PhD program

University of Agder sits on Norway's southern coast with campuses in Kristiansand and Grimstad. Although it officially became a university in 2007, its academic roots extend back to the 19th century, and today it serves over 14,000 students. The institution promotes an open, collaborative culture that connects staff, students and the wider community, making it a welcoming choice for international learners seeking a student-centered environment in a compact Scandinavian city.

Academically, UiA balances teaching and research across applied sciences, social sciences, education and the arts, with an emphasis on collaboration and problem solving. Internationalisation is central to the university's strategy: UiA maintains hundreds of exchange agreements and receives exchange students each year, while offering research projects that invite student participation. Practical learning, close faculty contact and opportunities to join cross-disciplinary projects are core strengths.

Student life in Kristiansand combines safe campus living with coastal leisure, efficient public transport and easy access to nature. Support services for international students include orientation programs, language support and guidance on housing and internships. Prospective students should explore program-specific entry requirements and take advantage of UiA's exchange and research options to shape a study path that combines regional engagement with global perspectives.

The AACSB-accredited School of Business and Law at the University of Agder is the largest research area at the School of Business and Law and offers a PhD with a specialisation in International Business. This programme includes around 40-50 PhD candidates from across the globe working closely with their supervisors in an excellent study environment. The School of Business and Law has a strong focus on internationalization and offers cotutelle agreements, joint supervision with international business schools and universities. Candidates work closely with their supervisors and are integrated in research groups, with good office space, access to databases and library infrastructure. Most candidates finish their PhD within 3 or 4 years and publish their research in high quality international journals.