University of Akureyri

What you'll study

The programme combines theory and applied case work drawn from real situations and uses methods from several disciplines. It draws chiefly on sociology, economics, human (cultural) geography and planning. Course teaching is organised in intensive blocks of one to three weeks and covers a broad range of topics related to community development; the study load is divided into 75 ECTS of taught courses and a 45 ECTS master’s thesis. A summer term in June shortens the standard academic calendar.

Entry requirements

Admission is open to applicants who hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. The programme welcomes candidates with diverse academic and professional backgrounds because of its interdisciplinary nature. Further details on required documentation are available via the University Centre of the Westfjords and the University of Akureyri application pages. The main application deadline is 15 February; a secondary deadline on 5 June is used only if places remain.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for work in regional and community development roles: positions in state and municipal government, regional organisations, planning authorities, advisory and consulting firms, and research institutions. The MA also provides access to a range of doctoral programmes at domestic and international universities.

Scholarships & funding angle

The programme page does not specify scholarships. Prospective students should consult the University of Akureyri and the University Centre of the Westfjords websites for up-to-date information on tuition, scholarships, application-related fees and other funding opportunities.