What is a summer school?

The summer break at Norwegian universities and colleges typically runs from mid-June to mid-August. During this period, some institutions offer intensive academic programmes known as summer schools.

Summer schools may focus on a specific subject area or take an interdisciplinary approach. Most programmes combine academic learning with social and cultural activities, giving participants a chance to experience student life and Norwegian culture alongside their studies.

Courses are usually taught in English and are open to students from universities around the world. Programmes vary in length, from one to eight weeks, and many award ECTS credits that may be recognised by your home institution.

Where can I find Norwegian Summer Schools?

Below is a selection of summer schools offered by Norwegian higher education institutions. The list is not exhaustive, and additional programmes may be available each year. 

International Summer School – University of Oslo

The International Summer School (ISS) at the University of Oslo (UiO) is Norway's longest-running international summer programme. It offers a range of four-week courses worth 10 ECTS credits in subjects such as for instance art, literature, medieval history, Viking studies, gender equality, community health, development, energy and sustainability. The programme also includes Norwegian language courses at different levels.

Participants typically stay together in student accommodation and take part in a rich social programme, making it easy to build an international network while exploring Oslo and Norway.

Nord University Summer School

Nord University’s summer programme offers a range of intensive one-week courses in Bodø, just north of the Arctic Circle. Topics vary from year to year but often focus on Arctic and northern issues, sustainability, nature, environment, health and business.

Several courses award 3 ECTS credits and combine online preparation with an intensive learning week on campus. While many participants come from Nord University's partner institutions, courses are often open to other international students as well.

European Integration Summer School – University of Agder

The European Integration Summer School (EISS) at the University of Agder (UiA) is designed for advanced students in the social sciences.

The programme centres on the course "History, Institutions and Policies of European Integration", delivered as an intensive three-week programme in July combined with online learning activities. Participants earn 10 ECTS credits upon successful completion.

The programme is primarily intended for students from universities within the Forthem Alliance and other partner institutions with exchange agreements with UiA.

Bergen Summer Research School

The Bergen Summer Research School (BSRS), at the University of Bergen (UiB) brings together international PhD candidates and researchers for an intensive two-week programme focused on global challenges such as climate change, inequality, health and governance.

Participants choose from several specialised courses and work alongside researchers from around the world. Depending on the course, participants may earn between 5 and 10 ECTS credits. 

Please note that this programme is primarily intended for doctoral candidates and early-career researchers.

Thematic summer schools

Several other Norwegian universities and university colleges offer thematic summer schools linked to research projects, international partnerships and specialised academic fields. These programmes may be open to participants from other institutions who have a relevant academic background.

Visit our map of Norwegian universities and colleges to explore institutions across the country and search their websites for current summer school opportunities.