Types of Higher Education Institutions 

1 : Universitet : University


2 : Kunstnerisk uddannelsesinstitution : Higher Education Institution within the Arts


3 : Professionshøjskole : University College


4 : Erhvervsakademi : Business Academy

Description:Previous name: Academy of Professional Higher Education


5 : Maritim uddannelsesinstitution : Maritime Educational Institution

top Pre-Higher Education System

Age of 

entry:6

exit:19

Structure of School System 

Basic : Municipal school (Folkeskole), state subsidized private schools (Privat grundskole and Friskole), Continuation school (Efterskole)

Length of program:10

Age level from:6

Age level to:16

Certificate/Diploma awarded at end:Leaving certificate


Upper Secondary : General upper secondary school (Gymnasium)

Length of program:3

Age level from:16

Age level to:19

Certificate/Diploma awarded at end:Higher General Examination (STX)


Upper Secondary : General upper secondary school (Gymnasium), vocational college

Length of program:3

Age level from:16

Age level to:19

Certificate/Diploma awarded at end:Higher Commercial Examination (HHX), Higher Technical Examination (HTX)


Upper Secondary : HF course, Upper secondary school (Gymnasium), Adult education centre (VUC)

Length of program:2

Age level from:0

Age level to:0

Certificate/Diploma awarded at end:Higher Preparatory Examination (HF)


Vocational Secondary : Vocational college

Length of program:1½-5½

Age level from:16

Age level to:20

Certificate/Diploma awarded at end:Certificate of vocational education and training / Journeyman's certificate

Description of School System 

Basic education comprises a one-year pre-school class (Børnehaveklasse), nine years of primary and lower secondary education, and an optional Grade 10. Upon completion of Grade 9 or 10, students may go on to upper secondary school. General upper secondary education (STX, HF, HHX, HTX) prepares students for higher education. Vocational Education and Training (VET) prepares students directly for specific jobs, but most VET programmes also prepare students for direct admission to one or more short cycle professional higher education programmes. VET alternates between school and on-the-job training in an enterprise.
Primary and secondary education is largely the responsibility of the Ministry of Education, which sets up the framework for curricula. However, the contents of the courses are established by the schools (with their boards) and finalised by the teachers with their students. Vocational education and training is controlled by the Ministry of Education with the social partners as important parties.

top Higher Education System

Structure 

Higher education is offered by five types of higher education institutions:
1. Business Academies (Erhvervsakademier) offering professionally oriented short cycle and first cycle degree programmes;
2. University Colleges (Professionshøjskole) offering professionally oriented first cycle degree programmes;
3. Maritime Education Institutions offering professionally oriented first cycle degree programmes;
4. Research universities (Universitet) offering first, second and third cycle degree programmes in all academic disciplines;
5. Higher education institutions in architecture and art.
Most of the higher education institutions are regulated by the Ministry of Higher Education and Science (types 1 to 5). The Ministry of Culture regulates a small number of higher education institutions offering first, second and third cycle degree programmes in fine and performing arts (type 5).

Laws/Decrees 

Lov om åben uddannelse (erhvervsrettet voksenuddannelse) m.v. (LBK no. 814/2018) (2018)

Description:Adult and continuing education


Lov om professionshøjskoler for videregående uddannelser (LBL no. 152) (2018)

Description:Act on university colleges


Lov om akkreditering af videregående uddannelsesinstitutioner (LOV no. 173/2018) (2018)

Description:Accreditation of Higher Education Institutions act


Lov om erhvervsakademier for videregående uddannelser (LBK no. 153/2018) (2018)

Description:Act on academies of professional higher education


Bekendtgørelse om adgang m.v. ved bachelor-og kandidatuddannelser ved universiteterne (BEK no. 107/2018) (2018)

Description:Order on Access to Bachelor's degree programmes (Ministry of Higher Education and Science)


Lov om universiteter (universitetsloven) (LBK no. 172/2018) (2018)

Description:The University Act


Lov om adgangsregulering ved videregående uddannelser (LBK No. 1035/2017) (2017)

Description:Act on the regulation of access to higher education programmes


Bekendtgørelse om adgang til erhvervsakademiuddannelser og professionsbacheloruddannelser (BEK no. 1495/2017) (2017)

