Tamtam Start free

List of Higher Education companies in Europe

Tamtam tracks 3,880 Higher Education companies headquartered in Europe. This list ranks the 100 largest by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by University of Oxford, Galileo Global Education and The University of Manchester. Their median headcount is 7,393. Half of them were founded in 1900 or later. The most common headquarters are Madrid (4), Paris (4) and London (3).

🌍 Europe100 companiesUpdated Nov 13, 2026

This list compiles the largest higher education institutions in Europe by employee count, predominantly comprising well-established universities with long histories. These organizations focus on academic excellence, research, and societal contribution. Galileo Global Education stands out as a global leader in independent higher education, while institutions like the University of Oxford and The University of Manchester are renowned for their academic disciplines, research innovation, and extensive alumni networks.

A clear pattern emerges with a strong representation of UK universities, including the University of Oxford, The University of Manchester, University of Birmingham, and University of Leeds. Additionally, Spain contributes with Universidad Complutense de Madrid and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, both based in Madrid. These institutions collectively emphasize high-quality education, research opportunities, and international collaboration, shaping minds and advancing knowledge across various fields.

#CompanyIndustryHeadquarters EmployeesFounded
1
University of Oxfordox.ac.uk

A leading university in various academic disciplines, fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and social support while upholding respect and banning hate speech

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Oxford 23,103 1096
2
Galileo Global Educationggeedu.com

Global leader in independent higher education with 61 schools, 106 campuses in 18 countries Emphasis on employability, innovation, interdisciplinary education, and professional integration

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Paris 21,541 n/a
3
The University of Manchestermanchester.ac.uk

A prestigious university known for teaching excellence, research innovation, and a history of world firsts, with a large global alumni community

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Manchester 20,294 1824
4
University of Birminghambirmingham.ac.uk

A prestigious university with a century-long tradition of innovation and impactful research, shaping great minds and pushing boundaries of knowledge

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Birmingham 14,952 1900
5
University of Leedsleeds.ac.uk

A top research university in the UK with a focus on creating knowledge, educating students, and making a positive impact through research and innovation

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Leeds 14,683 1904
6
Alma Mater Studiorum – Università di Bolognaunibo.it

Provides higher education and research, fostering inclusion and personal growth for students, with a global reach and commitment to societal value.

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Bologna 14,325 1088
7
Universidad Complutense de Madriducm.es

A public university in Madrid offering high-quality education, research opportunities, international collaborations, extensive library resources, diverse cultural activities, and sports facilities

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Madrid 14,024 1499
8
Universidad Autónoma de Madriduam.es

Institution recognized for high-quality research, entrepreneurial capacity, teaching excellence, and social commitment. Actively promotes international exchange and training programs.

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Madrid 14,000 1968
9
Ain Shams Universityshams.edu.eg

Public university offering diverse faculties and academic institutes, fulfilling higher education demand and contributing to Egypt's educational development.

Higher Education 🇷🇴 13,468 1950
10
University of Nottinghamnottingham.ac.uk

A pioneering university with campuses in the UK, China, and Malaysia that aims to transform the lives of its 45,000 students

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Nottingham 12,740 1948
11
University of Glasgowgla.ac.uk

The company focuses on conducting cutting-edge research, providing a student-centered learning environment, and contributing to Scottish culture, the environment, and the economy

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Glasgow 11,990 n/a
12
Università degli Studi di Padovaunipd.it

A prestigious and innovative university in Padova, Italy, known for its history, research excellence, international collaborations, and diverse range of courses

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Padua 11,874 1222
13
ETH Zürichethz.ch

University specializing in science, technology, and engineering education and research, fostering innovation and producing high-impact patents and spin-offs.

Higher Education 🇨🇭 Zurich 11,664 1855
14
University of Helsinkihelsinki.fi

Leading multidisciplinary research university fostering international collaboration, education, and innovation for sustainable solutions and global impact.

Higher Education 🇫🇮 Helsinki 11,563 1640
15
The University of Sheffieldsheffield.ac.uk

A leading Russell Group university with a diverse community of students and staff, advancing research, partnerships, and global impact in various industries

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Sheffield 11,417 1905
16
Ghent Universityugent.be

Offers diverse courses and conducts extensive research across multiple scientific fields, welcoming students from all backgrounds.

