Heidelberg is characterized by its young and dynamic population. About 30,000 students study at Heidelberg University, the oldest university in Germany, founded in 1386. There are about 10,000 students at other universities in Heidelberg. Heidelberg University holds a top ranking globally and among German universities.
Heidelberg and the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region benefit from a close cooperation between universities, research institutes and companies, making the area one of the most important research sites in Germany. The industry in and around Heidelberg is characterized by international corporations, traditional companies and innovative start-up companies.