Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Summary
NTNU is particularly appropriate for students who want a technical, research-based and innovation-oriented university experience. It is known for engineering, computer science, cybernetics, robotics, artificial intelligence, marine technology, energy, sustainability, materials science, architecture, industrial economics, product development, biotechnology, renewable energy, physics, mathematics and digital transformation. NTNU will be one of the most important options in Norway for students looking for solid academic training in connection with technology, industry, research and innovation.
NTNU is particularly relevant for international students at master’s and doctoral levels. The university has a number of master’s programs in English in engineering, natural sciences, sustainability, technology, marine systems, architecture, business, development, globalization and creative fields. Admission is selective and program specific. Students should have a relevant bachelor’s degree, be academically well-prepared and proficient in English; and have the appropriate background in mathematics, science, technology, engineering, economics, design or social sciences depending on the program.
NTNU has a strong link to Norwegian industry and applied research. Its alumni are frequently associated with technology companies, energy companies, maritime industries, manufacturing, research institutes, public infrastructure, software companies, consulting firms, healthcare tech, and innovation-based organizations. The university’s research culture also supports entrepreneurship, start-ups, industry collaboration, laboratories, project work and technology transfer. Trondheim, the main city of NTNU, is one of Norway's strongest student and technology cities, with a large student population, innovation ecosystem, research institutions and strong link to science-based industries.
Students from Norway, EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are usually not required to pay tuition fees at public universities. Students who are not EU/EEA/Swiss usually pay tuition fees unless they qualify for an exemption. NTNU announces 2026/2027 tuition categories NOK 176,300 annually for category 1 programs within the humanities, social sciences, economics, business and management. Category 2 programs in natural sciences, technology, health sciences, educational sciences, media studies, sports and performing arts are approximately NOK 205,600 per year. Category 3 programs in medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine are about NOK 528,650 per year. Some master’s programs have lower tuition fees, for example Childhood Studies, Global Relations and Sustainable Development, International Business and Marketing, Management of Innovation and Sustainable Business Development, Fine Art.
NTNU does not usually offer scholarships, discounts or payment plans for tuition fees. This means that financial preparation is important for non-EU / EEA applicants. Students need to calculate tuition, semester fee, living expenses, housing, food, study material, insurance, transport and residence permit documentation.
In general, NTNU is a top choice in Norway for students who are interested in engineering, technology, applied science, architecture, innovation, sustainability, computing and industry-linked research. Its academic strength, technical depth, campus network, industry connections and research intensity make it one of the most important universities in Northern Europe for science and technology education.
About Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)
NTNU is renowned for its ability to combine a solid theoretical education with applied research and relevance for industry. Students are often involved in projects, laboratories, design tasks, research assignments, group work, simulations and thesis-based learning. Many of the programs are related to real technological, industrial, environmental or social problems. That means the university is the right place for students who want to link academic knowledge with practical problem solving.
Trondheim, the home city of the university, is one of the most student-friendly cities in Norway. There is a large student population and a lively campus culture, as well as research institutions, technology companies and innovation networks. NTNU is a big part of the identity of the city. The Gjøvik campus is known for areas such as information security, technology and applied computer science, while the Aalesund campus is associated with maritime, business and engineering fields.
Most international students come to NTNU for master’s programs in English and doctoral studies. Most bachelor programs are taught in Norwegian, while many master programs are in English. Admission is competitive and based on academic background, program-specific requirements, English proficiency, documentation and capacity. PhD opportunities are usually associated with advertised research posts or funded projects.
NTNU is the best place for students who want good technical education, research exposure, industry connection and opportunities of innovation. Graduates can find employment in engineering, technology, software, renewable energy, maritime, consulting, research, medicine, architecture, business, sustainability, public sector organizations and global industries.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) History
- NTNU was established in its current form in 1996.
- The university carries forward a long tradition of technical higher education in Trondheim.
- It developed from earlier institutions connected to engineering, science, technology, and professional education.
- NTNU became Norway’s main national university for science and technology.
- Trondheim became the university’s central academic and research location.
- NTNU expanded its academic profile beyond engineering into medicine, humanities, social sciences, economics, architecture, design, and education.
- The university developed strong research environments in energy, marine technology, computing, robotics, materials, and sustainability.
- NTNU grew into one of Norway’s largest universities by student population.
- Campuses in Gjøvik and Ålesund strengthened its regional and applied education profile.
- The Gjøvik campus developed strengths in information security, computing, and technology.
- The Ålesund campus developed strong links with maritime industries, engineering, and business.
- NTNU became closely connected with Norwegian industry, research institutes, and innovation networks.
- English-taught master’s programs helped attract international students.
- Doctoral education became a major part of NTNU’s research strength.
