MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society is a specialized institution of higher education in Oslo, Norway. Founded in 1907, MF has a long history in theological education and has grown into a broader institution focusing on theology, religion, society, ethics, education, ministry, religious studies, interreligious understanding, social questions and public life. It is especially relevant to students interested in the relationship of religion, culture, ethics, identity, education, faith communities and modern society.

MF is different from the large public universities in that it has a narrower academic profile. Its programs are in theology, religion, philosophy, ethics, social studies, ministry, education and society. This makes it relevant for students wanting to study Christianity, world religions, biblical studies, systematic theology, practical theology, religious education, contemporary religion, values, public debate, ethics and the role of religion in social life.
Located in Oslo, the institution introduces students to the capital of Norway, churches, faith communities, NGOs, public institutions, cultural organizations, schools, research networks and interreligious environments. This place is useful for students interested in how religion connects to society, migration, education, ethics, politics, social development and public discourse.

MF provides international students with master level options in English, including theology and religion oriented programs. It also has bachelor level programs like Bachelor in Theology, Religion and Society. But applicants need to be careful to check language requirements and admission rules. Depending on the chosen program, many programs may have components taught in Norwegian, so language readiness is important.

MF’s teaching style is comprised of academic reading, seminars, written assignments, theological reflection, historical analysis, interpretation, ethics, social science approaches and research-based learning. Depending on the programme students may study biblical texts, church history, religious traditions, contemporary religion, social issues, migration, interfaith dialogue, values, education and pastoral or professional practice.

The university also provides doctoral education. Its Ph.D. program supports research in theology, religious studies, ethics, society, church studies, education and related fields. PhD admission is generally research-oriented and may require project proposals, supervision capacity , academic qualifications and funding provisions. Applications can be submitted during certain admission rounds.

MF lists the tuition fee as NOK 120 000 per year for students outside the EU/EEA for tuition. MF also states that there are no grants. This is where overseas applicants need to be financially prepared. Students should budget for tuition, housing, living expenses, books, insurance, transportation, documentation for the residence permit and personal costs.

In general, MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society is a good choice for students who want a focused academic environment within theology, religion, ethics, education and society. It is most suited for applicants interested in ministry, teaching, religious studies, NGOs, interfaith work, social analysis, public ethics, research, community leadership and faith-based and values-based organizations.

MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society is a specialized institution in Oslo with a tradition going back to 1907. Its historical importance for theological education in Norway has now a wider academic profile with religion, society, ethics, education and social questions.

MF’s academic identity is based on understanding what religion means to human life, communities, institutions, culture and public debate. Students learn theology, biblical studies, history of religion, Christian traditions, ethics, contemporary society, interreligious relations, education and practical theology. This is relevant for MF students who are both faith-based and academic.

The institution offers bachelor, master and doctoral study routes. International students are most likely to look at English-taught Master options but bachelor-level study can be relevant too depending on language and admission requirements. Programs usually consist of reading, writing, seminars, analysis, discussion and independent research.

MF’s placement in Oslo provides students with access to religious organizations, churches, schools, NGOs, public agencies, cultural institutions and interfaith networks. This helps students link academic work with real social and religious contexts.

MF is ideal for students looking for a smaller, specialized academic environment. Graduates can pursue careers in ministry, education, research, NGOs, religious organizations, social services, communication, community leadership, public ethics, and interreligious work.

• Choose the preferred MF program. • Check whether the program is bachelor, master, or doctoral level. • Review program-specific admission and language requirements. • Prepare academic transcripts, certificates, passport details, language proof, CV, motivation letter, and other required documents. • Apply through MF’s application route before the deadline. • Upload all required documents correctly. • Wait for admission assessment. • If admitted, accept the offer and follow enrollment instructions. • Non-EU/EEA students should arrange tuition payment, proof of funds, residence permit application, housing, and insurance. • Doctoral applicants should follow the doctoral application windows and submit a research proposal. Admission Details • Main Intake: Autumn • Bachelor’s Language: Program-specific; Norwegian may be required • Master’s Language: English-taught options available • Application Type: Program-specific admission • Bachelor’s Requirement: Upper secondary education and language requirements • Master’s Requirement: Relevant bachelor’s degree • PhD Requirement: Relevant master’s degree and research proposal • English Requirement: Required for English-taught programs • Norwegian Requirement: Required for Norwegian-taught routes • Tuition Fee Rule: Non-EU/EEA students pay tuition fees unless exempt • Scholarship Availability: MF states there are no scholarships available • Residence Permit: Required for many non-EU/EEA students