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 and intermediate levels. 

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

  • Take one to two courses for a total of 9-10 quarter/6-6.6 semester UC units from one of the following options:
    • One 8 quarter/5.3 semester UC unit course taken for a letter grade plus a 1 quarter/0.7 semester UC unit special study research project graded pass/no pass
    • One 10 quarter/6.6 semester UC unit Norwegian language course. Levels I and II are graded pass/no pass only; level III may be taken for a letter grade or pass/no pass

Current Program Courses

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

You will choose from the following course combination options:

Option 1

One course worth 8 quarter/5.3 semester UC units:

  • Norwegian Architecture, Urban Planning and Design
  • Gender Equality in the Nordic Countries
  • The Vikings and Medieval Norway

Required 1 quarter/0.7 semester UC unit special study:

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

One Intensive Norwegian Language course for 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

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.