Arctic and Nordic Studies

See study programme

Autumn 2026 (1. semester)

SA210S
10 sp

The programme presents a unique exploration of the political, socio-economic, environmental, and cultural conditions of the Arctic and Nordic regions. This one-year programme comprises two semesters: the autumn semester focuses on politics and governance while the spring semester focuses on social, environmental, and cultural aspects of the Arctic and Nordic regions.

The autumn semester offers an examination of the historical development of the Barents region and the Svalbard archipelago, and it delves deep into the political systems of the Nordic states. At the international level, the programme probes the Arctic policies of regional and extra-regional states such as the US and China, shedding light on the intricate web of inter-state relations in the Arctic.

The spring semester focuses on a social organization and cultural exploration with a dedicated focus on indigenous peoples of the Arctic. Understanding their way of life and the challenges they face in today’s world is pivotal to our curriculum. Additionally, in the face of rapid environmental changes, our programme addresses the fundamental questions of resource development, justice, and sustainability.

We aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address the pressing issues that the region faces today and in the future. Join us on this fascinating journey through the Arctic and the Nordic regions. The programme can be taken as an independent unit for those who wish to learn more about the region. The courses can also be chosen as electives by bachelor students from other programmes. It is offered in English and online. Some courses can be taken physically on-campus.

Knowledge

The candidate:

  • has knowledge of important topics, theories, processes, tools, and methods in Arctic and Nordic studies, related to politics, history, culture, societies, and environment
  • is familiar with research and development work in the field of Arctic and Nordic studies, including politics, history, culture, societies, and the environment
  • is familiar with ethical guidelines for social science research in the field of Arctic and Nordic studies, including research on indigenous peoples
  • can update his/her knowledge in Nordic and Arctic Studies in line with new academic and societal developments
  • can update his/her knowledge on and identify sustainability dilemmas related to the Arctic and Nordic development.
  • can understand the role of international institutions and international collaboration in the Arctic and Nordic countries.
  • is familiar with history, traditions, distinctive character, and societal role of Arctic and Nordic studies

Skills

The candidate:

  • can apply academic knowledge to practical and theoretical problems in the field of Arctic and Nordic Studies
  • can apply academic knowledge on sustainable development to the contemporary environmental, economic, political and social challenges in the Arctic and Nordic region
  • can reflect on his/her own academic practice and can develop it according to the feedback/supervision provided
  • can find, evaluate, and use scholarly material and present it in ways that illuminate political, historical, cultural, and environmental issues in the Arctic and Nordic regions
  • has skills regarding relevant scholarly tools, techniques, concepts, and forms of communication

General Competence

The candidate:

  • has insights in into relevant and emerging topics for the Arctic and Nordic region
  • has insightd into relevant ethical issues relating to Arctic and Nordic studies, including issues in the research community, research participation and dissemination
  • has insights on sustainable practices and international policies which can improve Arctic and Nordic viability
  • can plan and carry out varied assignments and projects with different lengths, in accordance with ethical standards and principles
  • can gather, assess, and communicate information from international publications in line with social science’s ethical principles
  • can present important academic material related to Arctic and Nordic studies such as theories, problems and solutions, both in writing and orally, as well as using other relevant forms of communication
  • can exchange opinions with others about topics covered in the Arctic and Nordic studies and participate in discussions concerning the development of good practice
  • can communicate and collaborate with and Arctic and Nordic stakeholders from different countries
  • is familiar with new thinking and innovation processes related to Arctic and Nordic politics, history, culture, societies, and environment

Admission requirements

The admission requirement for this study program is

Higher Education Entrance Qualification

The education requirements and language proficiency requirements are specified in the GSU-list

For more information about applying: https://www.nord.no/en/study-programmes/admission

The Arctic and Nordic Studies programme provides a solid background for further study within the social sciences. As an addition to other bachelor level studies, it provides students with the critical skills and knowledge-base to work in a range of positions related to the High North. These could include teaching, tourism and work in cultural and communication sectors.
The courses may be used as elective courses in some of the bachelor programmes at Nord university.
There are no student exchange possibilties on this programme.

Semester fees and cost of course literature apply.

Tuition fees will be charged to international students with citizenship from outside the EU/EEA/EFTA.

Please note that some applicants can apply for an exemption from paying tuition fees.

Nord university does not offer scholarships or grants.

Tuition fees for international students (nord.no)

Individual written assignments, home exams, and oral exams. The language of examination is English.
There is no separate final exam for the one-year programme in Arctic and Nordic studies. Exams are arranged for each individual course. The study programme is completed when all 60 ECTS credit points are achieved.
The study programme is evaluated annually by students through course evaluations and study programme evaluation. These evaluations are part of the university's quality assurance system.
We refer to applicable legislation, regulations and related guidelines.