ALLIANCE ACE² EU
PARTNER UNIVERSITIES OF THE ALLIANCE
The Santarém Polytechnic University it’s a public Higher Education Institution, since 45 years, graduates citizens and qualified professionals within the areas of Agricultural Sciences, Education, Management, Nursing and Sport Sciences.
The institution is in the beautiful city of Santarém, washed by the river Tagus. Only 50 minutes away from Lisbon and also in the near city of Rio Maior (Sport Sciences School), both provided with excellent communication feeds. Santarém, becomes famous through it’s historical patrimony (is known as the capital of gothic) and for his traditional gastronomy festival which takes place in the first two weeks of October.
We are used to welcoming students in mobility, for studies and for internships as well as staff from all over the world. The ACE2EU partners are invited to take part in this exchange activities as well as to create new ones.
As part of strategic development, Santarém Polytechnic University has strengthened its research capacity by establishing six Research Units registered with the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FST). We also are focused in the internationalization process and development of active learning pedagogies in order to alignment of learning environments, creative industries and artificial intelligence.
Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (CUAS) is located in the southern-Austrian region of Carinthia, in a tri-border area with Italy and Slovenia. Known for its strong commitment to practice-oriented education, research, development and innovative teaching methods, CUAS focuses on preparing students for dynamic and interdisciplinary careers.
With five campuses in Villach, Klagenfurt, Spittal and Feldkirchen, CUAS hosts 2.600 students (70% full-time, 30% part-time) across 40 study programs within four schools: Health Sciences & Social Work; Engineering & IT; Civil Engineering & Architecture and Management. Additionally, 750 lifelong learners attend CUAS Academy. The university offers 350 courses in English and twelve English-taught degree programs (three bachelor’s, eight master’s, one further education).
CUAS ranks among the top three Austrian universities of applied sciences in research. Its four interdisciplinary research centers are nationally acknowledged flagship projects: CIME – Carinthia Institute for Microelectronics; CiSMAT – Carinthia Institute for Smart Materials; IARA – Institute of Applied Research on Ageing; and ADMiRE – specializing in additive manufacturing, intelligent robotics, sensors and engineering. Moreover, 19 transdisciplinary research groups are engaged in cutting-edge research on crucial issues such as health, environment, industry, sustainability and interculturality. CUAS is also proud to house the UNESCO Chair for Sustainable Management of Conservation Areas.
Being part of the ACE²-EU alliance is a valuable opportunity for CUAS to expand its international reach and evolve as an innovative, future-focused university. This partnership enhances research opportunities, facilitates mobility programs, deepens the exchange of knowledge and fosters international cooperation, thereby benefiting our students, staff and external partners. It positions CUAS as a key player in shaping a more interconnected and sustainable European education and higher education landscape.
Goce Delcev University (UGD), based in Stip, North Macedonia, is as public institution established in 2007. It is among the top-ranked universities in the country, known for its modern and dynamic approach to higher education. UGD offers diverse academic opportunities with 12 faculties and three artistic academies, catering to a range of fields such as natural sciences, technology, social sciences, and the arts. These faculties are distributed across three main campuses and additional educational centers in 5 cities nationwide.
The university places a strong emphasis on aligning education with current economic, industrial, and technological trends, ensuring its programs meet the demands of both national and international labor markets. Its diplomas are internationally recognized and competitive, enhancing graduate employability. With a vibrant student population of approximately 9,000, including over 600 international students, UGD fosters a multicultural and inclusive academic environment.
UGD actively participates in international collaborations and student exchange programs, including Erasmus+, promoting global perspectives among its students and staff. The institution also supports research and professional development, striving to contribute to regional and global advancements in education and industry
Lietuvos inžinerijos kolegija | Higher Education Institution (LIK) is a higher education institution with more than a century of experience in training engineering specialists.
LIK is a leading university of applied sciences belonging to the elite of technical HEIs in the Baltic States, training highly qualified specialists in the field of technical engineering and carrying out advanced development activities in its region.
It currently offers fifteen professional bachelor programs: Mechanical and Civil Engineering, Aeronautical and Transport Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Landscape Architecture, Forestry, Real Estate Cadastral Measurements, Hydrotechnical Engineering.
Bachelor’s programs are focused on balancing theoretical knowledge with practical skills, which gives students an opportunity to launch a successful career upon graduation.
The Latvian Academy of Culture (LAC) is a prominent higher education and research institution dedicated to advancing studies in arts, culture and creative industries. Established in Riga, LAC offers interdisciplinary programs focusing on cultural heritage, theater, contemporary dance, film, creative industries, intercultural relations, cultural sociology and arts management. Its commitment to innovation and excellence has positioned it as a leader in cultural and creative sector research.
The Academy provides academic programs in bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, always giving great importance to collaboration with international universities and cultural organisations. LAC actively participates in Erasmus+ mobility programs and the European University alliance ACE2-EU, enabling students and researchers to engage in international academic and cultural exchanges.
The institution also hosts the National Film School and National Performing Arts School which integrates advanced infrastructure and practical training in audiovisual and performing arts. These schools support student projects, organizes film and performing arts events as well as festivals for national and international audiences.
In research, LAC is known for its Institute of Arts and Cultural Studies, which conducts interdisciplinary projects, publishes scholarly works, and participates in international networks. Its UNESCO Chair further enriches the focus on cultural diversity and sustainability, fostering international cooperation in the arts.
Participation in the European University alliance ACE2-EU is a unique growth opportunity for the Academy, fulfilling its strategic goals and aspirations in the sphere of internationalisation, enhanced responsiveness to industry and societal challenges and the integration of research and its academic study programs. Participation in the ACE2-EU will firmly situate the Academy in the dedicated network of select universities in Europe.
The Medical University of Gdańsk (MUG) is a leading medical university in Poland, known for its commitment to excellence in healthcare education and research. Located in Gdańsk, northern Poland, on the Baltic Sea Coast, it offers diverse programs across four main faculties: Medicine, Pharmacy, Health Sciences, and the Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, in collaboration with the University of Gdańsk. The university educates over 6,000 students, including nearly 1,000 international students in its English-language programs.
The MUG stands out for its modern infrastructure, including a University Clinical Center, state of the art hospital complex,. A leading university in its countries, this institution also holds the title of Research University, granted by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education – something which has been awarded to only ten institutions in Poland.
Students of the MUG benefit from access to advanced medical technologies, extensive library resources, and dynamic student organisations that enhance academic and extracurricular experiences.
The idea of creating close collaborations with other institutions is strong and important for Medical University of Gdansk. Already in 2020, the MUG established The Fahrenheit Union of Universities in Gdańsk, together with University of Gdansk and Gdansk University of Technology (FarU). Jointly, FarU represents all three universities as one of the most prominent higher education establishments in the country. This is why joining the international alliance, the Applied, Connected, Entrepreneurial and Engaged – European University (ACE²-EU), was natural for MUG. Within it, we plan to take our best practices in teaching to an international level, while also co-creating cutting-edge opportunities for our students. In alliance, we plan to develop our teaching, research and administrative staff. We are very open to innovation in all areas covered by ACE²-EU activities.
Being part of ACE2-EU, I expect the alliances to foster a collaborative environment where shared expertise drives impactful outcomes. In my view, our participation in the ACE2-EU alliance offers a chance to advance our institution in education and innovation while driving cultural change. This collaboration has potential to enhance our academic capabilities, inspire transformation, and strengthen our international presence.
Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) is a leading university of applied sciences in Bavaria, Germany, focusing on innovative education and practical research. Established in 1994, THI provides a wide range of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in fields such as engineering, business, computer science and health. It places great emphasis on a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical application, supported by close collaborations with industry partners.
The THI offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern labs and research centers, which play a key role in its emphasis on applied research. Key areas of focus include electromobility, artificial intelligence, renewable energy and sustainable systems. Its Institute of New Energy Systems (InES), together with other specialised research centers (CARISSMA, Institute for Innovative Mobility (IIMo), AImotion Bavaria, Research and Transfer Center Sustainability Neuburg (ForTraNN) and Bavarian Foresight Institute) contribute to advancements in technology and innovation. Furthermore, the Doctoral School at THI currently supervises over 140 doctoral students.
The university is committed to internationalisation, providing exchange programs, English-taught courses, and partnerships with universities worldwide. The THI’s vibrant campus supports a diverse community, fostering an inclusive environment for students from over 100 countries.
The THI also prioritises lifelong learning, offering programs for working professionals to upskill or pursue advanced studies. With strong industry connections, graduates benefit from excellent career opportunities in global and regional markets. This makes THI a dynamic institution for those seeking high-quality education combined with real-world application.
“The participation in the ACE²EU Alliance greatly enhances THI’s international outreach and expertise. With its emphasis on internationalisation in research and teaching THI will not only contribute its knowledge in technical sciences but also its broad experience in international funding and collaboration. We hence look forward to a lasting impact and collaboration within the ACE²EU-Unit.”
Constantin Brâncuși University of Târgu Jiu (UCB) is a leading institution of higher education in Romania, proudly named after the celebrated Romanian sculptor Constantin Brâncuși. Established to support the educational and professional aspirations of its community, the UCB offers a wide range of academic programs across its four main faculties: Engineering, Economic Sciences, Education Sciences, Law and Public Administration, and Medical and Behavioural Sciences. The university integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience to equip students with the skills needed in an ever-evolving job market.
The UCB provides diverse study options, including undergraduate, master’s, and distance learning programs, alongside professional development courses. The university is deeply committed to research, actively organising conferences, publishing scholarly journals, and engaging in both national and international academic collaborations.
The UCB’s students are beneficiary of modern facilities, including well-equipped libraries and participation opportunities in international mobility programs such as Erasmus+. The university also promotes student engagement in extracurricular activities and student organisations, fostering both personal and professional growth.
Located in Târgu Jiu, a city rich in cultural and historical heritage, the UCB provides an inspiring academic environment. The university is in close proximity to Constantin Brâncuși’s iconic works, recently recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, further enhancing the cultural atmosphere for students and visitors alike.
The Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (UFV), located in Madrid, Spain, is a Catholic institution established in 1993. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational training programs, emphasizing comprehensive personal and professional development. UFV aims to educate individuals who are technically skilled, intellectually capable, and ethically driven.
The university is distinguished by its innovative educational model, “Formar para Transformar” (“Educate to Transform”), which integrates rigorous academic curricula with personal mentoring, community engagement, and a strong foundation in the humanities. This approach aims to cultivate leaders committed to societal transformation through values like truth, beauty, and service to the common good.
UFV fosters an inclusive and dynamic learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities, personalized guidance, and opportunities for international exchange. It also prioritizes research, with specialized institutes and programs promoting advancements across various disciplines. Additionally, the university collaborates with institutions like Le Cordon Bleu for specialized programs, enhancing its academic offerings.
UFV encourages students to engage in social action, cultivating empathy and leadership by working with vulnerable communities. The institution’s mission is to empower individuals to create meaningful change, aligning academic excellence with a commitment to ethical and personal growth.