Published 31/07/2014 in Funding Overview
Funding Overview

Higher Education in Sweden

Located in the North of Europe, Sweden, despite its relatively small population, boasts a very long and proud history of academic excellence. Sweden provides an omnipresence of diverse culture that extends beyond mere numbers and percentages. This diversity is blended with a vibrant environment which is bursting with innovation and creativity. These factors all work together to create a welcoming home for higher education students, whether EU /EEA or international. Being globally recognized as one of the premier sites to obtain higher education, Sweden is home to 53 universities and university colleges, of which 80% of the funding is provided by the Swedish government.
Quality Education in Sweden
Quality Education in Sweden

Educational system

The Tertiary Education system within Sweden is divided into two main areas : Research- Oriented education (which is subsequently offered by research universities) and higher professional education (offered by universities of applied sciences). A high percentage of these Universities are state-funded or subsidized, however a number of private universities and colleges also exist. In Sweden more than 40 universities exist, out of which three, able to award third cycle degrees are private, with the most renowned one being Chalmers University of Technology, located in Gothenburg.

Universities and University Colleges

The largest distinction between higher education schools lies within its names and functions. In Sweden, universities and university colleges högskola can be found that differ in a few key aspects. While universities are allowed to offer first, second and third cycle degrees to its students, university colleges are only allowed to offer first and second cycle degrees. However högskola are able to request and be granted the right to award PhDs in certain fields.

First and Second Cycle Degree

The most prominent degree programs in Sweden are first and second cycle programs. In autumn of 2012, a total of about 357,000 students were enrolled in first and second cycle degree programs, as compared to roughly 19,000 third cycle students during the same term in 2012. The most prominent first and second cycle degree programs are in the field of social sciences and law, with 42% of the total students, followed by humanities and theology with 16% and technology with 14% of all students.