Founded: 1993
Location: Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway
Focus Areas: Arctic Biology, Arctic Geology, Arctic Geophysics, and Arctic Technology
Language of Instruction: English
UNIS offers courses and programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate levels. All courses are research-based and designed to give students practical experience in the unique Arctic environment.
Research at UNIS is focused on the natural sciences and technology relevant to the Arctic. It includes studying the impact of climate change, polar ecosystems, geology, and permafrost.
Laboratories: Equipped for scientific research activities, particularly those requiring unique Arctic conditions.
Fieldwork: Extensive fieldwork is a crucial component of the curriculum, leveraging Svalbard's unique environment.
Library: Resources specific to Arctic studies and research.
Community: Students from around the world, creating a diverse and international community.
Accommodation: Student housing is available in Longyearbyen, with most students living in shared accommodations.
Activities: Opportunities for Arctic expeditions, skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
AB-201: Arctic Biology - Terrestrial Ecosystems
AB-202: Arctic Biology - Marine Ecosystems
AB-301: Arctic Ecology
AB-302: Arctic Environmental Management
AB-303: Population Ecology in the High Arctic
AG-201: The Quaternary History of Svalbard
AG-202: Arctic Sedimentology and Stratigraphy
AG-301: Tectonics and Sedimentation in the Arctic
AG-302: Arctic Geohazards
AG-303: Arctic Structural Geology
AGF-201: The Arctic Climate System
AGF-202: Remote Sensing in the Arctic
AGF-301: Polar Meteorology and Climate
AGF-302: Arctic Oceanography
AGF-303: Space Physics in the Arctic
AT-201: Arctic Engineering
AT-202: Sustainable Energy in the Arctic
AT-301: Arctic Offshore Engineering
AT-302: Ice Mechanics
AT-303: Arctic Hydrology
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Arctic Biology |
|
|
|
AB-201: Arctic Biology - Terrestrial Ecosystems |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
|
AB-202: Arctic Biology - Marine Ecosystems |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
|
Arctic Geology |
|
|
|
AG-201: The Quaternary History of Svalbard |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
|
AG-202: Arctic Sedimentology and Stratigraphy |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
|
Arctic Geophysics |
|
|
|
AGF-201: The Arctic Climate System |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
|
AGF-202: Remote Sensing in the Arctic |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
|
Arctic Technology |
|
|
|
AT-201: Arctic Engineering |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
|
AT-202: Sustainable Energy in the Arctic |
One Semester |
$0 (No tuition fees) |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Arctic Biology |
|
|
|
AB-201: Arctic Biology - Terrestrial Ecosystems |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AB-202: Arctic Biology - Marine Ecosystems |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
Arctic Geology |
|
|
|
AG-201: The Quaternary History of Svalbard |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AG-202: Arctic Sedimentology and Stratigraphy |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
Arctic Geophysics |
|
|
|
AGF-201: The Arctic Climate System |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AGF-202: Remote Sensing in the Arctic |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
Arctic Technology |
|
|
|
AT-201: Arctic Engineering |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AT-202: Sustainable Energy in the Arctic |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Arctic Biology |
|
|
|
AB-301: Arctic Ecology |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AB-302: Arctic Environmental Management |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AB-303: Population Ecology in the High Arctic |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
Arctic Geology |
|
|
|
AG-301: Tectonics and Sedimentation in the Arctic |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AG-302: Arctic Geohazards |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AG-303: Arctic Structural Geology |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
Arctic Geophysics |
|
|
|
AGF-301: Polar Meteorology and Climate |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AGF-302: Arctic Oceanography |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AGF-303: Space Physics in the Arctic |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
Arctic Technology |
|
|
|
AT-301: Arctic Offshore Engineering |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AT-302: Ice Mechanics |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
|
AT-303: Arctic Hydrology |
1 semester |
No tuition fees |
UNIS offers courses at the bachelor's, master's, and PhD levels, with a strong emphasis on fieldwork and research in Arctic conditions.
Academic Background: Relevant academic qualifications in the field of study.
English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS).
Application Process: Typically involves submitting academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
Tuition Fees: There are no tuition fees for courses at UNIS. Education is free of charge for all students.
