On Friday, August 30, 2024, the first three double degree students between Østfold University College and the Lucerne School of Computer Science and Technology received their diplomas from both institutions at the graduation ceremony in Switzerland. Monica Kristiansen Holone, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Communication at Østfold University College was there to hand out the diplomas, together with Dr. Prof. René Hüsler, Dean of the Lucerne School of Information Technology and Peter Wullschleger, Head of the Master IT, Digitalization and Sustainability.
How does the double degree work?
Students are given the opportunity to obtain two coordinated degrees. Students from Norway attend the first study year at Østfold University College and their third and fourth semester (optional), at the Lucerne School of Computer Science and Information Technology in Rotkreuz. Students attend advanced modules and write their master’s thesis in collaboration with both institutions. The master thesis is co-supervised by both partner institutions.
The double degree was established in 2022 and Østfold University College welcomed the first three students from Switzerland in the fall of 2023. On Friday, August 30, 2024, these three students officially received their final diplomas, marking their achievements recognized by both institutions.
What is the benefit of this double degree?
- Opportunity to earn two master’s degrees in just two years
- Rewarding international and life experiences
- Development of language and intercultural skills
- Expansion of personal network
- Ideal preparation for a career in an international corporation
- It’s an investment in your future!
Most Outstanding Master’s Thesis
During the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, the award for most outstanding master’s thesis was announced. This year’s most outstanding thesis at the master-level was given to Lukas Ingold, double degree graduate from Østfold University College. His thesis was entitled "Green Forecasting: Optimising Profit while Reducing Carbon Dioxide Emissions in the Aluminium Industry.” His thesis was co-supervised by Alireza Khakpour from Østfold University College. Congratulations to Lukas.
Sharing of Knowledge across Borders
In addition to attending the first graduation ceremony for double degree students, representatives from Østfold University College engaged in various activities while visiting Lucerne School of Computer Science and Information Technology. Harald Holone, Dean of the Faculty of Computer Science, Engineering and Economics, Monica Kristiansen Holone, Head of the Department of Computer Science and Communication, and Rebecca Norvang, Erasmus+ Institutional Coordinator presented a workshop on International Research at the annual department seminar. Participants were given the opportunity to hear about research activities at Østfold University College and then asked to reflect on their own challenges within international research in a World Café. A panel discussion, led by Harald Holone, Dean concluded the session.
Connecting research communities and PhD collaboration were two another important areas of sharing during the visit to the Lucerne School of Computer Science and Information Technology. Colleagues at both institutions were able to find common ground within areas of Blockchain, Sustainability and AI.