- Today, NTNU is Norway’s leading university for technology, engineering, and applied science.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Highlights
- Norway’s leading science and technology university
- Public research university
- Established in current form in 1996
- Main campus in Trondheim
- Additional campuses in Gjøvik and Ålesund
- Strong in engineering, technology, natural sciences, computing, architecture, and innovation
- Offers English-taught master’s programs
- Strong doctoral research environment
- Major connection with Norwegian industry and applied research
- Known for robotics, AI, marine technology, energy, sustainability, and materials science
- Strong student city environment in Trondheim
- Good option for research-focused and career-focused students
- Suitable for students interested in engineering, computing, business, design, and applied science
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Courses Offered
UG Courses
- Bachelor’s programs in Engineering
- Bachelor’s programs in Computer Science-related fields
- Bachelor’s programs in Natural Sciences
- Bachelor’s programs in Mathematics
- Bachelor’s programs in Physics
- Bachelor’s programs in Chemistry
- Bachelor’s programs in Architecture
- Bachelor’s programs in Design
- Bachelor’s programs in Economics and Business
- Bachelor’s programs in Humanities
- Bachelor’s programs in Social Sciences
- Bachelor’s programs in Health Sciences
- Bachelor’s programs in Maritime-related fields
PG Courses
- MSc Computer Science
- MSc Artificial Intelligence
- MSc Cybernetics and Robotics
- MSc Electric Power Engineering
- MSc Industrial Ecology
- MSc Marine Technology
- MSc Sustainable Architecture
- MSc Materials Science and Engineering
- MSc Biology and Sustainability
- MSc Chemistry
- MSc Physics
- MSc Mathematics
- MSc Globalisation and Sustainable Development
- MSc International Business and Marketing
- MSc Management of Innovation and Sustainable Business Development
- MSc European Studies
- MSc Childhood Studies
- MSc Global Relations and Sustainable Development
- MSc Fine Art
- MSc Creative Music Technology
PhD Courses
- PhD in Engineering
- PhD in Computer Science
- PhD in Natural Sciences
- PhD in Architecture and Design
- PhD in Medicine and Health Sciences
- PhD in Economics and Management
- PhD in Humanities
- PhD in Social Sciences
- PhD in Education
- PhD in Artistic Research
- PhD in Interdisciplinary Research Areas
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Specializations Offered
UG Specializations
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Marine Technology
- Computer Science
- Information Security
- Artificial Intelligence Foundations
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Architecture
- Industrial Design
- Economics
- Business
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Health Sciences
- Maritime Studies
- Sustainable Technology
PG Specializations
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Cybernetics
- Robotics
- Electric Power
- Renewable Energy
- Marine Technology
- Offshore Systems
- Sustainable Architecture
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Biology
- Sustainability
- Industrial Ecology
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Globalisation
- International Business
- Marketing
- Innovation Management
- Sustainable Business
- European Studies
- Childhood Studies
- Global Relations
- Fine Art
- Creative Music Technology
PhD Specializations
- Engineering Science
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Robotics
- Cybernetics
- Information Security
- Energy Systems
- Marine Technology
- Materials Science
- Sustainable Technology
- Industrial Ecology
- Architecture
- Design
- Medicine
- Health Technology
- Economics
- Management
- Education
- Social Research
- Humanities
- Artistic Research
- Innovation
- Digital Transformation
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Admission Process
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor’s applicants usually need upper secondary education equivalent to Norwegian entry requirements.
- Most bachelor’s programs require Norwegian language proficiency.
- Engineering and science programs may require mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, or technology-related subjects.
- Master’s applicants need a recognized bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
- The bachelor’s degree must be relevant to the selected master’s program.
- English language proficiency is required for English-taught master’s programs.
- Engineering master’s programs usually require strong mathematics and technical coursework.
- Computer science programs may require programming, algorithms, data structures, mathematics, and systems knowledge.
- Business programs require relevant background in business, economics, management, marketing, or related areas.
- Creative programs may require portfolio, audition, project documentation, or creative experience.
- PhD applicants usually need a relevant master’s degree.
