Universidad Europea is expanding its academic footprint with the establishment of a new campus in Gijón, Asturias [2].
This expansion signals the institution's push to scale its practical education model across Spain. By integrating regional growth with a global student base, the university aims to maintain its relevance in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.
Otilia de la Fuente, president and CEO of Universidad Europea, said the institution's trajectory in an interview published Monday as part of El País’s 50th anniversary series [1]. De la Fuente said the importance of developing students who can think independently to navigate future challenges.
"Lo que nos va a hacer realmente relevantes es ser capaces de formar personas con espíritu crítico," de la Fuente said [1].
The university's growth is supported by a highly internationalized student body. According to de la Fuente, more than 40% of the university's students are international [1]. These students represent more than 100 different nationalities [1].
The move into Gijón follows a formal green-light for the installation of the campus provided on April 27 [2]. De la Fuente said the project was a significant milestone for the institution's vision of accessibility and practical learning.
"Estamos muy ilusionados con la llegada de la Universidad Europea a Gijón, porque este proyecto representa mucho…" de la Fuente said [2].
The Gijón campus is intended to mirror the university's existing commitment to an international model that blends academic theory, and professional application. This strategy is designed to attract both local students in Asturias and the global demographic the school already serves.
“More than 40% of the university's students are international.”
The expansion into Gijón reflects a strategic effort by Universidad Europea to decentralize its presence in Spain while leveraging its high international student ratio to create a global hub in Asturias. By focusing on 'critical spirit' and practical application, the institution is positioning itself against traditional academic models to better align with professional market demands.
