University of Douai

The University of Douai (French: Université de Douai; Dutch: Universiteit van Dowaai) was a historic university in Douai, France. With a medieval tradition of scholarly activity in the city, the university was established in 1559, and lectures began in 1562. It ceased operations from 1795 to 1808. In 1887, it was relocated 27 km away to Lille, where it became the University of Lille.

From the mid-16th century onward, the University of Douai had a Europe-wide influence as a prominent center of Neo-Latin literature, significantly contributing to the dissemination of printed knowledge. With 1,500 to 2,000 registered students and several hundred professors, it was the second-largest university in France during the late 17th and 18th centuries. Studies in mathematics and physics at the Douai Faculty of Arts fostered advancements in artillery practice. The Douai Faculty of Theology was a key center for Catholic scholarship, playing a crucial role in shaping religious doctrines and engaging in political controversies across Europe. Its scholars also contributed to the development of new approaches in the humanities.