Description:Order on access to Academy Profession and Professional Bachelor's programmes


Lov om videregående uddannelse (videreuddannelsessystemet) for voksne (LBK no. 1038/2017) (2017)

Description:Adult/continuing higher education


Lov om erhvervsakademiuddannelser og professionsbacheloruddannelser (LBK no. 986/2017) (2017)

Description:Act on Academy Profession Programmes and Professional Bachelor Programmes


Bekendtgørelse om eksamen og censur ved universitetsuddannelser (BEK No. 1062/2016) (2016)

Description:Order on University Examinations and Grading


Bekendtgørelse om bachelor- og kandidatuddannelser ved universiteterne (BEK no. 1328/2016) (2016)

Description:University programme order


Lov om videregående kunstneriske uddannelsesinstitutioner (LBK nr. 59/2015) (2015)

Description:Act on higher education institutions in architecture and art (Ministry of Higher Education and Science)


Lov om vurdering af udenlandske uddannelseskvalifikationer m.v. (LBK no. 579) (2014)

Description:Assessment and of Foreign Qualifications Order


Bekendtgørelse om ph.d.-uddannelsen ved universiteterne og visse kunstneriske uddannelsesinstitutioner (BEK no. 1039) (2013)

Description:Act on PhD programmes


Bekendtgørelse om masteruddannelser ved universiteterne (BEK No. 1187) (2009)

Description:Act on university master programmes within adult higher education

Languages of Instruction 

Danish, English

Stages of Higher Education 

Non-university level : Academy Profession degree

Description:The Academy Profession degree is a short-cycle degree (EQF level 5) awarded after 90 - 150 ECTS (usually 120 ECTS), including a period of work placement of at least 15 ECTS.


University level first stage : Bachelor's degree

Description:Degrees at bachelor's level, i.e. first cycle degrees (EQF level 6), include: 1) Bachelor's degree from a university, awarded after 3 years of study (180 ECTS); 2) Bachelor's degree within the arts, also awarded after 3 years of study (180 ECTS); 3) Professional Bachelor’s degree, awarded after 180-270 ECTS (usually 180-240 ECTS), including a period of work placement of at least 30 ECTS.


University level second stage : Master's degree

Description:Degrees at master's level, i.e. second cycle degrees (EQF level 7), include: 1) The Master's degree from a university (candidatus/candidata, Danish: kandidatgrad), awarded after 2 years of study (120 ECTS points). A few Master's programmes are longer: Medicine (3 years, 180 ECTS points) and Veterinary Medicine (2½ years, 150 ECTS points); 2) The Master’s degree within fine arts, awarded after 120-180 ECTS.


University level third stage : PhD degree

Description:The PhD degree, i.e. third cycle degree (EQF Level 8) is awarded after a total of normally 8 years of higher education and research. The PhD programme itself normally lasts 3 years (180 ECTS points).


University level fourth stage : Doctoral degree

Description:This traditional higher doctoral degree (doktorgrad) may be obtained by mature researchers, usually after a minimum of 5-8 years of individual and original research and public defence of a dissertation. There is no formal study programme for this award.

Training of HE Teachers 

Teachers in higher education institutions must hold a degree at least equivalent to the level at which they are to teach. In addition, they must hold qualifications for teaching the subjects in question, which may be earned, for example, through research work, professional experience or study periods abroad.

Distance Higher Education 

Some programmes of open education are offered as distance education. Students meet with their teachers and co-students for two or three sessions per semester. The educational institution provides the syllabus, exercises and guidance. Distance education may also be Internet-based.

Education Exchange Programs 

ERASMUS+

Danish Government Scholarships under the Cultural Agreements with certain countries

Danish government scholarships for highly qualified non-EU/EEA students administered by the individual higher education institution

NORDPLUS

top Bodies

Governing bodies and other organizations / associations 

Uddannelses-og Forskningsministeriet

Role:Responsible for science, innovation and higher education

Street:PO Box 2135

City:København K

PostCode:1015

www:https://ufm.dk

Contacts:Christina Egelund (Head), Job title : Minister


Kulturministeriet

Role:Responsible for parts of higher education in fine and performing arts.

