Buskerud University College
Innovative learning in the heart of Norway.
📍 Kongsberg, Norway 🇳🇴
Quick Facts about Buskerud University College
- Type: Public
- Students: 17,000
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Language: Norwegian, English, Spanish
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 1:1
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Buskerud University College
Academics
USN Kongsberg is part of the larger University of South-Eastern Norway, which comprises four faculties: Health and Social Sciences, Humanities, Sports and Educational Science, USN School of Business, and Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Sciences. The Kongsberg campus specifically focuses on computer science and engineering, economics and management, and architectural lighting design. The teaching approach emphasizes research-based programs and early student involvement in research projects, with a strong focus on applied research and close ties to regional industries. Notable programs include Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering in Cyber Physical Systems, Electronics Engineering in Cybernetics, and Mechanical Engineering in Product Development.
International Students
USN welcomes international students for both exchange and full degree programs. The International Relations Office facilitates international partnerships, manages agreements, and promotes exchange opportunities. While many programs are taught in Norwegian, a wide range of courses and several master's programs are available in English, such as Systems Engineering, Industrial IT and Automation, and Computer Science. International students need to meet visa requirements, including demonstrating sufficient financial support and health insurance. Student housing is available for international students through the Student Welfare Foundation, offering private rooms with access to internet, cable TV, and laundry services. The Kongsberg Student Association (Sik) organizes cultural and social activities, sports clubs, and social groups, fostering cultural integration.
Campus & Location
The Kongsberg campus is located in Norway's oldest industrial city, known for its high-tech industries, particularly in defense and aerospace. The campus itself, also called Krona, features modern facilities, including classrooms, new equipment, a library, and a concert hall that doubles as the city's cinema. Kongsberg offers a close-knit community feel with access to urban amenities, and its picturesque setting along the Numedalslågen river provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. Public transportation is efficient, and the compact nature of the city allows for many amenities to be within walking distance.
Career Outcomes
USN collaborates closely with regional businesses and the public sector, ensuring that many students gain a foothold in working life during their studies. The Kongsberg campus, in particular, is strategically located near several technologically advanced companies, offering exciting career opportunities in an international environment. USN has a proven track record for delivering innovative and relevant study programs, including "Industry Master" programs where students are employed part-time in relevant companies. The university also has strong industry connections, with external cooperation on research, development, and innovation projects with companies like Kongsberg Group. After graduation, international students can extend their stay in Norway for up to a year to seek employment.
Information for International Students at Buskerud University College
Buskerud University College in Kongsberg, Norway welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$3400/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Norwegian, English, Spanish
Admissions Requirements for Buskerud University College
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Buskerud University College:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application deadline: 15 April for EU/EEA, 1 December for non-EU/EEA
Programs at Buskerud University College (26 programs)
Buskerud University College offers 26 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (5)
- Dataingeniør (Computer Engineering) (BEng) — 36 months · Norwegian · STEM
This program includes specializations like Cyber Physical Systems, focusing on systems integrating software, hardware, and networks. Graduates find opportunities in the technology industry, particularly in areas like Cyber Physical Systems.
Field: Engineering, Computer Science, IT
Career outcomes: Cyber Physical Systems Engineer, Software Engineer, Network Engineer - Optometri (Optometry) — Norwegian · STEM
USN Kongsberg offers Norway's only Bachelor's degree in Optometry. Graduates are prepared to work as optometrists.
Field: Optometry, Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Optometrist - Business Administration (Exchange Programme) — 6 months · English
This exchange program offers tailored course packages comprising 30 ECTS credits, designed to highlight the unique expertise and strengths of each campus. It is not a full degree program.
Field: Business, Management and Innovation - Elektroingeniør (Electrical Engineering) (BEng) — 36 months · Norwegian · STEM
This program includes specializations like Cybernetics, focusing on sensors, actuators, and control/communication systems. Graduates find opportunities in the technology industry, particularly in areas like control and communication systems.
Field: Engineering, Electronics
Career outcomes: Control Systems Engineer, Communication Systems Engineer, Electrical Engineer - Maskiningeniør (Mechanical Engineering) (BEng) — 36 months · Norwegian · STEM
This program focuses on product development, analysis, and practical application of ideas. Graduates can pursue product development and related roles in the technology industry.
