For prospective students and academic professionals, selecting an institution requires a clear understanding of its trajectory, reputation, and tangible outcomes. A review of the 2025 academic year at Varna University of Management (VUM) in Bulgaria offers a detailed look at an institution that has solidified its standing in international higher education. This analysis examines VUM’s recent achievements, academic rankings, and program-specific strengths to provide a comprehensive overview for those considering their next educational step.
Establishing International Standing and Recognition
In 2025, Varna University of Management continued to build on its development, meeting the high standards expected of international business schools. A key indicator of this progress is its performance in the Eduniversal World Convention, where VUM was awarded 4 Palmes of Excellence. This recognition places the university among the Top 200 of the world’s 1,000 best business schools, a significant marker of its global influence and academic reputation.
This international acclaim is supported by a strong showing in the Eduniversal Best Masters Ranking for 2025:
- Master’s in International Tourism: Ranked among the top ten programs globally.
- MBA Programme: Reached fourth place in Central and Eastern Europe.
These rankings are not merely honorary; they reflect a sustained strategy of internationalization and high-quality instruction. For students, this translates to a degree that holds weight in the global marketplace.
National Rankings and Research Excellence in Bulgaria
Within its home country, VUM’s performance is equally impressive. According to the Bulgarian University Ranking System, the university maintains its leading position among institutions in Varna for both Tourism and Administration and Management. Nationally, VUM ranks second in Bulgaria for Tourism and fourth for Administration and Management.
Beyond teaching, VUM has distinguished itself as a center for high-impact research. The same ranking system places VUM first in Bulgaria for research within the fields of social, economic, and legal sciences. This focus on research is driven by faculty members like Prof. Dr. Stanislav Ivanov, Director of the VUM Research Institute, who was awarded the national “Pythagoras” prize in 2025 for his contributions to the social sciences and humanities. His work, along with that of Prof. Dr. Mihail Minkov, has been recognized by Stanford University, placing them in the top 2% of the most influential scientists worldwide. This level of faculty expertise directly benefits students through an education grounded in current, applicable research.
Program-Specific Strengths: Tourism and Business Administration
The core of VUM’s academic identity is built on its strengths in business administration and tourism. The university’s dual-degree partnership with Cardiff Metropolitan University allows students to earn both a Bulgarian and a British degree, a unique advantage for those seeking an international education without the logistical and financial burden of relocating to the UK. The Class of 2025, VUM’s 27th graduating class, included students from over 15 countries, underscoring the program’s international appeal.
The practical application of this education is evident in VUM’s project activities. The INTERSMARTS project, a consortium led by VUM, received the Black Sea Project Award 2025 for promoting investment in the Blue Economy. This demonstrates the university’s commitment to sustainable tourism and regional development, providing students with real-world case studies and networking opportunities.
Culinary Arts Institute: A Hub for Gastronomy
Distinct from its business programs, the Culinary Arts Institute at VUM has established itself as a premier center for gastronomy. The institute’s success is measured by the achievements of its faculty and students on national and international stages. In 2025, Chef-Instructor Kaloyan Kolev won the national qualification for the World Paella Day Cup, representing Bulgaria in Valencia, Spain. This focus on practice-oriented education and industry partnerships prepares graduates for highly competitive careers in the culinary arts.
A Global and Diverse Academic Community
VUM’s academic environment is defined by its diversity. In the 2025-2026 academic year, the university welcomed students from 22 countries. Over its nearly 30-year history, VUM has hosted students from more than 120 nationalities. This multicultural setting is essential for developing the cross-cultural communication skills required in today’s globalized business and tourism sectors.
Conclusion: A Trajectory of Growth and Opportunity
The 2025 review of Varna University of Management illustrates an institution on a clear upward trajectory. Through a combination of high national and international rankings, faculty-led research, and practical project work, VUM provides a robust educational framework. For prospective students focused on careers in tourism, business administration, or culinary arts, the data from 2025 presents a compelling case for considering VUM as a strategic choice for their higher education in Bulgaria.
