blog author img

Posted by : Tubai Paul

Author Designation : Marketing & PR (Kolkata)

An overview of University of Southern Denmark

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is a leading public research university in Denmark, known for its strong focus on interdisciplinary research, industry collaboration, and international education. With over 30,000 students and around 20% international enrolment, SDU offers an inclusive, innovative learning environment.

Its main campuses are located in Odense, Sønderborg, Kolding, Esbjerg, and Slagelse, with Odense being the largest.

History

  • Established: 1966, as Odense University
  • Became SDU in 1998 after merging with other institutions in Southern Denmark
  • Expanded through mergers with engineering and business schools
  • SDU is part of the European University Association (EUA) and Nordic Five Tech alliance

Global Rankings (2024–2025)

Ranking System

Rank

QS World University

#326

Times Higher Education

#251–300

ARWU (Shanghai)

Top 400

Subject-wise excellence in:

  • Robotics and Mechatronics
  • Biotechnology and Health Sciences
  • Engineering and Computer Science
  • Business and Social Sciences

Courses & Fees (For International Students)

Bachelor’s Programs (English-taught)

  1. Engineering (Mechatronics, Electronics, Mechanical)
  2. Business, Language & Culture
  3. European Studies
  4. Mathematics & Data Science
  • Duration: 3 years
  • Tuition: ~€6,200 – €8,000/year
  • Language: IELTS 6.5 or equivalent

Master’s Programs (MSc/MA)

  1. MSc in Mechatronics, Electronics, Mechanical Engineering
  2. MSc in Robot Systems
  3. MSc in Public Health
  4. MSc in Computer Science, Mathematics, Economics
  5. MA in International Business and Marketing
  • Duration: 2 years
  • Tuition: ~€6,200 – €8,400/year
  • Campus Locations: Odense, Sønderborg, Kolding (based on program)

Note: Tuition is free for EU/EEA students. Non-EU/EEA students must pay tuition unless they secure a scholarship.

Placement Report (Last 3 Years)

SDU has strong ties with Danish and international industries, offering project-based learning and internships.

Year

Employment Rate (6–12 months post-grad)

2021

84%

2022

89%

2023

91%

Top Hiring Sectors

  • Robotics and Engineering (Universal Robots, Danfoss)
  • Life Sciences (Novo Nordisk, Novozymes)
  • IT and Software (IBM, Microsoft, Trifork)
  • Energy and Environment (Vestas, Ørsted)
  • Public Health and Healthcare

Top Employers

  • Vestas
  • Siemens Gamesa
  • Novo Nordisk
  • IBM
  • Maersk
  • LEGO Group

Admission Criteria

For Bachelor's Programs:

  • Completion of upper secondary school (equivalent to Danish level)
  • Minimum subject-specific grades in Math, Physics, English, etc.
  • English requirement:
    • IELTS 6.5
    • TOEFL iBT 88
    • Cambridge C1 Advanced

For Master’s Programs:

  • Relevant Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to 180 ECTS)
  • GPA equivalent to a Danish 7 or above (on 12-point scale)
  • Proof of English proficiency (same as above)
  • Some programs may require:
    • Statement of purpose
    • CV/resume
    • Letter of recommendation

Scholarship Criteria & Requirements

SDU Talent Scholarships

  • For Non-EU/EEA students
  • Covers full tuition fee and provides DKK 3,000/month as partial living support

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Excellent academic performance
  • Motivation to study in Denmark
  • No separate application — you’re automatically considered if you apply before the deadline

Other Scholarships

  • Danish State Scholarships
  • Erasmus+ Mobility Grants
  • Nordplus/Nordic grants (for exchange students)

Notable Alumni

Name

Notability

Anker Jørgensen

Former Prime Minister of Denmark

Henrik Ørum

Co-founder of Santaris Pharma

Henrik Dam Kristensen

President of the Danish Parliament

Prof. Henrik Bindslev

Leading expert in plasma physics and engineering

Anne-Marie Mai

Renowned Danish literary scholar

 

Conclusion

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) offers a high-quality, research-driven education with a strong focus on real-world problem-solving, sustainability, and innovation. Its programs are designed to match global industry needs, especially in fields like robotics, health, and environmental technology.

Affordable fees, English-taught programs, generous scholarships, and strong employability rates make SDU a top destination for international students seeking a career-oriented education in Europe.

 

 

 

FAQ's

1. Is SDU a public university?

Yes, it is a public, government-funded university in Denmark.

2. What is SDU famous for?

It’s renowned for robotics, engineering, health sciences, and social sciences.

3. Are there programs taught in English?

Yes. SDU offers many Bachelor’s and Master’s programs fully in English.

4. Do I need to know Danish to study at SDU?

No, but learning basic Danish can help you integrate better and find local jobs.

5. Is tuition free at SDU?

Yes, for EU/EEA students. Non-EU/EEA students must pay unless they get a scholarship.

 

 

Popular countries:

Study in Italy

Study in Finland

Study in Ireland

Study in Malta

Study in Singapore

Study in Netherlands

For Need Expert guidenace Contact. 

Our Office: West BengalMaharashtra Delhi.

For More Infomation MedicalEngineeringManagement and Career Counciling and parenting Course Details.

 View Current Study Overseas, Medical, Engineering & Management Admission Details Video.