- PhD admission depends on advertised positions, funding, research fit, and supervisor availability.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Courses Fees
- Bachelor’s Programs for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Students — Category 1: Approx. NOK 176,300 per academic year | Duration: Usually 3 Years | Eligibility: Upper secondary education + Norwegian language requirement for most bachelor’s programs | Intake: Autumn
- Bachelor’s Programs for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Students — Category 2: Approx. NOK 205,600 per academic year | Duration: Usually 3 Years | Eligibility: Upper secondary education with relevant science/technology subjects + Norwegian language requirement for most bachelor’s programs | Intake: Autumn
- Bachelor’s Programs for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Students — Category 3: Approx. NOK 528,650 per academic year | Duration: Varies by professional program | Eligibility: Upper secondary education with strict subject requirements + Norwegian language requirement | Intake: Autumn
- Bachelor’s Programs for EU/EEA/Swiss Students: Usually no tuition fee | Duration: Usually 3 Years | Eligibility: Upper secondary education and program-specific requirements | Intake: Autumn
- MSc Computer Science / Artificial Intelligence / Cybernetics and Robotics: Approx. NOK 205,600 per year| Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, mathematics, automation, or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MSc Materials Science and Chemical Engineering: Approx. NOK 205,600 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry, materials science, or related field | Intake:Autumn
- MSc Biology and Sustainability: Approx. NOK 205,600 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, sustainability, or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MSc European Studies: Approx. NOK 176,300 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree in social sciences, European studies, political science, history, or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MSc Creative Music Technology: Approx. NOK 205,600 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree and creative/technical background in music technology or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MSc Childhood Studies: Approx. NOK 26,445 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree in social sciences, education, childhood studies, or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MSc Global Relations and Sustainable Development: Approx. NOK 26,445 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree in social sciences, development studies, global studies, or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MSc International Business and Marketing: Approx. NOK 61,705 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility:Relevant bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, economics, or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MSc Management of Innovation and Sustainable Business Development: Approx. NOK 61,705 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree in business, management, innovation, economics, or related field | Intake: Autumn
- MFA Fine Art: Approx. NOK 30,840 per year | Duration: 2 Years | Eligibility: Relevant bachelor’s degree and portfolio/artistic documentation | Intake: Autumn
- PhD Programs: Usually funded doctoral employment / advertised research positions | Duration: 3–4 Years | Eligibility: Relevant master’s degree and research match | Intake: Position-based
- Other Costs: Students should separately budget for semester fee, accommodation, food, books, insurance, transport, residence permit funds, and personal expenses
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Scholarships
- NTNU generally does not offer scholarships that cover tuition fees.
- NTNU does not generally offer tuition discounts or installment payment plans.
- Students should prepare independent funding before applying.
- External scholarships may be available through home-country governments, foundations, employers, or international organizations.
- Some Erasmus Mundus or joint degree programs may have separate funding structures.
- Exchange students may be supported through exchange agreements or mobility schemes.
- PhD candidates may receive salary if appointed to funded doctoral positions.
- Doctoral applicants should check advertised research vacancies for employment terms.
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss students must plan for tuition fees and living costs.
- Applicants should not depend on NTNU scholarship funding unless applying through a specific funded program.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) Career Outcomes
- Engineering graduates can work in mechanical, civil, electrical, chemical, marine, energy, and industrial engineering roles.
- Computer science graduates can work in software development, AI, cybersecurity, data science, cloud systems, and IT consulting.
- Robotics and cybernetics graduates can work in automation, control systems, robotics, manufacturing, and industrial technology.
- Energy and sustainability graduates can work in renewable energy, environmental consulting, energy systems, and sustainable infrastructure.
- Marine technology graduates can pursue roles in maritime industries, offshore engineering, ship design, and ocean technology.
- Architecture and design graduates can work in architecture firms, urban design, product design, innovation, and sustainable planning.
- Business graduates can work in marketing, innovation management, consulting, entrepreneurship, and international business.
- Health and medical graduates can work in healthcare, research, health technology, public health, and clinical environments.
- PhD graduates can move into academic research, applied research institutes, industry R&D, policy organizations, or senior specialist roles.
- International students should build Norwegian language skills, internships, industry networks, and project experience for stronger employment outcomes.
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) FAQs
Q1. Is NTNU a public university?
Yes, NTNU is a public research university in Norway.
Q2. When was NTNU established?
NTNU was established in its current form in 1996.
Q3. Where is NTNU located?
NTNU’s main campus is in Trondheim, with additional campuses in Gjøvik and Ålesund.
Q4. What is NTNU known for?
NTNU is known for engineering, technology, natural sciences, computing, architecture, innovation, and applied research.
Q5. Does NTNU offer English-taught programs?
Yes, NTNU offers selected English-taught master’s programs.
Q6. Are NTNU bachelor’s programs taught in English?
Most bachelor’s programs are taught in Norwegian.
Q7. Do non-EU/EEA students pay tuition fees at NTNU?
Yes, non-EU/EEA/Swiss students usually pay tuition fees unless they qualify for an exemption.
Q8. Does NTNU offer scholarships for international students?
NTNU generally does not offer scholarships or discounts covering tuition fees.
Q9. Does NTNU offer PhD programs?
Yes, NTNU offers doctoral education through faculties and advertised research positions.
Q10. Is NTNU good for engineering and technology?
Yes, NTNU is Norway’s strongest university for engineering, technology, natural sciences, and applied research.
















