Overview of the University of Malta
The University of Malta (UM), established in 1592, stands as the preeminent higher education institution in Malta. Located in Msida, near the capital Valletta, UM is Malta’s sole public university and a cornerstone of the nation’s academic landscape. As a comprehensive and research-active university, it serves over 11,000 students, including around 1,000 international students from more than 80 countries. The university operates from the main Msida campus and offers additional facilities at Valletta and Gozo, featuring 14 faculties and a range of interdisciplinary institutes and centres that support its academic mission.
UM is recognized for strengths in fields such as medicine, engineering, information and communication technology, law, education, and the humanities. Its academic structure is characterized by a modular, flexible curriculum designed to foster interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. UM maintains a strong research output, collaborating in numerous EU-funded Horizon and Erasmus+ projects and partnering with institutions across Europe and beyond. It is ranked in the 801-1000 band of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024, testifying to its growing research impact. UM also offers unique joint degrees, extensive postgraduate programs, and participates in major academic consortia, reflecting its commitment to innovation and knowledge transfer.
Campus life at the University of Malta is rich and vibrant, with over 60 student organizations spanning academic, cultural, and social interests. Regular events, public lectures, and cultural festivals foster a lively atmosphere on campus. Services such as a dedicated International Office, counseling, and career guidance illustrate UM’s commitment to student welfare and inclusivity. Students benefit from on-campus housing options, extensive sporting facilities, and arts initiatives, ensuring a holistic student experience. The diversity of the student body and the university’s strong culture of internationalization make it a welcoming environment for scholars from around the globe.
The University of Malta is guided by a mission to promote intellectual rigour, critical inquiry, and societal responsibility. It upholds values of equity, sustainability, and global citizenship, aiming to serve as a catalyst for innovation and positive transformation in Malta and beyond.
