Members of University of the Arctic participate in a broad and diversified network of individuals, organizations and institutions committed to research and education in the circumpolar region and to promoting sustainable practices for the future.
Members are the heart of the University of the Arctic, thus the contributions they make have a great impact on the success of UArctic activities. By far the most important way to participate is through involvement in the Council of UArctic and through UArctic Programs.
Appointed individuals from Member institutions form the Council of UArctic. The Council functions as the member forum for consultation, cooperation and for the implementation of UArctic programs through the member institutions. All members have the same rights of representation on Council. Members differ only in their eligibility criteria and in their role in the development and delivery of programs.
The UArctic Membership consists of 1.) institutions of higher education, and 2.) other organizations with an interest and commitment to higher education and research in the circumpolar North. The primary role of educational institution members is to develop and deliver University of the Arctic academic programs. The primary role of organizational members is to provide important expertise, and resources. Organizational members do not normally deliver UArctic academic programs, but do contribute significantly to their development, and may have the opportunity to offer programs on a case-by-case basis.
All members of UArctic make contributions that benefit the network as a whole for the improvement of higher education in the North. In turn, members should expect fair and balanced access to the programs and activities created in common by University if the Arctic.
Criteria In acting on applications for membership, the Council is guided by the following criteria:
- demonstrated commitment to the goals and values of the University of the Arctic demonstrated commitment and ability to actively contribute to the development of UArctic and its programs
- willingness to provide in-kind support, services, or material resources helpful to the operation and development of UArctic
- links to major UArctic constituencies.
Higher education institution applicants are also evaluated on the following additional criteria:
- willingness and ability to develop and deliver UArctic academic programs
- willingness and ability to contribute existing courses and programs to the UArctic program structure
- demonstrated commitment to circumpolar educational cooperation, including strong faculty and student involvement in northern science and scholarship
These criteria constitute a checklist; no application for membership is expected to meet all the criteria. Authority to resolve any questions about the application of these criteria to specific cases rests with the Council.
Useful Information for Prospective Members
Institutions and organizations wishing to join UArctic should familiarize themselves with the following:
Application Procedure
- Review governance documents and membership criteria (see above)
- Download and save the Membership Application form (in Word format)
- Return the completed Membership Application form as an email attachment to secretariat@uarctic.org
- Submit a signed letter of support from the head of the institution/organization to:
UArctic International Secretariat
Ms. Outi Snellman
University of Lapland, Box 122
FIN-96101Rovaniemi, Finland
FAX: +358-16-341 4222
Applications must be received 90 (ninety) days prior to the Council meeting where it will be considered. A representative of the applicant is expected to be present at the Council meeting where their application is considered, to present the application and answer any questions from the Council.