The establishment of VUM dates back to 1992 – “the rise of democracy“ when VUM was founded as Bulgarian-Dutch Institute of Management. VUM was the first private higher school to teach its subjects entirely in English language and to offer joint degrees. It was also the first higher school in Bulgaria to apply unique teaching methods like PBL (problem-based learning), CBL (case-based learning) and Interactive learning.

4 years later, VUM earned its first accreditation as a higher school and took the name International College – Albena. Shortly after, VUM signed agreements for joint degrees with some other educational institutions, such as CHN Stenden University, the Netherlands, University College Birmingham, UK. International College – Albena took the name International University College.

In 2004, the University moved from Albena to Dobrich, where it continued to grow and succeed. VUM (then IUC) was the first higher school in Bulgaria to receive Accreditation by the British Accreditation Council. Soon after, the University signed a strategic partnership agreement with Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK. Another proof for VUM’s constant strive for success is the fact that VUM’s students are no longer required to spend a year in UK, but can complete the full course of their education at VUM and still get a degree by Cardiff Met.