Street:Nybrogade 2

City:København K

PostCode:1203

www:https://kum.dk

Contacts:Jakob Engel-Schmidt (Head), Job title : Minister


Danske Universiteter

Role:An organization made up of the eight Danish universities and works to enhance cooperation, visibility and impact.

Street:Fiolstræde 44, 1. th

City:København K

PostCode:1171

www:https://dkuni.dk

Contacts:- Brian Bech Nielsen (Head), Job title : Chair
- Jesper Langergaard (Senior Administrative Officer), Job title : Director

Bodies Responsible for Recognition 

Danmarks Akkrediteringsinstitution

Role:Accredits institutions and programmes within the higher education area. Accreditation is used as a means to strengthen the quality assurance work at the institutional level. In addition, they gather and disseminate information about quality assurance, nationally as well as internationally.

Recognition for institution:yes

Street:Tidemandsvej 1

City:Holbæk

PostCode:4300

www:https://akkr.dk

Contacts:Anette Dørge (Head), Job title : Director


Styrelsen for Forskning og Uddannelse

Role:Danish ENIC/NARIC office providing assessments of foreign qualifications. Competent authority for the recognition of foreign teaching qualifications for primary and secondary school.

Services provided and types of students dealt with:Assessment of foreign qualifications and other information about foreign qualifications recognition.

Recognition for institution:yes

Recognition for profession:yes

Street:Haraldsgade 53

City:København Ø

PostCode:2100

www:https://ufm.dk/recognition

Contacts:Mikkel Buchter (Head), Job title : Head of Division

Bodies Responsible for Student Services 

Dansk Institut for Study Abroad - DIS

Role:DIS is a Danish non-profit study abroad institution in Copenhagen offering semester, academic year, and summer programmes taught in English, as well as organising overseas study for Danis students.

Street:Vestergade 7

City:København K

PostCode:1456

www:https://disabroad.org

Contacts:- Charlotte Mark (Head), Job title : Chair
- Malene Torp (Senior Administrative Officer), Job title : Executive Director


Studenterrådgivningen

Role:Student advisory body under the Ministry of Higher Education and Science, offering social and psychological support to students.

Street:Dronningens Tværgade 30, 2

City:København K

PostCode:1302

www:https://srg.dk

Contacts:Thomas Braun (Head), Job title : Director

Student Associations 

Danske Studerendes Fællesråd

Street:Jernbanegade 4, 2, tv.

City:København

PostCode:1608

www:https://www.dsfnet.dk

Contacts:- Julie Lindmann (Head), Job title : President
- Jacob Blasius (International Relations Officer), Job title : International Officer

Bodies Responsible for Financial Aid 

Styrelsen for Institutioner og Uddannelsesstøtte

Role:The agency has primary responsibility for the Danish students' Grants and Loans Scheme - see www.su.dk

Category of students:Danish citizens and a few categories of foreign citizens

Grants:yes

Loans:yes

Street:Bredgade 43

City:København K

PostCode:1260

www:http://www.su.dk

Bodies Responsible for International Cooperation 

Styrelsen for Forskning og Uddannelse

Role:The areas covered by the agency include EU and global cooperation within education and research, assessment and recognition of foreign education programmes, accreditation, and programmes supporting cooperation and mobility.

Street:Bredgade 43

City:København K

PostCode:1260

www:https://ufm.dk

top Admission to Higher Education

Secondary School Credentials Required for Non-University Level Admission 

Almen studentereksamen (Higher General Examination)

Minimum mark:Depending on institution and programme


Højere Forberedelseseksamen (Higher Preparatory Examination)

Minimum mark:Depending on institution and programme


Merkantil studentereksamen (Higher Commercial Examination)

Minimum mark:Depending on institution and programme


Teknisk studentereksamen (Higher Technical Examination)

Requirement for:Depending on institution and programme


Special upper secondary programme for non-Danish speaking students

Alternatives 

Individual assessment.
For Academy Profession programmes admission is also possible on the basis of a relevant vocational qualification (vocational education and training, at least 3 years) plus adequate general upper secondary courses (e.g. Maths, Physics, English) according to chosen institution and programme.

