University West

Last Updated on: May 24, 2025 by
Sridhar Kongara

Established in 1990, The University West is a famous university in Trollhättan Sweden. It has about 14,000 students on campus, and almost 740 employees and more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. It is centrally located and boasts state of the art facilities in a student friendly learning environment. University West is one of a few universities in Sweden that has the degree-awarding powers for both Production Technology and WIL programmes. The university’s century-old reputation has been established for its association with industry and society, with 86% of its graduates having been placed in 1-1.5 years.

Established Year: 1977

Institution Type: Public

Address: Högskolevägen 1, 541 28 Skövde, Sweden

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Courses Offered

Offers 0 Courses

** Fees mentioned here are approximate and are per year, Unless specified otherwise

Why Choose this University West

WIL (Work-Integrated Learning) is Strongly Emphasized

University West is internationally recognized for its focus on Work-Integrated Learning or WIL.
WIL is more than a concept; it is a methodological underpinning of all programs at the university.
Students are given opportunities for practical work experiences that reinforce things they are learning anyway and help them build skills in the real world earlier.
Students have access to industry placements, internships, and paid Co-op programs through WIL.
The Swedish government formally assigns the university to develop education in connection with WIL.

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Good Employability after graduation

As many as 86% of University West graduates are employed 1 to 1.5 years after their graduation.
Increased job relevance — the curriculum is developed with direct input from businesses.
The same companies, in which students have internships during the programs, hire them.
Post-study job prospects are bolstered by the university’s close links with local businesses and employers.
The university’s career services also provide assistance with things like CV writing, interview preparation and networking with employers.

Centrum Modern Campus in Trollhättan, Sweden

Its campus sits in the center of Trollhättan, providing easy access to city services and life.
The design of the campus focusses on open spaces which will help facilitate interaction between students, staff and businesses.
Its environment is contemporary, technology-rich, and designed for student comfort and academic excellence.
Trollhättan is a safe, student-friendly city offering nature, culture and innovation clusters.
The cost of housing, transport and amenities for students are reasonable and all interconnected.

Wide Range of Study Programs

University West is home to more than 30 undergraduate and 20 advanced-level programs in a variety of topics.
Fields of study include computing; engineering; health sciences; education; leadership; society; and language.
All programs have a hands-on practical learning component through projects or placements.
Specialized master’s degrees, including Cybersecurity, Leadership in Work-Life, etc.
The university offers Doctoral degrees in its focus areas (Production Technology and WIL)

Student-Centered, Global Outlook

Internationalization is a priority for the university and we welcome students from all over the globe.
International students will find the courses are delivered in the English language.
Education isn’t about saving and making money, it’s about students’ needs — and they learn through active participation and doing.
Professors are experienced professionals who combine both academic and industry experience.
Student services exist to help international students integrate, learn, and develop personally and academically.

Take first step towards your Study Abroad Journey

Campus Facilities at University West

Modern Study and Learning Spaces

At the heart of Trollhättan is a creative, student-centered campus at University West.
Four major study landscapes encourage collaboration and provide access to faculty.
Group study rooms, quiet zones and flexible learning spaces — such as “Cogito” — mix comfort with practicality.
There are more than 180 study spots not including the library alone, including among the 70 workstations equipped with computers.
Study areas with kitchenettes are available for students to use to store food and prepare meals during study breaks.

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Library and Research Support

The library is the hub of the academic world with books, e-resources, journals and media.
It contains six group rooms, a silent reading area with 30 seats and multifunction printers.
They assist students with research, information searches and the utilizing digital databases.
The library has both print-aggregate and electronic resources to support all areas of study and research.
The space is open and adaptable, appropriate for solo or group work.

SHW Student Health and Wellbeing Services

They help students maintain their mental, emotional and physical health.
Trained counsellors provide support around stress, study anxiety and personal matters.
A relaxation room (H107) is available by appointment for mental rest and breaks.
A Silent Room (F318) is available for meditation, prayer or contemplation, open to people of all faiths and none.
Smoking is limited eight (8) meters away from entrances of buildings to encourage health space.

Creative and Media Centers

This center features project exhibitions of students which also promotes experiential learning.
The Media Centre provides equipment lending for film, audio and multimedia course assignments.
These resources can be extremely beneficial to students within communication and media programs.
Theoretical models and academic concepts can be practically cultivated across creative tools and spaces into meaningful output.

