For all enquiries please contact the Exchange Office at exchange@otago.ac.nz.
Last updated June, 2023
Academic information
The University of Bergen offers a large number of courses taught in English at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Spring semester: January–June
Autumn semester: August–December
Full-time workload: 30 ECTS
Otago science students can experience unique fieldwork studies at the world's northernmost higher education institute via Bergen at the University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS) in Spitsbergen. This is an incredible field-based teaching experience in the very north of Norway (artic circle) – artic biology, artic geology, artic geophysics and artic technology research. All courses are taught in English.
Otago psychology students have access to a range of English taught courses in areas across trauma/stress, behaviour, health and nutrition, developmental, cognitive, organisational and environmental psychology.
Accommodation and the cost of living
Accommodation
As a new international student you are guaranteed a single room in one of SiB's student housing if you:
- are staying at UiB for one semester or more.
- arrive at the start of the semester (rent must be paid from 1 August or 1 January).
Student visa
Many countries have comprehensive requirements when applying for a student visa. Please check the Ministry of Foreign affairs website to obtain up to date information.
Note: the Exchange Advisers are not able to give visa advice.
Exchange experiences
The University, city and region
The University of Bergen is the second oldest university in Norway and an international research university with major interdisciplinary width. The university is located in the middle of Bergen, and has been involved in shaping the history of the city.
As well as six faculties, UiB also have a University Library with departments at all faculties, who collect and make available information for research, education, teaching and dissemination. There is also a University Museum with some of the largest collections within cultural and natural history in Norway. There are a total of 14,800 students and around 1,550 of these are international students.
City of Bergen
Bergen is the second largest city in Norway and the administrative and educational center of western Norway. Although with 265,000 inhabitants, it is a small city by international standards, Bergen is a vibrant city with personality and charm. Located by the Atlantic Ocean, the history and development of Bergen are closely linked to trade routes at sea and a constant interaction with the outside world.
The city center is naturally framed by mountains and the sea, resulting in a compactness that ensures that most things are within easy walking distance. Make use of the city and its surroundings and enjoy Bergen!
The cultural scene in Bergen is very dynamic. Everything from classical music in the Grieg Hall to what is possibly Norway's best rock venue, Hulen, has led to Bergen being considered by many as the country's musical capital.
Further information
For further information about Otago Global Student Exchange please email exchange@otago.ac.nz