Higher Education 🇧🇪 Ghent 11,347 1817
17
Università degli Studi di Milanounimi.it

Higher education institution offering diverse degree programs, conducting extensive research projects, and fostering international academic collaboration and innovation.

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Milan 11,077 1924
18
The Open Universityopen.ac.uk

The company specializes in flexible higher education for working individuals, offering accessible, affordable, and respected courses with a global network of support

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Milton Keynes 11,063 1969
19
University of Liverpoolliverpool.ac.uk

A renowned research and innovation center that attracts global students, experts, and partners, shaping lives and the world through collaborations

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Liverpool 10,897 n/a
20
University of Southamptonsouthampton.ac.uk

A prestigious university in southern England, ranked among the top 100 worldwide and a founding member of the Russell Group

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Southampton 10,786 1862
21
University of Exeterexeter.ac.uk

A leading research-intensive university in the South West of England, offering a diverse range of subjects in a welcoming international environment

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Exeter 10,489 1955
22
Université Paris Citéu-paris.fr

Research intensive institution delivering higher education across health, science, and social faculties through international cooperation, innovative laboratories, and diverse academic excellence in Paris.

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Paris 10,439 n/a
23
Uppsala Universityuu.se

A historic university offering a wide range of master programs and specializations, focused on promoting sustainable development and human health

Higher Education 🇸🇪 Uppsala 10,377 1477
24
Newcastle Universityncl.ac.uk

Research-intensive university, world-class reputation in medicine, science, engineering, social sciences, humanities; providing excellent research-led teaching for high graduate employment rates.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Newcastle upon Tyne 10,332 n/a
25
University of Warwickwarwick.ac.uk

Leading university with high academic and research standards, consistently making a global impact through its students, alumni, and staff.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Coventry 10,327 1965
26
Lund Universitylunduniversity.lu.se

Leading Swedish university with 47,000 students and 8,800 staff across multiple locations, focused on research, education, and international collaborations for scientific innovations

Higher Education 🇸🇪 Lund 10,214 1666
27
Università degli Studi di Torinounito.it

A prestigious and historic university in Italy with a strong focus on culture, research, innovation, education, and social engagement Promotes knowledge and societal progress

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Turin 10,026 1404
28
Karolinska Institutetki.se

Leading medical university conducting significant academic research and providing comprehensive healthcare education while selecting Nobel laureates in physiology or medicine since 1901.

Higher Education 🇸🇪 Solna 9,872 1810
29
Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdyddcardiff.ac.uk

An ambitious and innovative university committed to providing outstanding education and impactful research, forming global collaborations to fulfill social, cultural, and economic obligations

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Cardiff 9,765 1883
30
University of Zurichuzh.ch

Switzerland's largest university, offering a wide range of Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs, known for its prestigious research and academic excellence

Higher Education 🇨🇭 Zurich 9,752 n/a
31
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)ntnu.no

A prestigious academic institution in Trondheim specializing in technology, natural sciences, social sciences, arts, medicine, architecture, and fine art

Higher Education 🇳🇴 Trondheim 9,737 1910
32
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)lse.ac.uk

A leading university specializing in the social sciences, committed to excellence and innovation in research and education

Higher Education 🇬🇧 London 9,613 1895
33
The Manchester Metropolitan Universitymmu.ac.uk

Provides diverse academic programs, excels in research, promotes social mobility, sustainability, and supports community and business partnerships.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Manchester 8,837 1970
34
Queen Mary University of Londonqmul.ac.uk

A world-leading research university with over 32,000 students from 170+ nationalities, offering 240+ degree programs and recognized for excellent teaching

Higher Education 🇬🇧 London 8,803 1785
35
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam)vu.nl

Focus on discovering and developing individual talents and ideas to unlock potential and create new opportunities for growth.

Higher Education 🇳🇱 Amsterdam 8,758 1880
36
Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico IIunina.it

The company is a prestigious university founded in 1224, offering a wide range of academic programs, research centers, libraries, and museums

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Naples 8,711 1224
37
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuoreunicatt.it

Leading Catholic university across Italy, offering diverse undergraduate, graduate, and master's programs, fostering research, and providing student services and global academic exchanges.

Higher Education 🇮🇹 8,679 1921
38
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelonauab.cat

The organization is a pioneering, research-focused university in Barcelona, known for its diversity, sustainability, and campus culture, offering unique experiences

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) 8,649 1968
39
University College Dublinucd.ie

Research-intensive university offering undergraduate, masters, PhD education, fostering innovation, global engagement, and diverse academic disciplines across multiple campuses.

