Since its foundation in 1932, the Menéndez Pelayo International University (UIMP) has gained extensive experience and prestige in the organization of university-level courses and seminars. Active participation by well-known Spanish and foreign specialists and lecturers has led it to be considered one of Europe's leading summer universities. And since its creation it has also been considered as the leading university in Spain in organising courses in Spanish language and culture for foreigners.

More than eight thousand students attend its courses in Santander every summer. The academic programme, covering topical matters and areas of scientific interest, is complemented by a wide range of cultural activities: concerts, drama, art exhibitions, films, meetings with novelists, poetry readings, conferences and academic excursions all around Cantabria.