The University of Amsterdam is inextricably linked with the city of Amsterdam. The majority of the UvA's arts and social science programmes are housed in the city centre, along with a large number of facilities, including the University Library, the Special Collections Library and the Zoological Museum Amsterdam. Many of the faculties are housed in characteristic old buildings - along a canal, on an avenue or bordering on an inner courtyard. With the faculties spread across the city in this way, Amsterdam itself can be said to be the UvA's true campus.
Amsterdam, famous for its historical buildings and canals, is a multi-faceted city bustling with knowledge, commerce, creativity and innovation. The tolerant atmosphere and the open-mindedness of its inhabitants form an inviting setting for scientists, entrepreneurs and artists alike. They frequently work together, inspiring and stimulating one another, with surprising discoveries, enterprises and creations as the result. It is this dynamic and challenging environment that attracts many national and international students to the city.
The capital of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is an exuberant small-scale metropolis where you quickly feel safe and welcome. Studying in Amsterdam gives you one of the world's most beautiful and stimulating cities as your campus. Countless museums, festivals and artistic groups stage exhibitions and performances all year round. In 2007 Amsterdam was deemed one of the top 15 cities worldwide in terms of quality of living. Education has always played a vital role in the development of Dutch culture. The UvA, as one of the largest centres of study and research in the Netherlands, continues to be one of its key players.
