VID Specialized University
Shaping humanity's future: knowledge, compassion, global impact.
📍 Various, Norway 🇳🇴
🏆 #26 in Norway
Quick Facts about VID Specialized University
- Tuition: $975 – $15,500/year
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About VID Specialized University
Academics
VID offers approximately 60 study programs across Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels, emphasizing a blend of academic rigor and practical training. Key areas of study include nursing, social work, occupational therapy, family therapy, social sciences, and religious studies. The university has a strong research profile, particularly in practice-relevant studies, diversity, social inequality, and global Christianity, and is the largest private PhD-awarding institution in Norway.
International Students
VID warmly welcomes international students to an engaging and diverse study environment. While most Bachelor's programs are taught in Norwegian, several Master's programs are offered in English, such as the Master in Community Development and Social Innovation and the Master of Theology and Religious Studies. Support services for international students include orientation programs to help acclimate to life in Norway, Norwegian language courses, and assistance with housing and local services.
Campus & Location
VID Specialized University has campuses in several Norwegian cities, including Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, and Sandnes, with additional educational opportunities in Tromsø, Sandvika, and Sandnessjøen. Each campus offers unique features; for example, VID Bergen, co-located with Haraldsplass Deaconess Hospital, provides modern teaching rooms and a skills center, with easy access to city life and public transport. Students can expect a vibrant environment with good meeting places for collaboration and social life.
Career Outcomes
VID emphasizes preparing students for professional roles in healthcare, social services, and church-related work. Many programs incorporate mandatory internships or practical training components to provide real-world experience. The university offers career counseling, job placement assistance, and workshops on job search strategies. Over 90% of VID students reportedly secure employment within six months of graduation, with many finding jobs even before completing their studies.
Information for International Students at VID Specialized University
VID Specialized University in Various, Norway welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
Admissions Requirements for VID Specialized University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to VID Specialized University:
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
Programs at VID Specialized University (20 programs)
VID Specialized University offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (6)
- Bachelor in Occupational Therapy (BSc) — 36 months · Norwegian
Students learn to help individuals of all ages participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. The program emphasizes rehabilitation, adaptation, and health promotion.
Field: Occupational Therapy
Career outcomes: Occupational Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist - Bachelor in Physiotherapy (BSc) — 36 months · Norwegian
Students learn to assess, diagnose, and treat physical conditions and injuries to restore movement and function. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice and patient-centered care in various clinical settings.
Field: Physiotherapy
Career outcomes: Physiotherapist, Sports Therapist, Rehabilitation Specialist - Bachelor in Nursing (BSc) — 36 months · Norwegian
This program prepares students for a career in nursing, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention within various healthcare settings. Students gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for professional nursing practice.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Community Nurse, Hospital Nurse - Bachelor in Social Work (BA) — 36 months · Norwegian
This program educates students to work with individuals, families, groups, and communities to enhance their well-being and address social challenges. It covers social policy, human rights, and intervention strategies.
Field: Social Work
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Child Protection Officer, Family Counselor - Bachelor in Theology (BA) — 36 months · Norwegian
The program provides a comprehensive introduction to Christian theology, including biblical studies, church history, systematic theology, and practical theology. It prepares students for church work, education, or further academic study.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Pastor, Teacher, Researcher, Church Administrator - Bachelor in Diaconia (BA) — 36 months · Norwegian
This program focuses on the practical application of Christian faith in service to others, addressing social needs, justice, and community building. It combines theological understanding with social work principles.
Field: Diaconia
Career outcomes: Diaconal Worker, Community Organizer, Counselor
Master Programs (12)
- Master in Diaconia and Christian Social Practice (MA) — 24 months · Norwegian
This program explores the theory and practice of diaconia, focusing on social justice, ethical reflection, and practical engagement in Christian social work and community development. It combines theological and social science perspectives.
Field: Theology and Social Work
Career outcomes: Diaconal Worker, Community Organizer, Ethical Advisor - Master in Global Health (MSc) — 24 months · English
The program addresses complex global health challenges, focusing on health inequalities, policy development, and intervention strategies in an international context. Students gain interdisciplinary perspectives on public health issues worldwide.
Field: Global Health
Career outcomes: Global Health Specialist, Policy Advisor, NGO Worker, Researcher - Master in Clinical Nursing (MSc) — 24 months · Norwegian
This master's program deepens students' knowledge and skills in advanced clinical nursing practice, focusing on specialized areas, evidence-based practice, and leadership in healthcare. It prepares nurses for advanced roles.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Advanced Practice Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator - Master in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice (MA) — 24 months · Norwegian
This program trains students in systemic approaches to therapy, focusing on family dynamics, relationships, and communication patterns. It prepares professionals to work with families and couples facing various challenges.
