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Top reasons to study at University Centre of the Westfjords

Life in a vibrant coastal community fosters lifelong connections. With personalized attention from instructors and meaningful peer interactions, UW's small student group provides a strong sense of belonging. Nestled in the scenic town of Ísafjörður, surrounded by mountains and the ocean, students can enjoy outdoor adventures like kayaking, skiing, hiking, and surfing after class. 

About University Centre of the Westfjords

Country Iceland
Number of courses 2
Year founded 2005

The University Centre of the Westfjords is a small higher educational organization located in Ísafjörður, Iceland. It offers two international and multidisciplinary master‘s programmes: Coastal Marine Management, MRM and Coastal Communities and Regional Development, MA.

Costal Marine Management focuses on natural resource management, sustainability, biology, sociology and economics while Coastal Communities and Regional Development focuses on the challenges of coastal communities, social sciences and humanities. The courses are modular, with plenty of international lecturers, company visits and field trips.

Ísafjörður is a rural town with a population around 2700 and is the largest town in the Westfjords. In a peaceful fjord, surrounded by mountains, it provides spectacular conditions for various winter and summer activities so it truly is a magical place to study in. An added bonus to studying in Ísafjörður is that the costs of living are lower than in Reykjavík.

Application deadlines

15 February first deadline - for the best chance of admission

15 April second deadline - *

5 June - for EU/EEA citizens based on avilability 

If you have any questions about the application process, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or [email protected]

* Please note that non-EU/EEA citizens need to gather multiple documentations for visa and/or residence permits and we recommend to apply before the first deadline. 

Learn more about University Centre of the Westfjords

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Courses at University Centre of the Westfjords

There are 2 courses listed from University Centre of the Westfjords. These are displayed below in alphabetical order:

Student reviews of University Centre of the Westfjords

Find out what students say about University Centre of the Westfjords

Student

Laurent Trottier: Alum in the Coastal Communites and Regional Development master's program

Ísafjörður is a wonderful and tightly knit community. I feel very lucky to study and live in such a unique place, close to nature and gorgeous views. Studying at UW was a great opportunity to broaden my horizons academically and to engage in enriching discussions and projects. The hands-on approach, filled with field trips and direct interaction with the study topics, is definitely refreshing and captivating. Being able to kayak in the fjord and meet some seals between classes is also a very nice bonus!

Student

Orla Mallon: Alum in the Coastal Marine Management master's program

Studying coastal and marine management in Isafjordur has been an incredible experience. It is amazing to be part of a small university where every experience is very personal. There are countless opportunities offered and different needs catered for through the broad syllabus. I have met many inspirational people since moving here and have enjoyed the remoteness and beauty of the fjord. I would recommend the experience to anyone that is considering applying to UW.

Location of University Centre of the Westfjords

University Centre of the Westfjords main campus location is shown on the map below:

Map showing location of University Centre of the Westfjords

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Accommodation Information for Students

There are many options for accommodation within the town. UW's student housing was built in 2023. There are 40 studio apartments in two buildings, which are situated right by the ocean offering stunning views. Just a 10-minute walk from UW, it's the perfect place to make lifelong friends and experience student life the fun way. There is also housing options on the private market where students can rent rooms or apartments from locals. Almost all services are within walking distance from the University Centre, for example a grocery store, swimming pool and fitness gym.

Facts about University Centre of the Westfjords

  • Year institution founded: 2005