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. 

Why study 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


First application deadline February 15th

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 is open from Dec 1st 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. By the end of the program, students understand the vast and valuable resources of the coast and oceans, appreciate their significance, and have versed themselves in methods and skills to manage the sustainable utilisation of these resources.


Topics include:

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

Coastal Communities & Regional
Development (120 ECTS)

This interdisciplinary MA program is designed to deliver the advanced skills and practical competencies required to navigate the complex challenges and emerging opportunities in remote northern and coastal communities. We welcome ambitious applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. Ideal candidates come from fields across the social sciences (e.g., economics, geography, business, planning, sustainability studies) and the natural sciences and engineering (STEM), reflecting the holistic nature of coastal development.


Topics include:

  • Economic transitions
  • Renewable energy
  • Stakeholder conflicts
  • Sustainability
  • Innovation
  • Socio-economic development

Student housing by the ocean


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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