University of Tromsø The Arctic University of Norway
Phone: +47 77 64 50 00
Email: info@uit.no
Website: www.uit.no
The University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT) has specific language requirements for international students, which vary depending on the program (undergraduate, graduate, or PhD) and the language of instruction. Here’s a breakdown of the language requirements:
1. Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degree)
Most undergraduate programs at UiT are taught in Norwegian, so proficiency in the Norwegian language is generally required. However, there are a few English-taught programs, and the language requirements differ accordingly.
Norwegian-Taught Programs:
- Norwegian Language Proficiency:
- For admission to Norwegian-taught programs, international applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Norwegian.
- This is typically done by passing the Bergenstest (Test in Norwegian – Advanced Level), with a minimum score of 450.
- Alternatively, completion of a Norwegian language course at a recognized Norwegian university or a pass in Level 3 of Norwegian for Foreigners is accepted.
English-Taught Programs:
- English Language Proficiency:
- For the limited number of English-taught undergraduate programs, applicants must provide proof of English proficiency.
- Accepted tests and minimum scores:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80.
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 6.0, with no section below 5.5.
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (CAE) or C2 Proficiency (CPE), with a grade of C or higher.
- Pearson PTE Academic: Minimum score of 62.
2. Graduate Programs (Master's Degree)
Most master’s programs at UiT are offered in English, although some are in Norwegian. Language requirements depend on the program's language of instruction.
Norwegian-Taught Programs:
- Norwegian Language Proficiency:
- Applicants must provide the same level of Norwegian language proficiency as for undergraduate programs, including a pass in the Bergenstest or equivalent courses.
English-Taught Programs:
- English Language Proficiency:
- English proficiency is required for admission to English-taught master's programs.
- Accepted tests and minimum scores:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 85.
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no section below 6.0.
- Cambridge English: 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 primary language of instruction (e.g., the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) may be exempt from submitting English test scores.
- Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree or secondary education in English may also be exempt from the English language requirement.
3. PhD Programs
PhD programs at UiT can be conducted in either Norwegian or English, depending on the discipline and the research focus.
Norwegian-Taught Programs:
- Norwegian Language Proficiency: If the research involves significant use of Norwegian, applicants must meet the same Norwegian language requirements as other degree programs.
English-Taught Programs:
- English Language Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency is required for PhD programs conducted in English.
- The required test scores for PhD programs are typically the same as those for master’s programs:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 85.
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 6.5.
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (CAE) or C2 Proficiency (CPE).
- The required test scores for PhD programs are typically the same as those for master’s programs:
The University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT) is renowned for its unique focus on Arctic and northern studies, given its location in the Arctic Circle. It offers a wide range of academic programs, but its course specialties often reflect the university’s proximity to the Arctic environment and its emphasis on research related to the region. Here are some of the key course specialties at UiT:
1. Arctic and Northern Studies
- Specialty: UiT is recognized globally for its research and education on Arctic issues, including environmental changes, indigenous studies, and Arctic governance.
- Programs:
- Master’s in Arctic Nature Guide
- Master’s in Northern Studies
- Bachelor in Arctic Adventure Tourism
- Master’s in Indigenous Studies
2. Marine Biology and Fisheries
- Specialty: With its close proximity to the Arctic Ocean, UiT excels in marine biology, oceanography, and fisheries science. The university conducts extensive research on the Arctic marine ecosystem and sustainable fishing practices.
- Programs:
- Bachelor and Master’s in Marine Biotechnology
- Master’s in Fisheries and Aquaculture
- Master’s in Biology: Marine Ecology and Resource Biology
3. Climate and Environmental Sciences
- Specialty: UiT plays a significant role in research on climate change, particularly regarding its impact on the Arctic region. This includes work on environmental sustainability, ice dynamics, and ecosystems.
- Programs:
- Master’s in Environmental Management
- Master’s in Climate Change Adaptation
- Bachelor and Master’s in Earth Sciences
4. Indigenous Studies
- Specialty: The university is known for its strong focus on the Sami people, one of the largest indigenous populations in Europe. It offers in-depth studies of Sami culture, language, history, and rights.
