Mission
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam takes responsibility for people and the planet by delivering values-driven education, research and knowledge transfer. We help students and professionals develop expertise and A Broader Mind. Research at VU Amsterdam is groundbreaking, both within and across disciplines. As free thinkers with a focus on diversity, purpose and compassion, our students and staff have a deep connection with one another while being fully engaged with society as a whole. This is VU Amsterdam’s mission.
Core values
The basic philosophy of VU Amsterdam is expressed in our three core values—responsible, open and personally engaged—which serve as guidelines for the work and behaviour of our employees and students. These values are inextricably linked to the way in which we give shape to our excellent research and education. Those who are part of the VU community endorse these values.
- Responsible
We are committed to being of service to people and society.
We fine-tune our educational, research and knowledge transfer activities in line with societal issues. We encourage our students and staff to work effectively and passionately to help build a better world. In research, our academics and PhD candidates display integrity and transparency. We work to make the scientific and societal impact of our activities more evident.
- Open
We are accessible and receptive to diversity in disciplines, cultures, ideas, nationalities, beliefs and philosophies.
VU Amsterdam is a place where people come together. Here, in an atmosphere of trust, respect and interest, differences generate new insights and innovation, sharpness and clarity, excellence and a broader understanding. This echoes throughout each of our core tasks, in our operational management and in campus life. VU Amsterdam is open to its local community. Together with trusted partners, we create impact with our education and research.
- Personally engaged
We have regard and respect for every individual, and every member of our community is given due recognition.
Every single member of our university community is unique and valuable, and has the opportunity to pursue personal development. People maintain relationships that are respectful, ethically sound and engaging. We take a dedicated and personal approach to teaching first-year students as well as those who are more advanced in their academic careers.