About Aalborg University
Aalborg University was founded in 1974 with Problem-Based Learning (PBL) as its founding pedagogy — not something added later, but the DNA of the institution from day one. All 20,000+ students across all faculties (engineering, social sciences, humanities, health, IT) spend approximately 50% of each semester working in groups on an authentic problem. The 'Aalborg PBL Model' has been studied, documented and replicated worldwide. Every semester has a project that addresses a real problem, complemented by courses that provide supporting theory. UNESCO has designated it a global reference for PBL in higher education.
Disruptive approach and innovative methodology
50% project time every semester
Half of every semester is dedicated to group project work on an authentic problem — for all 20,000+ students.
PBL from founding (1974)
Not a bolt-on: PBL is the founding pedagogy and institutional DNA since day one.
University-wide, all faculties
Engineering, humanities, social sciences, health, IT — PBL applies everywhere, at scale.
UNESCO global reference
Designated by UNESCO as a world reference model for Problem-Based Learning in higher education.
Impact and recognition
Founded 1974 with PBL as core — 50 years of practice
20,000+ students all doing PBL
UNESCO-designated global PBL reference
Aalborg PBL Model replicated in 100+ institutions worldwide