Numerus Clausus 

The Minister for Higher of Education and Science may fix a maximum number of student admissions within certain fields of study. Apart from that, individual institutions may have restricted admission for certain fields of study.

Other Requirements 

Depending on the programme, there are often other requirements concerning the entrance qualification, e.g. subject levels and minimum grades.

Secondary School Credentials Required for University Level Admission 

Almen studentereksamen (Higher General Examination)

Minimum mark:Depending on institution and programme


Højere Forberedelseseksamen (Higher Preparatory Examination)

Minimum mark:Depending on institution and programme


Merkantil studentereksamen (Higher Commercial Examination)

Minimum mark:Depending on institution and programme


Teknisk studentereksamen (Higher Technical Examination)

Minimum mark:Depending on institution and programme


Special upper secondary programme for non-Danish speaking students

Alternatives 

Individual assessment.

Numerus Clausus 

The Minister for Higher of Education and Science may fix a maximum number of student admissions within certain fields of study. Apart from that, individual institutions may have restricted admission for certain fields of study.

Other Requirements 

Depending on the programme, there are often other requirements concerning the entrance qualification, e.g. subject levels and minimum grades.
Højere Forberedelseseksamen – HF (Higher Preparatory Examination) gives access to university bachelor's programmes only when addition courses are included.

Foreign Students Admission 

Definition:A non-Danish citizen with a foreign entrance qualification.

Admission Requirements:The general admission requirement is a qualification that gives access to higher education in the country of origin and which is assessed and found comparable to the Danish entrance qualifications. For many programmes, there are also specific requirements which must be fulfilled. Further information about admission requirements and foreign qualifications accepted for entry to higher education programmes is available at the Study in Denmark website: http://studyindenmark.dk/study-options/admission-requirements

Quotas:Three quotas are fixed annually for applications for first-cycle programmes. Quota 1 is for applicants with a Danish upper secondary qualification and for applicants with an EU/EEA upper secondary qualification which the Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education has assessed as being comparable to a Danish upper secondary qualification. Applicants in quota 1 are assessed solely on the basis of the grade point average in the upper secondary qualification. This means that applicants with the highest grade point averages are admitted until all the seats are taken.

Quota 2 is for applicants with the abovementioned upper secondary qualifications who do not have a sufficiently high grade point average to be admitted in quota 1 and who also wish to be assessed on other qualifications such as work experience, extra-curricular activities, living abroad, etc. Each educational institution sets the criteria for admission through quota 2 for each programme. The application is automatically assessed in quota 1 simultaneously in case the applicant meets the required grade point average. Furthermore, quota 2 is for applicants holding non-EU/EEA upper secondary qualifications and residing in Denmark as well as for applicants who do not have an upper secondary qualification, but who have obtained qualifications comparable to an upper secondary qualification (exemptees).

Quota 3 is for non-EU/EEA nationals applying for an English study programme on the basis of a non-Danish upper secondary qualification and need a student residence permit to study in Denmark.

Health:Generally speaking, international students have access to the Danish healthcare system. Please refer to the Study in Denmark website for details on healthcare coverage: http://studyindenmark.dk/live-in-denmark/health-safety/healthcare

Language Proficiency:Applicants to English-taught programmes have to prove English proficiency comparable to a specified level in the Danish upper secondary school, depending on the programme in question.
For Danish-taught programmes you have to prove speaking and writing proficiency in Danish.
Please see the details about language requirements and tests on the website of the higher education institution or Study in Denmark: http://studyindenmark.dk/study-options/admission-requirements.

Entry Regulations:The procedures vary according to nationality. For information on visas, permits, etc., please visit the Study in Denmark website: http://studyindenmark.dk/live-in-denmark/permits-visas-red-tape
Students from outside the EU/EEA should be aware that the residence permit must be applied for from your home country and that there are certain financial requirements. If you need help when applying for a Danish residence permit, contact the International Office at the institution you have been accepted to.