Accommodation: $800 - $1,200 USD
Food and Supplies: $400 - $600 USD
Transportation and Miscellaneous: $200 - $400 USD
UNIS provides student housing, which is highly recommended due to the limited housing options in Longyearbyen. The Student Welfare Organization in Svalbard (Samskipnaden) manages student accommodation.
Given the extreme Arctic environment, safety training is mandatory. Courses often involve extensive fieldwork, requiring appropriate gear and knowledge of Arctic safety protocols.
Health Services: Basic health services are available in Longyearbyen, but students should have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary.
Insurance: Students must have travel and health insurance covering the duration of their stay.
Visit the UNIS Website: Review the course offerings and decide which courses align with your academic and career goals.
Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements for the courses you are interested in.
Academic Transcripts: Obtain official transcripts from your current or previous institutions.
Statement of Purpose: Write a statement explaining your motivation for applying, your academic interests, and how the courses at UNIS will help you achieve your goals.
Letters of Recommendation: Arrange for letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.
Proof of Proficiency: Non-native English speakers need to provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Minimum Scores: Check the specific requirements on the UNIS website as they may vary by program.
Online Application: Complete and submit the online application form available on the UNIS website.
Application Fee: Pay any applicable application fees, if required.
Spring Semester: Applications are usually due by October 15 of the previous year.
Autumn Semester: Applications are usually due by April 15 of the same year.
Review Process: UNIS reviews applications based on academic qualifications, English proficiency, and the quality of the statement of purpose.
Notification: Successful applicants will receive an admission offer via email.
Accept Offer: Confirm your acceptance of the admission offer by the deadline specified in the offer letter.
Prepare for Arrival: Arrange for housing, travel, and health insurance. Participate in any pre-departure orientation sessions offered by UNIS.
Visa and Entry: Ensure you have the necessary visa to enter mainland Norway, as there are no special visa requirements for Svalbard itself.
Health Insurance: Obtain comprehensive health insurance that covers your stay in Svalbard, including medical evacuation if necessary.
Orientation Program: Attend the orientation program upon arrival, which covers important information about living and studying in Svalbard.
Safety Training: Participate in mandatory safety training sessions, as fieldwork in the Arctic environment can be hazardous.
Application Deadline: October 15 of the previous year
Semester Duration: Typically runs from January to June
Application Deadline: April 15 of the same year
Semester Duration: Typically runs from August to December
Academic Requirements:
Must have completed at least one year of university studies (equivalent to 60 ECTS credits) in a relevant field.
Relevant fields include biology, geology, geophysics, technology, and related disciplines.
English Proficiency:
Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency.
Acceptable tests and minimum scores generally include:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based) or 550 (paper-based)
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0
Must have completed a Bachelor's degree (equivalent to at least 180 ECTS credits) in a relevant field.
Relevant fields include biology, geology, geophysics, technology, and related disciplines.
Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency.
Acceptable tests and minimum scores generally include:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based) or 550 (paper-based)
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0
Must have completed a Master's degree (equivalent to at least 120 ECTS credits) in a relevant field.
Relevant fields include biology, geology, geophysics, technology, and related disciplines.
Non-native English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency.
