Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

Solutions for a sustainable planet.

📍 Ås, Norway 🇳🇴

🏆 QS World #791 · THE World #801 · ARWU #701

Quick Facts about Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), located in Ås, Norway, is a public university established in 1859. It is dedicated to interdisciplinary research and study programs that address global challenges related to the environment, sustainable development, food production, and human and animal health. NMBU aims to contribute to the well-being of the planet through its focus on these critical areas.

Academics

NMBU is organized into seven faculties: Biosciences, Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Landscape and Society, School of Economics and Business, Science and Technology, and Veterinary Medicine. The university's teaching approach emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, problem-based learning, and independent work, fostering critical thinking and innovation. Notable programs include those in aquaculture, international environmental studies, data science, and applied economics and sustainability, many of which are taught in English and incorporate internships or fieldwork. NMBU is recognized for its strong research profile, particularly in environmental sciences, veterinary medicine, food science, biotechnology, and sustainable development.

International Students

NMBU has a comprehensive international environment, with nearly 17% of its students holding foreign citizenship and 43% of its programs offered in English. Support services for international students include an Orientation Week, which helps with transition and cultural integration, and the Student Information Centre (SiT). The university also has various student organizations, such as the International Student Union (ISU) and Erasmus Student Network (ESN), which facilitate cultural exchange and social activities. NMBU prioritizes international students for on-campus housing through SiÅs, though it is not guaranteed.

Campus & Location

NMBU's campus in Ås is renowned for its beauty, featuring one of Norway's most significant neoclassical parks with historical buildings dating back to 1859. Ås is a compact, walkable, and bike-friendly university town located approximately 30 km south of Oslo, with convenient train access to the capital in about 17-19 minutes. The campus also houses Norway's largest interdisciplinary academic environment in the life sciences and includes modern facilities like Europe's most modern veterinary building. Nearby attractions include the Norwegian Agriculture Museum.

Career Outcomes

NMBU's education and research contribute to knowledge and life-changing outcomes, with alumni found in various industries, organizations, and public institutions both in Norway and internationally. The university emphasizes practical learning, with many programs including integrated internships and connections to industry. NMBU is also active in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, offering opportunities for students interested in developing new ideas and collaborating with businesses through initiatives like StartUpSmia and the BIT Innovation Centre. Graduates are well-prepared for careers addressing global challenges in areas such as food security, climate change, and environmental protection.

Information for International Students at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) in Ås, Norway welcomes international students.

  • No visa support offered
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available

Programs at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) (32 programs)

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) offers 32 programs across Master, PhD levels.

Master Programs (27)

  • Forestry and Forest Resources (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Students learn about sustainable forest management, forest ecology, wood technology, and the economic and social aspects of forestry.
    Field: Forestry
    Career outcomes: forester, conservationist, researcher, environmental planner
  • Landscape Architecture (MSc) — 24 months · English
    This program focuses on the design, planning, and management of outdoor spaces, integrating ecological, social, and aesthetic considerations.
    Field: Landscape Architecture
    Career outcomes: landscape architect, urban planner, park designer, environmental consultant
  • Food Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Students gain expertise in food chemistry, microbiology, processing, safety, and nutrition, contributing to the development of safe and healthy food products.
    Field: Food Science
    Career outcomes: food scientist, quality assurance manager, product developer, nutritionist
  • Animal Science (Master) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program addresses challenges in global food production and agriculture systems, focusing on animal breeding and genetics, nutrition, feed technology, ethology, and animal welfare. Students will develop expertise in various aspects of animal production and welfare.
    Field: Animal Science
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Urban and Regional Planning (MSc) — 24 months · English
    Students learn to analyze, plan, and manage urban and regional development, addressing challenges related to sustainability, infrastructure, and social equity.
    Field: Urban Planning
    Career outcomes: urban planner, regional planner, policy analyst, consultant
  • Ecology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on ecological principles and environmental interactions. Students will gain a deep understanding of ecosystems and biodiversity.
    Field: Ecology
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Environmental Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on understanding environmental processes, assessing human impacts, and developing sustainable solutions for environmental challenges.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: environmental consultant, researcher, policy advisor, environmental manager
  • Applied Economics and Resource Management (MSc) — 24 months · English
    Focuses on economic analysis of natural resources, environmental policy, and sustainable development, preparing students for careers in resource management.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: economist, policy analyst, resource manager, consultant
  • Chemistry (Master) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on various aspects of chemistry. Students will deepen their understanding of chemical principles and their applications.
    Field: Chemistry
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Plant Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Students gain in-depth knowledge of plant biology, genetics, breeding, and crop production, with a focus on sustainable agriculture and food security.
    Field: Plant Science
    Career outcomes: plant breeder, agronomist, research scientist, agricultural consultant
  • Biotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This program explores the application of biological systems and organisms to develop new products and technologies in areas like health, agriculture, and industry.
    Field: Biotechnology
    Career outcomes: biotechnologist, research scientist, product developer, quality control specialist
  • Water and Environmental Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Students learn to design and manage water resources, wastewater treatment, and environmental infrastructure, addressing global water challenges.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: water engineer, environmental engineer, hydrologist, consultant
  • Applied Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    Focuses on the application of computer science principles to solve problems in life sciences, environmental management, and other interdisciplinary fields.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: data scientist, bioinformatician, software developer, GIS specialist
  • International Environmental Studies (MSc) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on environmental issues from an international perspective. Students will analyze global environmental challenges and policy responses.
    Field: Environmental Studies
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Aquaculture (MSc) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on the science and technology of aquaculture. Students will gain knowledge in sustainable production of aquatic organisms.
    Field: Aquaculture
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • European Master in Animal Biodiversity and Genomics (Master) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This European Master's program focuses on animal biodiversity and genomics. Students will explore advanced topics in genetic diversity and its conservation.
    Field: Animal Biodiversity
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • International Development Studies (MSc) — 24 months · English · $125,000/yr
    This program focuses on international development issues. Students will explore theories and practices related to global development challenges.
    Field: International Development
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Animal Breeding and Genetics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on the scientific principles and applications of animal breeding and genetics. Students will learn advanced techniques for improving animal populations.
    Field: Animal Science
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on data analysis and computational methods. Students will develop skills in extracting insights from complex datasets and applying them to real-world problems.
    Field: Data Science
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Global Development Studies (MSc) — 24 months · English · $125,000/yr
    This program focuses on global development issues. Students will analyze challenges and solutions related to poverty, inequality, and sustainable development.
    Field: Development Studies
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Agroecology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on solving complex problems related to the long-term sustainability of agriculture and food systems. Students will gain expertise in sustainable agricultural practices and food system management.
    Field: Agroecology
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Genome Sciences (Master) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on the study of genomes. Students will explore advanced topics in genomics and its applications in various fields.
    Field: Genome Sciences
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • International Relations (MSc) — 24 months · English · $125,000/yr
    This program focuses on international political and social dynamics. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of global affairs and diplomacy.
    Field: International Relations
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Applied Economics and Sustainability (Master) — 24 months · English · $125,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on economic principles applied to sustainability challenges. Students will learn to analyze and address environmental and resource issues from an economic perspective.
    Field: Economics
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Economics and Environmental Governance (Master) — 24 months · English · $125,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on the intersection of economics and environmental policy and governance. Students will learn to analyze environmental challenges using economic tools and policy frameworks.
    Field: Economics
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Intelligent Water Technology (Master) — 24 months · English · $150,000/yr · STEM
    This program focuses on advanced technologies for water management. Students will learn about innovative solutions for water quality, supply, and treatment.
    Field: Water Technology
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.
  • Global Economy and Politics (Master) — 24 months · English · $125,000/yr
    This program focuses on global economic and political issues. Students will gain an understanding of international relations and economic systems.
    Field: Economics
    Deadline: April 15 for Norwegian, Nordic, EU/EEA, and Swiss citizens; December 1 for students outside of EU/EEA.