- Programs:
- Bachelor and Master’s in Indigenous Studies
- Master’s in Sami Language and Literature
- Master’s in Peace and Conflict Transformation with a focus on Indigenous Issues
5. Health and Medicine
- Specialty: UiT has a well-developed Faculty of Health Sciences, with a focus on rural and Arctic medicine, public health, and indigenous health issues. Its programs often emphasize healthcare in remote and Arctic regions.
- Programs:
- Bachelor in Medicine
- Master’s in Public Health
- Master’s in Telemedicine and E-health
- Master’s in Biomedicine
6. Law and Governance
- Specialty: UiT offers strong programs in law, with a focus on international and Arctic law. The K.G. Jebsen Centre for the Law of the Sea is one of the leading research centers in maritime law.
- Programs:
- Master’s in Law of the Sea
- Master’s in Indigenous Rights and Governance
- Master’s in Arctic Governance
7. Technology and Engineering
- Specialty: UiT is also recognized for its technological and engineering programs, especially related to cold climate technology, renewable energy, and space technology.
- Programs:
- Master’s in Aerospace Control Engineering
- Master’s in Applied Computer Science
- Master’s in Electrical Engineering
- Master’s in Renewable Energy
8. Psychology and Social Sciences
- Specialty: UiT has a robust psychology department, with programs focused on clinical psychology and the unique challenges faced by communities in the Arctic region, including mental health issues.
- Programs:
- Master’s in Clinical Psychology
- Bachelor and Master’s in Social Work
- Master’s in Comparative Social Work
9. Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
- Specialty: UiT is strong in the areas of biotechnology and bioinformatics, with a focus on Arctic biodiversity and applications in medicine and marine biotechnology.
- Programs:
- Bachelor and Master’s in Biomedicine
- Master’s in Biotechnology
- Master’s in Bioinformatics and Biostatistics
10. Space and Atmospheric Sciences
- Specialty: The university conducts research in space science, atmospheric research, and remote sensing, largely because of its location, which is ideal for studying phenomena like the Northern Lights.
- Programs:
- Master’s in Space Science
- Master’s in Physics: Atmospheric Sciences
- Master’s in Remote Sensing
11. Peace and Conflict Studies
- Specialty: UiT is also noted for its focus on peace and conflict resolution, particularly in the context of indigenous populations and the Arctic.
- Programs:
- Master’s in Peace and Conflict Transformation
- Master’s in Indigenous Governance and Conflict Resolution
The University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT) offers a diverse range of academic programs across different disciplines, with a strong focus on Arctic-related studies, health sciences, indigenous issues, and climate research. These programs are offered at the bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels. Below is an overview of the key programs UiT offers:
1. Arctic and Northern Studies
UiT’s Arctic location makes it a global leader in Arctic studies, exploring environmental, political, and societal issues in northern regions.
- Bachelor’s in Arctic Adventure Tourism
- Master’s in Northern Studies
- Master’s in Arctic Nature Guide
- Master’s in Indigenous Studies
- Master’s in Arctic and Marine Biology
- Master’s in Marine Biotechnology
2. Marine Biology and Fisheries
UiT is renowned for its expertise in marine biology and fisheries, particularly in Arctic and cold-water ecosystems.
- Bachelor’s in Marine Biotechnology
- Master’s in Marine Biotechnology
- Master’s in Fisheries and Aquaculture
- Master’s in Arctic Marine Ecology
- Master’s in Biology: Marine Ecology and Resource Biology
3. Environmental and Climate Sciences
The university has a strong focus on climate change and its impact on the Arctic, as well as sustainability and environmental management.
- Master’s in Climate Change Adaptation
- Master’s in Environmental Management
- Master’s in Earth Sciences (Geology, Geophysics)
- Master’s in Renewable Energy
4. Health Sciences
UiT offers health-related programs with a focus on rural and Arctic medicine, telemedicine, and indigenous health issues.
