Discover the North
while earning a master's degree from Østfold University College in Norway.
Our partner university, Østfold University College, is an accredited public university-level institution in Halden and Fredrikstad. It has just under 8,000 students and some 650 employees and offers 23 bachelor’s and 14 master’s programs.
Image gallery: Østfold University College
Images: Property of Østfold University Colleges, Norway
How does this double degree work?
Students are given the opportunity to obtain two coordiated degrees, one of which is awarded by the partner institution in Norway. Students attend the first study year at the Lucerne School of Computer Science and Information Technology in Rotkreuz and their third and, if they so wish, forth semester, at Østfold University College. The university recognizes 60 ECTS previously earned at the Lucerne School of Computer Science and Information Technology. Students attend advanced modules and write their master’s thesis at the partner institution in Norway. The ECTS credits earned at Østfold University College are in turn recognized by the HSLU. The master's thesis must be on a topic with a sustainability angle. It will be co-supervised by both partner institutions.
What is the benefit of this double degree?
- Opportunity to earn two master’s degrees in just two years
- Rewarding international and life experiences
- Development of language and intercultural skills
- Expansion of personal network.
- Ideal preparation for a career in an international corporation
- It’s an investment in your future!
Which courses can I attend at Østfold University College?
Courses from the MSc program in Applied Computer Science. There are compulsory courses such as Scientific Methods, Ethics and Writing, while electives include Evolutionary Computation, International Design, and Cyber Security Governance. the choice of courses will be personally discussed with the students.
When and where will I write my master’s thesis?
Students write their master's thesis in the spring semester. However, they will already begin exploring topics and start preparations in the fall semester. The topic as well as the main and co-supervisor will be chosen in consultation with both institutions. The MSc thesis will be supervised and marked by both partner institutions. Students must present and defend their master's thesis in front of a panel of representatives from both institutions. They are not required to physically stay abroad at the guest university while developing their master's thesis, unless the topic requires their presence (e.g., use of a lab).
What are the semester dates at Østfold University College?
The fall semester starts in mid-August and ends in mid-December. The spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in mid-May.
What degree will I get from the HSLU?
Master of Science Hochschule Luzern / FHZ in IT, Digitalization & Sustainability (MSc ITDS).
What degree will I get from Østfold University College?
Master of Science in Applied Computer Science.
Are students required to pay study fees at Østfold University College?
No. They pay their study fees at the HSLU. Østfold University College does not charge any additional fees.
What is the cost of living in Halden?
Learn more about the cost of living in Halden, Norway here.
Where will I live?
The Foundation for Student Life (SiØ) is renting out modern student units near both campuses. Learn more here.
What are the requirements for participation in the program?
- A subject-specific bachelor’s degree worth at least 180 ECTS credit.
- Meeting the HSLU’s admission criteria for the MSc ITDS
- Successful completion of all first-year modules
Interested?
When starting the MSc ITDS program, students will be informed about the opportunity to study abroad in the second year. If you have any questions, contact international.it@hslu.ch.