Acceptable tests and minimum scores generally include:
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (internet-based) or 550 (paper-based)
IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
Nordplus Scholarship |
Students from Nordic and Baltic countries enrolled at participating institutions |
Financial support for travel and living expenses |
|
Erasmus+ Scholarship |
Students from Erasmus+ program countries; must be enrolled at a participating institution |
Financial support for travel and living expenses |
|
Barents Plus Scholarship |
Students from Barents region (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia) enrolled at participating institutions |
Financial support for travel and living expenses |
|
Arctic Field Grant (AFG) |
Master's and PhD students conducting fieldwork in Svalbard |
Financial support for fieldwork expenses |
|
High North Fellowship Programme |
Students from Canada, Japan, Russia, South Korea, and the USA enrolled at Norwegian institutions |
Financial support for travel and living expenses |
|
Fulbright Arctic Initiative |
US students and scholars conducting research in the Arctic |
Financial support for research and travel expenses |
|
SIU Scholarships (Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education) |
International students participating in SIU's funded programs |
Financial support for travel and living expenses |
Facility |
Description |
Cost |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway. |
N/A |
|
Main Campus Building |
Equipped with classrooms, laboratories, and offices for administration and research. |
N/A |
|
Library |
Provides access to scientific literature and research materials. |
Free access for students |
|
Student Accommodation |
UNIS Housing offers accommodation options for students. |
|
|
Single Room (shared facilities) |
Single bedroom with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. |
Approx. NOK 4,000 - 5,000 per month |
|
Family Apartments |
Apartments suitable for families, with private kitchen and bathroom facilities. |
Approx. NOK 6,000 - 8,000 per month |
|
Guest Accommodation |
Short-term accommodation for visiting researchers and guests. |
Variable rates, typically higher than student accommodation |
|
Common Areas |
Shared common areas including lounges, study rooms, and recreational facilities. |
Included in accommodation fee |
|
Internet Access |
High-speed internet available in all accommodation units. |
Included in accommodation fee |
|
Laundry Facilities |
Laundry rooms equipped with washing machines and dryers. |
Included in accommodation fee |
|
Transport Services |
Shuttle services for transportation within Longyearbyen and to the main campus. |
Included in accommodation fee |
|
Dining Facilities |
On-campus cafeteria providing meals and snacks. |
Meals cost approximately NOK 50 - 100 each, depending on the menu |
Research Opportunities: UNIS offers extensive research opportunities in Arctic biology, geology, geophysics, and technology. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and the Arctic environment for hands-on research.
Small Class Sizes: The small student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized attention and a collaborative learning atmosphere.
Student Organizations: There are student organizations and clubs focused on activities such as outdoor adventures, environmental conservation, and social events.
Outdoor Activities: Given its Arctic location, students can engage in unique outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice climbing. These activities provide a balance between academic and recreational life.
Cultural Events: UNIS organizes cultural events, workshops, and seminars that promote a sense of community among students. This includes movie nights, international food festivals, and guest lectures.
Common Areas: The campus has several common areas for students to relax, socialize, and study. These include lounges, study rooms, and recreational facilities.
Library and Study Spaces: The library provides a quiet place for studying and access to a wide range of academic resources. Study spaces are available across the campus.
Academic Support: Students have access to academic advisors and support services to assist with their studies and research projects.
Health and Wellness: Health services are available to students, including medical assistance and mental health support. Regular wellness activities and workshops are organized to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Community Engagement: Students often participate in local community activities, enhancing their cultural experience and integration into the local society.
Safety and Preparedness: Given the extreme environment, UNIS provides training and resources to ensure students are well-prepared for Arctic conditions. Safety courses and equipment are available for outdoor activities.
Research Projects: UNIS students often engage in significant research projects that can lead to career opportunities in academia, research institutions, and specialized fields related to Arctic studies.
Collaborations: UNIS has strong collaborations with universities, research institutions, and organizations globally. These collaborations often result in joint research projects, internships, and academic exchanges.
Workshops and Seminars: UNIS regularly organizes workshops and seminars on career development, grant writing, and research methodologies, helping students prepare for careers in academia and research.
Networking Opportunities: Students have ample opportunities to network with visiting researchers, faculty members, and industry professionals through conferences, seminars, and collaborative projects.
Internships: While traditional corporate internships may be limited due to the location, students often find internship opportunities with research institutions, environmental organizations, and governmental agencies focused on Arctic and environmental studies.
Field Work: The hands-on fieldwork experience gained at UNIS is highly valued in scientific and environmental fields. This practical experience enhances students' employability in research, environmental consultancy, and related sectors.
Career Counseling: UNIS provides career counseling and guidance services to help students identify suitable career paths and opportunities based on their academic and research interests.
Alumni Network: The UNIS alumni network serves as a valuable resource for current students, offering insights into career paths and potential job opportunities.
City: Longyearbyen
Region: Svalbard
Country: Norway
Coordinates: Approximately 78°13'N latitude, 15°38'E longitude
Arctic Environment: Longyearbyen is located well above the Arctic Circle, offering unique opportunities for Arctic research and study.
Accessibility: Longyearbyen is accessible by air, with regular flights connecting to mainland Norway, primarily from Oslo and Tromsø.
Facilities: The town is equipped with essential facilities, including shops, restaurants, medical services, and cultural amenities.
Natural Environment: The location provides a unique natural environment for studying Arctic biology, geology, geophysics, and technology, with immediate access to glaciers, mountains, and fjords.
