University of Tromsø

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical instruction and extensive practical laboratory training to provide the core knowledge and skills required of a biomedical laboratory scientist. Modules typically cover clinical chemistry, microbiology, haematology, immunology, molecular diagnostics (including PCR and sequencing principles), pathology, transfusion science, and clinical microbiological techniques. Courses also address laboratory quality assurance, biosafety and bioethics, basic laboratory instrumentation and maintenance, statistics for laboratory practice, and digital laboratory information systems. A substantial element of the degree is supervised clinical practice in accredited laboratories and hospitals, where students apply methods, participate in diagnostic workflows and learn professional routines. The programme includes a final project or bachelor's thesis that normally involves an applied laboratory investigation or a quality improvement project within a clinical or research setting.

Entry requirements

Admission normally requires completion of upper secondary education with emphasis on mathematics and the natural sciences; applicants should have qualifications that meet the national equivalent of Norwegian upper secondary school. Specific science prerequisites often include courses in chemistry and biology and may include mathematics at a specified level. International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and proof of proficiency in the language of instruction. Practical suitability for laboratory work and a clean criminal record check may be required for clinical placements in healthcare settings. Applicants should consult the university's admissions information for detailed documentation requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to work as biomedical laboratory scientists (bioengineers/bioingeniører) in hospitals, primary healthcare laboratory services, public health laboratories, research institutes, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, food and environmental laboratories, and forensic laboratories. Typical roles include performing and interpreting diagnostic tests, managing laboratory quality systems, method development and validation, sample handling and data reporting, and contributing to outbreak investigation and surveillance. Many graduates pursue further specialisation through master's programmes or post-registration courses, and some move into supervisory, research, sales or regulatory roles related to laboratory medicine and diagnostics.

Why study at University of Tromsø

The University of Tromsø (UiT) is the northernmost university in the world and offers distinctive strengths in Arctic health, infectious disease, and biomedical research relevant to northern populations. The programme benefits from close collaboration with regional hospitals and clinical laboratories, providing realistic placement opportunities and exposure to a wide range of diagnostic cases. Students gain hands-on experience in well-equipped laboratories and can engage with research groups working on topics such as microbiology, molecular diagnostics and public health. The learning environment emphasises applied skills, patient safety and quality management, with opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary projects and to study health challenges specific to Arctic and rural contexts.