Higher Education 🇮🇪 Dublin 8,585 1854
40
Leiden Universityuniversiteitleiden.nl

Offers diverse bachelor's and master's programs, renowned for academic excellence, preparing students for global employment opportunities.

Higher Education 🇳🇱 Leiden 8,420 n/a
41
Universidad Internacional de La Riojaunir.net

Provides diverse undergraduate, master's, doctoral programs through hybrid virtual classrooms, focusing on personalized, accessible education for global students.

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Logroño 8,130 2008
42
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)kit.edu

A leading research university in the Helmholtz Association, focusing on energy, mobility, and information, offering interdisciplinary programs and promoting innovation for societal benefit

Higher Education 🇩🇪 Karlsruhe 8,099 1825
43
Università degli Studi di Firenzeunifi.it

One of Italy's largest public research systems with many researchers, participating in national and international programs, achieving significant scientific results and knowledge transfer.

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Florence 8,050 1321
44
University of Lille 1 Sciences and Technologyuniv-lille.fr

Public university specializing in science and technology education, research, and innovation, offering diverse programs and fostering academic excellence.

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Lille 8,043 1864
45
Nottingham Trent Universityntu.ac.uk

Higher education institution empowering students, staff, and alumni through innovative courses, community engagement, and strong local and international relationships.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Nottingham 7,941 n/a
46
EPFLepfl.ch

Innovative Swiss institute near Lake Geneva fostering collaboration between students, professors, researchers, and entrepreneurs to create groundbreaking work in science and technology

Higher Education 🇨🇭 Lausanne 7,716 1853
47
Universidad de Sevillaus.es

Provides higher education through study, teaching, research. Generates, develops, disseminates knowledge for society and citizens. Public institution, social service.

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Seville 7,699 1505
48
Coventry Universitycoventry.ac.uk

A global university focused on creating better futures through innovative teaching, impactful research, and strong industry partnerships worldwide

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Coventry 7,430 1843
49
Amsterdam University of Applied Scienceshva.nl

An applied sciences university in Amsterdam offering a wide range of higher education programs, emphasizing practical knowledge, innovation, and collaboration with industries

Higher Education 🇳🇱 Amsterdam 7,408 1993
50
Aix-Marseille Universityuniv-amu.fr

Educates over 80,000 students, conducts intensive research, and fosters innovation across numerous campuses, playing a key role in regional and international development.

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Marseille 7,393 2012

Want more companies than this list?

This page shows the largest ones only. Connect to Tamtam to see every company that matches, filter by size, industry or growth, and reach their decision-makers.

Get more companies, free
51
Universidad de Granadaugr.es

The company is a university known for high-quality research, with 346 research groups, 165 projects, and partnerships with businesses and international organizations

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Granada 7,376 1531
52
IU Groupiu-group.com

Leading private university group in Germany offering diverse online, part-time, and on-campus degree programs Revolutionizing online education with global acquisitions

Higher Education 🇩🇪 Munich 7,371 2000
53
University College Corkucc.ie

Established in 1845 as a part of Queen's University, now a founding member of National University of Ireland Offers higher education with rich heritage

Higher Education 🇮🇪 Cork 7,328 1845
54
Queen's University Belfastqub.ac.uk

A renowned university with over 150 years of academic excellence, offering a wide range of degree programs and a strong research focus

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Belfast 7,278 1845
55
Trinity College Dublintcd.ie

Leading Irish university offering world-class education and research, recognized globally for academic excellence and high international rankings.

Higher Education 🇮🇪 Dublin 7,268 1592
56
Maastricht Universitymaastrichtuniversity.nl

Youngest Dutch university with a global perspective, offering innovative education and multidisciplinary research and teaching approaches.

Higher Education 🇳🇱 Maastricht 6,997 1976
57
Universiti Sains Malaysiausm.my

A purpose-driven university offering a unique blend of science and arts education, preparing students for a meaningful, sustainable-led future

Higher Education 🇩🇪 Minden 6,994 1969
58
University of Yorkyork.ac.uk

A dynamic university conducting groundbreaking research to develop life-saving discoveries and innovative technologies, while inspiring students to think critically and create change

Higher Education 🇬🇧 York 6,993 1963
59
IU International University of Applied Sciencesiu.de

Offers diverse higher education programs across various fields, including distance learning, dual studies, and online self-study with campus options, serving over 130,000 students.