Application to Individual Institution:Unknown

Application to Central Body:Yes

top Recognition of Studies

System of Recognition 

1) Accreditation:
Accreditation is mandatory for higher education institutions and a precondition for attaining public funding. The accreditation system is based on institution accreditation with focus on the ongoing systematic work of the educational institution to safeguard and develop the quality and relevance of its study programmes. Institutions with a positive institution accreditation are entitled to establish new study programmes and new offerings of study programmes after these have been pre-qualified and approved and to make adjustments to existing study programmes. Institutions that have not yet obtained a positive institution accreditation must have their study programmes accredited.
The Danish Accreditation Agency prepares accreditation reports for the purpose of the Accreditation Council's decisions concerning the accreditation of educational institutions and study programmes. Accreditation takes place on the basis of centrally laid down criteria including learning outcomes as defined by the Danish Qualifications Framework.
Institutions are required to set up their own internal quality assurance procedures. The Universities Act specifies the role of deans, heads of department and study boards, respectively, in assuring and developing the quality of education and teaching. Self-evaluation, in which students normally participate, is an integral mandatory part of any evaluation.
For more information, please visit the website of the Danish Accreditation Instituiton: https://akkr.dk/en/

2) Foreign qualifications recognition:
The Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education (Danish ENIC/NARIC office) provides assessments of foreign qualifications at all levels for academic as well as professional purposes. Decisions on admission of applicants with foreign qualifications are made by the educational institutions themselves, taking into consideration any assessment by the Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education as far as the level of the foreign qualification is concerned. Decisions on credit transfer of foreign qualifications to replace parts of a Danish study programme are made by the higher education institutions, but foreign qualification holders may appeal the decision to a special complaints board. Decisions on access to regulated professions are made by the competent public authorities.
For more information, please visit the website of the Ministry of Higher Education and Science: https://ufm.dk/recognition

Special Provisions for Recognition 

For Access to Non-University Post-Secondary Studies:The same as for university-level studies, see below.

For Access to University Level Studies:Information about foreign qualifications satisfying the level requirement for entry to undergraduate studies is available on the website of Ministry of Higher Education and Science: https://ufm.dk/recognition/entry
For admission to undergraduate studies, applicants with foreign credentials should apply through www.optagelse.dk before March 15. However, there may be different deadlines for applicants who are seeking admission to an English-language programme and need a residence permit for that – in that case please ask the educational institution for information about the deadline.
To learn more about admission requirements and applications, please visit the Study in Denmark website: http://studyindenmark.dk/study-options/admission-requirements

For Access to Advanced Studies/Research:Applications should be sent to the relevant institution of higher education.

For the Exercise of a Profession:Approval of foreign qualifications with a view to practising regulated professions is given by the authority administering the regulated profession in question. Applications should be sent directly to the relevant competent authority. More information about access to the regulated professions is available at the website of the Ministry of Higher Education and Science: https://ufm.dk/recognition/rp
For non-regulated professions, the Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education offers assessment of foreign qualifications: https://ufm.dk/recognition

Multilateral Agreements 

Nordic Declaration/Recognition of Qualifications Concerning Higher Education (Reykjavik Declaration) (2004)

Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education in the European Region (Lisbon Recognition Convention) (1997)

UNESCO Convention on the Recognition of Studies, Diplomas and Degrees Concerning Higher Education in the States Belonging to the European Region. (1979)

European Convention on the General Equivalence of Periods of University Study (1990)

European Convention on the Academic Recognition of University Qualifications. (1959)

European Convention on the Equivalence of Periods of University Study (1956)

European Convention on the Equivalence of Diplomas Leading to Admission to Universities (1953)

Agreement concluded by Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden on Admission to Higher Education (1996)

Other Info Sources 

ENIC/NARIC recognition portal: http://www.enic-naric.net/denmark.aspx

top Student Life

Social Security/Health Insurance for Home Students 

Is there social security:Yes

Cost/fee (per year):0 Danish Krone

Social Security/Health Insurance for Foreign Students 

Is there social security:Yes

Details:The Danish healthcare system offers equal and universal access for all residents. As an international student and resident in Denmark you will have access to free medical treatment with some exceptions, such as dental care and physiotherapy.
Please visit the Study in Denmark website for more information: http://studyindenmark.dk/live-in-denmark/health-safety/healthcare

