Quick Summary
University of Southern Denmark is a public founded in 1966, located in Odense, Denmark. Ranked #342 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 26715 students including 18% from outside Denmark. Known for strengths in Robotics, Communication and Media Studies, Sports Science, it maintains an acceptance rate of 35%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
SDU is globally recognized for its world-leading robotics research and high-quality, tuition-free education for EU students. It offers a modern, interdisciplinary learning environment with strong industry ties.
Subject Strengths
RoboticsCommunication and Media StudiesSports ScienceEngineeringPublic Health
Founded1966
TypePublic
Total Students26715
Intl Students18%
Faculty Ratio13.5
CampusMulti-campus
Campus Size300,000 m2 (Odense Campus)
Affiliated HospitalsOdense University Hospital (OUH)
AccreditationDanish Accreditation Institution, AACSB, AMBA
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#342
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#251–300
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#301-400
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, Professional degrees
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Limited (Blended learning options available)
Online Programs
Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Institute, Danish Institute for Advanced Study (DIAS), Interdisciplinary Center on Population Dynamics
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Danish Accreditation Institution, AACSB, AMBA
Accreditation
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Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate35%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL88
Min GPAEquivalent to Danish 7.0
GRENot required (unless specified for specific Business/Finance modules)
GMATNot required (unless specified for specific Business/Finance modules)
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · March 15 (Non-EU), May 1 (EU)
SPRINGApplication Deadline · September 1 (Non-EU), October 15 (EU)
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Ensure all degree certificates and transcripts are officially translated and verified. Focus on the motivation letter for Master's programs, emphasizing professional goals and relevant research experience.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in Danish Krone
UG Tuition
kr.82,000/yr
per year · DKK
Living Cost
kr.90,000/yr
per year · DKK
PG Tuition
kr.99,000/yr
per year · DKK
Application Fee
$110
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
kr.189,750/yr
tuition + living + essentials · DKK
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$8,500
Financial AidDanish State Educational Grant (SU) for eligible EU/Danish students
Work-StudyAvailable (Student assistant positions)
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, PhD, Professional degrees programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| MSc in Engineering (Robotics) | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| MSc in Economics and Business Administration | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| MSc in Public Health | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| BSc in Market and Management Anthropology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$62,000
Average Salary After Graduation
84%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with local industry in Odense and Sønderborg
Industry Connections
Universal RobotsDanfossLEGONovo Nordisk
Notable Alumni
Lars Tvede (Author), Mette Frederiksen (Prime Minister of Denmark - Student period), various European politicians
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
SDU Fitness, Athletics Stadium, Swimming Pools (Odense)
Student Clubs
SDU Student Council, ESN Odense, Syddanske Studerende
Library Resources
University Library of Southern Denmark (SDUB) with extensive digital archives
Exchange Programs
Erasmus+, Nordplus, Overseas Exchange
Summer Programs
SDU International Summer School