The Macau Inter-University Institute (IIUM) is an International University created by the Catholic University of Portugal (UCP) and the Macao Dioceses committed to excellence in higher education through research. IIUM is the direct hair of the first European University in the Far East, the Jesuit College of St. Paul, founded in 1594. IIUM uses English in teaching and learning and offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate programs (Masters, PhD, and Post-PhD) of study. All diplomas are awarded by the Institute and the Catholic University of Portugal, one of the leading European Universities in Business Administration, Economics, Law, International Law, Political and Government Studies, Arts and Heritage. The University has an international body of prestigious professors and researchers. IIUM is at the heart of Macao, a former Portuguese colony that is now one of the most developed and wealthy special administrative regions of China. The historic centre of Macao is since 2005 UNESCO world heritage site, and the city is unique, quiet, enjoying a lasting political, economic and social stability.