In a recently announced agreement on sector sizing, which is part of a larger university reform, it is clear that Roskilde University and Aalborg University will experience significant cuts in the number of study places. From the period 2025-2029, Roskilde University will lose 203 study places, equivalent to a reduction of 14.1 percent, while Aalborg University will see a reduction of 443 places, or 12.1 percent. This agreement, negotiated by the parties behind the university reform, hits the two universities hardest relatively, even though the University of Copenhagen in absolute numbers loses the most places with a reduction of 789 study places. However, in percentage terms, this is only a reduction of 11.7 percent. Overall, 2654 places will be cut nationwide, amounting to a ten percent reduction in total intake at the universities in the period mentioned. Every five years, the distribution of study places will be evaluated for any adjustments.
Reactions to the agreement have been mixed, with significant criticism from both the business community and student organizations. Lars Sandahl Sørensen, director of the Danish Industry, expresses concern that the agreement does not cater to the educational needs that the Danish business community requires, which could weaken Denmark’s competitiveness. Similarly, the Danish Students’ Union and the chairman of Djøf, Sara Vergo, have expressed deep concern about the future consequences of the cuts, which they believe will harm both the quality of education and the country’s economy. This new implementation of sector sizing is a clear sign that a redistribution of resources in the Danish university system is needed, but it is a decision that will continue to face opposition from various fronts.