About
Hólar University College is an institution of higher education in rural Iceland best known for its specialized programs in equine science, aquaculture and fish biology, and tourism management. Its strongest faculty is the Department of Equine Science, which is globally recognized and attracts students seeking expert instruction in horsemanship, breeding, and equine business. The student experience is deeply connected to Iceland’s unique natural environment and traditional rural culture, offering a tight-knit campus community where international learners work closely with faculty and industry professionals. While primary instruction for many undergraduate courses is in Icelandic, the institution offers specific courses, research opportunities, and master's-level supervision in English, supported by an international office that assists incoming students with mobility and integration. A distinctive characteristic of the university is its location at Hólar í Hjaltadalur, a historic ecclesiastical and cultural site that provides students with a living laboratory surrounded by mountains and rivers ideal for outdoor and agricultural studies.
Background
Hólar University is located in Hólar, Iceland, an important historical centre of education. The university was the first post-secondary school in Hólar, founded in 1106. It was renamed Hólar Agricultural College in 1882 and became Hólar University in 2007. Established in the 12th century, Hólar is one of the oldest universities in Europe; the oldest is University of Bologna since 1088 AD.
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Quick facts
Nearby universities
Also in Iceland
- Bifrost School of Business · Bifröst
- Hvanneyri Agricultural University · Hvanneyri
- Iceland Academy of the Arts · Reykjavík
- Iceland University of Education · Reykjavík
- Reykjavík University · Reykjavík
- Technological University of Iceland · Reykjavík
- University Centre of the Westfjords · Ísafjörður
- University of Akureyri · Akureyri
- University of Iceland · Reykjavík
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SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.