SH-201
The History of Svalbard (6 ECTS)

Required previous knowledge/specific course requirements:
The course is adapted for science or technology students on Bachelor- or Master-level without previous experience in history or social sciences.
Note: Exam is only offered to registered spring semester students at UNIS.

Learning outcome:

Students will get a comprehensive overview of Svalbard's history from its discovery in 1596 until the present day, covering main aspects of economic and scientific activity, politics, social and cultural development. They will be introduced to historical thinking and acquire a basic understanding of applied historical method. The aim of the course is to provide the students with a wider cultural context for their specialized studies in Svalbard.

Academic content:
The point of departure of the course is the gradual colonization and exploration of the circumpolar Arctic from pre-historic times until the modern period. The early exploitation of Svalbard as a resource frontier is discussed, with emphasis on whaling and hunting. Economic activity in the modern era is covered, first and foremost mining and large scale tourism, but also fisheries. An overriding perspective is the interaction between man and the environment through nearly 400 years of resource harvesting.

The history of science on Svalbard will be outlined from its early beginnings in the 18th century until the present, including the more spectacular polar expeditions. Political history includes the question of sovereignty and the emergence of a management regime, as well as the role of Svalbard in a geopolitical context. The development of Russian and Norwegian local communities will be analyzed, and particular emphasis will be put on the local history of Longyearbyen.

Teaching methods and activities:
The course extends over two weeks, with 20 lecture hours. An essay of maximum 2,500 words or at least three written exercises must be approved in order to take the exam. Individual tuition is offered. During the course there will be a voluntary guided visit to Svalbard Museum and the Cultural Heritage Repository.

Compulsory assignment:
At least 80 % attendance at lectures and approved exercises / essay.

Assessment:
Graded written exam, consisting of a multiple choice and an essay part. The essay accounts for ca. 2/3 of the final grade. Both parts must be passed.

All assessments must be fulfilled in order to receive a final grade.

Application deadline: This course cannot be applied for separately.
Open to all admitted students – apply after your arrival at UNIS.

Further information: