EC2U is a collaboration between nine European universities including each higher education institution's associated partners. The work within the alliance includes education, research, campus development, student activities, and sustainability.
9
Universities
250,000
Students
30,000
University staff
4,000,000
Citizens
Within the European alliance EC2U, nine comprehensive universities collaborate to enhance mobility, quality, and strengthened competitiveness. The work within the alliance includes education, research, campus development, and sustainability. Furthermore, various administrative processes are discussed, such as working methods and procedures to facilitate student mobility. Umeå University has been part of the EC2U alliance since 1 May 2025.
In addition to the member universities, (Ukraine) participates as a strategic partner in the work of EC2U.
Illustrative map of Europe showing participating countries in the EC2U alliance.
ImageEC2U
Associated partners
All universities in the European alliance collaborate with the surrounding community by engaging several associated partners.
Umeå University's associated partners: Umeå Municipality, Region Västerbotten with Norrland University Hospital in Umeå, IKSU, Folkuniversitetet, Västerbotten's Chamber of commerce, Umeå University Holding AB and the Student Unions at Umeå University.
Focus areas
The work within the EC2U alliance is organised into different focus areas. Umeå University has representatives in all focus areas.
Inclusive, Engaged and Mobile EC2U Community
Sustainable Mobility
Digital EC2U Alliance
Innovative Digital Pedagogy
Good Health and Well-Being
(Joint Master’s Programme)
PhD Network
Quality Education
(Joint Master’s Programme)
PhD Network
Sustainable Cities and Communities
(Joint Master’s Programme)
Virtual Institute for Sustainable Cities and Communities
PhD Network
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
PhD Network
EC2U Lifelong Career
Lifelong Career
EC2U Innovation Hub
Virtual Institute for Quality Education – Education Sciences
Virtual Institute for Life on Land
Virtual Institute for Materials & Methods for a Sustainable Future
About the EU Commission's initiative on European Universities
The EU's initiative on European Universities alliances aims to have universities in different European countries collaborate across disciplines in deep strategic alliances to address various future issues and societal challenges. The goal is to improve the quality of European higher education and contribute to inclusion and strengthened competitiveness. Students within the alliance should be able to customise their education with courses from the different universities.