Hanze University Groningen, University of Applied Sciences (Hanze University Groningen, UAS) (Hanzehogeschool Groningen) is the largest University of Applied Sciences in the northern part of the Netherlands and is located in Groningen. Hanze University Groningen, UAS offers various Bachelor and Master programmes in English and works closely together with partner institutes from all over the world. The university counts approximately 25.000 students and 2.700 employees. The name Hanze University Groningen, University of Applied Sciences is linked to the Hanze Alliance, which was founded in Lübeck. Hanze University Groningen, UAS has a strong connection with the entrepreneurship and trade that took place between the Hanze cities. The participation of the city of Groningen in the Hanze Alliance justifies the name Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen. The Hanze Alliance helped expand and improve the trade routes to Groningen. In 1798 the Academy was founded. The Academy Minerva was the first multi-sectoral institute for practical higher education in the Netherlands.