Norwegian University of Science And Technology Logo Norwegian University of Science And Technology

Address: Høgskoleringen 1, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
Phone: +47 73 59 50 00
Email: info@ntnu.no
Website: www.ntnu.no


At the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), the language requirements for admission depend on whether you are applying to an undergraduate or graduate program, as well as the language of instruction for your chosen program. Here are the language requirements for international students:

1. Undergraduate Programs (Taught in Norwegian)

Most undergraduate programs at NTNU are taught in Norwegian, so proficiency in the Norwegian language is required for admission.

  • Norwegian Language Proficiency:
    • International students must demonstrate proficiency in Norwegian by meeting one of the following requirements:
      • Norwegian Language Test for Higher Education (Norskprøve for høyere utdanning) or similar tests, such as:
        • Bergenstesten (Test in Norwegian - advanced level), with a score of 450 or higher.
        • Completion of level 3 Norwegian language courses at a Norwegian university.
      • For applicants from Nordic countries, the completion of secondary education in another Nordic country may also suffice if sufficient Norwegian language instruction is included.
  • English Proficiency:
    • Since NTNU requires that international students have a strong grasp of English, applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in English. Acceptable tests include:
      • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90.
      • IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6.5.
      • Cambridge English Exams:
        • C1 Advanced (CAE) or C2 Proficiency (CPE), with a grade of C or higher.
      • Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum score of 62.

2. Graduate Programs (Taught in English)

NTNU offers many master’s programs that are taught in English, and the language requirements for these programs focus on English proficiency.

  • English Proficiency: For admission to English-taught master's programs, international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting one of the following test scores:
    • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90.

    • IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no section below 5.5.

    • Cambridge English Exams:

      • C1 Advanced (CAE) or C2 Proficiency (CPE), with a grade of C or higher.
    • Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum score of 62.

    • Exemptions:

      • Applicants from countries where English is the official language of instruction in higher education may be exempt from submitting these test scores.
      • Students who have completed a degree in English (in countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, etc.) may also be exempt from providing a language test score.

3. Graduate Programs (Taught in Norwegian)

For graduate programs taught in Norwegian, the requirements for Norwegian language proficiency are the same as for undergraduate programs.

  • Norwegian Language Proficiency:

    • Applicants must prove proficiency in Norwegian through tests like Bergenstesten or complete the Norwegian Language Level 3 program at a Norwegian institution.
  • English Proficiency:

    • English language proficiency is still required as a secondary language, with the same test scores as listed for English-taught programs.

4. PhD Programs

PhD programs at NTNU can be in either Norwegian or English, depending on the subject area and department. The language requirements vary accordingly:

  • English Proficiency:
    • If the PhD research or dissertation is in English, candidates must provide proof of English proficiency (the same as for English-taught master's programs).
  • Norwegian Proficiency:
    • If the PhD research or work involves significant communication in Norwegian, Norwegian language proficiency may be required.

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is one of Norway's largest and most prestigious universities, renowned for its focus on science, technology, and engineering. NTNU offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines, but it is particularly known for its strengths in engineering, natural sciences, information technology, and architecture. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key course specialties at NTNU:

1. Engineering and Technology

NTNU is widely recognized as a top institution for engineering and technology. The university offers various undergraduate and graduate programs in multiple engineering disciplines.

  • Civil and Environmental Engineering
    • Focus: Sustainable infrastructure, construction technology, environmental engineering, and urban development.
  • Mechanical Engineering
    • Focus: Manufacturing processes, energy systems, automation, robotics, and mechanical design.
  • Electrical Engineering
    • Focus: Power systems, renewable energy technologies, electronics, and telecommunication systems.
  • Marine Technology
    • Focus: Naval architecture, offshore engineering, ocean structures, and subsea technology. This is particularly important given Norway's maritime history and oil industry.
  • Petroleum Engineering
    • Focus: Exploration, drilling, and production of oil and gas. NTNU is known for its cutting-edge research in this area, driven by Norway’s role as a global leader in oil and gas production.
  • Renewable Energy Engineering
    • Focus: Solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, and sustainable energy systems. NTNU plays a critical role in research related to energy transition and green technologies.