- Bachelor’s in Medicine
- Master’s in Public Health
- Master’s in Biomedicine
- Master’s in Telemedicine and E-health
- Master’s in Molecular Sciences
- Master’s in Psychology
5. Indigenous Studies
With a focus on the Sami people and other indigenous groups, UiT’s programs are leading in research and education on indigenous rights, cultures, and languages.
- Bachelor’s in Sami Language and Literature
- Master’s in Indigenous Studies
- Master’s in Indigenous Governance
- Master’s in Indigenous Rights and Policy
6. Law and Governance
UiT has strong programs in Arctic law and international maritime law, especially concerning the Arctic Ocean and northern governance issues.
- Master’s in Law of the Sea
- Master’s in Indigenous Rights and Governance
- Master’s in Arctic Governance
- Master’s in Comparative Law
7. Technology and Engineering
UiT is known for technological programs related to cold climate engineering, renewable energy, and space science.
- Master’s in Aerospace Control Engineering
- Master’s in Electrical Engineering
- Master’s in Computer Science
- Master’s in Applied Computer Science
- Master’s in Renewable Energy
8. Space and Atmospheric Sciences
UiT leverages its location for studies in space science, satellite technology, and atmospheric phenomena like the Northern Lights.
- Master’s in Space Science
- Master’s in Physics: Atmospheric Sciences
- Master’s in Remote Sensing
9. Social Sciences and Humanities
UiT offers diverse programs in social sciences and humanities with an Arctic and global focus.
- Master’s in Peace and Conflict Transformation
- Master’s in Comparative Social Work
- Master’s in Governance and Entrepreneurship in Northern and Indigenous Areas
- Master’s in Archaeology
- Master’s in Philosophy
10. Business and Economics
UiT provides programs in business and economics with a special focus on sustainability, Arctic entrepreneurship, and regional development.
- Bachelor’s in Business Administration
- Master’s in Business Creation and Entrepreneurship
- Master’s in Resource Economics and Sustainable Management
11. Education and Teacher Training
UiT offers teacher education programs, with a focus on pedagogy for northern and rural areas.
- Bachelor’s in Primary and Secondary Education
- Master’s in Education and Special Needs Education
- Master’s in Pedagogy
The University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT) hosts many distinguished professors across various fields, particularly in areas related to Arctic research, marine biology, indigenous studies, health sciences, and climate science. Here are some of the top professors known for their contributions to research and education:
1. Professor Jørgen Berge
- Field: Marine Biology, Arctic Ecology
- Specialty: Jørgen Berge is internationally recognized for his research on Arctic marine ecosystems, particularly the study of the polar night and how marine organisms adapt to extreme Arctic conditions. He has led numerous research expeditions in the Arctic and has significantly contributed to understanding how climate change is affecting Arctic biodiversity.
- Notable Work: Berge’s studies of Arctic marine life during the dark winter months have advanced knowledge about how the absence of light impacts biological activity in the Arctic.
2. Professor Øyvind Ravna
- Field: Indigenous Law and Governance
- Specialty: A leading figure in indigenous rights and Sami law, Øyvind Ravna focuses on the legal rights of indigenous peoples, especially the Sami, within national and international contexts. His research is vital for the development of policies that protect indigenous land rights and cultural heritage.
- Notable Work: He has authored several key publications on the intersection of law, governance, and indigenous rights, contributing to both academic discourse and practical governance solutions for indigenous populations.
3. Professor Einar Broch Johnsen
- Field: Computer Science, Software Engineering
- Specialty: Einar Broch Johnsen is a leading professor in the field of computer science, specializing in software engineering and formal methods. His work focuses on cloud computing, distributed systems, and verification techniques that ensure software reliability.
- Notable Work: His contributions to cloud-based systems and methodologies for securing software performance are internationally recognized.