PhD Programs (5)

  • PhD in Plant Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    A doctoral program for in-depth research into plant biology, genetics, breeding, and sustainable crop production, addressing global food challenges.
    Field: Plant Science
    Career outcomes: university professor, plant breeder, research scientist, agricultural expert
  • PhD in Ecology (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    A research-intensive program focusing on ecological theory, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem dynamics, and environmental management.
    Field: Ecology
    Career outcomes: university professor, ecologist, conservation manager, research scientist
  • PhD in Environmental Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    An advanced research program for students to conduct original research in various aspects of environmental science, contributing to new knowledge and solutions.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: university professor, senior researcher, environmental policy expert, consultant
  • PhD in Food Science (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    An advanced research program exploring food chemistry, microbiology, processing, and safety to contribute to sustainable and healthy food systems.
    Field: Food Science
    Career outcomes: university professor, food research scientist, food industry expert, regulatory affairs specialist
  • PhD in Biotechnology (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This doctoral program involves cutting-edge research in molecular biology, genetic engineering, and the application of biotechnological tools for various sectors.
    Field: Biotechnology
    Career outcomes: university professor, research scientist, biotech industry leader, innovator

Scholarships & Tuition at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.

Rankings of Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

  • QS World University Ranking: #791
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #801
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #701
  • Ranking tier: Unranked

Campus & Facilities at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

  • Student housing available
  • No sports facilities
  • No disability support info

Key Highlights

  • Focus on global challenges
  • Interdisciplinary research and study
  • Strong in environmental sciences
  • High international student percentage
  • Beautiful, historic Ås campus

Fields of Study at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

  • Life Sciences
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Food Science
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Biotechnology

Frequently Asked Questions about Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

What is Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)?

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is a university located in Ås, Norway. .

How many programs does Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) offer?

Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) offers 32 programs: 0 Bachelor's, 27 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) ranked?

QS World #791 · THE World #801 · ARWU #701.

How Abroadly Helps You Study at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)

Abroadly is an AI-powered platform that manages your entire study abroad journey — not just university search. Here's how we help students applying to Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) in Norway:

🎯 Phase 1: Exploration & University Matching

Our AI matches you to Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) based on your GPA, budget, test scores, and career goals. Compare programs, tuition, scholarships, and admission requirements side-by-side.

📝 Phase 2: Application & SOP Generation

AI generates personalized Statements of Purpose (SOPs), cover letters, and motivation essays tailored to Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU)'s requirements. Get per-university document checklists and deadline tracking.

✅ Phase 3: Post-Acceptance & Enrollment

Once accepted to Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Abroadly helps you review offer letters, pay tuition deposits, arrange student housing (available at this university), activate health insurance, and complete enrollment steps.

🛂 Phase 4: Visa Processing & Embassy Prep

Get AI-guided visa document preparation for Norway: embassy appointment booking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly (proof of funds), and country-specific document checklists.

✈️ Phase 5: Pre-Departure & Travel

After your visa is approved: banking setup in Norway, orientation registration at Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), emergency contact registration, health insurance activation, accommodation confirmation, and travel booking guidance — all tracked in your dashboard.

Apply to Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) with Abroadly — University Search to Visa to Landing

Use Abroadly's AI to manage your complete journey to Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU): university matching, SOP & cover letter generation, application tracking, visa processing, embassy interview prep, and pre-departure planning — all in one platform.

What you get: AI-generated SOPs, per-university document checklists, embassy appointment tracking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly, pre-departure checklists, and 24/7 AI advisor support.

Explore All Features | For Students | For Agencies | Pricing

Explore More Universities