After many years of preparation with trial and error, the Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences is soon to become the University of Inland Norway (INN). We at the Inland Norway Student's Union (StInn) have been part of this long journey. We have attended meetings with NOKUT, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, and both together. We at StInn have used our voice and ensured that the students' interests are not forgotten during the process. We will continue this work.
How will the university status affect studies?
We at StInn have good contact with the management at HINN. They understand the students' concerns and have assured us that the change will be small when it comes to studies. This is because we have already met the high quality requirements required to become a university.
Increased recognition and prestige
Becoming a university can strengthen an institution's recognition both nationally and internationally. This can attract highly qualified teachers and researchers, and students who are committed to achieving academic excellence. This makes it easier to create collaborative schools for inbound, outbound, and traineeship in countries other than Norway. Being a university can open up more international collaboration opportunities. This can include partnerships with other universities, research institutions, or companies around the world. This influence will help create good networks within your field of study that you as a student can benefit from in the future job market.
Research and development
Universities often place a stronger emphasis on research. This can open the doors for more innovation and new discoveries, enriching teaching and giving students the opportunity to learn about and contribute to the latest research in their field.
More study options
As a university, the University of Inland Norway can offer a wider range of study programmes, including advanced degrees such as master's and doctoral programmes. This gives students more choices in their academic journey. When it comes to changes in study plans, we at StInn will monitor so that there will be no radical changes. Although university status will mean more research-based teaching, practical training and traineeship periods will still be an important part of studies. This can contribute to our education also getting the latest of the newest knowledge within our fields.
Transitioning from a university college to a university can offer many benefits and open up new opportunities, but the Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences will continue to maintain its quality education. The future university will also aim for new heights, improving its recognition. We at StInn will ensure that we students also get to participate in these processes. Because after all, it's our education, our student life, on our terms.