Higher Education 🇩🇪 Erfurt 6,829 1998
60
University of Bathbath.ac.uk

A leading UK research university dedicated to making a positive impact on the world through innovation, collaboration with industry, and quality education Located in Bath, UK

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Bath 6,784 1966
61
Universite de Lorraineuniv-lorraine.fr

Leading campus in France, promoting knowledge sharing from basic to humanities, creating interdisciplinary ecosystems to drive innovation, economic and social development Offering diverse academic fields

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Nancy 6,783 2012
62
Sheffield Hallam Universityshu.ac.uk

Higher education institution focusing on student development, impactful research, and strong local and international partnerships for global solutions.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Sheffield 6,692 1843
63
University of Leicesterlinktr.ee

A leading company focused on discovery, innovation, and research-inspired education, ranked 22nd in the UK, with a commitment to fostering change #CitizensOfChange

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Leicester 6,635 1921
64
Durham Universitydurham.ac.uk

A UK university providing inspiration and opportunities for a successful community, serving as a key hub regionally and nationally Visit website for career opportunities

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Durham 6,609 1832
65
Fontys University of Applied Sciencesfontys.nl

Fontys University of Applied Sciences collaborates with students, teachers, and partners to develop talents, conduct practice-based research, and create solutions for a sustainable society

Higher Education 🇳🇱 Eindhoven 6,599 n/a
66
Aalto Universityaalto.fi

Aalto University promotes research, art, technology, and entrepreneurship, fostering a multidisciplinary community of students, academics, and industry partners for innovation

Higher Education 🇫🇮 Espoo 6,586 2010
67
Study Groupstudygroup.com

Provides pathway programmes through International Study Centres, helping international students develop skills for university success and global career opportunities.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Brighton 6,547 n/a
68
University of Paris I: Panthéon-Sorbonnepantheonsorbonne.fr

Educates students in humanities and social sciences, developing critical citizens and professionals across various fields, contributing to a more just and sustainable society.

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Paris 6,528 n/a
69
KTH Royal Institute of Technologykth.se

A leading European technical university focusing on sustainable solutions for global challenges through research, education, and collaboration with industry and society

Higher Education 🇸🇪 Stockholm 6,522 n/a
70
HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht (Hogeschool Utrecht)hu.nl

A state-funded education institution in the Netherlands with over 35,000 students from diverse backgrounds, offering high-quality teaching in a small-scale, personalized environment

Higher Education 🇳🇱 Utrecht 6,491 1995
71
University of Valenciauv.es

A leading global university in Valencia, offering a wide range of studies, extensive international programs, and a commitment to solar energy

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Valencia 6,490 1499
72
University of Hertfordshireherts.ac.uk

This company is a higher education institution dedicated to transforming lives through research and a variety of academic programs across six schools

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Hatfield 6,486 1952
73
Universidad Politécnica de Madridupm.es

Educates students in architecture, engineering, sport, and fashion design, conducts research, and secures significant R&D funding from European and national programs.

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Madrid 6,447 1971
74
Università di Pisaunipi.it

Educates global students, conducts research across disciplines, and leads international networks in natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, medicine, engineering, and agriculture.

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Pisa 6,334 1343
75
University of East Angliauea.ac.uk

Providing diverse undergraduate and postgraduate education, extensive research facilities, cultural events, and top-quality sports and social amenities on campus.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Norwich 6,316 1963
76
Loughborough Universitylboro.ac.uk

University providing world-class research, excellent student experience, sporting achievements, and enterprise opportunities across campuses in Leicestershire and London.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Loughborough 6,315 1909
77
Northumbria Universitynorthumbria.ac.uk

Research-intensive university fostering innovation, partnerships, and knowledge exchange to empower students and staff for global impact and societal change.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Newcastle upon Tyne 6,280 n/a
78
HAN University of Applied Scienceshan.nl

Providing quality education and research through a wide range of programs, the company focuses on academic excellence, innovation, and strong community bonds

Higher Education 🇳🇱 Arnhem 6,067 n/a
79
Birmingham City Universitybcu.ac.uk

Higher education institution offering practice-led courses, industry partnerships, professional accreditations, real-world experience, and impactful research shaping various sectors.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Birmingham 6,064 n/a
80
Linköping Universityliu.se

Conducts advanced research and offers innovative, vocationally focused educational programs in collaboration with business and society across multiple disciplines.

