Global Studies

The Master's Program provides students with awareness, insights and tools essential in diverse cultural relations and multicultural settings in Norway and abroad. At the end of the program the students should have developed a professional appreciation of international and intercultural challenges in a world experiencing various effects of ongoing globalization. The students may develop intercultural interaction skills and personal cultural sensitivity that will help them be employed in a variety of multicultural settings. International fieldwork, internships and dialogue with organizations and corporations during the studies will enhance the chance for future employment. The multicultural field is expanding in Norway, and students with a Master's Degree in Global Studies will also have opportunities as teachers of different subjects requiring professional global competence.

The objective of the study is to enhance the professional competence (knowledge, skills and attitudes) of students preparing for careers which involve significant international and/or intercultural contact through professional education and research with particular reference to theology, religious studies and intercultural communication. The study can also give students who have already been involved in international or intercultural careers an opportunity to reflect more systematically on their global experience in a scientific and methodological way leading to the attainment of academic credits for their life experiences.

The Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies at the School of Mission and Theology offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary education designed to equip students with a deep understanding of global issues, cross-cultural dynamics, and international development. This program provides students with foundational knowledge in international relations, global economics, cultural Studies, and theology, fostering a holistic perspective vital for engaging with complex global challenges. Through a combination of core courses, electives, and practical experiences, students explore topics such as international peacebuilding, sustainable development, human rights, global migration, and intercultural communication. Emphasizing both academic rigor and practical application, the program encourages students to analyze global phenomena from diverse disciplinary angles while cultivating critical thinking, ethical reflection, and effective communication skills. Students will participate in immersion experiences, including internships and fieldwork, enabling them to connect theoretical insights with real-world contexts. The curriculum also integrates theological perspectives, highlighting the role of faith-based approaches to social justice, reconciliation, and community development worldwide. Upon graduation, students are prepared for careers in international NGOs, development agencies, diplomatic services, faith-based organizations, and other fields requiring intercultural competence and a global mindset. The program aims to develop socially responsible leaders committed to promoting justice, peace, and understanding across cultural and national boundaries, grounded in biblical principles and global awareness.

To be admitted to the Master's degree program candidates must have:Completed a bachelor's degree, a three-year program in which there is a major- i.e. 80-ECTS credit group, from a recognised institution of higher education, or achieved an equivalent educational basis approved by the MHS Faculty. The major must be from following subjects: Christian Studies, Religious Studies, Intercultural Communications. The student must maintain a minimum C- grade or equivalent in the 80-credit group. Also a three-year bachelor's degree in theology gives admission. International students should note that: All students whose first language is not English or who have not completed the major bulk of their schooling in English, can enter MHS by submitting their transcripts, meeting the academic requirements and doing the following: Proof of English language competency may be shown by completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Results should be sent directly to MHS. Information concerning TOEFL may be obtained from the Educational Testing Service, Box 899, Princeton, New Jersey, USA, 08540. A minimum TOEFL score of 500 or a minimum IELTS score of 5.0 is normally required.

The financing of the Global Studies program at the School of Mission and Theology is structured to support both domestic and international students through a variety of financial aid options. The university offers scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, and specific eligibility criteria related to the program’s focus areas. These scholarships encompass full or partial tuition coverage, as well as grants that assist with living expenses. Students are encouraged to apply early, as scholarship availability is limited and competitive. In addition to university-specific financial aid, many students benefit from external funding sources such as governmental grants, NGO partnerships, and private foundations dedicated to global education initiatives. The program emphasizes accessible education, with flexible payment plans and financial counseling provided to help students manage their expenses effectively throughout their studies. International students might face additional costs related to visas, health insurance, and travel, which the university advises planning for in advance. Additionally, work-study opportunities within the university and affiliated organizations offer practical avenues for students to gain relevant experience while contributing to their educational financing. The university’s financial services department provides comprehensive support, including detailed information about application procedures, eligibility requirements, deadlines, and documentation needed for various financial aid applications. Overall, the financing options aim to make the Global Studies program accessible to students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich learning environment focused on global engagement and intercultural competence.

Global Studies at the School of Mission and Theology is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of global issues, cultural dynamics, international relations, and the theological perspectives necessary to engage thoughtfully and effectively in a diverse world. The program combines academic coursework in political science, sociology, international relations, theology, and cultural studies, offering students a well-rounded education that emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Throughout the program, students explore key themes such as globalization, development, human rights, intercultural communication, and global governance. They are encouraged to analyze current international challenges and to consider ethical, religious, and spiritual dimensions of global issues. The curriculum includes a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies, and fieldwork, providing opportunities for experiential learning and real-world application.

Students also gain valuable language skills and cultural competencies, preparing them for careers in international organizations, NGOs, diplomatic services, and missionary work. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and cross-cultural dialogue, fostering graduates who are capable of acting as catalysts for positive change in their communities and worldwide.

The faculty comprises experts in international affairs, theology, cross-cultural communication, and social sciences, ensuring that students receive diverse perspectives and up-to-date knowledge. The program often encourages participation in international exchanges, internships, and research projects, broadening students' horizons and enhancing their employability.

Graduates of the Global Studies program are expected to possess a deep understanding of global interconnectedness and a commitment to justice and compassion. They are prepared to analyze complex global problems from multiple angles and to contribute to constructive solutions in various professional settings. The program aims to develop globally minded individuals who are rooted in strong ethical frameworks informed by faith and theological insight, making them effective in addressing the world's most pressing issues with integrity and compassion.