4. Professor Maja-Lisa Løchen
- Field: Cardiovascular Health, Public Health
- Specialty: Maja-Lisa Løchen is a renowned professor in cardiovascular epidemiology and public health. Her research centers on heart disease, atrial fibrillation, and risk factors affecting the cardiovascular health of Arctic populations, especially focusing on gender differences in disease prevalence.
- Notable Work: Løchen has published extensively on cardiovascular health and is involved in public health initiatives in northern Norway, promoting heart disease prevention and education.
5. Professor Kjersti Fjørtoft
- Field: Philosophy, Ethics, Political Theory
- Specialty: Kjersti Fjørtoft is known for her work in ethics, philosophy of law, and political theory. Her research addresses ethical challenges in Arctic governance, focusing on how political decisions impact indigenous rights, environmental sustainability, and climate justice.
- Notable Work: Fjørtoft has contributed to discussions on the ethical dimensions of climate change and governance in the Arctic, which are critical issues in global politics.
6. Professor Gunnar Bråthen
- Field: Medicine, Telemedicine
- Specialty: Gunnar Bråthen is a pioneer in the field of telemedicine and health technologies, especially in remote healthcare delivery. His work involves developing systems that provide medical care to remote Arctic populations through telecommunication technologies.
- Notable Work: Bråthen has been instrumental in advancing telemedicine services, helping improve healthcare access in northern Norway and other remote regions.
7. Professor Anne Husebekk
- Field: Immunology, Medicine
- Specialty: Anne Husebekk is an expert in immunology and hematology and has conducted research in blood disorders and autoimmune diseases. She is also a former Rector of UiT and has contributed significantly to the growth of the university’s international profile.
- Notable Work: Husebekk’s research on blood and immune system disorders has had a significant impact on medical treatments in Norway and beyond.
Summary of UiT’s Top Professors:
- Jørgen Berge – Leading marine biologist studying Arctic marine ecosystems.
- Øyvind Ravna – Expert in indigenous law and governance, particularly Sami rights.
- Einar Broch Johnsen – Specialist in software engineering and cloud computing.
- Maja-Lisa Løchen – Cardiovascular health expert, with a focus on public health in Arctic regions.
- Kjersti Fjørtoft – Philosopher focusing on ethics, law, and Arctic governance.
- Gunnar Bråthen – Telemedicine pioneer improving healthcare in remote areas.
- Anne Husebekk – Immunologist with contributions to blood disorders and autoimmune diseases.
The University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT) does not have any Nobel Prize laureates directly associated with the institution, either among its faculty or alumni. While UiT is globally recognized for its contributions to Arctic research, climate science, indigenous studies, and other key areas, it does not have the same Nobel Prize association that other institutions in Norway, like the University of Oslo, may have.
However, the research done at UiT, especially in the fields of Arctic science, climate change, and indigenous rights, is of significant global importance. It contributes to critical discussions and innovations in these areas, some of which intersect with the kind of work that has been recognized by Nobel Committees, particularly in Peace and Environmental categories.
The university’s research in fields like environmental sustainability, marine ecosystems, and Arctic governance continues to position it as a key institution in global scientific and policy-making communities, although no Nobel Prizes have been awarded directly to its researchers so far.
UiT the Arctic University of Norway is the world’s northernmost university and has 16 650 students and 3500 staff. UiT the Arctic University contributes to knowledge-based development at the regional, national and international level.
The Arctic is of increasing global importance, and our location on the edge of the Arctic implies a mission. Climate change, the exploitation of Arctic resources and environmental threats are topics of great global importance and concern, and we take a special interest in this. At UiT the Arctic University of Norway, you can explore global issues from a close-up perspective.
Wild nature, contrasting light and weather conditions, geographic distances and multiculturalism shape life in the northern parts of Norway. UiT is a classical university with a wide range of disciplines, but many of our research centers and study programs reflect the specific character of Arctic Norway.