Field: Family Therapy
Career outcomes: Family Therapist, Counselor, Clinical Supervisor - Master in Theology (MA) — 24 months · Norwegian
This advanced program offers in-depth study in various theological disciplines, including biblical studies, systematic theology, church history, and practical theology, preparing students for research or specialized ministry.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Theologian, Pastor, Academic Researcher - Master in Mental Health Work (MSc) — 24 months · Norwegian
This program provides advanced knowledge and skills for working with individuals experiencing mental health challenges. It covers therapeutic approaches, prevention strategies, and interdisciplinary collaboration in mental health services.
Field: Mental Health
Career outcomes: Mental Health Specialist, Counselor, Case Manager - Master in Health Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Norwegian · STEM
The program offers an interdisciplinary approach to health sciences, focusing on research methods, public health, and health promotion. Students develop analytical skills to address complex health challenges.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Health Researcher, Policy Advisor - Master in Palliative Care (MSc) — 24 months · Norwegian
This program provides specialized knowledge in palliative care, focusing on improving the quality of life for patients and their families facing life-limiting illnesses. It covers symptom management, psychological support, and ethical considerations.
Field: Palliative Care
Career outcomes: Palliative Care Nurse, Clinical Specialist in Palliative Care, Healthcare Educator - Master in Clinical Health Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · Norwegian
This master's program deepens students' knowledge in specialized areas of clinical health sciences, focusing on research methods, evidence-based practice, and advanced clinical skills. It is designed for healthcare professionals seeking further specialization.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Advanced Practice Nurse, Clinical Specialist, Researcher - Master in Theology and Ministry (MA) — 24 months · Norwegian
This program offers advanced theological study combined with practical training for various forms of ministry. It deepens understanding of theological traditions and contemporary challenges in church and society.
Field: Theology
Career outcomes: Ordained Minister, Chaplain, Theological Educator - Master in Social Work (MA) — 24 months · Norwegian
This advanced program in social work focuses on specialized intervention methods, research, and leadership in social services. Students develop expertise in addressing complex social problems and advocating for vulnerable populations.
Field: Social Work
Career outcomes: Senior Social Worker, Social Work Manager, Policy Analyst - Master in Values, Ethics and Diaconia (MA) — 24 months · Norwegian
The program explores ethical dilemmas, values, and the practice of diaconia in contemporary society. It combines theological, philosophical, and social science perspectives to address issues of justice, care, and human dignity.
Field: Ethics and Diaconia
Career outcomes: Ethical Advisor, Diaconal Leader, NGO Program Manager
PhD Programs (2)
- PhD in Health Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program offers advanced research training in various fields of health sciences, enabling candidates to conduct original research and contribute new knowledge to their discipline. Focus areas include nursing, occupational therapy, and public health.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Health Policy Analyst - PhD in Diaconia, Values and Professional Practice (PhD) — 36 months · English
This PhD program focuses on interdisciplinary research within diaconia, ethics, and professional practice in welfare and health services. Candidates explore the theoretical and practical dimensions of values-based work and social engagement.
Field: Diaconia and Ethics
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Ethical Consultant, Policy Developer
Scholarships & Tuition at VID Specialized University
Annual tuition for international students: $975 – $15,500/year
Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.
Rankings of VID Specialized University
- National Ranking: #26 in Norway
- Ranking tier: Unranked
Campus & Facilities at VID Specialized University
- Student housing available
- No sports facilities
- No disability support info
Key Highlights
- Private, non-profit specialized university
- Focus: health, social, theology
- Multiple campuses across Norway
- Offers Bachelor's, Master's, PhDs
- Strong practice-relevant research
- Aims full university status by 2028
Fields of Study at VID Specialized University
- Health Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Theology
- Management
- Education
Frequently Asked Questions about VID Specialized University
What is VID Specialized University?
VID Specialized University is a university located in Various, Norway. .
How much does it cost to study at VID Specialized University?
Tuition fees at VID Specialized University for international students range from $975 – $15,500/year.
What are the admission requirements for VID Specialized University?
Selectivity: Open (60%+).
How many programs does VID Specialized University offer?
VID Specialized University offers 20 programs: 6 Bachelor's, 12 Master's, and 2 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is VID Specialized University ranked?
#26 in Norway.
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