The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) has specific language requirements for both undergraduate and graduate programs, depending on the program's language of instruction (Norwegian or English). Below is an outline of the language requirements for international students applying to NMBU:

1. Programs Taught in Norwegian

For programs where the language of instruction is Norwegian, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the Norwegian language. This is typically required for most bachelor’s programs.

Norwegian Language Proficiency Requirements:

• Norwegian Language Test: Applicants need to pass a recognized Norwegian language test, such as Bergenstesten (Test of Norwegian – Advanced Level), with a minimum score of 450 or the new grading system level C1.
• Norwegian Language Courses: Applicants can also fulfill the requirement by completing Norwegian language courses equivalent to level 3 from a Norwegian university.
• Applicants from Nordic countries (Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Iceland) or who have studied in Norwegian may be exempted from additional Norwegian proficiency tests.

2. Programs Taught in English

For programs taught in English, primarily at the master’s and PhD levels, NMBU requires international students to demonstrate proficiency in English. Commonly accepted English language tests include:

English Language Proficiency Requirements:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based test (iBT).
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no individual section lower than 5.5.
• Cambridge English Qualifications: Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a minimum score of C.
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English): Minimum score of 62.

Exemptions from English Language Testing:

• Applicants from countries where English is the official language or those who have completed a minimum of one year of university-level education in English (in specific countries) may be exempt from taking an English test. A list of exempted countries is available on NMBU’s website.
• Nordic applicants who have studied in English at the high school or university level may also be exempt from this requirement.

Admission to master's programmes taught in English

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is known for its strong emphasis on life sciences, sustainability, and environmental studies. It offers a wide range of programs focused on agriculture, environmental sciences, biotechnology, veterinary medicine, and business development related to natural resources. Below is an overview of some of the university’s course specialties:

1. Agriculture and Food Sciences

NMBU is renowned for its focus on sustainable agricultural practices, food production, and resource management. The university offers advanced courses in:

• Sustainable Agriculture
• Agroecology
• Plant Science
• Animal Science
• Food Science and Technology
• Organic Farming
• Precision Agriculture (using technology and data for efficient farming)

2. Environmental Sciences and Sustainability

NMBU is a leader in the study of environmental issues, biodiversity, and sustainability. Key programs include:

• Environmental Sciences
• Ecology and Natural Resource Management
• Sustainability in Nature and Society
• Renewable Energy
• Water and Environmental Technology
• Biodiversity Conservation
• Environmental Monitoring and Pollution Management

3. Veterinary Medicine

NMBU’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is the only institution in Norway offering education and research in veterinary science. Specialties include:

• Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
• Animal Health and Welfare
• Aquatic Medicine (veterinary care of fish and marine animals)
• Animal Breeding and Genetics

4. Biotechnology and Life Sciences

The university’s programs in biotechnology emphasize innovations in food production, health, and sustainability. Course specialties include:

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology
• Genomics and Bioinformatics
• Microbiology
• Food Safety and Quality
• Systems Biology

5. Business, Economics, and Management

NMBU has a strong focus on business and economics, especially related to natural resources and sustainability. Programs in this area include:

• Economics and Business Administration
• Environmental and Development Economics
• Energy Economics
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• Agricultural Economics

6. Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning

NMBU offers a range of programs in landscape design and urban planning, integrating sustainability into the design of rural and urban spaces:

• Landscape Architecture
• Urban and Regional Planning
• Sustainable Urban Development

7. Forestry and Natural Resource Management

NMBU has a long-standing tradition in forestry and forest management. It offers courses in sustainable forest management and natural resource use:

• Forestry
• Forest Ecology
• International Environmental Studies
• Sustainable Natural Resource Management

8. Renewable Energy

NMBU is a leading institution in renewable energy studies, focusing on sustainable energy production and environmental impact:

• Renewable Energy Systems
• Energy and Environmental Engineering
• Sustainable Energy Planning

9. Aquatic and Marine Sciences

The university offers programs that focus on sustainable use and management of aquatic resources:

• Aquaculture
• Fisheries Management
• Aquatic Food Production
• Marine Ecology

10. International Environment and Development Studies

NMBU has a strong international focus with programs that address global development challenges, food security, and environmental issues:

• International Environment and Development Studies
• Global Development and Planning
• Climate Change and Development

11. Technology and Engineering

NMBU also provides technical programs that blend engineering with environmental and natural resource studies:

• Environmental Engineering
• Water Resource Engineering
• Geotechnical Engineering

Research

Programs

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) offers various scholarship opportunities for international students. Here’s an overview of some of the key scholarships available for prospective students:

1. NMBU Scholarships for International Students

• NMBU provides a limited number of scholarships to international students, primarily for master’s programs. These scholarships are often based on academic merit.
• The scholarships cover only tuition fees and do not include living expenses. The scholarships are typically awarded to students who have applied for a program at NMBU and demonstrated exceptional academic performance.

2. Norwegian Government Scholarships

• The Norwegian government offers scholarships for international students through various programs, including the Quota Scheme (although this program has been phased out since 2017).
• The current equivalent is the Erasmus+ program, which provides funding for students participating in exchange programs.

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships

• NMBU participates in the Erasmus+ program, which offers scholarships for students studying in Europe. Students from partner universities can apply for Erasmus+ funding for a semester or year abroad at NMBU.
• This program provides financial support for students traveling for studies or internships, depending on the agreements in place.

