About the project

In the report, engineering education in the Nordic countries is in focus. These countries offer similar programs with some differences. The main learning programs are engineering and applied engineering (engineering technology), where engineering programs are more theory based and applied programs focus on application and implementation. A practical final project, as well as an internship in an industrial firm, are usually a part of applied engineering programs. Programs in applied engineering as most often offered at university colleges or universities of applied sciences but can also be found in classical universities. The standard yearly workload in full time university programs is 60 ECTS.

Engineering education developed fast in the late 19th and early 20th century and further developed enormously with the restoration of Europe and the growing economy of the USA after World War II. Traditionally, from early in the 20th century, engineering programs of 5 to 7 years were taught towards an MSc degree, or equivalent, at classical research universities and were aimed at students with a strong interest and high level of competence in the STEM subjects. Programs in applied engineering were 3 to 4 years taught towards a BSc degree, or equivalent, practically oriented and very linked to the industry, aimed at students with a vocational background. Today, the difference between "engineering" and "applied engineering" is not as clearly defined, both paths are generally open to students with a variety of educational backgrounds.

This website includes information about engineering studies in the Nordic countries. This information will hopefully provide useful insights and foster interest in engineering education by giving a useful overview and comparison of the disciplines in the Nordic countries. 

Website designer: Viktor Andri Henriksen