Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Bridging knowledge and industry in the heart of the fjords
📍 Bergen, Norway 🇳🇴
🏆 #9 in Norway · ARWU #901
Quick Facts about Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
- Type: Public
- Students: 16,000
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $15,000 – $24,000/year
- Language: English, Norwegian
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Academics
HVL's academic activities are organized into three main faculties: the Faculty of Education, Arts and Sports; the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences; and the Faculty of Technology, Environmental and Social Sciences. The university offers a broad range of Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs, emphasizing practice-based learning and interdisciplinary approaches. Notable English-taught Master's programs include Climate Change Management, Healthy Ageing and Rehabilitation, Maritime Operations, and Theatre in Social, Participatory Art, Community and Educational contexts. HVL also has several research centers, supporting specialized postgraduate programs and PhD research in areas like evidence-based practice, arts, culture, communication, and innovation.
International Students
HVL welcomes international students for exchange programs and full degree studies, offering a variety of Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs taught in English. While Bachelor's programs are generally in Norwegian and require language proficiency, many postgraduate courses do not. The university provides support services such as housing arrangements in cooperation with Sammen, the student welfare organization, and offers guidance on visa and study permit applications. Students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland are generally required to pay tuition fees, with some exceptions for specific joint degree programs.
Campus & Location
The main campus in Bergen is located at Kronstad, just south of the city center. Campus Kronstad, built in 2014, features modern facilities integrated into old railway halls, including Norway's largest student cafe and a modern library. Bergen itself is a UNESCO World Heritage City, offering a vibrant city life with opportunities for concerts, cafe visits, and nightlife, alongside stunning natural surroundings of mountains and fjords. Transportation to and from campus is convenient, with the light rail "Bybanen" connecting the airport, city center, and campus.
Career Outcomes
HVL has a strong professional and workforce-oriented profile, aiming to equip students with skills for lucrative career opportunities. The university collaborates closely with industry and the public sector in its research and education, fostering strong industry connections. HVL also develops internship schemes for international students within companies and institutions in Western Norway. The Norwegian startup scene is rapidly evolving, characterized by a well-educated workforce, strong governmental support, and a high digital penetration, providing a fertile ground for entrepreneurial endeavors.
Information for International Students at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Western Norway University of Applied Sciences in Bergen, Norway welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$3500/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English, Norwegian
Admissions Requirements for Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Western Norway University of Applied Sciences:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
- Application deadline: December 1st for non-EU/EEA citizens, March 1st for EU/EEA citizens
Scholarships & Tuition at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
Annual tuition for international students: $15,000 – $24,000/year
✅ Western Norway University of Applied Sciences offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
- National Ranking: #9 in Norway
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #901
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$3500/month
Key Highlights
- One of Norway’s largest educational institutions
- Five campuses across Western Norway
- Strong focus on sustainable innovation
- Extensive professional health and teaching programs
- Close collaboration with regional industries
- Leading center for hydrogen energy research
Accreditation
- European University Association (EUA)
- Scholars at Risk (SAR)
- The Southern African – Nordic Centre (SANORD)
- Kunnskapsdepartementet, Norge (Ministry of Education, Norway)
- Norwegian Agency for Quality Assurance in Education (NOKUT)
Fields of Study at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
- Engineering
- Maritime Studies
- Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Business
Frequently Asked Questions about Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
What is Western Norway University of Applied Sciences?
Western Norway University of Applied Sciences is a public university located in Bergen, Norway. It has approximately 16,000 students.
How much does it cost to study at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences?
Tuition fees at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences for international students range from $15,000 – $24,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $3500/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Western Norway University of Applied Sciences?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: December 1st for non-EU/EEA citizens, March 1st for EU/EEA citizens.
What language are courses taught in at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences?
Courses at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences are taught in English and Norwegian. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
What is Western Norway University of Applied Sciences ranked?
#9 in Norway · ARWU #901.
Does Western Norway University of Applied Sciences offer scholarships?
Yes, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Western Norway University of Applied Sciences provide visa support?
Yes, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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