Special Travel Concessions 

By Road:Yes

By Rail:Yes

By Air:No

Available to Foreign Students:Yes

Student Expenses and Aid 

National Students - Min Tuition Fees:0 Danish Krone

National Students - Max Tuition Fees:0 Danish Krone

Foreign Students - Min Tuition Fees:6000 Euro

Foreign Students - Max Tuition Fees:16000 Euro

Publications Listing Financial Aid 

Study Guides (http://studyindenmark.dk/guides)

Author:The Danish Agency for International Education

Year of publication:2010

top Credentials

 

Almen studentereksamen (Higher General Examination)

Description:The certificate is awarded on completion of the three-year general upper secondary programme "Gymnasium". The programme is academically oriented and aims to provide general education as well as to qualify students for higher education. The curriculum comprises compulsory core subjects and optional subjects at up to three different levels. The students have to sit 10 exams.

Acronym:STX

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no


Højere Forberedelseseksamen (Higher Preparatory Examination)

Description:The certificate is awarded on completion of a two-year general upper secondary programme. The emphasis of the HF programme is on both the theoretical and the practical. The education programme aims to develop the students’ capacity for in-depth study and their understanding of the connections between the subjects. The students are to attain analytical and critical skills and achieve insight into natural science, social science and humanistic contexts. They are also to develop their linguistic competences. Students sit examinations in all subjects taken. Students can take addition courses as part of the HF programme in order to gain access to university Bachelor's programmes.

Acronym:HF

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no


Merkantil studentereksamen (Higher Commercial Examination)

Description:HHX is a 3-year upper secondary programme aiming to provide general education as well as to prepare the student for higher education, particularly studies in business administration and management. The programme focuses on business and socio-economic disciplines in combination with foreign languages and other general subjects.

Acronym:HHX

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no


Teknisk studentereksamen (Higher Technical Examination)

Description:HTX is a 3-year upper secondary programme aiming to provide general education as well as to prepare the student for higher education, particularly studies in technological fields. The programme focuses on technological and scientific subjects in combination with general subjects.

Acronym:HTX

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no


Special upper secondary programme for non-Danish speaking students

Description:(Gymnasiale indslusningsforløb for flygtninge og indvandrere). One-year upper secondary bridging course for non-native citizens (immigrants and refugees) having completed an upper secondary school-leaving qualification in their home country and wanting to qualify for entry to Danish higher education.

Acronym:GIF

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no


Akademiuddannelse (Academy Profession degree from adult/continuing higher education)

Description:The Academy Profession degree within adult/continuing higher education is awarded after 2 years of part-time study (60 ECTS) at short cycle level. They are development-based and combine theoretical studies with a practical approach. The programmes prepare students for assuming occupational functions at specialist or middle management level and give access to relevant diploma programmes (adult/continuing higher education).

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Type of institution where credential is offered:Erhvervsakademi (Business Academy)


Erhvervsakademigrad (Academy Profession degree)

Description:The Academy Profession degree is awarded after 90-150 ECTS, usually 120 ECTS, and includes a period of work placement of at least 15 ECTS. The programmes are development-based and combine theoretical studies with a practical approach. Programmes are, among others, offered within Marketing Management, Computer Science and Chemical and Biotechnical Science. The Danish title is field of study followed by the abbreviation AK and the English title is AP Graduate in [field of study].

Acronym:AP

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Credential required for entry:Almen studentereksamen (Higher General Examination)
Teknisk studentereksamen (Higher Technical Examination)
Merkantil studentereksamen (Higher Commercial Examination)
Højere Forberedelseseksamen (Higher Preparatory Examination)
Special upper secondary programme for non-Danish speaking students

Type of institution where credential is offered:Erhvervsakademi (Business Academy)


Bachelorgrad (Bachelor's degree)

Description:The Bachelor's degree (bachelorgrad) from a university is awarded after 3 years of study (180 ECTS). The programmes are research-based. They do not include any components that could be classified as liberal arts. All programmes include a bachelor's project. The programmes are offered in all scientific fields. The programmes prepare students for occupational functions and for studies for the Master's degree (Kandidatgrad). The titles are: Danish: Bachelor (BA) i [field of study] or Bachelor (BSc) i [field of study]. English: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in [field of study] or Bachelor (BSc) of Science in [field of study]. In business administration, the title HA may be used. Legal studies: Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.).

