Denmark is one of the most peaceful countries in the World. Their peaceful nature comes from a culture of excellence which influences its educational system, thereby, making it a top study destination for most international students.
According to the Ministry of Science and Higher Education, international students from all higher education programs contribute between DKK100,000 and 350,000 (US$15,222-53,2777) per student on average to the Danish economy in their lifetime with master’s graduates contributing the most.
The table of contents below clearly outlines what you’ll find in this article.
Table of contents
- What is University Education in Denmark Like?
- Why should I study in Denmark?
- How Many Universities Are In Denmark?
- Is Studying In Denmark Free For International Students?
- How Much Does It Cost To Study In Denmark For International Students?
- Are There Colleges In Denmark That Teach In English?
- How Can I Apply To Study In Denmark As An International Student
- What Are The Best Colleges In Denmark For International Students?
- University Colleges in Denmark
- Sources
- Recommendations
What is University Education in Denmark Like?
The Danish education system follows the same two-cycle model as the rest of Europe, dividing study into undergraduate (Bachelor’s) and postgraduate (Master’s and Ph.D./Doctorate).
This system facilitates and encourages international mobility within Europe, as the qualifications are equivalent throughout all countries involved in the Bologna agreement.
According to studyindenmark.dk, Higher Education in Denmark was ranked 3rd in 2016. Also, Government-funded education is usually free and open to all. Denmark has a tradition of private schools, and about 15.6% of all children at the basic school level attend private schools, which are supported by a voucher system.
However, Danish higher education comprises a university sector, the college sector, and an academy sector. There are five types of institutions offering higher education programs:
- Artistic Higher Education Institutions: These include research and/or artistically based undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
- Universities: It involves research-based undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
- University Colleges: Involves Academy Profession and professional Bachelor’s programs.
- Business Academies: includes short-cycle higher education institutions offering Academy Profession and joint Bachelor’s degree programs.
- Adult education. The opportunities for lifelong learning in terms of adult education are many. They are offered at all levels. Individual courses are also offered under the Act on Open Education, either at college or university
Moreso, It has been developed as a standard for governments, educational institutions and individuals, and it aims to highlight the importance of:
- Creating a solid environment for higher education institutions to contribute to economic and cultural development.
- Provide a high-quality experience for students.
Why should I study in Denmark?
Studying in Denmark can give you the greatest experience of your life. Denmark, one of the most popular international study destinations in Europe is renowned for its low study costs, high-quality English-taught Master’s degrees, and innovative teaching methods. For international students, Denmark’s great standard of living and variety of study subjects is the biggest attraction.
Studying in Denmark allows you to carry out research and get hands-on practical application of studies by aligning your course outline to meet the needs of the global labor market.
Moreso, the education system in Denmark, encourages open-ended learning and gives room for students to express their opinions freely.
You check out these Top 10 Denmark Scholarships For International Students
How Many Universities Are In Denmark?
In Denmark, there are 8 universities and other Higher education institutions like university colleges, business academies, and specialized institutions.
However, these universities offer bachelor’s degrees which last for three years, master’s degrees (two years), and doctoral degrees (three years).
Also, these Universities are being chartered, licensed, or accredited by the appropriate Danish higher education-related organization
Below is a list of the eight universities in Denmark awarding bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees:
- University of Copenhagen,
- Technical University of Denmark
- Copenhagen Business School, Frederiksberg
- Aarhus University
- Roskilde University, Roskilde
- Aalborg University
- University of Southern Denmark
- IT University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen
Is Studying In Denmark Free For International Students?
According to topuniversities, education is free for Danish students and those from the EU, but for international students from outside the EU/EEA, the tuition fees range from 6,000 to 16,000 EUR/year.
Higher education is also free for students who, at the time of application,
- Have permanent residence
- Have temporary residence with the possibility of obtaining permanent residence;
- And have a residence permit in accordance with Section 1 §9 m of the Aliens Act as the accompanying child of a foreign national who has a residence permit on the basis of employment etc., see Section 1 §9 of the Aliens Act. (Danish text)
Convention refugees and protected persons under the Aliens Act, as well as relatives of such persons, are encouraged to contact the relevant higher education institution or university for guidance on payment (tuition fees).
How Much Does It Cost To Study In Denmark For International Students?
If you’re a student from outside the EU/EEA, expect tuition fees ranging from 6,000 to 16,000 EUR/year. More specialized study programs can amount to 35,000 EUR/year.
All others must pay tuition fees typically ranging from 45,000 to 120,000 DKK per year, equivalent to 6,000 to 16,000 EUR.
Nonetheless, there are scholarships and grants available to aid the payment of tuition fee costs. Danish students get public support for their living costs while at university.
Are There Colleges In Denmark That Teach In English?
