Introduction
Historical, social, economic and intellectual forces have outlined the broad contours of higher education in Sweden. While some factors have been intricately woven to and are unique to the Swede culture, some others have assumed their shape with the rapidly changing scenario. Higher education in the country is witnessing a rapid stride towards western European unity. While the rising neo-conservatism has put social democracy on the back foot, the rising preference for technology, on the other hand, has affected the old industrial pattern. Amidst this challenging environment higher education has emerged as a pill to cure the ailments that are plaguing the Swede culture.
In Sweden the broad emphasis has been on research and accordingly the education system has been divided into research and teaching institutions, the universities, and colleges that provide undergraduate education. Universities have maintained important divisions between the traditional methods and the newly incorporated study patterns that conform to the European standards. As a result of this wave of transformation, colleges in the country are also demanding full university status, which means higher education is likely to see good time in the near future. Rigorous quality control has been another factor behind the success of higher education in the country. The stress on quality is the reason why Sweden has one of the best educational evaluation programmes in Europe.
The universities in the country offer nearly 300 Master’s programme in varied streams ranging from human rights law to mechanical engineering. Programmes have been prepared keeping in mind the need of the students. And there is strong emphasis on developing a student-oriented education system.
Sweden has attracted a huge number of students from overseas countries. An estimated 7.5 percent of the students enrolled in various institutions in the country are from different countries. Candidates from more than 80 countries are pursuing their PhD in this Scandinavian country. Also, there is strong preference for English language here.
Besides academic degrees higher education institutions in the country also provide a number of professional degrees in streams like engineering, law and medicine. University education is free of charge in Sweden. However, the parliament of the country is contemplating plans to charge foreign students in future.
Admission Season in Sweden
The academic session in the country is divided usually into two terms. While the autumn term runs from mid or late August till mid-January, the spring term stretches from mid January till the beginning of June. During Christmas, there is a two-week recess.
Please click on the links below to access the colleges-
Colleges in Sweden
Universities in Sweden
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