Högskolan Dalarna Launches Sweden's First Bachelor's Program in Assistive Technology

Högskolan Dalarna is launching Sweden's pioneering bachelor's degree program in assistive technology starting autumn 2026, with applications opening on March 16, 2026. This three-year program uniquely blends mechanical engineering, innovation, and knowledge of human body functions to prepare students for careers addressing growing healthcare and accessibility needs.

The initiative responds to a rising national and international demand driven by an aging population, reduced healthcare personnel availability, and increasing digital and accessibility requirements. Students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to develop products and systems that enhance people's independence, security, and participation. They will also have access to Högskolan Dalarna's laboratories and testing environments to engage with future technological advancements in this field.

Program director Johan Borg emphasized the program's uniqueness in combining deep technical expertise with understanding user needs. Graduates can pursue careers in product development, construction, accessibility consulting, entrepreneurship, and roles within traditional industries, startups, or the public sector.

This development complements regional efforts to advance health engineering in Sweden, exemplified by the establishment of a new professorship at Chalmers University supported by Stenastiftelsen. The professorship will focus on cutting-edge areas such as stem cell organoids, organ-on-a-chip, and bioelectronic interfaces, aiming to bridge technology and healthcare for societal benefit through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

Together, these academic advancements reflect Sweden’s commitment to strengthening the intersection of technology and health to meet societal and healthcare challenges.