The Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences
The Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences (GIH) was founded in 1813 by Pehr Henrik Ling. This makes it the oldest institute for higher education within its field in the world. GIH offers degree programmes and courses in health education, coaching, and physical education teacher training. GIH provides a high level of teaching, primarily within the areas of human biology, physical education and pedagogics/didactics. Approximately 600 students are enrolled. The language of instruction is currently Swedish. Applicants therefore need advanced Swedish language skills at the time of their application. There are, however, plans to develop courses in English.
Sport Pedagogics and Human Biology
The emphasis of research at GIH is on sports pedagogics and human biology, and it is characterised by its close contacts with students and growing international exchanges. Research in behavioural science is carried out in collaboration with the Stockholm Institute of Education. Research in human biology is conducted in collaboration with Karolinska Institutet with particular focus in two areas: exercise physiology and biomechanics and motor control. In addition, the institution also collaborates with schools and sport organizations, which is valuable for both education and research. Sweden’s largest laboratory for applied sport science was developed at GIH, with support from the Swedish Olympic Committee and the Swedish Sports Confederation.
Specialist library on health and sports
The GIH Library is the only specialist library on sports, physical education and health in Sweden. The collections consist of around 60,000 books and 230 periodicals. Today, the collections include books in the fields of gymnastics, sports, physiology, biomechanics, physical activity and health. GIH is centrally located next to a beautiful eco park, which has both natural and cultural values and also offers excellent opportunities for sports and recreation. The 1912 Olympic Stadium is situated near the campus, which gives the area a unique atmosphere.
Number of full-year students in year 2009: 409
Number of programmes: 3
Number of programmes in English: 0
