Knowledge that shapes people and society

Strategy 2023–2030. Society needs research-based knowledge and expertise to understand and solve society’s challenges. Our focus areas are sustainable social development, welfare and innovation. Availability, high quality and international collaboration in research and education are central in resolving the challenges facing society.

Mission

Our mission is to provide higher education; conduct research and academic and artistic development work; disseminate knowledge and contribute to societal development in an environmentally, socially and economically sustainable manner.

Society needs research-based knowledge and expertise to understand and solve society’s challenges. Our focus areas are sustainable social development, welfare and innovation. Availability, high quality and international collaboration in research and education are central in resolving the challenges facing society.

Our university’s profile is oriented towards a professional education and career-oriented profile. We contribute to the development and application of knowledge through our research, highly competent graduates and our close links with the labour market and society at large. We play an active role in and take responsibility for influencing the development of society within our areas of education and research.

Values

Our values define HVL’s identity and culture, and we stand behind them.

Inclusion

Everyone is treated with respect and consideration. By inclusion, we mean that we value diversity and promote academic development, well-being and a sense of security.

Challenging norms

Established ways of thinking and work methods are challenged. This means that we promote critical thinking, agency and life-long learning.

Collaboration

Knowledge and experiences are developed and shared through internal collaboration and interaction with the world around us. Through collaboration, we foster creativity, learning, innovation and academic relevance.

Strategic ambitions and overarching goals

We have three strategic ambitions and six overarching goals for the period until 2030.

Strategic ambitions and overarching goals

Professional and career-oriented education and research

We will continue to strengthen the quality of our education and research to support a well-functioning society and to develop the Norwegian welfare state. Our education and research are integrated and career-oriented. This is the cornerstone of our efforts to build people and society and to contribute solutions to the challenges facing society.
Read about our goals for education and research
A strong innovator

High levels of expertise and diversity among our staff and students, our large geographical expanse and close relationships with the labour market and greater society make us an important innovator. Our innovation work contributes to social, environmental and economic sustainability.
Read about our goals for innovation
An ambitious force in society

As a university with a professional education and labour market-oriented profile, we promote scientific thinking, academic freedom and knowledge-based decision-making. We are Western Norway's inclusive, growth-minded and collaborative multi-campus university. We are the region’s preferred knowledge partner and enjoy distinct credibility and a strong reputation.
Read about our goals for beeing a force in society