2. Computer Science and Information Technology

NTNU is a leading institution for research and education in computer science and information technology.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
    • Focus: AI algorithms, data mining, machine learning, and robotics.
  • Cybersecurity
    • Focus: Information security, cryptography, and network security.
  • Software Engineering
    • Focus: Software development, systems engineering, and agile methodologies.
  • Data Science
    • Focus: Big data analysis, computational science, and predictive modeling.
  • Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
    • Focus: Interface design, usability, and interaction with emerging technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).

3. Natural Sciences

NTNU has strong programs in the natural sciences, with a focus on interdisciplinary research and real-world applications.

  • Physics
    • Focus: Condensed matter physics, quantum mechanics, nanotechnology, and theoretical physics.
  • Chemistry
    • Focus: Molecular chemistry, environmental chemistry, biochemistry, and materials science.
  • Biotechnology
    • Focus: Genetic engineering, bioprocess technology, and industrial applications of biotechnology, including medical and environmental uses.
  • Mathematics
    • Focus: Applied mathematics, statistics, cryptography, and mathematical modeling in engineering and physical sciences.

4. Architecture and Design

NTNU has a well-respected Faculty of Architecture and Design that blends creativity with technological innovation.

  • Architecture
    • Focus: Sustainable architecture, urban planning, architectural theory, and design. The program emphasizes environmentally friendly building techniques and solutions for future cities.
  • Industrial Design
    • Focus: Product design, user-centered design, and innovation. The program prepares students to create functional and aesthetically pleasing products.
  • Urban Ecological Planning
    • Focus: Sustainable development, urban resilience, and the relationship between cities and their natural environments.

5. Medicine and Health Sciences

NTNU offers excellent programs in medicine, public health, and related health sciences, emphasizing innovative research and healthcare solutions.

  • Medicine
    • Focus: Clinical medicine, public health, and medical technology. NTNU is a key partner with St. Olav’s Hospital, providing research opportunities in biomedicine and healthcare innovation.
  • Medical Technology
    • Focus: Biomedical engineering, medical imaging, and healthcare robotics.
  • Neuroscience
    • Focus: Brain research, neurological disorders, and cutting-edge neuroscience technology.
  • Public Health
    • Focus: Epidemiology, health policy, and preventive healthcare. NTNU focuses on research addressing global health challenges.

6. Environmental Science and Sustainability

NTNU is a leader in environmental science and sustainability research, offering courses that address global challenges related to climate change and sustainable development.

  • Sustainable Energy
    • Focus: Renewable energy solutions, energy efficiency, and carbon capture technology.
  • Environmental Science
    • Focus: Climate systems, ecosystem management, and environmental policy.
  • Sustainable Architecture and Urban Planning
    • Focus: Sustainable building practices, smart cities, and urban sustainability.

7. Marine Science and Technology

Given Norway's strong maritime industry, NTNU excels in marine studies, focusing on offshore technology, aquaculture, and oceanography.

  • Marine Technology
    • Focus: Ocean engineering, ship design, and offshore structures.
  • Marine Biology and Aquaculture
    • Focus: Sustainable fish farming, marine ecosystems, and biological research related to the oceans.

8. Humanities and Social Sciences

NTNU also offers strong programs in the humanities and social sciences, with a focus on interdisciplinary collaboration between technology and society.

  • Psychology
    • Focus: Cognitive psychology, organizational psychology, and behavior research.
  • Sociology
    • Focus: Social structures, human behavior, and the impact of technology on society.
  • History and Cultural Studies
    • Focus: Scandinavian history, cultural heritage, and the role of technology in shaping cultural identities.

9. Business and Economics

NTNU provides high-quality education in business and economics, particularly focusing on technology-driven innovation and sustainability.

  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation
    • Focus: Startup development, technology commercialization, and innovation strategies.
  • Industrial Economics
    • Focus: The intersection of economics, engineering, and management, particularly in the tech and manufacturing industries.
  • Sustainable Business Practices
    • Focus: Corporate social responsibility, sustainable finance, and green innovation.

