Sweden is one of the most prosperous countries in the world, situated in northern Europe. With a population of only 8.7 million and a total area of 450,000 km squared, it offers both modern urban life and the opportunity to enjoy vast natural expanses.

The capital Stockholm on the east coast is the largest city, followed by Goteborg on the west coast and Malmo in the south. Sweden has always been internationally oriented, and about 3 per cent of its GNP is exported. Sweden has been a member of the European Union since 1995.

Education in Sweden

The oldest Swedish university in Uppsala traces its history back to 1477. Today, there are seven major universities, as well as university colleges and specialised institutions, in more than 30 cities throughout the country. Although publicly funded, universities and colleges independently develop their own curricula, as well as requirements for eligibility and admission criteria.

The academic year is divided into two terms, and runs from mid-August to the beginning of June with a two-week break for Christmas.

Study Programmes and Degrees

Students may choose between taking individual courses, or following a degree programme. Typically, the length of degree programmes range from two years up to five and a half years. The duration and extent of studies is expressed in a point system, where one point is corresponded to one week of full-time studies. Thus, full-time studies for one term constitutes 20 points.

Postgraduate degrees

After having completed a first degree of at least 120 points, graduates can apply for research training. A Doctoral degree (doktorsexamen) is awarded after an additional 160 points, or four years of studies, including an academic thesis of 80 points. In many fields, a Licentiate degree (licentiatexamen) is awarded after 80 points, or two years after the first degree. This degree also requires a thesis. Admission to postgraduate degrees is based upon academic achievement.

Instruction

Instruction may be both in the form of lectures with several hundred students present, to seminar and small group discussions, where students are expected to contribute actively. In natural sciences, there is generally more time spent in the classroom than in social sciences. The relationship between teachers and students at Swedish universities is considered to be more informal than in most other countries, which encourages classroom discussion, also in lectures.

Students Life

Students associations play an important role at Swedish universities. For instance, students have representatives in the committees for curriculum development. In most cases, student housing is arranged through the associations, as well as student counselling and placement services. Social activities varying from theatre programmes to great parties and student pubs are of course integral parts of student life.

Applications

Applications are administered directly by each university or university college. It is strongly recommended to contact the university of interest in order to find out about specific eligibility requirements curriculum, etc.

Tuition and residence permit

Tuition is in general free, but literature and accommodation is paid by the student. Visiting students are not eligible for Swedish state study assistance. Except for citizens from the EEA, EU or EFTA countries, visa and residence permit must be obtained before leaving your country.

Further Information

The Swedish Institute, PO Box 7434, S-103 91 Stockholm, Sweden

Author
Robert Nobel
Stockholm School of Economics