Since 2023, Umeå University has been certified under the international Healthy Campus certification. The certification focuses on the well-being of students and staff in all areas and reflects Umeå University’s vision: A university with health at its core – for a sustainable academic and working life.
The international Healthy Campus certification was developed by the International University Sports Federation (FISU) and aims to improve the health and well-being of students and staff at higher education institutions around the world. Umeå University has been affiliated since 2023 and was certified at the second highest level, gold, in the same year.
Once a semester, the Umeå School of Sport Sciences organises Health on Campus, a day focused on movement and health. During the day, students and staff are offered a smorgasbord of free activities and lectures. Read more: Health on campus
Image Mattias Pettersson
The buddy programme at Umeå University helps international students feel welcome and start building their social network. The different buddy groups meet regularly for different social activities. Read more: Buddy programme
Image Elin Berge
At the Student Health Service, students are given support in matters concerning physical, mental and psychosocial health. The Student Health Service is available for all students at Umeå University, regardless of their place of study or residence. Read more: Student Health Service
Image Mattias Pettersson
Movement challenges and meaningful, thought-provoking activities that are integrated with the surrounding environment have been developed in collaboration with Change the Game. The challenges focus on self-confidence, movement skills and intrinsic motivation. Read more: Physically literate campus
Image Frida Fjellström
Umeå University’s sustainability work is wide-ranging and involves everything from green spaces rich in biodiversity to smart and inclusive environments. Read more: Property and campus
Image Elin Berge
On campus, there is an outdoor gym available to everyone. The gym is equipped with ten fixed stations with adjustable weights where you can train all muscle groups. At each station there are QR codes with clear instructions for how to perform various exercises. See location: Outdoor gym
Image Alekzandra Grantah
‘Physical activity, health and well-being are fundamental to a sustainable work and study environment.’
Students are interviewed on Swedish Television about their views on the university's health promotion work.
The Healthy Campus certification consists of 100 criteria across seven areas. Through these, Umeå University can work systematically to improve and develop health-promoting activities for students and staff. An overall vision and goals for each area have also been defined.
A common vision
A common vision for health promotion has been developed, rooted in the University’s vision and core values as well as its policy on the work environment and equal opportunities. It reads:
A university with health at its core – for a sustainable academic and working life.
Healthy campus management
This area is concerned with how Healthy Campus is implemented, managed and evaluated across the University. The criteria include issues such as leadership, resources, strategies, stakeholders and format. The category provides a foundation and framework within which the following areas can operate.
Goal for Umeå University:
The intentions of Healthy Campus should permeate the University’s activities.
Physical activity and sport
This area aims to ensure that staff and students maintain or develop their physical health and well-being. A major focus is on internal and external collaboration to promote new methods and development in this area.
Goal for Umeå University:
To provide students and staff with the opportunity to engage in health-promoting and physical activities that are accessible to all.
Nutritioun
This area pertains to how the University will provide nutritious meals in campus restaurants and cafés, offer nutritional advice and minimise the environmental impact of restaurant operations.
Goals for Umeå University:
To offer nutritious and climate-smart meal options for students and staff.
To minimise the environmental impact of catering, conferences, events, restaurants and cafés.
Disease prevention
This area is about preventing, informing and providing support services to detect and counteract both communicable and non-communicable diseases, including through dental care, vaccinations and medical check-ups. The student health service at Umeå University is a complement to regular medical and dental care, therefore the University’s focus in this area is on preventive and supportive activities.
Goal for Umeå University:
To offer information and provide a wide range of activities that prevent disease.
Mental and social health
This area is about how the University should take responsibility and actively offer support and information to promote the mental well-being of students and staff.
Goal for Umeå University:
To offer information and a range of activities that prevent mental ill health.
Risk behaviour
The criteria in this area focus on factors that can have a negative impact on health. This includes the management of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, doping, violence, bullying and sexual health.
Goals for Umeå University:
Sustainability
The higher education institution will actively address the three dimensions of sustainability (ecological, economic and social) and collaborate internally and externally to achieve its goals. The criteria include creating attractive green spaces, promoting sustainable commuting and reducing food waste.
Goal for Umeå University:
To work for a sustainable society and achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda.
