Mälardalen University
Strengths
MDU is one of Sweden’s leading higher education institutions in terms of partnerships. The university was founded in 1977 as a result of a collaboration with industry, and has obtained EFMD accreditation for its Bachelor of International Business Management and Master of International Marketing programs.
MDU offers flexible, innovative and high-quality courses and programs, with technical excellence that encourages curiosity, innovation, critical thinking and lifelong learning in students.
Major, Academics
Relationships between students and teachers may seem informal to foreign students. Lectures often lead to discussions on selected topics, rather than being “imposed” by the teacher.
Students enjoy a high degree of independence, and must carry out much of their work on their own initiative. This approach is demanding; in return, you develop, for example, your planning skills and your ability to determine which parts of all knowledge are most essential.
The courses will be taught in English
Campus
Mälardalen University (MDU) is a medium-sized university located in the heart of Sweden. The university has two campuses: one in the town of Västerås, on the north shore of Lake Mälaren, and the other in Eskilstuna, on the south shore of the lake. The two campuses are about 35 minutes apart, linked by a free bus service provided by the university. Both towns are about 100 kilometers west of Stockholm.
The majority of English-language programs are delivered at Campus Västerås, and many of the teachers/professors/faculty you will meet during your studies at MDU are based in Västerås. This is why most foreign students choose to stay in Västerås, due to the presence of a very active international student association.
The Västerås campus is a 20-minute walk from the main railway station, right in the heart of the city’s active and leisure life. In one direction, you’ll find the old town and city center, with a wide choice of shopping malls, cafés, restaurants and other entertainment venues. In the other direction is the Rocklunda sports center, with several arenas and sports fields.
The entire campus was specially built for MDU, and features high ceilings, bright, spacious glass surfaces and plenty of meeting places for students.
At the Rosenhill restaurant on campus, you can choose from three different dishes at lunch each day.
The university library offers books, e-books, articles and journals.
https://www.mdu.se/en/malardalen-university/education/study-at-mdu/campus-vasteras
To discover
Swedish culture emphasizes a healthy, egalitarian lifestyle that is increasingly sustainable and in harmony with nature.
Note that Sweden is quite green. In fact, 53% of its surface is covered by forest. The country is governed by a constitutional monarchy and the official language is Swedish, although other languages are recognized: Sami, Finnish, Meänkieli and Yiddish.
Sweden’s continental climate means that there are considerable temperature differences between winter and summer. This harsh climate has no impact on the values of the population, renowned for its focus on freedom, equality and sustainability.
Swedish dishes are simple and natural. Crayfish, lingonberries and fish (fresh and pickled herring, cod), potatoes, root vegetables, elk and pork are among the most popular dishes eaten by the local population.
Västerås is located on Lake Mälar, in an area known as Mälardalen, which includes several major Swedish cities, including the capital, Stockholm. With 110,877 inhabitants, it is Sweden’s sixth largest city.
Known for its parks and natural areas, Västerås invites you to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and water sports on Lake Mälaren.
The town is one of Sweden’s oldest. Today, it’s one of the region’s major industrial centers. The city has preserved many historic monuments, but its main pride is the 13th-century Scandinavian brick cathedral and Vasa Park. This former park was laid out by the Swedish King Gustav Vasa on the site of the monastery garden. There are some interesting sculptural compositions, as well as a hotel, located 13 meters above sea level, on the branches of an old oak tree.
Good to know
The Swedish krona (plural kronor) is the national currency. It is often written SEK or kr. A crown is made up of 100 öre. Since 2010, all öre coins have been withdrawn from circulation. Product prices can still be expressed in öre, but the amount is rounded up to the nearest crown when paid in cash.
Many English speakers call the currency “The Swedish Crown”, as krona literally means crown in Swedish.
To give you an idea of the cost of living:
Accommodation €500
Food €260
Insurance, medical care, hygiene €70
Local travel €40
Clothing, hobbies, other €100
This amount is just an example, and will vary considerably depending on your lifestyle and consumption habits.
What's going on?
The number of places in Erasmus + is limited. The granting of a scholarship is therefore not automatic and the amount paid may vary. Please refer to the Erasmus+ section. If all Erasmus + places are taken, this destination may still be offered to you under a paid agreement.
This information is provided as a guide.
Please visit the partner university’s website to have exact updated information.
Eligibility
TOEFL 550
Eligbility
ABS 2nd, 3rd, 4th year
ESAM 2rn, 3rd, 4th year
ICD PGE
IGS RH 3rd year
Documents required
Resume in English
Grades transcript
ID Document
Cover letter in English
Planning
AUTUMN
Orientation: few days before lectures start
Lectures start : early September
End of lectures and exams : mid-January
SPRING
Orientation: few days before lectures start
Lectures start: mid-January
End of lectures and exams : mid-June
More information: https://www.mdu.se/en/malardalen-university/student/practical-things-about-studying/schedules-and-academic-calendar
Procedures
If you are an EU / EEA citizen, you do not need to apply for a visa or residence permit to study in Sweden for a stay of less than 3 months. If you plan to stay in Sweden for more than a year, you must register with the Swedish Population Register.
European Health Insurance card compulsory.
If you are not an EU citizen, you will need to apply for a visa.
https://www.migrationsverket.se/English.html
https://studyinsweden.se/moving-to-sweden/permits-visas/
Accommodation
MDU works with agencies that act as a link between landlords and tenants, making things easier for both. There are various types of accommodation available, but the most common are small studios.
Once you have been admitted to MDU, you will be given the procedure to follow. We strongly recommend accepting the first offer received.
There are other ways to find accommodation in the region. Always make sure you have a proper contract if you rent on your own.
Airbnb: most of the time, it’s possible to rent short or long term. Prices can be high.
Facebook groups: there are several groups on FB, some open and others private. Search for “ Apartments in Västerås ” or “ Apartments in Eskilstuna ”. Please note that most ads are in Swedish.
Advertising sites: the most important site is called Blocket. You’ll find apartment ads from individuals and owners. Please note that most ads are in Swedish.
https://www.mdu.se/en/malardalen-university/student/new-student/housing-for-international-students