Acronym:BA/Bsc

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Credential required for entry:Almen studentereksamen (Higher General Examination)
Teknisk studentereksamen (Higher Technical Examination)
Merkantil studentereksamen (Higher Commercial Examination)
Højere Forberedelseseksamen (Higher Preparatory Examination)
Special upper secondary programme for non-Danish speaking students

Type of institution where credential is offered:Universitet (University)


Diplomuddannelse (Diploma from adult/continuing higher education)

Description:The Diploma degree (diplomuddannelse) is awarded after 2 years of part-time study (60 ECTS). The programmes are development-based and combine theoretical studies with a practical approach. The programmes prepare students for assuming highly qualified occupational functions and give access to relevant Master programmes within adult/continuing higher education.

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Type of institution where credential is offered:Professionshøjskole (University College)


Kunstnerisk bachelorgrad (Bachelor’s degree within the arts)

Description:The bachelor's degree within the arts is awarded after 3 years of study (180 ECTS). The programmes are based on research and artistic research. Programmes are offered within the fine arts: architecture, design, music, etc. The titles are: English: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in [field of study], Bachelor of Music (BMus) [field of study] or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in [field of study]. Danish title: Bachelor (BA) i [field of study], Bachelor i musik (BMus) [field of study] or Bachelor i billedkunst (BFA) [field of study]. The degree normally gives access to a Master's (candidatus) programme in the same field of the arts.

Acronym:BA/BMus/BFA

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:yes

Type of institution where credential is offered:Kunstnerisk uddannelsesinstitution (Higher Education Institution within the Arts)


Professionsbachelorgrad (Professional Bachelor’s degree)

Description:The Professional Bachelor's degree is awarded after 3 to 4½ years of study (180-270 ECTS points). In some fields, the degree can also be obtained through a 1½ year top-up (90 ECTS) Professional Bachelor programme following a relevant Academy Profession degree. Professional bachelor programmes are offered at a level corresponding to that of university bachelor programmes, but with a stronger focus on professional practice. The programmes provide students with knowledge of theory and the application of theory to professions and industries. They are development-based and combine theoretical studies with a practical approach. They include periods of practical training and require the submission of a project paper. The lead to professions such as nurse, primary and lower secondary school teacher, or engineer. Most programmes give access to further studies in the same field, typically a Master programme within adult and continuing higher education or, on certain conditions, specific university Master's programmes. The Danish title is Professionsbachelor i [field of study] and the English title is Bachelor of [field of study].

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Credential required for entry:Almen studentereksamen (Higher General Examination)
Teknisk studentereksamen (Higher Technical Examination)
Merkantil studentereksamen (Higher Commercial Examination)
Højere Forberedelseseksamen (Higher Preparatory Examination)
Special upper secondary programme for non-Danish speaking students

Type of institution where credential is offered:Professionshøjskole (University College)


Billedkunstner (artist in visual arts)

Description:Qualification awarded by the Funen Art Academy and the Jutland Art Academy after a total of five years' study.

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:yes


Professionsbachelorgrad (4 yr Professional Bachelor’s degree)

Description:Professional bachelor's degree (professionsbachelorgrad) awarded 4 years study (240 ECTS) and includes a period of work placement of at least 6 months (30 ECTS). Can also be obtained through a top up bachelor’s programme following an Academy Profession degree. "Professional Bachelor" indicates, in relation to university bachelor's degrees, a similar level of education combined with a stronger focus on professional practice. The programmes provide students with knowledge of theory and the application of theory to professions and industries. They are development-based and combine theoretical studies with a practical approach. They include periods of practical training and require the submission of a project paper. Examples of degree holders are nurses, primary and lower secondary school teachers and certain types of engineers. Most programmes give access to further studies in the same field, typically a Master programme within adult and continuing higher education or, on certain conditions, specific university Master's programmes.