The University of Tromsø – The Arctic University of Norway (UiT) is famous for several unique reasons, largely due to its location, research focus, and contributions to Arctic and northern studies. Here are the key factors that contribute to its global recognition:
1. Arctic Focus and Research Excellence
- Proximity to the Arctic: UiT is the northernmost university in the world, situated within the Arctic Circle, making it a hub for Arctic research. Its location allows it to lead cutting-edge research on Arctic ecosystems, climate change, environmental sustainability, and the challenges facing Arctic communities.
- Specialty in Arctic Studies: UiT is renowned for its expertise in Arctic and Northern Studies, including climate science, marine biology, indigenous studies, and cold climate technology. This makes the university a key player in addressing the global importance of Arctic issues, especially with climate change.
2. Indigenous Studies and Sami Culture
- Indigenous Research: UiT has a strong focus on Sami studies, being a leading institution for the study of indigenous rights, culture, and governance. Its programs emphasize the importance of preserving the heritage and rights of the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of northern Norway and other parts of the Arctic.
- Indigenous Rights: The university conducts influential research and offers academic programs that explore indigenous rights, which are important both for Norway and internationally, as other indigenous groups worldwide face similar challenges.
3. Marine and Fisheries Sciences
- Marine Biology and Fisheries: UiT excels in marine sciences, particularly research related to the Arctic Ocean and Barents Sea. Its strong programs in marine biology, oceanography, and sustainable fisheries make it a leading institution in marine and Arctic ecosystem research.
- Sustainable Development: UiT's research contributes to sustainable management of Arctic resources, including fisheries, which are vital to the economy and ecology of the Arctic region.
4. Climate Change Research
- Climate Science: UiT is at the forefront of studying the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems, sea ice dynamics, and environmental sustainability. Its research in this area is globally significant, particularly as the Arctic is one of the most affected regions by global warming.
- Sustainability and Environmental Sciences: UiT's focus on environmental management and climate adaptation strategies makes it a leading research institution in terms of finding solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change, especially in polar regions.
5. Global Collaborations and Polar Research
- International Collaborations: UiT collaborates extensively with international research organizations, particularly in Arctic and polar studies. The university is part of major global research networks like the University of the Arctic (UArctic), which promotes education and research in the northern regions.
- Polar Research and Technology: UiT leads many significant projects related to polar technology, Arctic governance, and international law regarding the Arctic. It plays a crucial role in shaping Arctic policies and research collaboration on the future of the region.
6. Space Research and Northern Lights Studies
- Space Science and Atmospheric Research: Thanks to its location, UiT is an ideal place for studying atmospheric phenomena like the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) and space weather. The university has strong research programs in space science, including satellite technology and remote sensing of the Arctic.
- Northern Lights Studies: UiT is one of the best places to study the Northern Lights, attracting scientists and students from around the world to research this natural phenomenon.
7. Innovative Health Sciences
- Health Sciences in Remote Areas: UiT offers cutting-edge programs in rural medicine, telemedicine, and healthcare delivery in remote Arctic regions. Its medical faculty focuses on public health issues, especially those affecting indigenous populations and rural communities in northern Norway.
- Telemedicine and E-health: UiT is a leader in telemedicine, providing healthcare solutions for remote and isolated communities. This technology allows for better healthcare delivery in rural areas, making UiT's medical programs highly innovative.
8. Law of the Sea and Arctic Governance
- Law of the Sea Research: The K.G. Jebsen Centre for the Law of the Sea at UiT is a global leader in maritime law, particularly in issues related to the Arctic Ocean, international law, and the sustainable use of marine resources. This makes UiT a key player in shaping legal frameworks governing the Arctic.
- Arctic Governance: UiT also focuses on the legal and political challenges of the Arctic, such as international disputes over territorial waters and the use of Arctic resources, giving it global relevance in Arctic law and governance.
9. Northernmost University in the World
- Unique Location: As the northernmost university in the world, UiT’s location in Tromsø, deep within the Arctic Circle, gives it a unique identity and draws students and researchers who are interested in Arctic studies and related disciplines. The university offers a distinctive experience, allowing students to study in a truly Arctic environment.