10. Interdisciplinary Programs

NTNU encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, offering programs that combine multiple fields to tackle modern challenges, such as:

  • Technology Management
    • Focus: Managing technology-driven projects and innovation in both the private and public sectors.
  • Digitalization and Automation
    • Focus: Industry 4.0, smart systems, automation in manufacturing, and digital transformation in business and public services.

 

Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is home to many highly respected professors who are leading researchers in their fields. Below are some of the top professors at NTNU, recognized for their contributions to various disciplines:

1. May-Britt Moser (Neuroscience)

  • Field: Neuroscience, specializing in brain function, spatial memory, and navigation.
  • Recognition: May-Britt Moser is a 2014 Nobel Prize winner in Physiology or Medicine, along with her husband Edvard I. Moser, for the discovery of grid cells in the brain, which are crucial for spatial orientation.
  • Role: She is a professor of neuroscience at NTNU and co-director of the Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience.
  • Research Impact: Her work has significantly advanced the understanding of how the brain encodes space, with implications for understanding diseases like Alzheimer's.

2. Edvard I. Moser (Neuroscience)

  • Field: Neuroscience, specializing in brain mechanisms related to spatial memory and cognition.
  • Recognition: Like May-Britt Moser, Edvard I. Moser is a Nobel Prize laureate in Physiology or Medicine (2014) for his work on grid cells.
  • Role: He is a professor of neuroscience and co-director of the Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience at NTNU.
  • Research Impact: His research has opened new paths for understanding memory, cognition, and navigation, with applications to neurodegenerative diseases.

3. Kirsti M. Jareg (Marine Technology)

  • Field: Marine Technology, focusing on innovations in offshore engineering and sustainable marine operations.
  • Recognition: Jareg is recognized for her contributions to autonomous marine systems and her role in advancing sustainable maritime practices in Norway.
  • Role: Professor in the Department of Marine Technology at NTNU.
  • Research Impact: She plays a key role in research aimed at developing technologies for sustainable maritime operations, including autonomous ships and ocean energy solutions.

4. Ann-Elisabeth Bjørneboe (Renewable Energy)

  • Field: Renewable Energy and Environmental Engineering, with a focus on sustainable energy solutions, including wind and solar power.
  • Recognition: Bjørneboe is a leading expert in sustainable energy systems and a professor at NTNU’s Department of Energy and Process Engineering.
  • Role: Professor in Energy and Process Engineering.
  • Research Impact: Her research in renewable energy systems contributes significantly to Norway’s efforts to transition to a green economy, with a focus on reducing carbon footprints and advancing clean energy technologies.

5. Morten Dæhlen (Artificial Intelligence and Data Science)

  • Field: Computer Science with a specialization in artificial intelligence (AI) and data science.
  • Recognition: Dæhlen is a prominent professor in AI and machine learning, driving NTNU’s research in these areas.
  • Role: Professor in the Department of Computer Science at NTNU.
  • Research Impact: He has been instrumental in developing advanced AI models for various applications, including healthcare, industry, and smart systems.

6. Torbjørn Svendsen (Telecommunication Systems)

  • Field: Telecommunications and signal processing.
  • Recognition: Svendsen is well-known for his pioneering work in digital signal processing, particularly in the field of speech technology.
  • Role: Professor in the Department of Electronic Systems.
  • Research Impact: His work on speech recognition and communication systems is widely recognized, with implications for telecommunications and AI-based voice technologies.

7. Geir Hovland (Automation and Robotics)

  • Field: Automation, robotics, and industrial engineering.
  • Recognition: Hovland is a leading expert in robotics and automation technologies and is actively involved in research related to industrial robotics and smart manufacturing systems.
  • Role: Professor in the Department of Engineering Cybernetics.
  • Research Impact: His research helps advance Norway’s robotics industry, contributing to innovations in robotic automation in sectors such as manufacturing and offshore industries.

8. Berit Kjeldstad (Physics)

  • Field: Physics, specializing in atmospheric physics and solar energy.
  • Recognition: A prominent professor at NTNU, Kjeldstad’s research has focused on climate-related physics and the role of solar radiation in atmospheric processes.
  • Role: Professor in the Department of Physics.
  • Research Impact: Her work on understanding solar energy systems and atmospheric interactions has applications in renewable energy and climate science.

