The Universidad de Cantabria is a modern institution dedicated to social progress through academic excellence. The university was founded in 1972 and is considered one of the top ten universities in Spain. The university's prestige is due to its renowned research faculty and dedication to its students. Universidad de Cantabria students have access to state-of-the art facilities for investigative research. The university has a student body of approximately 13,500 which is comprised of both Spaniards and international students that come from across Europe and Spain to study at the university. This proves to be a great asset to the curriculum and gives it an international flare. Besides its excellent academic offerings, the school has many extracurricular opportunities available. Throughout the year, the university hosts expositions, conferences, and theatrical and musical events. For students with an interest in sports, this university is ideal as there are 20 different intramural sports teams available to students. Combined with its location on the verdant coast of northern Spain, the Universidad de Cantabria is the ideal location for the advanced-level student wishing to immerse themselves in the language and culture of Spain.