Certainly. Irrespective of the fact that Denmark’s official language is Danish, there are a good number of universities in Denmark that teach in English.
These universities offer different degree programs for both national and international students. Below is a list of some Universities in Denmark that teach in English
- Aalborg University (AAU)
- Aarhus School of Architecture.
- Aarhus University (AU)
- Copenhagen Business School (CBS)
- Dania Academy.
- Danish National Academy of Music.
- Danish School of Media and Journalism (DMJX)
- Design School Kolding.
How Can I Apply To Study In Denmark As An International Student
If you wish to study in Denmark, here are the steps you need to take to secure admission to your preferred institution.
#1 Choose a university
The first step to studying in Denmark for international students is to browse through our list of colleges in Denmark for international students and choose the one that suits their intentions.
#2 Check the school’s admission requirements
Before applying, you’ll need to check that your chosen university recognizes your qualifications.
To gain admission to any Danish university, your qualifications must be the equivalent of a Danish upper secondary school leaving certificate. However, for certain undergraduate programs, a relevant vocational qualification may be sufficient.
By checking out the school’s admission requirements and also the course-specific admission requirement, you’ll be better informed about how to go about the process of securing admission.
#3 Language skills
Many non-Danish applicants apply for programs taught in English. To that end, applicants must submit proof of English proficiency to an English level B in Denmark. Universities usually state their benchmark scores on their websites.
On the other hand, if you’re applying to a Danish taught course, you’ll have to pass a Danish language test to prove a level of proficiency. You can take either ‘Danish as a Foreign Language’ (‘Studieprøven i dansk som andetsprog’) or ‘Danish Test 2’ (‘Danskprøve 2’). Some programs may require that you have passed ‘Danish Test 3’ (‘Danskprøve 3’).
If you are a student from one of the Nordic countries you will not be required to pass a Danish test if you studied Danish, Norwegian, or Swedish as part of your entry requirement.
Find out more about these tests on the Ministry of Higher Education and Science website.
#4 Fees and funding
For students from the EU/EEA and Switzerlan, expectd, higher education in Denmark is free for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
If you’re a student from outside the EU/EEA, you should expect tuition fees ranging from 6,000 to 16,000 EUR/year. More specialized study programs can amount to as much as 35,000 EUR/year.
#5 Apply
Applications to study in Denmark are done through a national admissions site by 15th March, annually.
Here you will apply to universities and attach the required documents to the universities you’re applying to.
To apply, you’ll need a signature and verification of your ID for each of the courses you are applying to.
If you are a Danish citizen or hold a residence permit, this is done with electronic signature NemID, a digital identification tool that will have been issued to you previously. If you’re an international student, you must print a signature page from optagelse.dk, sign it and send it to the universities you are applying for. The page will contain an application ID which the universities use to download your application.
What Are The Best Colleges In Denmark For International Students?
The best universities in Denmark have met all our levels of consideration.
Below is a list of Best Colleges in Denmark for International Students
#1. University of Copenhagen
Location: Fredrik Bajers Vej 5, DK 9220 Aalborg
The University of Copenhagen is one of the premier European universities and one of the best universities in Denmark.
The university is known as an established research center owned by the International Alliance of Research Universities. The IARU is a network of research-intensive institutions that also includes the University of California, Berkeley, University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, and Yale University.
University of Copenhagen offers 49 undergraduate, master’s, and doctorate degree programs in a wide range of fields. Meanwhile, many courses at this university are taught in Danish, English courses are just a few.
Furthermore, the university was officially accredited by the Uddannelses- og Forskningsministeriet (Ministry of Higher Education and Science, Denmark), and its acceptance rate is 44%.
#2. Aarhus University
Location: Nordre Ringgade 1, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
Aarhus is a city on the west coast of Denmark’s Jutland peninsula and the university campus is located in the city center. As well as being a leading research institution, Aarhus university is well known for its arts subjects.
This top university in Denmark for international students offers over 229 courses taught in English which combine both an undergraduate, master’s, and postgraduate level.
The university was officially accredited by the Uddannelses- og Forskningsministeriet (Ministry of Higher Education and Science, Denmark).
#3. Technical University of Denmark
Location: Anker Engelunds Vej 1 Bygning 101A, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
The Technical University of Denmark is among the top colleges in Denmark for international students. It is also known as the forefront of engineering institutions across the European continent, having merged with five other research centers in 2007. The university enrolls up to 11,190 students every year which includes both national and international students.
Basically, the university offers undergraduate courses that are taught in either Danish or English. Also, the university offers 32 master’s programs focusing on modern engineering that is taught entirely in English.
DTU is a technical elite university with international reach and standard. Their mission is to develop and utilize science and technical science for the benefit of society
The Danish Accreditation Institution (member of ENQA) officially accredited the university.
