University of Andorra Hits Record 690 Enrolments Amid Expansion Push

The University of Andorra has reached a record enrolment of nearly 690 students in formal programmes this academic year, rector Juli Minoves announced at Tuesday's opening ceremony.

The institution started the year with 665 students and expects to add about 25 more in February through its International Doctoral School's second intake, the first industrial doctorates, and new virtual bachelor's degrees in Political Science and International Relations. This would surpass last year's peak of 685 students—and far exceed the 629 recorded in 2022-2023. Continuing education remains strong, with 1,026 participants across 124 programmes last year and a similar figure anticipated this year.

Minoves highlighted the growth despite declining numbers of secondary school graduates in Andorra and Europe. The university enrolled 237 first-year students this term, up slightly from last year. Business Administration topped new intakes with 57 students, followed by Nursing at 36 and Law at 28.

The rector attributed the success to expanding high-quality offerings, noting that 94% of graduates secure permanent jobs within six months. He emphasised the personalised attention students receive at the relatively small institution, setting it apart from larger universities.

Looking ahead, Psychology and History bachelor's degrees are slated for 2027-2028, likely at the renovated Reig factory, which is being adapted as a campus annex. A future university residence at the former Hotel Pol will support international recruitment, backed by a 1.5 million euro government allocation for 2027, though no opening date is set.

Minoves said stable public tuition fees this year—unchanged from last year, thanks to government support—make the university more accessible. The institution aims to become the Pyrenees' reference university, fulfilling its role in training future generations. Founded 29 years ago and now in its 38th academic year, it has awarded 7,238 degrees since its nursing and computing schools opened in 1988.

The university also plans research collaborations with the universities of Girona and Perpignan to form a cross-border triangle, following recent meetings, and will sign an agreement later this month with Spain's UNED for more transnational studies. Andorra's position as a non-EU country surrounded by the union offers unique perspectives on border issues, Minoves added.