As any statistic will tell you, Denmark is the happiest country in the world, but how do the Danes keep their spirits so high? Can this have any positive effect on international students? Is it connected to the influx of international students?
Here are some answers to these questions:
Why is Denmark such a happy place?
It has mainly something to do with the high standard of living in this Nordic country that includes economic and gender equality and a very well developed welfare system. Denmark is a highly-developed nation, with some interesting traits:
- one of the highest GDP/capital in the world – 58,000 EUR/year
- second place in Europe for air quality and environmental safety
- one of the lowest crime rates in the world
- work week is 37 hours and employees are allowed to take 5 weeks of holiday/year
- low or no tuition fees
Why does this matter to you?
The general atmosphere in Denmark is important for potential international students because relocating to a new country can be quite stressful, especially for young people. This is why the learning environment (as well as the place where you are living) influences your attitude towards your field, studies and, ultimately, your chosen career path. This means that making the right choice can give you a moral boost, while making a mistake can bring setbacks and long-term difficulties in your profession.
Read testimonials of these students who pursued a degree in Denmark:
How do students benefit from the good cheer?
It is not only the positive atmosphere of campuses, communities and cities in Denmark that are beneficial to students’ experience, but also the results of the social security system, the additional financial facilities and even the accessibility for international students.
Enjoy the welcoming nature of top Danish universities such as:
- Aarhus University
- Roskilde University
- Aalborg University
- University of Copenhagen
- University of Southern Denmark
What is the Danish approach to higher education?
Students are perceived by the Danish authorities as part of the natural resources of the country and a great option to invest in for a better future. Unsurprisingly, this approach extends to international students, who benefit from the same facilities, reductions and solutions.
This is mainly because Denmark is a fairly expensive country and for its education model to retain its competitiveness, tuition fees were scrapped for most categories in favour of an inclusive and accessible higher education.
Research all you want and become an innovative thinker
Universities in Denmark are known for their thriving learning environment and high standard education. The strengths of the teaching and learning style of Danish universities lie in the problem-based learning methods that encourage students to find their own solutions and become innovative thinkers.
In fact, according to an innovation scoreboard, Denmark is on the top list of countries with the most innovative teaching styles and also provides a large number of talented people in various fields.
As a student in Denmark, a normal lecture doesn’t involve just sitting in class and passive listening; it’s quite the opposite: active and engaging discussions between students and professors, often combined with a project work.
Danish universities are also focused on innovative research, specifically in areas like:
- Medicine Masters in Denmark
- Biotechnology Masters in Denmark
- Energy Masters in Denmark
- Environmental Sciences Masters in Denmark
Additionally, Danish universities are equipped with world-class and cutting edge research facilities, meant to pleasantly complement your studies and to encourage you to make an important discovery. Examples of exquisite research equipment includes electron microscopes, chemical engineering pilot plants, test centres for wind turbines.
Currently, some universities focus on research work related to medicines, climate change, digital relations, and healthy lifestyles among other important issues.
What to expect in terms of student life in Denmark?
Denmark has some of the most affordable and student-friendly cities in the world, like Copenhagen and Aalborg.
Copenhagen covers for some of the most popular and entertaining attractions in Denmark, such as:
- Tivoli Gardens – Denmark’s Disney theme parks
- Christiansborg – home to the Parliament
- The Blue Planet – Northern Europe's largest aquarium
If you’re more of the romantic type and in love with literature, you’ll probably like to pay a visit to Odense, once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, where you can see a museum dedicated to him.
One of the interesting features of Denmark is its two mega-bridges: the Great Belt Bridge and another one that connects Copenhagen with the Swedish city of Malmö. Both are among Europe’s biggest so this is quite an opportunity for you to experience a unique travel and to see a part of Sweden as well.
Did you also know that Farøe Islands and Greenland are part of Denmark as well? And you can admire fantastic landscapes while you’re taking a boat ride around these wonderful places.
Get ready for a completely happy study experience!
Denmark’s reputation as the happiest country in the world is not only the result of its politics, culture or history. It is also an effect of the open policy towards international students, who are seen by Danish lawmakers and communities as an essential part of a healthy and successful nation. The Nordic country offers free tuition, low additional education costs, high-quality curriculum and many facilities including career counselling.
Get ready! Get happy! Study in Denmark!
