Academics

Fields of Study: Humanities, Social Sciences

Each year students from some 90 countries travel to Norway to attend the University of Oslo International Summer School—and for good reason. This program is filled with interactive moments, idea exchanges between a vast variety of cultures and backgrounds, and field experiences that allow you to see classroom subjects come to life. Coursework takes a comparative approach to subjects within the social sciences and humanities, with Norway as the basis for discussion. You’ll return with a deep understanding of the history, culture, and beauty of Norway and Scandinavia.

Unique study opportunities

  • Go on class field trips throughout Oslo and surrounding areas.
  • Experience a variety of educational activities, including a cultural evening with performances, food, and conversation from all over the world.

Language

Language of Instruction: English

Norwegian Language Study: Optional

Norwegian language courses are available at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. 

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

  • Take a total of 9-10 quarter/6-6.6 semester UC units from one of the following options:
    • One elective course worth 8 quarter/5.3 semester UC units plus a special study research project worth 1 quarter/0.7 semester UC unit
    • One intensive Norwegian language course worth 10 quarter/6.6 semester UC units
  • Courses must be taken for a letter grade unless noted below as graded pass/no pass only

Current Program Courses

Course offerings vary each summer and include topics in the social sciences and humanities. Other than the beginning and intermediate Norwegian language classes, all courses are upper-division.

You will choose from the following options:

Option 1

One elective course worth 8 quarter/5.3 semester UC units:

  • Art in Norway
  • From Ibsen to Fosse: An Introduction to Norwegian Literature
  • Gender Equality in the Nordic Countries
  • The Vikings and Medieval Norway

Special Study worth 1 quarter/0.7 semester UC unit:

  • Research Project (graded pass/no pass only)
Option 2

One Norwegian language course worth 10 quarter/6.6 semester UC units:

  • Intensive Elementary Norwegian, Level I (graded pass/no pass only)
  • Intensive Intermediate Norwegian, Level II (graded pass/no pass only)
  • Intensive Intermediate Norwegian, Level III
  • Intensive Advanced Norwegian, Level IV

Additional or optional coursework, internships, or research outside the program are not possible.

Catalogs and resources

  • UiO Summer Course Catalog: Click on the course title for a full course description. You will choose from the list of bachelor’s courses.
  • UCEAP Course Catalog: See a list of courses students have taken on this program. This is not a current representation of course offerings on this program. Reference the above links to review recent course offerings. 
  • Campus Credit Abroad: Learn the types of credit (major, minor, general education, elective) students from your campus received at this location.

Academic culture

With its motto “Come to Norway, Experience the World,” the International Summer School commits to offering a truly global experience to every student. From its opening ceremony and reception through its extensive academic and social program with excursions and events, the school lives up to its reputation as an international learning environment. Instructors include faculty from the University of Oslo and from universities outside of Norway.

The summer is intensive and compact. You'll be in class Monday through Friday for about three hours each day. Daily attendance is required, and you will need to prepare for and actively participate in class. The method of exams varies per course. Your grade may be based on a group project, mid-term, final, take-home exam, or any combination of these. Retaking exams is not an option.

Grades

You will earn direct UC credit and grades for all coursework. 

Grades for this program are typically available in early October.