Freelancing and Entrepreneurship in Bergen, Norway

All first and second year undergraduate students are eligible to participate on this opportunity.  We are able to offer places on the trip to Level 6 (third year) students on the condition that they seek and receive Academic approval prior to applying.  This should be in the form of an email confirmation from your Lecturer/Tutor giving pre-permission for your absence during the trip. In particular, we are looking for students with a demonstrable interest in freelancing and self-employment, or you may have a business idea that you would like to launch or grow. There are a maximum of 30 places available, with a minimum of 10 participants required for this opportunity to take place. Students are recommended to check the eligibility criteria before applying.

Trip description

This trip to Bergen will explore how self-employment, innovation and entrepreneurship are critical part of Bergen’s infrastructure. Underpinned by a community of start-ups and ambitious founders, Bergen has a thriving programme of start-up events, innovation hubs and business programmes. This trip will explore how this community works alongside and with the Universities to support growth and innovation.

This trip will enable students to interact with local startups, innovative projects, and entrepreneurs who are at the forefront of pioneering solutions to global challenges, for example issues associated with sustainability and climate change By visiting an Innovation Centre, students will gain a hands-on understanding of how innovation drives economic growth and societal change. They will learn about ideation, prototyping, and the essential skills needed to succeed in the entrepreneurial world. Engaging with Norwegian academics and students will provide students with a unique international perspective on education, research, and business practices, enriching their academic and personal growth.

Meeting successful entrepreneurs and witnessing innovative projects can be highly motivating. Students may return home with newfound inspiration to pursue their own entrepreneurial ventures or innovative ideas. Alternatively, they may use new knowledge acquired through the trip to enhance their employability, developing new entrepreneurial and business skills which can be applied within a job role.

Students will be allocated practical tasks to complete during the trip, which will help them to develop and apply skills around digital marketing and social media.

Learning objectives

Participating in a DMU Global opportunity can help you develop a range of employability skills and competencies that enhance your studies. Through participation in this trip to Bergen we expect that students will:

Successful applicants will be required to participate in 1 x pre-trip workshop and 1 x post-trip workshop, in which we will explore entrepreneurial principals and themes.  This will relate to you, whether you have aspirations to be self-employed and run your own business, or, if you have an interest in acquiring entrepreneurial skills to enhance your cv.

Cultural activities

Bergen is a beautiful part of the world, with many sights, tourist attractions, museums and incredible eateries! Students are recommended to visit the Bryggen World Heritage Site, which is the key historical part of the city. Also, you are recommended to stroll through the charming neighborhood of Nygårdshøyden, known for its well-preserved wooden houses and vibrant street art, a unique blend of historic and modern culture.

Weather permitting, students could consider a hike up one of Bergen’s seven mountains, or alternatively take the cable car to get fantastic views of city. Mount Fløyen and Mount Ulriken are the most accessible and offer multiple trails to choose from.