University Centre of the Westfjords

Unique Study Experience


Coastal Master’s Programs in Iceland

Studying at UW

Close-knit community

Life in a vibrant coastal community fosters lifelong connections. With personalized attention from instructors and meaningful peer interactions, UW's small student group provides a strong sense of belonging.


Beautilful location

Nestled in the scenic town of Ísafjörður, surrounded by mountains and the ocean, students can enjoy outdoor adventures like kayaking, skiing, hiking, and surfing after class. 

Studying at UW

Life in a vibrant coastal community fosters lifelong connections. With personalized attention from instructors and meaningful peer interactions, UW's small student group provides a strong sense of belonging. Nestled in the scenic town of Ísafjörður, surrounded by mountains and the ocean, students can enjoy outdoor adventures like kayaking, skiing, hiking, and surfing after class. 


Our master's programs


Application portal closes June 5th 2025

Flexible learning

The unique master’s programs at UW offer flexible learning through modular courses.

No tuition fee

With just an annual registration fee, students can focus on their academic interests without the burden of student loan debts.

Hands-on experience

Students gain hands-on experience through field trips and have the opportunity for student-led thesis research worldwide.

Our master's programs

The unique master’s programs at UW offer flexible learning through modular courses. With just an annual registration fee, students can focus on their academic interests without the burden of student loan debts. They gain hands-on experience through field trips and have the opportunity for student-led thesis research worldwide. Application portal closes June 5th 2025


Coastal Marine Management (120 ECTS)

A MRM degree (master's in resource management) in natural resource management that builds on a core of ecology, oceanography, management, and economics.


Topics include:

  • Coastal protection
  • Marine spatial planning
  • Biodiversity conservation
  • Protected areas management
  • Sustainable fisheries & aquaculture
  • Marine pollution
  • Tourism
  • The Arctic

Coastal Communities and Regional Development (120 ECTS)

MA program on the current and future challenges and opportunities facing remote regions and communities. It focuses on coastal communities along the Arctic, North Atlantic, and North Pacific. It links principles of Geography, Planning, Economics and Sociology


Topics include:

  • Depopulation
  • Economic transitions
  • Interest conflicts
  • Resource use
  • Innovation
  • Socio-economic development

Brand new

student housing

UW's student housing was built in 2023. There are 40 studio apartments in two buildings, which are situated right by the ocean offering stunning views.


Just a 10-minute walk from UW, it's the perfect place to make lifelong friends and experience student life the fun way.

Ísafjörður is a wonderful and tightly knit community. I feel very lucky to study and live in such a unique place, close to nature and gorgeous views. Studying at UW was a great opportunity to broaden my horizons academically and to engage in enriching discussions and projects. The hands-on approach, filled with field trips and direct interaction with the study topics, is definitely refreshing and captivating. Being able to kayak in the fjord and meet some seals between classes is also a very nice bonus!

Laurent Trottier

Alum in the Coastal Communites and Regional Development master's program

Studying coastal and marine management in Isafjordur has been an incredible experience. It is amazing to be part of a small university where every experience is very personal. There are countless opportunities offered and different needs catered for through the broad syllabus. I have met many inspirational people since moving here and have enjoyed the remoteness and beauty of the fjord. I would recommend the experience to anyone that is considering applying to UW.

Orla Mallon

Alum in the Coastal Marine Management master's program

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Contact Us

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