This paper presents the first steps taken by several European universities to study various features of the implementation of a virtual university in electrical and information engineering. The usefulness of static Web material's replacing printed text was studied. Simulators of complex data processing and power generating systems were created. Experiences with a remote-controlled process facility were collected. Manufacturing of integrated circuits was visualized. Web-based self-evaluation and feedback systems were implemented for student response assessment. Advanced reactions are basically positive. This work is a contribution to the four-year SOCRATES Thematic Network program of the European Union, lasting from September 1996 until October 2000.