering engagement through over 100 student-run societies, cultural festivals, and language exchange programs. The campus features modern housing options, extensive sports facilities—including Olympic-standard swimming pools and athletics tracks—and a dynamic arts scene centered around the University Museum. UA provides comprehensive student support services, with a focus on mental health, academic advising, and inclusion for students with disabilities. With over 2,000 international students from 80+ countries, the community is committed to diversity and global outlook, offering language tuition and intercultural training as part of its commitment to internationalization.
Guided by a mission to promote knowledge, innovation, and social responsibility, the University of Alicante is dedicated to advancing sustainability, equity, and global citizenship. The institution envisions education and research as catalysts for positive change in society and the wider world.