#4. Aalborg University
Location: Fredrik Bajers Vej 5 P.O. Box 159, DK – 9100 Aalborg, Denmark
Aalborg University is among the best universities in Demark for international students.
Basically, the University of Aalborg offers 130 courses in undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs which award certificates in a wide range of subjects in social sciences, humanities, information technology, design, engineering, exact sciences, and medicine.
All degree programs and research activities at Aalborg University are problem and project-based and have an interdisciplinary focus. Through the strong interplay between staff and students and intense collaboration with public and private sectors, AU offers degree programs with a real-world approach and provides world-class research.
#5. Copenhagen Business School
Location: Solbjerg Pl. 3, 2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark
Located in the affluent Frederiksberg region, 23,000 students from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) study economics, languages, communications, politics, and more, all with an industrial and business focus. This is one university in Denmark for international students.
Basically, CBS carries out many part-time programs and courses. These include two-year executive masters and 4-year diplomas, along with summer university and short courses.
Furthermore, CBS offers an MBA with accreditation from AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB, which has been awarded the “Triple Crown”, an award that includes only 56 business schools internationally.
SEE ALSO: Copenhagen Business School PhD Scholarship for International Students in Denmark
#6. University of Southern Denmark
Location: Campusvej 55 DK-5230, Odense M, Denmark
Next on our list of the best universities in Denmark is the University of Southern Denmark. This top Danish University offers world-class education to both national and international students at all levels.
Basically, the institution has five faculties which include the Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, Engineering, Science, and Health.
Thus, these faculties put together offers 82 courses in different programs ranging from undergraduate, master’s, and doctorate degree programs.
In addition, programs offer three years of university studies, while master’s programs include two years of graduate studies. Also, the university has about 35 departments, 30 research centers, and a well-equipped university library.
Interestingly, you can even apply for Danish Government Scholarship at the University of Southern Denmark
#7. Roskilde University
Location: Universitetsvej 1, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
Roskilde University is a public university and among the best universities in Denmark for international students. Basically, this university relies on innovative forms of student-centered education, strong multidisciplinary research environments.
And also, has a common approach to addressing great social, cultural, economic, and economic challenges.
Moreso, Roskilde University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and postgraduate programs taught in English.
#8. IT University of Copenhagen
Location: Rued Langgaards Vej 7 2300 Copenhagen Denmark
The University of Information Technology in Copenhagen is a public university and a research institution in Copenhagen. It is known as one of the top universities for international students in Denmark.
The University of Information Technology in Copenhagen offers 3 undergraduate programs, 4 master’s programs, and an extensive doctoral program.
In addition to professional master’s and diploma programs, which include interdisciplinary studies in science, humanities, design, and business.
Moreso, these university facilities provide a workspace for group work and individual studies after school.
Furthermore, the university was officially accredited by the Uddannelses- og Forskningsministeriet (Ministry of Higher Education and Science, Denmark)
University Colleges in Denmark
University Colleges in Denmark are regarded as a place of higher learning in Denmark. They provide profession-specific tertiary education, which is also known as medium higher education (MVU), and diploma courses.
Also, they offer first-cycle higher educational programs (i.e. professional bachelor programs) and certain academy profession programs, further adult education, and diploma programs. There are also eight university colleges in Denmark that award professional bachelor’s degrees;
- KEA – Copenhagen School of Design and Technology, Copenhagen
- Danish School of Media and Journalism, Aarhus
- University College Absalon, Sorø
- University College Lillebaelt, Vejle
- Metropolitan University College, Copenhagen
- University College Copenhagen, Copenhagen
- University College of Northern Denmark, Aalborg
- VIA University College, Aarhus
- The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts – Schools of Architecture, Design, and Conservation
#9 KEA – Copenhagen School of Design and Technology, Copenhagen
KEA was established in 2008 because of the Business Academies Act, which was passed by the Folketing in March 2007.
Copenhagen School of Design and Technology (KEA) offers practice-oriented, higher education developed in close cooperation with the business community and educational institutions in Denmark and abroad.
KEA offers a wide range of practice-oriented higher education at the business academy and professional bachelor level.
In addition to 32 Danish and international full-time educations, KEA also has numerous continuing education programs.
They offer continuing education in construction, energy, HR, installation, IT, communication, management, production & industry, sales & marketing, health & optometry, economics.
#10 Danish School of Media and Journalism
Danmarks Medie- og Journalisthøjskole is a merger of Den Grafiske Højskole and Danmarks Journalisthøjskole. The media industry found both colleges, and the purpose was then, as now, to build knowledge centers that provide the best possible specialized workforce in the fields.
