The 5 Most Remote Universities in the World

When you think of a university, you normally think of a bustling, busy campus in a well-known city. There’s a hum of activity as students navigate their busy schedules going from one lecture to another.

But what about populations in more remote locations? Which universities do they go to? Or, if you’re looking to study in a remote area because it’s relevant to your subject or research, which universities could you go to?

Truth is, there are plenty of universities in remote locations. You don’t always have to go to a big metropolis in order for your postgraduate study. In fact, you can do quite the opposite. We’re going to show you five of the most remote university campuses on the planet.

The University of the South Pacific (USP) is where we start our tour of the world’s most remote universities.

USP operates across 11 centres, with each of these on a different Pacific island country. The Pacific islands are located across the Pacific Ocean with some being more ‘remote’ than others. For example, Samoa is about 3,594 miles from Australia and Vanatu is 2,248 miles away but the latter is the closest Pacific island to Australia. These countries also vary dramatically in population. Fiji has the highest population at around 900,000 and Tokelau has the smallest population with approximately 1,500.

USP is all about making world-class education and research available to Pacific Islanders. They do this through their various schools of teaching, some of which focus on the south pacific itself, such as the School of Agriculture, Geography, Environment, Ocean and Natural Sciences and the School of Pacific Arts, Communication and Education.

Here’s an incredible fact that highlights just how remote these islands are: the region USP serves covers 33 million square kilometres – an area which is over three times the size of Europe – however the total land mass of the same area is similar to Denmark!

If you've ever dreamed of studying in the Arctic, the University Centre in Svalbard (UNIS) in Norway presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Situated in Longyearbyen- the world's northernmost settlement - it’s home to approximately 2,100 residents and offers a unique focus on Arctic biology, geology, and environmental sciences.

UNIS supports students to conduct research in an environment that’s perfect for studying any of the Arctic-based courses we’ve mentioned. Imagine witnessing the dramatic changes in the polar landscape, or studying Arctic wildlife up close - this is exactly what UNIS was made for.

Here’s a few of the unique things you’re likely to experience studying this far north!

• Polar bears: although you won’t see them regularly about town, it does happen. You’ll have a safety course in your first week where you’ll learn how to protect yourselves!
• Polar night: this is where the sun is six degrees or more below the horizon, making it pitch black during the winter!
• Stunning scenery and the Northern Lights: getting out of town is encouraged as the incredible Svalbard Wilderness is just beyond it. You’ll get to see some incredible views around Longyearbyen and there’s even a cabin available for students to stay just outside of town.

At University of Alaska Fairbanks, Chukchi Campus, located in Kotzebue, students can experience life 26 miles north of the Arctic Circle. This campus serves a sprawling area of over 36,000 square miles of stunning wilderness. With no real established roads in this vast expanse, this surely has to be one of the most secluded and isolated university campuses in the world!

With a population of 9,000 and a significant 82% of Alaska Native residents, the Chukchi Campus provides a unique blend of traditional indigenous culture and modern education. If you’re looking for a learning experience that allows you to make a difference in local communities while embracing the great outdoors, this could be your ideal haven, just remember to pack your thermals.

Bifröst University in Iceland is another fantastic option for those looking further afield for their Masters. Located in the scenic valley of Norðurárdalur, it’s in close proximity to two stunning volcanoes. With just around 700 students, this university offers a close-knit learning environment.

Originally established as a business school, Bifröst now offers degrees in law and social sciences, making it a perfect choice for those seeking traditional courses in a more intimate setting. Plus, the nearest town for groceries is 30 km away, which means you’ll have no distractions – aside from your beautiful surroundings of course!

If you're after a warmer climate then look no further than Université de la Réunion. Situated on a small island in the Indian Ocean, this university offers around 20,000 students a unique education environment, enriched by its stunning tropical backdrop.

The university is fully immersed in the island spirit, being 2,123 miles from Africa and 587 miles from Madagascar. Here, you’ll not only enhance your academic credentials but also enjoy vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes during your study breaks.

Exploring options in, let’s say, quieter locations could give you a unique experiences that traditional universities might not offer.

If you’re interested in Arctic Biology, for example, then where better to study than in the Arctic Circle? Most of these universities offer more traditional courses, but also let students immerse themselves in niche areas of study thanks to where they’re located.

If you find the idea of studying in one of these remote universities exciting, why not take the next step? Take a look at our current postgraduate opportunities today.

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