Strategic Management

Strategic Management at the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) is a comprehensive and challenging master's program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze, formulate, and implement effective strategies within various organizations and industries. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from economics, business administration, organizational theory, and leadership to prepare students for complex decision-making processes in dynamic global markets. Students will engage with core topics such as corporate strategy, competitive analysis, innovation management, corporate governance, and strategic entrepreneurship. The curriculum combines rigorous theoretical frameworks with practical application, enabling students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities essential for senior management roles. Through case studies, group projects, and industry simulations, participants gain hands-on experience in devising strategies that foster sustainable growth and competitive advantage. The program also offers specialized electives allowing students to tailor their education according to their interests and career goals, whether in consulting, corporate strategy, entrepreneurship, or international business. Additionally, students benefit from NHH’s strong connections with business leaders and industry partners, providing valuable networking opportunities and exposure to real-world challenges. The program prepares graduates for careers as strategic advisors, managers, and executives in various sectors, including finance, technology, manufacturing, and service industries. Upon completion, students will possess a robust understanding of strategic analysis tools and frameworks, leadership skills, and an international mindset suitable for navigating and influencing the complex landscape of modern business environments. The Strategic Management master's program at NHH is committed to fostering innovative thinking, ethical considerations, and responsible leadership, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to their organizations and society as a whole.

The MSc in Strategic Management at the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the key concepts, theories, and practical approaches necessary to understand and lead strategic initiatives within organizations. The program is designed to equip students with the analytical tools and leadership skills needed to develop, implement, and evaluate strategic plans that contribute to sustainable competitive advantages. Throughout the program, students will engage with critical topics such as corporate strategy, competitive analysis, innovation management, internationalization strategies, and corporate governance. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with hands-on exercises, case studies, and real-world projects, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.

Students will examine various strategic frameworks and models used in assessing industry dynamics, organizational resources, and market opportunities. Emphasis is placed on fostering strategic thinking and decision-making skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles across diverse sectors such as consultancy, finance, large multinational corporations, and entrepreneurial ventures. The program also promotes an understanding of the importance of ethics, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability in strategic planning.

In addition, students will develop their analytical abilities through coursework in quantitative and qualitative research methods, enabling them to evaluate complex strategic problems rigorously. The program encourages international exposure and intercultural competence, which are vital in today’s globalized business environment, by incorporating international case studies and potential exchange opportunities. Faculty members are renowned researchers and practitioners who bring practical insights into classroom discussions.

Graduates of the MSc in Strategic Management will be well-prepared to contribute to strategic planning and decision-making processes at the highest levels, whether within established organizations or entrepreneurial settings. The program emphasizes a collaborative learning environment where students can network with peers, faculty, and industry professionals, fostering lifelong connections and professional growth. With a curriculum that balances theory with practice and a strong focus on ethical and responsible leadership, the MSc in Strategic Management at NHH provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a rapidly changing global business landscape.

Admission is based on a university degree of at least three years of study beyond Norwegian minimum requirements for entrance to higher education (in Norway) with satisfactory results. Applicants' previous studies must contain a minimum of 50 % (90 ECTS) within economics and business administration (this can include, but not exclusively be made up of subjects like statistics or mathematics). In addition, we require that minimum 1/6 (30 ECTS) of previous studies are within business administration (which includes finance, accounting, strategy, marketing, statistics, mathematics etc, but not economics courses such as micro- or macroeconomics). We require a minimum score of 600 on the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). The minimum requirement for the GRE test is 152 points (new scale) / 660 points (old scale) on the Quantative reasoning section.If English is not your mother tongue, you are required to prove your English proficiency by taking either a TOEFL or an IELTS test. For the TOEFL test a score of at least 575 points on the written test, 233 on the computer-based version or 90 points on the internet based test, are required. The minimum score requirement on the IELTS is 6.5. Exemptions from the TOEFL/IELTS requirement may be considered if you can document that the medium of your higher education has been English for two years or more.

Financing studies for the Master's programme in Strategic Management at the Norwegian School of Economics are structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects involved in strategic decision-making and organizational leadership. Tuition fees for international students are set annually by the university and are subject to change; as of the latest available information, the fees are approximately NOK 100,000 per year. Norwegian and EU/EEA students may be eligible for subsidized tuition or may qualify for full scholarships, depending on their circumstances.

Students are encouraged to explore various funding avenues, including government grants, scholarships, loans, and external funding sources. The Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen) offers loans and grants to eligible students, which can cover tuition fees and living expenses. Applicants should check the specific criteria and application procedures for loan eligibility, which often include Norwegian or EU/EEA citizenship and admission to full-time studies.

In addition to national support, many students seek external scholarships offered by international organizations, private foundations, and the Norwegian government. The university itself provides a limited number of scholarships and fee waivers for outstanding candidates, which are typically awarded based on academic merit.

Living expenses in Bergen, where the university is located, are estimated at approximately NOK 12,000 to 15,000 per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal costs. Students are advised to budget accordingly and plan for additional financial support during their studies.

Part-time work opportunities exist for international students, subject to visa regulations, allowing students to supplement their income during their studies. The university’s career services and student associations can assist with job search and placement.

Overall, financing studies at the Norwegian School of Economics requires careful planning, including applying for applicable grants and loans, exploring scholarship options, and budgeting living costs. International students should start the financial planning process early to ensure a smooth academic experience without financial strain.

Strategic Management at the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to analyze, formulate, and implement effective strategies within various organizational contexts. This program emphasizes understanding the complex factors that influence strategic decision-making, including internal capabilities, competitive landscapes, and broader economic environments. Students gain insights into how firms develop and sustain competitive advantages, adapt to changing market dynamics, and innovate to drive growth and success. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics such as corporate strategy, business model development, industry analysis, innovation management, leadership, and organizational design.

The program combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, often integrating case studies, group projects, and real-world problem-solving exercises. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and strategic reasoning abilities that are crucial for leadership roles in both the private and public sectors. Through interaction with experienced faculty members who are active in research and industry consulting, students receive a well-rounded education that bridges academia and practice.

Norwegian School of Economics places a strong emphasis on internationalization, preparing students to operate effectively in global markets. As part of the program, students may have opportunities for exchanges with partner universities worldwide, internships, and participation in international projects. The program also explores contemporary issues such as digital transformation, corporate social responsibility, and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of responsible management practices.

Graduates of the Strategic Management program are equipped to pursue careers in management consulting, corporate strategy departments, entrepreneurship, and executive roles across various industries. The program’s focus on analytical skills, strategic thinking, and leadership prepares students to adapt to rapidly changing environments and to contribute meaningfully to organizational success. With a strong network of alumni and industry contacts, students gain access to valuable career opportunities and professional development resources throughout their studies and beyond.