Campus Services and Amenities

In Building G, the Service center helps students obtain ID cards, room access and other general questions.
The student pantries in Ishavet (J2) and Vita Havet (J4) are stocked with microwaves for warming those home-cooked meals.
Restaurang Västan serves hot lunches; Central caféet offers snacks and Swedish “fika.”
Note that there is a student bookstore in Building D that sells new and used textbooks and study materials.
Every day on campus, students deal with waste recycling, accessible entrances, and safe study environments.

Student Services Offered by University West

General Support and Service Center

Service center (main help desk for all students, located in the main entrance [Building G])
The Service center is available in person, via phone or email to assist students with any academic or campus-related questions or needs.
Assisting with student cards and technical issues, general inquiries and appointment bookings.
It is open on weekdays and provides remote and on-campus services depending on the needs of students.
Other support will only be available as per booked appointments during campus renovations to manage space and safety.

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Study Counselling Services

Study Counselling by Professional Study Counsellors to both students, before and during and post course.
They guide learners in making informed decisions regarding course selection, career pathways, and progression of study.
Appointments are offered on campus, by Zoom, or phone, supporting both local and distance learners.
The counselors maintain confidentiality and are trained to help students reflect on and make a plan that is in line with their individual goals.
And different academic areas have its specialized counsellors to give accurate guidance on programs involved.

Health and Wellbeing Support

Students have access to counseling and resources for emotional health through University West and their Student Health Services staff.
These services are for any student who is feeling blocked from understanding or learning because of personal stresses.
Help has taken the form of therapy, mental health education materials and on-campus relaxation spaces.
The relaxation room is also reserved for students to relax during their hour breaks, entry can be gained with pass cards.

Guidance for supporting students with disabilities

All sessions are facilitated by professional staff and are for both academically and personally related to Students With Disabilities
It provides personalized support for students with both temporary and permanent disabilities.
This type of help can include… technology tools; extended time for tests; note taking and reading supports.
These supports are available to students who request it from support staff and produce documentation of their need.
They provide information on how to utilize existing tools and services that facilitate academic achievement.

Academic and Language Support Services

Students can make use of the Language Resource Centre to help them with their academic writing, reading and presentations.
It helps both Swedish learners and native speakers succeed with challenging Swedish and English language problems.
Students may also book one-on-one appointments to review assignments and to practice oral presentations.
There are workshops on essay writing, formats & citations, and academic writing skills among other forms of communication skills.
The center plays a key role in supporting student success and support – particularly in the academic success and confidence with course completion.

Student Life at University West

Vibrant Campus Culture

University West offers an active, social, and enriching student life, providing opportunities for both personal development and growth.
It’s not just about studying, it’s about forging friendships, establishing networks and living a good life.
Social cafés, meet-ups, study groups, and events foster a friendly environment.
The students also allow students to express themselves, participate in student organizations and enjoy the campus life.
The University encourages diversity, inclusion and freedom of expression in all aspects of student life.

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Student Union SHV

The Student Union (SHV) is the representative body for all students of the university and strives to protect their rights and interests.
It guarantees access students have quality education and equality in academia.
SHV also arranges cultural events, parties, sports activities, and trips for the student community.
Students can join various committees, run projects or just show up to meet other people.
Through their membership, students will have their say in how decisions are made at universities while being able to take advantage of member-only benefits.

Accommodation and Housing Assistance Guarantee

Housing is guaranteed by the University West, meaning you will get accommodation within 30 days.
Housing is a mix of apartments in the city center or quieter neighborhoods just outside walkable distance to public transport.
cheap and student-friendly accommodation options includes shared flats, studios and even furnished rooms.
So it offers assistance to help students find their way to safe, nearby homes.
Successful move-ins are aided by the university working with local providers of housing.

Advice From Students and Real Life Experiences

It is common for the students at University West to exchange tips and experiences regarding the studies and life in general.
Tips include using time wisely, balancing the demands of study and social life, and celebrating even small triumphs.
The common advice is to treat study like a job — work study weekdays, rest weekends, and avoid burnout.
Students recommended creating social circles, remaining engaged in previous interests and utilizing campus spaces.
From making mistakes to celebrating exams, student say that support and fun are what define their journey.