4. Scholarships for Specific Programs

• Some specific programs at NMBU may offer dedicated scholarships or funding opportunities. For example, students applying for master’s programs in areas such as sustainable development or renewable energy may find unique scholarship offerings tied to industry partnerships or research initiatives.
• Check the specific program pages on NMBU's website for information on available scholarships related to your chosen field of study.

5. External Scholarships

• Students can also seek funding from external scholarship programs. Organizations such as DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) and Fulbright offer scholarships for international students pursuing studies in Norway.
• Additionally, check for opportunities from your home country’s government or organizations that support international education.

6. Living Cost Considerations

• It's important to note that while NMBU may offer scholarships that cover tuition fees, living costs in Norway can be high. Students are encouraged to explore other funding options or part-time job opportunities to support their living expenses while studying at NMBU.

7. Application Process

• Students interested in applying for scholarships should carefully review the specific scholarship requirements and deadlines on NMBU’s official website.
• Applications for scholarships typically coincide with admission applications, and applicants may need to provide additional documentation or statements of purpose related to their scholarship applications.

International student help

Vacancies

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) has a number of distinguished professors known for their contributions to research and education in various fields related to life sciences, sustainability, veterinary medicine, and environmental studies. Here are some of the top professors at NMBU:

1. Professor Torgeir A. Sæther

• Field: Wildlife Biology, Ecology
• Specialty: Torgeir Sæther is known for his research on wildlife population dynamics, conservation biology, and the ecology of large mammals. His work focuses on understanding the factors that influence population trends in various species and the implications for wildlife management and conservation strategies.
• Notable Work: His research has significantly contributed to the understanding of the ecology of species such as the moose and reindeer, which are important to Norway's natural heritage.

2. Professor Tormod N. Krogstad

• Field: Agricultural Sciences, Soil Science
• Specialty: Tormod Krogstad specializes in soil science, particularly the management of soil and nutrients for sustainable agricultural practices. His research emphasizes optimizing soil health to enhance food production while minimizing environmental impact.
• Notable Work: Krogstad has published extensively on soil management practices and their implications for sustainable agriculture, contributing to policies aimed at improving soil quality in agricultural systems.

3. Professor Anne Husebekk

• Field: Veterinary Medicine, Immunology
• Specialty: Anne Husebekk is a prominent professor in the field of veterinary medicine and immunology. She has conducted significant research in animal health, specifically regarding blood disorders and immune system responses in animals.
• Notable Work: Husebekk’s contributions to veterinary immunology have implications for both animal and human health, especially in understanding zoonotic diseases.

4. Professor Per Magnus Nilsen

• Field: Forest Science, Ecology
• Specialty: Per Magnus Nilsen specializes in forest ecology and the management of forest resources. His research focuses on sustainable forest management practices, forest dynamics, and the effects of climate change on forest ecosystems.
• Notable Work: Nilsen has published research on the interactions between forest ecosystems and climate, contributing to strategies for sustainable forestry in Norway and beyond.

5. Professor Tanja N. A. Smith

• Field: Aquaculture, Marine Biology
• Specialty: Tanja Smith is a leading expert in aquaculture and marine biology. Her research focuses on sustainable aquaculture practices, fish health, and the impact of aquaculture on marine ecosystems.
• Notable Work: Smith has been involved in pioneering research that explores the balance between aquaculture practices and environmental sustainability, contributing to the development of eco-friendly aquaculture methods.

6. Professor Jørgen E. Olesen

• Field: Agricultural Economics, Sustainable Development
• Specialty: Jørgen Olesen is known for his work in agricultural economics, particularly related to sustainable development and the economics of climate change in agriculture. His research includes modeling agricultural systems and understanding the economic implications of climate change on food security.
• Notable Work: His research supports the development of policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices in the face of global environmental challenges.

7. Professor Lars H. Kjøll

• Field: Veterinary Epidemiology
• Specialty: Lars Kjøll is an expert in veterinary epidemiology, focusing on infectious diseases in livestock and their implications for public health. His work addresses disease transmission dynamics and control measures in animal populations.
• Notable Work: Kjøll’s research has informed best practices for disease management in livestock, contributing to improved animal health and food safety.

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) does not have any Nobel Prize laureates directly associated with the institution, either among its faculty or alumni. However, the university is renowned for its contributions to sustainability, environmental research, agricultural sciences, and veterinary medicine, fields that align with the themes often recognized by the Nobel Prizes, particularly in the areas of Peace (environmental sustainability and global development) and Chemistry (biotechnology and life sciences).

While no Nobel Prizes have been awarded directly to NMBU researchers or faculty, the university's work contributes to important global issues, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, and food security, which have significant overlap with the areas of research that Nobel laureates have contributed to globally.

For example:

• NMBU’s research in sustainable agriculture and global development contributes to the broader efforts recognized by the Nobel Peace Prize, such as those related to climate change and environmental sustainability, which are increasingly central to peace and security.
• Research in biotechnology and genetics at NMBU has the potential to intersect with advances recognized by the Nobel Prize in Chemistry or Medicine, especially in areas such as genetic engineering and environmental biotechnology.

Although NMBU has not produced any Nobel Prize winners, the institution plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges that are often recognized by Nobel Committees, particularly in sustainability, food security, and environmental science.