The establishment and development of the University of Tromso in Northern Norway are discussed. This case study is one of 10 undertaken as part of a project conducted by the Institute of Education of the European Cultural Foundation to compare higher education reforms that were introduced during the 1960s or early 1970s in various European countries. After reviewing the reform, the University of Tromso is described as it is today, and conditions that influenced its development are examined. Goals for the university that were formulated by the Ministry of Education and Parliament, and those formulated by the university, are described. Aspects of the educational and occupational situation in Norway from the late 1950s included a growth in student enrollment at universities, insufficient facilities, and a shortage of academically qualified people. The university as it exists today is considered in relation to: expenditures, staff, student numbers, geographic background of students, the graduation rate, the system of governance, areas of study, innovations in examination procedures and teaching, interdisciplinarity in teaching and research, and the regional relevance of the university (e.g., subjects and research relevant to the region). General trends in higher education in the 1970s and economic influences affecting the University of Tromso are addressed. Student recruitment has been affected by developments within secondary education in Northern Norway, a national tendency of declining enrollments, and influences related to patterns of study. Appended materials include information on: committees appointed by the university's Interim Council, and the Norwegian university degree system. (SW)