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Credential required for entry:Almen studentereksamen (Higher General Examination)
Teknisk studentereksamen (Higher Technical Examination)
Merkantil studentereksamen (Higher Commercial Examination)
Højere Forberedelseseksamen (Higher Preparatory Examination)
Special upper secondary programme for non-Danish speaking students

Type of institution where credential is offered:Professionshøjskole (University College)


Kandidatgrad (Master's degree)

Description:The Master's degree (candidatus/candidata, Danish: kandidatgrad) is awarded after 2 years of study (120 ECTS points). A few Master's programmes are longer: Medicine (3 years, 180 ECTS points) and Veterinary Medicine (2½ years, 150 ECTS points). The programmes are research-based and are offered in all scientific fields. Each programme builds on a relevant bachelor's degree. The programmes are completed with a Master's thesis (speciale) of 30 ECTS (or up to 60 ECTS if it is of an experimental nature). The programmes are offered in all scientific fields. The titles are: English: Master of Arts (MA) in [field of study] or Master of Science (MSc) in [field of study]. Danish: Cand. + latin abbreviation of academic area i [field of study], e.g.: cand.mag. (candidatus/candidata magisterii) i [field of study].

Acronym:MA/Msc

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Credential required for entry:Bachelorgrad (Bachelor's degree)

Type of institution where credential is offered:Universitet (University)


Kunstnerisk kandidatgrad (Master’s degree within the arts)

Description:The Master’s degree within the arts is awarded after 2 to 3 years of study (120-180 ECTS). The programmes are based on research and artistic research. The titles are: English: Master of Arts (MA) in [field of study], Master of Music (MMus) [field of study] or Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in [field of study]. Danish: Cand.[latin abbreviation of academic area] [field of study]]. Music Academies offer a specialist degree of 2 to 4 years following the Master’s degree.

Acronym:MA/MMus/MFA

Credential required for entry:Kunstnerisk bachelorgrad (Bachelor’s degree within the arts)

Type of institution where credential is offered:Kunstnerisk uddannelsesinstitution (Higher Education Institution within the Arts)


Masteruddannelse (Master degree from adult/continuing higher education)

Description:The Master degree is awarded after 2 (in certain cases 3) years of part-time study (60 ECTS, in certain cases 90 ECTS). The programmes are research-based and prepare students for assuming highly qualified occupational functions. The titles are: English: Master of [field of study]. Danish: Master i [field of study].

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Type of institution where credential is offered:Universitet (University)


Ph.d.-grad (PhD degree)

Description:The PhD degree is awarded after a total of normally 8 years of higher education and research. The PhD programme itself normally lasts 3 years (180 ECTS points) and comprises the following elements: - Conducting an independent PhD project under supervision - Completing a PhD thesis on the basis of the PhD project - Completing PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS points - Participating in active research environments, including long-term stays at other, primarily foreign, research institutions, private research companies, etc. - Gaining experience of teaching or other forms of knowledge dissemination. The programme is completed with the public defence of a PhD thesis demonstrating a capacity to carry out a scientific project involving independent application of the scientific methodology of the field in question.

Acronym:PhD

Entrance exam test at National level:no

Entrance exam test at Institution level:no

Credential required for entry:Kandidatgrad (Master's degree)

Type of institution where credential is offered:Universitet (University)
Kunstnerisk uddannelsesinstitution (Higher Education Institution within the Arts)


Doktorgrad (Doctoral degree)

Description:The doctoral degree is the highest degree, conferred after a variable number of years of study and on submission and defense of a major thesis. There is no formal study programme for this award. Several years' intensive research is necessary to produce a thesis of a sufficiently high standard. The award of the degree is based on a dissertation which is defended at a public, oral defence session. The doctoral degree is awarded in acknowledgement of the author’s considerable scientific insight and maturity, and of the author having contributed substantially to the advancement of science with the dissertation. Doctoral degrees are conferred in fields such as Law (dr. jur), Medicine (dr. med), Humanities (dr. phil), Science (dr. scient), Theology (dr. theol).

Acronym:Dr.

Credential required for entry:Kandidatgrad (Master's degree)
Ph.d.-grad (PhD degree)

Type of institution where credential is offered:Universitet (University)

top Data Provided by

AcademicYear 

From:2018

To:2019

Source 

IAU from the Danish Agency for Science and Higher Education, 2018. Bodies updated December 2022.

Updated on 27-08-2019