Malmö University has emerged in a city characterised by change, and since its foundation in 1998 has developed into an urban institution of higher education with strong roots in both academic values and social relevance. The story begins at a time when Malmö was transforming from an industrial city into a city of knowledge – and the new university was tasked with providing education and research that would strengthen the region’s development.

A university shaped by change

Malmö University is a young university with its roots in a city that has undergone major changes. When Malmö University College was founded in 1998, Malmö was in the midst of a transition from an industrial city to a city of knowledge. The decline of the shipbuilding industry had altered the city’s identity and sense of optimism about the future, whilst at the same time new ideas were emerging about education, research and innovation as drivers of development.

The new university was established to meet a growing need for higher education in the region and to contribute to Malmö’s social and economic development. Degree programmes previously organised by other higher education institutions were brought together in Malmö, laying the foundations for a new, independent university right in the heart of the city.

The university’s history is therefore closely intertwined with Malmö’s own journey – from an industrial city to an international and sustainable city of knowledge.

Malmö University now and then.

Malmö University now and then.

An urban university in the heart of Malmö

Unlike many traditional campus-based universities, Malmö University developed as an integral part of the urban environment. The university’s buildings were situated in the heart of Malmö, close to people, the world of work and community organisations.

This proximity to the city has shaped both research and education. Issues relating to democracy, migration, sustainability, health, culture and social justice have been central areas of focus from the outset. The university has also developed close partnerships with the public sector, civil society and the business community – both regionally and internationally.

Malmö’s diversity has been of great significance to the university’s development. Students and staff from different backgrounds and with varied experiences have contributed to an open and international environment where new perspectives take centre stage.

From University College to University

During its first two decades, Malmö University College grew rapidly. The number of degree programmes and research environments increased, while the institution established itself as a leading centre for research with a strong focus on societal challenges.

In 2018, Malmö University College was granted university status and became Malmö University. This marked a new stage in its development and strengthened its capacity to deliver research and education of a high international standard.

Today, Malmö University is one of Sweden's largest higher education institutions, with around 26,000 students across five faculties and a number of research centres.

Facts about Malmö University

Year

  • 1948 – The School of Dentistry becomes Malmö’s first academic institution.
  • 1959 – Malmö City Nursing School is founded. It later becomes the basis for the School of Nursing.
  • 1960 – The Teacher Training College is established as one of the city’s largest educational institutions.
  • 1983 – The School of Nursing is formed through the merger of nursing programmes.
  • 1998 – Malmö University is established. It opens on 1 July with around 5,000 students.
  • 2005 – Orkanen is inaugurated, becoming the university’s largest building and library.
  • 2011 – First doctoral degrees awarded by the university itself: Malmö University is granted the right to award doctoral degrees in several fields.
  • 2015 – Niagara is inaugurated – a new hub for research, education and collaboration.
  • 2018 – Malmö University is granted university status from 1 January.

Vice-Chancellors

  • Per-Olof Glantz (1998–2002)
  • Lennart Olausson (2002–2011)
  • Stefan Bengtsson (2011–2015)
  • Kerstin Tham (2015–2025)
  • Mia Rönnmar (2025– )

Related

Malmö University in numbers

Key figures on Malmö University’s education, research, staff and operations.

Management and organisation

Malmö University comprises five Faculties and several Departments offering education and conducting research in various subject...