The Graphic Arts College was founded in 1943, while from 1946 journalism was taught as a course at Aarhus University. But from 1962, the Danish School of Journalism became the only official place to train journalists in Denmark.
At DMJX, they train communicators who can create messages in words, images or animations that other people can decode and understand – and thus shape the world with.
#11 University College Absalon, Sore
University College Absalon is one of the best colleges for international students in Denmark. It offers twelve professional bachelor’s degree programs – two of which are taught in English.
Being the first university college in Denmark to achieve an institutional graduate, UCA prides itself on quality assurance and believes in the power of effective collaboration.
These programs are all taught in Danish, except for Engineering in Biotechnology and the International Honours Degree in Teaching.
#12 University College Lillebaelt, Vejle
The next school on our list of colleges in Denmark for international students is UCL University College.
UCL University College was founded on 1 August 2018 after the merger between Business Academy Lillebaelt and University College Lillebaelt.
Situated in the Region of Southern Denmark, home to more than 1.2 million Danes, UCL University College provides a talented workforce and offers opportunities for higher and continuing education and applied research to a variety of end-users.
It offers more than 40 academy and professional higher education programs within Business, Technology and Buildings, Education and Social Sciences, and Health Sciences.
In addition, the institution offers Continuing Professional Development aimed at professionals in many fields.
#13 Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Design
Location: Philip De Langes Allé 10, 1435 København, Denmark
The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, School of Design, also known as the Danish Design School is an institution of higher education in Copenhagen and among the top Universities in Denmark. Basically, this institution offers a five-year design education.
Moreso, KADK builds on strong traditions in the three historically rooted schools: architecture, conservation and design. The school enrolls up to 8040 students.
In addition, KADK education is based on a mixture of theory and practice. Much of the teaching is done on the drawing board, in workshops, in joint presentations, and in academic seminars in small units of teachers and students. Programs they offer include
Furthermore, the university was officially accredited by the Kulturministeriet, Danmark (Ministry of Culture, Denmark), and its acceptance rate is 6% which makes it be more competitive.
#14 Danish School of Media and Journalism (DMJX)
Location: Olof Palmes Allé 11, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
The Danish School of Media and Journalism is an institution of higher education at the Center for Media and Journalism and among the top schools in Denmark.
They offer advanced programs in English in photojournalism, multimedia, global politics, public relations, communication design, etc.
Some of the Short-term Programs offered include
- Corporate Communication
- Creative Communication
- Europe in the World
- Graphic Design
- Interactive Design
- Journalism, Multimedia and World Politics
- Media Production and Management
- Photojournalism – Advanced Visual Storytelling
- Photojournalism – The Language of Photojournalism
- TV and Media Production
- TV Journalism: Video Storytelling
DMJX was officially accredited by the Uddannelses- og Forskningsministeriet (Ministry of Higher Education and Science, Denmark).
#15 Copenhagen School of Design and Technology
KEA – Copenhagen School of Design and Technology is a higher education school in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Basically, the degree programs offered are mainly applied degrees, especially in design, technology and information technology. The academy awards university and professional degrees and does not have a high school.
In addition to full-time studies, the Academy offers complimentary educational programs, part-time programs at the undergraduate level, and short-term courses for people who need to improve their qualifications.
The university holds accreditation from the Uddannelses- og Forskningsministeriet (Ministry of Higher Education and Science, Denmark)
#16 Metropolitan University College
Metropolitan UC or MUC, is a university college offering a range of bachelor’s degree and academy profession degree programs in Copenhagen, Denmark.
All programs are taught in Danish except for a bachelor’s degree in Global Nutrition and Health. A range of courses and modules in English are available to exchange students.
The Metropolitan UC is organized in two faculties with a total of nine departments. Its activities are spread out on a number of sites, in Nørrebro, Frederiksberg, and central Copenhagen. It has a total of approximately 9,000 students spread over 15 medium-term higher education.
#17 Design School Kolding
Founded in 1967, Design School Kolding (Danish: Designskolen Kolding) is a design school located in Kolding, Denmark.
It delivers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the areas of fashion, textiles, communication design, industrial design, accessory design, and design for people, design for the planet, and design for play (people, planet, and play are offered only as part of the MA program).
The design school Kolding has approximately 340 enrolled students and a number of PhD students, including business PhD students. Every year, the school admits about 150 new students – 80 in the bachelor’s program and 70 in the master’s program. In addition, the school offers a master’s degree in design management in collaboration with the University of Southern Denmark.
Sources
- https://www.topuniversities.com/where-to-study/europe/denmark/guide
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_universities_and_colleges_in_Denmark
- https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/best-universities/best-universities-denmark
- https://studyindenmark.dk/
- https://www.mastersportal.com/ranking-country/6/denmark.html
- https://ufm.dk/en/the-ministry/organisation/the-ministry
