Ludovika Hungarian Royal National Defense Academy, the legal predecessor of Ludovika University of Public Service, was founded in 1808. The Academy was originally established to maintain a well-equipped army and it was the centre for training military and national officers. The original purpose of the institute was to train the youth of Hungary in the sciences to provide a well-qualified officer class who serve their homeland usefully, not only with force but also using science.
Ludovika Royal HUngarian National Defense Academy is named after Austrian Empress Maria Ludovika of Habsburg-Estei, who donated her coronation gift of 50,000 forints to the foundation of the Academy.
Hungary’s priority is the development of public service efficiency and in order to do this it is essential to train public officers with an adaptive and positive mindset. In today’s rapidly changing world, officers and their leaders need constant learning support to gain the competencies required for the operation and maintenance of the public service system. Ludovika was re-established by the government of Hungary with the purpose of providing all students from each faculty with the mindset and knowledge necessary to successfully operate the state.
This is an institution of scientific research where supporting the efficiency of the state and outlining a public service career path is vital. Seperate predecessro institutions have been integrated to serve as faculties of the new University. In 2012, the government of Hungary decided on the reconstruction of historical building sas well as the renewal of Ludovika and its surroundings.
The reconstructed building was officially handed over in 2014. New facilities and constructions have been added to the territory of the campus by 2018 including dormitories and sports facilities. The building complex is equipped with language labs, and, in keeping with Ludovika traditions, fencing, halls and a riding hall. A residential sports park, a swimming pool, and a fitness centre are available for students and researchers.
The campus is located in the downtown, in one of the largest public parks in Budapest, Orczy Park. The park has been renovated with a modern approach and is open to visitors as well as students and staff.
The Ludovika Campus Project has received several national and international awards:
- 2015 Construction Award Ludovika Main Building
- 2017 Construction Award Ludovika Residence Hall
- 2019 it won 2nd prize in the special building category at the World Prix d’Excellence of the International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI)
Today at Ludovika, we strive to combine tradition and national values with European principles, and we place great emphasis on this aspect in all our courses and activities. The University is a member of several professional organisations at the European level and cooperates with a great number of partner organisations beyond Europe as well. This offers opportunities for researchers and academics to seek international collaborations.
We have:
- 5 faculties
- 9 special colleges
- 17 research institutes
- 6500 students
- 900 lectures
- 1400 employees in total