If you want to study nursing in Denmark, you usually start with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. After that, you can continue with master’s level study in nursing or a related health field, depending on the university and your background. The exact entry rules, language needs, and fees depend on the school, so always check the programme page and the university’s admissions office.
Which nursing studies exist in Denmark?
In Denmark, nursing study is mainly offered at bachelor’s level first. This is the normal route if you want to become a registered nurse. Some universities also offer master’s programmes in nursing, health science, or public health for students who already have a relevant first degree.
- Bachelor’s: the main entry route into nursing practice
- Master’s: for deeper study, research, leadership, or specialist roles
- Continuing education: some schools offer short courses or diploma-level options in health topics
Look at the exact programme title carefully. In Denmark, “nursing” can mean a professional degree at a university college, while master’s study is usually at a university. The study path is not the same everywhere.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor’s degree, you usually need a secondary school diploma that gives access to higher education in your home country. The school may also ask for specific subjects, such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, or a science mix. The exact subject list can differ by institution.
If you apply for a master’s, you usually need a relevant bachelor’s degree, often in nursing, health sciences, or a similar field. Some programmes ask for work experience in healthcare, but not all do.
For both levels, you may need:
- proof of English language level
- passport or ID
- transcripts and diploma copies
- CV and motivation letter
- course descriptions if the university needs to check your academic background
If your documents are not in English or Danish, you may need certified translations. Check the admissions page early, because the document list can be strict.
English-taught options and language
Some nursing and health-related programmes in Denmark are taught in English, especially at master’s level. At bachelor’s level, many nursing programmes are in Danish because clinical training needs strong local communication skills. Do not assume an English option exists at every school.
Universities and university colleges usually ask for an English test if English is not your first language. Common tests include IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent proof. The required score changes by programme, so check the official page for the exact minimum.
If the programme includes clinical practice, the school may also require Danish language ability, even if some classroom teaching is in English. This is important because you may work with patients and healthcare staff during training.
Tuition fees and living costs
Tuition in Denmark depends on your citizenship and the institution. EU, EEA, and Swiss students are often treated differently from non-EU students, but the rule can change by programme and status, so check the university’s fee page and the Danish official guidance.
- EU/EEA/Swiss students: tuition is often free at public institutions if you meet the rules
- Non-EU students: tuition is usually charged, and the annual amount typically falls in the mid to upper thousands of euros, sometimes higher for health programmes
Do not use one fixed number for all schools. Some programmes publish yearly fees directly on the programme page. The safest step is to check the exact school you want.
Living costs in Denmark are high compared with many countries. A realistic student budget often includes housing, food, transport, books, and personal spending. Many students plan for around 800 to 1,200 euros per month, but the real cost depends heavily on the city and your housing type. Copenhagen is usually more expensive than smaller cities.
Application timeline and what to do first
Deadlines vary, but many Danish universities and university colleges use an intake for autumn and ask for applications several months before classes begin. If you need a residence permit, start even earlier because visa processing takes time.
A simple plan:
- Check the programme page and entry requirements
- Prepare your diploma, transcript, passport, and language test
- Translate documents if needed
- Apply before the deadline
- Wait for the decision and follow the next steps quickly
- If accepted, start your residence permit process with the Danish immigration authority
Always use the official sources for timing: the university admissions page for academic deadlines and the Danish immigration authority for visa or residence rules. Do not rely on social media posts or old forum advice.
How universities choose candidates
Admission is usually based on whether you meet the formal entry rules. If there are more qualified applicants than places, the school may rank candidates by grades, relevant subjects, language proof, or other academic criteria. Some programmes also care about motivation and fit for the profession.
For nursing, universities and university colleges often look for students who can handle both classroom study and practical training. Good communication, reliability, and interest in patient care matter, but they do not replace the formal requirements.
If your profile is close to the requirements, apply anyway and make sure your documents are complete. Missing papers are a common reason for delay.
Common questions
Can I study nursing in Denmark without Danish?
Sometimes, yes, especially at master’s level or in some health-related programmes. But many bachelor’s nursing programmes use Danish, especially for clinical placements. Always check the teaching language and practice language on the official programme page.
Do I need work experience to apply?
Usually not for a bachelor’s degree. For some master’s programmes, relevant work experience can help or be required, but this depends on the school.
Can I work while studying?
Many international students can work part-time, but the rules depend on your residence status and the dates in your permit. Check the Danish immigration authority before you rely on any work plan.
How Eduuro helps
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Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.