An International Network of 21 Research Universities

As a way to facilitate higher education collaboration and cooperation, 21 research universities in 13 countries came together in 1997 to establish an international network, Universitas 21. The belief is that the 21 universities collaboratively achieve more as an extended network, than through traditional bilateral agreements. In 2007, Universitas 21 released a six-year strategic plan, outlining the goals and core principles of the network.

 The core principles include: 

1. a global focus and perspective
2. a commitment to excellence in all we do
3. a commitment of those involved to collaborative and co-operative work and spirit while ensuring there are clear outcomes
4. a determination to achieve added value
5. a constant striving for innovation and the creation of multilateral opportunities for members
6. sustainability of activity

A recent development within the Universitas 21 network is a new joint degree PhD program between 14 member universities.