The University of Akureyri (Háskólinn á Akureyri) is located in North Iceland and has served Akureyri and its rural surroundings since 1987. The University has built a reputation for academic excellence and good industrial relations. Located in the capital of North Iceland, Akureyri, the University has been instrumental in the economic growth of the region and is central in its planning for a future as a knowledge-based society. 

The University of Akureyri prepares students for a wide range of opportunities in both the private and the public sectors. Education offered by the University aims at providing its graduates with specific skills and knowledge of scientific methods as well as  theoretical skills that will enable them to improve their qualifications. Education and research are closely linked to achieve this, first and foremost by assigning equal importance to them in the daily work of the academic and scientific staff and whenever possible course work is based on research.

The University was founded in September 1987,  by establishing two Faculties, in Health Sciences and in Industrial Management. The University is at present operating in three Schools; School of Business and Science, School of Humanities and Social Sciences and School of Health Sciences. The number of students is around 1,800 and members of staff are around 180.

 STUDENT SUPPORT AND SERVICES

The University of Akureyri (UNAK) is a scientific and academic institute that conducts teaching and research in the academic disciplines of its schools. It is the largest university outside the capital, with strong ties to industries and various institutions in society. 

• ▶UNAK offers a varied selection of study programmes leading to the first university degree, together with advanced studies in a few disciplines.
• ▶ UNAK offers students first rate service through its supportive services, e.g. a library, a computer user service, a computer and media centre, study counselling and international activities.
• ▶ UNAK offers very favourable conditions for its students in the form of new housing for teaching, well equipped computer centres and good facilities in reading rooms.
• ▶ UNAK is a progressive university in the use of information technology and the development of teaching methods, e.g. distance learning.
• ▶ UNAK emphasises personal service. Students receive individual instruction and they are encouraged to conduct their own research and cooperative projects.
• ▶ Computer ownership of students is impressive and Internet access is available through the wireless network connection of the university.
• ▶ FÉSTA (www.festaha.is) operates well appointed student housing under its auspices and all students are entitled to apply for accommodation there.

Values

Progressive

The University of Akureyri makes use of the best available knowledge and technology in its teaching, research and development work. It has a broad minded approach, at the cutting edge of science and research. 

Equality

The University of Akureyri is committed to ensuring that students and staff can succeed in their work and studies, regardless of disability, sexual orien tation, gender, race, persuasion, religion and origin. 

Independence

The University of Akureyri is an independent learning and knowledge community, and critical and independent thought are its guiding principles. 

Trust

Students and the community can remain confident that all work and any dealings with the University of Akureyri will follow its ethos of practical education, critical thought, best practice and the good of society