Our Digital and Virtual Campus Experience

The students can tour the university’s Virtual Campus at any time to check out the facilities and programs.
It provides digital tours, program information and interaction with avatars, fashionably enough, like Aida, created by the university.
Virtual spaces allow prospective and current students to engage with each other and find out more.
This is especially valuable for international and remote students intending to study at University West.
The university also has a presence on TikTok, where student life is documented in entertaining and catchy formats.

Scholarships Offered by University West

University West Scholarships

At University West, we have several internal scholarships to assist students in study-related and international endeavours.
Many ask for merit, academic purpose areas before awarding these scholarships.
The university advises students to seek out and apply for these scholarships throughout their studies.
Most awards are available to both Swedish or international students with a strong commitment to their academic discipline and career goals, particularly if they are at postgraduate level.

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Gull and Stellan Ljungbergs Foundation Scholarship

It is a fully sponsored internship at Swedish Chamber of Commerce in London for one year
The Scholarship is established to encourage and reward outstanding students of high academic merit to international business and cultural exchange.

Travel Scholarship

Amount: Varies; usually covers travel and accommodation costs
CRITERIA: Awarded to students intending to travel related to academic study or abroad, particularly for an internship or fieldwork essential for degree completion.

alvsborg Scholarship

This amount varies and depends upon the academic project or field.
Issued to: Students in finance, economics, or similar disciplines who have demonstrated initiative in academic or community-based projects.

GKN Aerospace Scholarship

Type: Variable; funding for technical studies or project work
Criteria: Students in engineering or production technology with high academic achievement and interest in aerospace or manufacturing fields.

Scholarship for Global Professionals – Swedish Institute (SI)

Tuskegee, Alabama USA Amount: based on annual tuition and fees charges; tuition waiver covers the full cost of program tuition, fees, and books, enrollment or registration fees + travel allowance + health insurance coverage.
Eligibility: Highly qualified student applicants to master’s programs at universities in Sweden from selected countries who have demonstrated work experience and leadership qualities.

Internships and Placements at University West

During studies, students get experience through internships, Co-op programs, summer jobs, or projects tied to industry.
Will provides students with the opportunity to alternate between study and paid work, enhancing job-readiness.
Most of the students are getting placed in IT, engineering, healthcare, education, and business.
These placements often result in future employment 86 percent of students land jobs within 1.5 years after graduating from university.

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Internship Program Mandated by the Government

University West is part of the Swedish government initiative “Placement through the State.
Internships help integrate newcomers to Sweden and people with disabilities into the labor market.
Since 2016, the university has also welcomed asylum seekers through programs organized by the Migration Board and Folkuniversitetet.
These internships offer an introduction to working in a government agency and language practice in Swedish.
They also expand their professional networks, leading to better job prospects in the future.

Internships and Careers with International Study Trips

Students can apply for internships abroad using the university’s global partnerships and Erasmus+ network.
Minor Field Studies (MFS) scholarship is for bachelor’s and master’s students who carry out thesis-related field work in developing countries.
students gain further practical exposure through summer schools and short courses at international partner universities.
University West has exchange and internship agreements with universities for exchange and internships in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
International internship allows students to develop a global outlook and also explore different professional environments.

Internships Support Services

The university’s Career Services and International Office assistance students in applying and finding internships.
They conduct workshops and tunnel the students in writing the CVs and also interview preparations.
The university portal lists domestic and international placements that are available to students.
Students seeking funding or scholarships for international unpaid internships are also supported.
Students are individually advised so that their academic background/career goals are best matched with placements.

Smarter Employability and Industry Co-Creation

University West also has close links to industry, including GKN Aerospace, healthcare employers and tech firms.
So, we design our programs in collaboration with employers.
Employers are frequently involved in curriculum design, internship monitoring, and even hiring graduates directly.
The strength of the university’s employment network is evidenced in many interns finding jobs through their internship provider.
The Production Technology Center (PTC) also acts as a training site, helping Swedish engineering students gain access to advanced manufacturing capacity.

Entry Requirements at University West

Undergraduate Program

You must also have completed upper secondary school (equivalent to Swedish upper secondary school).
Depending on the program students should have studied subjects including Mathematics, English, and Science.
General entry requirements defined on University Admissions must also be met by applicants. se.
Some program may ask for certain subjects or knowledge of the subject area.
Final year students may still be able to apply with predicted grades if they do not yet have their final high school certificate.

Postgraduate (Master’s) Program

The applicant must have a bachelor’s degree equivalent to a Swedish kandidatexamen (at least 180 ECTS credits).
The degree should be in the same or a closely related discipline to the selected master’s program.
Final-semester undergraduates are welcome to apply and may be conditionally admitted.
Some programs may contain additional qualifying options like work experience or project portfolios

English Language Requirements

They must be proficient in English, and the requirement can be demonstrated in different manners.
There are a number of accepted standardized tests including, IELTS (minimum overall score of 6.5, with no section below 5.5), and TOEFL iBT (a minimum score of 90).
In addition to this, University West requires English 6 from Swedish Upper Secondary school or the international equivalents.
Those who Completed a Degree Taught Solely in English• You may be exempt from providing test scores.
Upload English language documents in the application on the national portal

Additional Admission Details

University West has no GMAT or GRE requirement for any program.
Only if explicitly stated in the program description, a letter of motivation (or personal statement) is not required.
For non-EU/EEA students, a non-refundable fee of SEK 900 is assessed for each application.
Depending on completion of qualifications, applicants may be noted on a “reserve” list or preceded “with condition.”
For autumn intake, admissions decisions are typically released in April, and for spring intake in November.

Bans, Refunds, and Data Vulnerability Policy

Appeals Process Students can appeal an admission decision if they feel there was a mistake made in the process.
University West’s official pages will be reviewed for refund and appeal policies.
The university’s admissions office can provide additional assistance by email or by telephone.

Rankings and Awards for University West

World Rankings and Clinical Breakthroughs

As of 2025, University West is unlisted in QS World University Rankings or Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings.
But the university is well known in Sweden for its emphasis on Work-Integrated Learning (WIL).
WIL is a state university which is authorized for awarding Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Production Technology.
University West is internationally recognized as one of the top applied science universities in Sweden with a strong focus on graduate employability.
It has a growing academic reputation globally due to its high-quality teaching and research with industry sectors.

Awards and Achievements

In the Global Student Satisfaction Awards 2023 University West won the award for Best Admission Process in the World.
The recognition emphasized their transparent, efficient and student-first model in their admissions system.
WIL has also earned the university high praise for helping to combine academic study with real-world application.
It is frequently mentioned in national Swedish reviews for best practice in higher vocational education and business cooperation.
Renowned throughout Europe for its making research, the university’s Production Technology Centre (PTC) is a hub of innovation.

Swedish and European reputation

University West is nationally recognized for being at the forefront of pedagogical development around Work-Integrated Learning.
It is also ranked favorably in student satisfaction surveys, particularly in teaching quality and support services.
It has strong global and academic networks (such as over100 university partnerships around the world).
Its programs in engineering, cybersecurity and health sciences are also praised for high relevance to current job markets.
It is recognized for promoting inclusive education by offering work experience for migrants and those with disabilities.

Graduate Employability and Student Success

Employment rates are high as well, with 86% student being employed in 1- 1.5 years after graduation.
It is no coincidence that this achievement is directly related to its curriculum structure that combines academic theory with hands-on experience.
Employers regularly have input into student assessment, course structure, and internship supervision, ensuring skills are in keeping with needs.
Owing to early industry exposure during studies, alumni of University West have high levels of career satisfaction.
The university also invests heavily in career support services and entrepreneur training, which have enhanced outcomes.

Global Expansion and Diversity

In 2023, University West welcomed 932 new international students, more than 50% increase from the previous year, a record breaking year!
The increase in international students is the result of the university’s commitment to internationalization and the institution’s growing presence in the global education landscape.
The college offers a friendly atmosphere and excellent services, especially for non-EU students.
Students from more than 30 countries come to the study abroad programs that are taught in English, have scholarship programs, and utilize WIL-based learning.
You can fill your bags with numerous international exchange programs and sustainable travelling pursuits that further place it among the best universities of global focus.

Acceptance Rate

Selectivity and Accessibility

It is worth noting that University West, like many European public universities, does not publish an official acceptance rate.
But according to available enrollment data and application numbers, the university is somewhat selective.
Its academic inclusivity and emphasis on Work-Integrated Learning, make it accessible to a large cohort of students.
Those who meet the academic and language requirements typically have a good chance of being accepted.
In 2023, University West saw a record increase of 50% in international admissions, welcoming 932 new international students, underscoring the institution’s growing popularity and its arms open to the world.