Circumpolar and Nordic Studies
See study programmeThe 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 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 Nordic and Arctic studies, including politics, history, culture, societies, and the environment
- is familiar with ethical guidelines for social research in the field of Nordic and Arctic 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 identify and discuss sustainability dilemmas related to the Arctic and Nordic development.
- Can understand and reflect on the role international institutions and international collaboration in the Arctic and Nordic countries.
- Is familiar with history, traditions, distinctive character, and societal role of Nordic and Arctic studies
Skills
The candidate…
- can apply academic knowledge to practical and theoretical problems in the field of Nordic and Arctic 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 Nordic and Arctic regions
- has basic skills regarding relevant scholarly tools, techniques, concepts, and forms of communication
General competence
The candidate…
- Has insights in into relevant and emerging topics for Nordic and Arctic region
- has insight into relevant ethical issues relating Nordic and Arctic Studies, including issues in the research community, research participation and dissemination
- can plan and carry out varied assignments and projects with different lengths, independently and in groups, in accordance with ethical standards and principles
- can present important academic material related to Nordic and Arctic 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 Nordic and Arctic studies and participate in discussions concerning the development of good practice
- is familiar with new thinking and innovation processes related to Nordic and Arctic politics, history, culture, societies, and environment
- Has insight on sustainable practices and international policies which can improve Arctic and Nordic viability.
- Can gather, assess, and communicate information from international publications in line with social science’s ethical principles.
- Can communicate and collaborate with Arctic and Nordic stakeholders from different countries.
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
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.