Aim of the Programme

The goal of this two-semester program is to offer international undergraduate students an extended period of immersion into the cultural setting of academic studies. All totaled, the courses will provide a broad range of social and cultural insights into Telemark and Norway: past and present. Together with personal developments of learning by adjusting to a new culture, the students will be exposed to the requirements of critical thinking and independent work, which characterize the Norwegian academic context.

Curriculum and structure

The courses are offered in English and are mainly at upper division undergraduate level. Students may register for additional courses that total more than 60 Norwegian study points. Some courses are offered on a rotational basis.

Teaching and Learning Methods

This program is a full-time, full academic year of study (60 study points/ECTS credits), extending through 17 weeks + 17 weeks including an orientation week, a fall and spring break. One week of exameniations in December and one final week of examinations in May.

Learning methods include lectures (contact hours: 45 minutes), group work, seminars, tutoring, field work and independent study.

Assessment Methods

Final assessment is based on a variety of tasks: papers, tests, reports, oral presentations, final individual written examinations; the grade scale is from A-F; E is the last passing grade. Pass/No Pass applies to some courses.

Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean