Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek (UNIOS) – Experience Croatia, combining innovation and tradition
The Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek (UNIOS) was founded in 1975 and continues an academic tradition dating back to 1707. As one of Croatia’s leading public universities, it is committed to excellence in teaching, research and innovation.
With more than 16,000 students, around 2,500 staff and over 200 degree programmes at Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD level, UNIOS is today a major centre for science, knowledge transfer and social development in Croatia. The university is actively involved in the European Higher Education Area and promotes international cooperation, research and mobility.
A university that suits you
The University of Osijek combines its long academic tradition with a modern, student-centred approach. Research, innovation and international collaboration are just as central to its mission as the personal development of its students.
UNIOS is one of Croatia’s most internationally recognised universities and was ranked between 1201st and 1400th worldwide, and between 511th and 520th in Southern Europe, in the QS World University Rankings 2025. Through numerous international partnerships, the university provides its students with access to exchange programmes, research projects and international learning experiences.
Particular emphasis is placed on research-led teaching, interdisciplinarity and the development of skills that meet the demands of the modern labour market.
Faculties
Faculty of Agricultural Biotechnology
Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture
Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology
Faculty of Dentistry and Health Sciences
School of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science
Faculty of Business Administration and Economics
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Faculty of Catholic Theology in Đakovo
Life on campus
Studying at the University of Osijek offers a combination of academic excellence and a vibrant student life. Modern teaching and research organisations, cultural events and student initiatives are a key part of everyday life at the university.
The university offers:
- Modern libraries and study spaces
- Research centres and laboratories
- Sports and leisure facilities
- Cultural and student events
- International exchange opportunities
- Support for international students
Osijek’s compact size means everything is within easy reach and creates a friendly, personal atmosphere for studying.
Osijek – Studying in eastern Croatia
Osijek is the largest city in the Slavonia region in eastern Croatia and is renowned for its historic Tvrđa fortress, its cultural diversity and its high quality of life.
The city combines a rich cultural heritage with a vibrant student life. Numerous cafés, restaurants, parks and events create a lively atmosphere for students. At the same time, the cost of living is comparatively low compared to many other European university cities.
Thanks to its location on the Drava River and its proximity to Hungary and Serbia, Osijek also offers an interesting international perspective in the heart of South-Eastern Europe.
COLOURS at UNIOS
As a member of the COLOURS Alliance, the University of Osijek is actively committed to European cooperation, innovation and sustainable development. Students can take part in international workshops, CoLabs and project-based learning formats, and work on real-world challenges alongside students from other European partner universities.
Through its strong research focus and international networks, the University actively contributes to the development of innovative solutions to social and economic issues.
Workshops & CoLabs
The University of Osijek participates in various COLOURS CoLabs focusing on innovation, sustainability, digitalisation and regional development. Working in international teams, students collaborate on practical projects and develop creative solutions to current challenges.
Language courses & learning Croatian
Don’t speak Croatian yet? No problem. Many programmes are on offer for international students and are taught in English. In addition, international students can attend language courses and get to know the Croatian language and culture.
Key facts at a glance
| Location | Osijek, Croatia |
| Transport links | Good rail and bus connections within Croatia; international connections via Osijek, Zagreb and Budapest airports |
| Accommodation | Student halls of residence and private accommodation approx. €150–400 per month |
| Cost of living | Relatively affordable by European standards and particularly student-friendly |
| Language of instruction | Croatian and English (depending on the study programme) |
| Application deadlines | Via the International Office at Paderborn University (spring for the winter semester, autumn for the summer semester) |
| Website: | www.unios.hr/en/ |
