In September 1973, the first academic year followed with around 320 students and six (undergraduate) programmes (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Dentistry and Medicine).

The network enables students and staff to study, teach and research in the field of responsible consumption and production.

The long-term ambition of UHasselt and its partners in Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Poland, Romania and Spain, is to become the European hub for education and research in sustainability.

The student restaurant, University Library, class rooms and auditoriums are located in Main Building D. Other notable campus buildings are the Science Tower (with laboratories for education and research in chemistry and physics) and the Application Centre for Concrete and Construction (ACB²).

The Offices of the Rector and Administrators are located on walking distance, at the sixteenth-century Refugiehuis (once a house of refuge for the Herkenrode Abbey's beguines).

These representatives take part in several decision-making bodies, including the Board of Governors and the Educational Council.

The day starts with the Procession of Professors in the centre of Hasselt and a toast by the Mayor at City Hall.

To mark the occasion, honorary doctorate degrees are awarded to individuals for outstanding contributions made to a specific field and/or to society in general.