Karel de Grote Hogeschool
The Karel de Grote University of Applied Sciences and Arts (KdG) officially opened on September 1st, 1995. Its inauguration on September 18th, 1995 celebrated a triumph of passion, initiative and vision.
The university’s founders sought a name which would capture the significance of a pioneering European educational institution. This they found in the historical figure Karel de Grote aka Charlemagne, or Charles the Great. Karel de Grote was an emperor, who between 774 and 814:
- Brought unity amongst people, language, and culture.
- Strengthened European economy and society.
- Played a vital role in the development of an education system throughout the region.
Following a decree to streamline, improve and unify higher education in Flanders, thirteen catholic high schools in Antwerp merged to form the Karel de Grote University of Applied Sciences and Arts.
Since then KdG has gone from strength to strength.
- 14.500+ students study across 7 campuses around Antwerp.
- More than 1.500 of these students are international.
- 49.000 graduates are proud alumni of KdG using their skills locally and internationally
Since 1995 KdG has been a holder of the ECHE: Erasmus charter for Higher education and is proud to work with a growing network of international partners.
Our international offer
In the academic year 2014-2015, the first English-taught international programme was launched – the forerunner to our current international business management programme.
As part of our evolution, this programme now has three specialisations giving students the choice that suits modern global business.
In 2019 and 2020 respectively, we added our Multimedia & Creative Technologies and Applied Computer Science programmes, both of which built upon KdG’s existing expertise in these fields. And both are perfectly suited to globally-minded students.
Looking to the future
Campus Meir
KdG sets the tone for the future. We evolve and innovate. To provide the environment that our growing number of students deserve, development is underway for a new, state-of-the-art campus in the heart of the city of Antwerp.
Campus Meir is a 28.000 square metre building designed for innovative and flexible education. This exciting development will make room for 7.000 students and 650 staff. In line with our commitment to promote sustainability and green well-being, it will include a courtyard and a roof garden where students can meet.
Located on Antwerp’s main shopping street, and close to the beautiful central station and opera house, this campus will allow students to stay fully connected and enjoy the atmosphere of this dynamic city.
A dedicated business lab will be a space for our network of partners to collaborate with students: a launch pad for entrepreneurs, supported by KdG, to start their business.
Fablab
This creative approach builds upon the introduction of our FabLab in 2019.
At Campus Hoboken, Multimedia and Creative Technologies students have a space in which to create and experiment with all the latest technology from 3D printers and laser cutters to audiovisual equipment and gadgets galore.
As proud as we are of our past, we work every day to achieve our vision. KdG believes in giving everyone the opportunity to grow and make a difference.
Will you be a part of our future?