Field: Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Product Development Engineer, Mechanical Engineer
Master Programs (5)
- Engineering courses (Exchange Programme) — 6 months · English · STEM
This exchange program is for master-level students, with courses in Computer Science (Cybersecurity and Embedded Systems). It is not a full degree program.
Field: Engineering, Computer Science, IT - Innovation and Technology Management (Industrial Management specialization) (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program likely focuses on management within industrial and technological contexts. Graduates are prepared for management roles in technology-driven industries.
Field: Business, Management and Innovation, Technology
Career outcomes: Industrial Manager, Technology Manager - Optometry/Visual Science — English · STEM
USN Kongsberg offers Norway's only Master's degree in Optometry. Graduates can pursue advanced roles in optometry and visual science.
Field: Optometry, Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Advanced Optometrist, Visual Scientist - Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers broad knowledge and specialist skills in computer science and engineering, with specializations in Cybersecurity and Embedded Systems. Graduates become engineers with advanced knowledge in computer science, cybersecurity, and embedded systems.
Field: IT, Computer Science and Information Systems, Engineering
Career outcomes: Cybersecurity Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Computer Scientist - Innovation and Technology Management (Systems Engineering specialization) (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on multi-disciplinary design and industrial engineering processes, with a research agenda on reliability and agile architectures. Graduates can work as Systems Engineers in various industries, including sub-sea, defense, and manufacturing.
Field: Business, Management and Innovation, Technology, Engineering
Career outcomes: Systems Engineer, Industrial Engineer
PhD Programs (3)
- PhD in Humanities, Cultural and Educational Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · Norwegian, English
This is a theme-based and interdisciplinary program drawing from social sciences, humanities, and educational sciences to analyze educational processes and cultural phenomena. Graduates can pursue research and academic positions in humanities, social sciences, and education.
Field: Humanities, Cultural and Educational Sciences, Social Sciences, Pedagogy, Language Studies, History, Literature, Sports, Aesthetic Subjects, Political Science, Psychology, Anthropology
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Educator, Cultural Analyst - Industrial Ph.D. in Systems Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM · Scholarship available
This program is designed for individuals employed in industry, allowing them to conduct research while working. It aims to increase researchers in industry and enhance competence building, leading to research and development roles within industry.
Field: Systems Engineering, Industrial Research, Technology
Career outcomes: Industrial Researcher, Systems Engineering Specialist - PhD in Technology (PhD) — 36 months · Norwegian, English · STEM
This is one of USN's doctoral programs, covering various aspects of technology. Graduates are prepared for research and academic positions, as well as advanced roles in technology industries.
Field: Technology and Engineering
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Technology Specialist
Scholarships & Tuition at Buskerud University College
✅ Buskerud University College offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Campus & Facilities at Buskerud University College
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$3400/month
Key Highlights
- Merged with Vestfold University College
- Located in Drammen and Kongsberg
- Strong engineering and technology focus
- Integrated into University of South-Eastern Norway
- Key partner with Kongsberg Industry
- Specialized in optometry and nursing
Accreditation
- Kunnskapsdepartementet (Ministry of Education and Research)
- EFMD Programme Accreditation (for Bachelor in Business Administration)
Fields of Study at Buskerud University College
- Engineering
- Business
- Health Sciences
- Education
- Technology
Frequently Asked Questions about Buskerud University College
What is Buskerud University College?
Buskerud University College is a public university located in Kongsberg, Norway. It has approximately 17,000 students.
What are the admission requirements for Buskerud University College?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. GPA minimum: 3. Application deadline: 15 April for EU/EEA, 1 December for non-EU/EEA.
What language are courses taught in at Buskerud University College?
Courses at Buskerud University College are taught in Norwegian and English and Spanish. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Buskerud University College offer?
Buskerud University College offers 26 programs: 5 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
Does Buskerud University College offer scholarships?
Yes, Buskerud University College offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Buskerud University College provide visa support?
Yes, Buskerud University College provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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