By Kim Rathcke Jensen and Nina Hermansen
AAU Communication & Public Affairs

On Saturday, the deadline for applying to the country's higher education programmes through quota 2 expired. Preliminary figures from Aalborg University indicate that the total number of applications remains stable, with 8,068 applications received.

“We are very pleased that we can maintain a stable number of applications in a time of declining youth cohorts,” says Aalborg University’s Pro-Rector, Anne Marie Kanstrup.

The figures also reveal that one area in particular has experienced significant growth. Interest in economics programmes at Aalborg University has generally increased.

One such programme is the international bachelor's degree in Business Administration, where the number of first-priority applicants has more than doubled compared to last year, according to the preliminary figures. Overall, applications for the programme have grown from 491 in 2024 to 717 this year.

The Danish-language counterpart – the bachelor's programme in Business Administration – has seen a similar sharp increase, with the number of first-priority applications rising by 50 per cent.

Seeking a safe harbour

This development comes at a time when global politics are increasingly impacting everyday life in Denmark. Trump has been elected President of the United States. There is war in Europe. Threats of tariffs and trade wars have become routine, and the foundation of Denmark’s political and economic future is being debated.

“It is an uncertain world, where many major questions have emerged in a short time. Economics programmes cater to those interested in business and societal issues. There may be several reasons for their growing popularity, but one possible explanation is that young people are looking for answers and analytical tools to understand the world—something these programmes can provide,” says Anne Marie Kanstrup.

At the same time, it may also indicate that young people are gravitating towards stability in uncertain times.

“When we look at all our economics-related programmes, there is a high degree of job security. Unemployment among graduates in these fields is generally low,” says Anne Marie Kanstrup.

It is important to note that a final picture of the total number of applicants to Aalborg University will not be available until the deadline for quota 1 applications expires on 5 July at 12:00 noon. Applicants will receive responses to their applications on 28 July.