9. Sverre A. Kristensen (Civil Engineering)

  • Field: Civil Engineering, with expertise in structural engineering and sustainable building technologies.
  • Recognition: Kristensen is a leader in the field of sustainable urban development, particularly in the area of green building and smart infrastructure.
  • Role: Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.
  • Research Impact: His work focuses on developing sustainable construction practices and green infrastructure, addressing urban challenges related to sustainability and resilience.

10. Arne Maus (Information Security)

  • Field: Cybersecurity and information security.
  • Recognition: Maus is a leading figure in cybersecurity research at NTNU, contributing to advancements in data protection, cryptography, and cyber defense strategies.
  • Role: Professor in the Department of Information Security and Communication Technology.
  • Research Impact: His work on securing communication systems and protecting sensitive data from cyber threats is highly influential in both academic and governmental contexts.

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) has connections to Nobel Prize winners, particularly in the field of neuroscience. The university's focus on cutting-edge research has contributed to groundbreaking discoveries, especially in areas related to the brain and cognition.

Nobel Prize Connections:

  1. May-Britt Moser and Edvard I. Moser (Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, 2014):

    • The Moser couple, May-Britt and Edvard I. Moser, are among NTNU's most prominent researchers. They were awarded the 2014 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their discovery of grid cells in the brain, which are crucial for understanding how humans and animals navigate their environment and spatial memory.
    • Their research focuses on the brain's entorhinal cortex and its role in spatial memory and navigation. This groundbreaking work has contributed to understanding the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders.
    • Both May-Britt and Edvard Moser are professors at NTNU and lead the Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience, which is a world-leading center in the field of neuroscience.
  2. Lars Onsager (Nobel Prize in Chemistry, 1968):

    • Lars Onsager, a Norwegian-born scientist, was awarded the 1968 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his development of the reciprocal relations in thermodynamics, which are now known as Onsager reciprocal relations.
    • Though Onsager spent much of his career abroad, he was born in Kristiania (now Oslo) and had connections to Norwegian academia. NTNU, as Norway’s leading technology and science university, has honored Onsager’s contributions to physics and chemistry, with NTNU hosting lectures and events in his memory.

NTNU’s Influence in Nobel Prize Research:

  • NTNU has a strong research foundation, especially in neuroscience, medicine, technology, and natural sciences, making it a hub for innovative scientific breakthroughs.
  • The university's commitment to interdisciplinary research across fields like biology, technology, physics, and neuroscience positions NTNU as a major contributor to scientific progress and global research efforts.

Future Potential:

  • NTNU’s strong focus on research and innovation in areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology suggests that it could play a role in future Nobel-worthy discoveries, particularly as it continues to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge science.

As the name states the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU, is a centre for technological education and research in Norway, with a solid foundation in the natural sciences.This tradition is interwoven with broadly based expertise in the classical university disciplines of the humanities, medicine and the social sciences. At the same time, NTNU offers the widest range of education in art subjects; music, the visual arts and architecture, of all the universities in Norway. Academic staff at NTNU collaborate on projects with researchers all over the world. We also work with national and international business and industry as well as with the Norwegian public authorities. Our research staff are engaged in about 2000 R&D projects each year. We also host 20-30 major scientific conferences annually. NTNU staff cooperate closely with two research foundations, the SINTEF Group and Allforsk, in order to bridge the gap between academia and industry. NTNU has formal cooperation agreements with all the leading Norwegian industrial companies. Contracts for R&D and educational programmes have also been signed with a range of international companies, including ABB, Alcatel, BP Amoco, Deminex, ElfTotalFina, Shell and Verbundnetz Gas.

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is renowned for its significant contributions to research, innovation, and education in science and technology. Its reputation stems from several key factors that make it famous both in Norway and internationally:

1. Leading Institution for Engineering and Technology

  • NTNU is the largest university in Norway and the country’s premier institution for engineering and technology education. It offers a wide range of engineering programs that are highly regarded for their rigorous curricula and innovative research.
  • NTNU has a special focus on technological and scientific disciplines that are crucial to Norway’s economy, including offshore engineering, petroleum technology, marine technology, and renewable energy. The university plays a key role in Norway’s thriving maritime and energy sectors.

2. Research Excellence

  • NTNU is internationally known for its research in natural sciences, engineering, medicine, and architecture. The university’s research output is particularly strong in areas like energy technology, information technology, biotechnology, and environmental science.
  • It is home to several world-class research centers and institutes, such as the Centre for Autonomous Marine Operations and Systems (AMOS) and the Centre for Sustainable Energy Studies (CenSES), making it a global leader in these fields.
  • NTNU is involved in groundbreaking research in fields like artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, robotics, and smart cities, and collaborates with industries and governments to tackle global challenges.

3. Strong Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship

  • NTNU is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The university fosters a strong entrepreneurial spirit, helping students and researchers turn their ideas into real-world solutions. NTNU’s Entrepreneurship School and incubator programs are well-regarded for creating startups and spin-off companies.
  • Many of NTNU’s graduates and researchers have launched successful tech companies in areas like renewable energy, technology services, and industrial solutions. The university has strong links with industries, especially in sectors like oil and gas, maritime technology, and renewable energy.

4. Collaboration with Industry and Government

  • NTNU has deep connections with Norwegian industries, particularly in sectors like oil and gas, maritime technology, renewable energy, and digital technology. This collaboration allows NTNU students and researchers to work on real-world problems and develop cutting-edge solutions.
  • NTNU collaborates with SINTEF, one of Europe’s largest independent research organizations, which is located in Trondheim alongside the university. Together, they tackle complex challenges in engineering, natural sciences, and health sciences.

5. Contributions to Sustainable Energy and Green Technologies

  • NTNU is a global leader in sustainability research, particularly in renewable energy technologies such as hydropower, wind energy, solar energy, and carbon capture and storage (CCS). The university’s research contributes significantly to the global transition towards sustainable energy systems.
  • NTNU’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and green technologies aligns with Norway’s national commitment to becoming a green economy. Many of the university’s research programs are focused on tackling the global challenges of climate change, resource management, and environmental protection.

6. World-Class Facilities and Research Centers

  • NTNU’s research facilities are some of the best in Europe, supporting advanced research and development. The university has cutting-edge laboratories and centers dedicated to areas like autonomous marine operations, sustainable energy, material science, and artificial intelligence.
  • The NTNU Ocean Laboratory and the Deep Sea Research Facility are key centers for research in marine technology and offshore energy production, reflecting Norway’s role as a leader in maritime industries.

7. Global Rankings and Recognition

  • NTNU consistently ranks among the top universities in the world for engineering, technology, and natural sciences. It often appears in the QS World University Rankings and the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for its excellence in these fields.
  • NTNU has also earned a place among the top universities in Europe for innovation, being recognized for its contribution to industrial research and its close collaboration with companies on technological advancements.

8. Key Role in Norway’s Education System

  • NTNU plays a central role in educating the next generation of engineers, scientists, and technologists who are critical to the development of Norway’s economy and infrastructure. It is a key supplier of talent to Norway’s energy, maritime, technology, and industrial sectors.
  • Many of NTNU’s alumni occupy leadership positions in government, industry, and academia, making the university a vital contributor to Norway’s innovation ecosystem.

9. International Collaboration and Exchange Programs

  • NTNU has a strong global presence, engaging in numerous international collaborations and partnerships with universities and research institutions worldwide. It participates in programs like Erasmus+, offering opportunities for student and faculty exchanges.
  • The university is also involved in numerous EU-funded research projects and is part of international research networks, particularly in fields like energy, climate change, and information technology.

10. Multidisciplinary Approach and Focus on Society

  • NTNU is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education and research, where science and technology are combined with the humanities, social sciences, medicine, and art. This holistic approach enables NTNU to address complex societal challenges, ranging from energy sustainability to digital transformation.
  • The university’s motto, “Knowledge for a Better World,” reflects its commitment to using science and technology to improve global living standards, promote sustainable development, and solve pressing global problems.