Higher Education 🇸🇪 Linköping 6,062 1975
81
University of Strathclydestrath.ac.uk

A place dedicated to providing practical and valuable knowledge or education

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Glasgow 6,051 1796
82
Università degli Studi di Palermounipa.it

Established in 1806 as a university by Ferdinando III di Borbone, UniPa offers a wide range of courses, research opportunities, and specialized programs

Higher Education 🇮🇹 Palermo 6,032 1806
83
CEU Educational Groupceu.es

Largest Spanish educational group offering diverse programs from early education to postgraduate studies with international collaborations and innovative teaching methods.

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Madrid 5,989 1933
84
University of Strasbourgunistra.fr

Research and education in life sciences, health, chemistry, physics, humanities, fostering innovation and partnerships with socio-economic sectors.

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Strasbourg 5,938 n/a
85
Ulster Universityulster.ac.uk

A multi-campus university in Northern Ireland, focused on research, teaching, employability, and industry collaboration to support student success and career readiness

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Belfast 5,911 1968
86
The University of Salfordsalford.ac.uk

Ambitious university with 20,000 students driving local economy and transforming individuals through teaching, research, innovation, and engagement in various fields

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Salford 5,864 1967
87
University of Bernunibe.ch

Comprehensive university offering diverse courses across eight faculties, excelling in interdisciplinary research including climate, trade, and membrane biology.

Higher Education 🇨🇭 Bern 5,770 n/a
88
Goethe University Frankfurtuni-frankfurt.de

A research-oriented university in Frankfurt, Germany, offering a wide range of degree programs and producing pioneering achievements in various fields

Higher Education 🇩🇪 Frankfurt 5,756 1914
89
University of Plymouthplymouth.ac.uk

Modern university with dynamic culture, high student satisfaction, impactful research, innovation, and commitment to global societal and educational advancement.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Plymouth 5,745 1862
90
University of Portsmouthlinktr.ee

Progressive university with a global impact, partnering with industry and government to create a better future through education and innovation

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Portsmouth 5,717 1869
91
University of Cologneuni-koeln.de

One of the oldest and largest universities in Germany, known for academic excellence, research focus, international partnerships, and a wide range of study programs

Higher Education 🇩🇪 Cologne 5,692 1388
92
University of Readingreading.ac.uk

A leading research university in the UK with a focus on sustainability, climate research, and a diverse community of alumni and students

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Reading 5,661 1892
93
Anglia Ruskin Universityaru.ac.uk

Innovative global university with campuses in UK cities, offering top-ranked courses, industry partnerships, and world-leading research opportunities for students

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Cambridge 5,648 1858
94
Swansea University / Prifysgol Abertaweswansea.ac.uk

Research-led university offering excellent teaching, producing globally recognized research, and contributing to economic growth and community wellbeing.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Swansea 5,646 1920
95
University of the Arts Londonhootbio.com

It is Europe's largest specialist art and design university, offering diverse courses and nurturing talent for the creative industries.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 London 5,607 1986
96
Sorbonne Universitésorbonne-universite.fr

Multidisciplinary university with extensive research activities, large student and staff body, addressing major 21st-century challenges globally.

Higher Education 🇫🇷 Paris 5,534 2018
97
EOI Business Schooleoi.es

A public institution in Spain offering Executive Education and Postgraduate Programs in Business Management and Environmental Sustainability since 1955

Higher Education 🇪🇸 Madrid 5,531 1955
98
University of Surreysurrey.ac.uk

Provides diverse undergraduate courses, student support, clubs, and safe accommodation in a vibrant campus environment near London.

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Guildford 5,511 1891
99
Syddansk Universitet - University of Southern Denmarksdu.dk

Higher education institution with 6 campuses, offering teaching and research opportunities to over 27,000 students and collaborating with businesses for skilled labor

Higher Education 🇩🇰 Odense 5,480 1966
100
University of Greenwichgre.ac.uk

A multi-faculty university in London and Kent offering high-quality teaching, research, and enterprise opportunities with a focus on student satisfaction

Higher Education 🇬🇧 Greenwich 5,450 1970

Turn this list into pipeline

Tamtam finds the decision-makers at every company on a list like this one, with verified emails, phone numbers and the buying signals that tell you when to reach out.

Build your own list, free

How this list is built

Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 13, 2026.

More company lists in Europe

The same list elsewhere