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(Last updated: 13 Jul 2007)
Trends and opportunities
The market
The Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Sweden and Norway can be collectively characterised as internationally orientated, technologically sophisticated societies, underpinned by comprehensive welfare systems. Despite the region’s homogenous population, most Scandinavian’s possess an excellent command of English fuelled by a strong trading heritage. Notions of life-long learning, distance education and student/teacher mobility are central to Scandinavia’s education agenda.
Of the total number of Norwegian students studying overseas, approximately 25 per cent choose Australia. The majority of students involved in overseas study fall into the 18-25 year age group, and the most popular time of year for study travel to Australia is the European winter (Australian summer).
Business studies is the most popular choice. However, the Norwegian Government is encouraging their international students to choose non-English speaking countries. Australia will undoubtedly see a change in the type of students opting to study in Australia, following the change of regulations in financial assistance (scholarship and loan), which were implemented in 2004/05.
There is also a strong tradition in Scandinavia towards adult education. The Scandinavian governments encourage lifelong learning, which is supported through government programs provided in the domestic markets.
Higher education in Scandinavia is linked to specific industry networks, involving intensive interaction with the private sector. This formal knowledge sharing is generally concentrated within a limited geographical area. For example, the biotechnology and ICT clusters are well integrated with local universities.
Scandinavia’s education framework at a glance:
- Higher education:
- Is structured around two-year Diploma’s, 3-4 courses (including a major and can be classified as Masters if completed over four years).
- Professional degrees for four years are relevant to certain disciplines such as engineering and medicine.
The major impediments to further growth include:
- Tuition-free education within Nordic countries
- Increasing intra-European competition fuelled by EU integration
- Negative reports (especially in Norway) about the ‘commercial’ attitude of Australian institutions in ‘selling’ education.
- Government funding extends only to the higher education sector
Opportunities
There are opportunities in Scandinavia to form institutional linkages via joint ventures, twinning and other cooperative arrangements.
Scandinavian students are also becoming increasingly interested in practical work placements whilst studying. Institutions that facilitate degree-relevant practical placements will be favoured in the region.
Competitive environment
Scandinavia continues to be one of the top performing markets for Australia in terms of European student recruitment. Australia’s higher education system enjoys a very good reputation, with educational institutions seen as delivering both quality teaching and support to their students. Favourable study grants from respective Scandinavian Governments enhance these prospects.
Television programs featuring Australia as a travel destination is constant and assists in contrasting the Nordic and Australian lifestyle and environs. Australia is perceived as a safe, tolerant society offering a different, yet not overwhelming cultural experience. Australia’s European heritage assists in positioning the country as a solid base from which interaction with Asian cultures is a feasible advantage.
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