Overview of BI Norwegian Business School
BI Norwegian Business School, officially known as Handelshøyskolen BI, was founded in 1943 and is located in Oslo, Norway, with additional campuses in Bergen, Stavanger, and Trondheim. As a private and research-intensive institution, BI is recognized as one of Europe’s largest business schools. It serves approximately 20,000 students annually and maintains a robust academic staff of over 400 faculty members. The school's strategic focus, combined with its scale and international outlook, has firmly established BI as a key player in Nordic higher education.
Academic Strengths and Structure
BI is renowned for its strong offerings in business administration, finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and management. Its highly regarded Executive MBA and MSc programmes are taught in English and attract students from over 100 countries. BI implements a research-led and practice-oriented pedagogy, fostering close collaboration with industry leaders and international academic partners. The school holds triple crown accreditation (EQUIS, AMBA, AACSB), indicating excellence across its academic spectrum. In the Financial Times European Business School Rankings 2023, BI is ranked among the top 50. The institution engages in extensive EU-funded research and offers joint degrees in collaboration with global universities, reinforcing its position at the forefront of business education and research innovation.
Student Life and Community
The BI campuses offer a vibrant community with over 50 student clubs and societies engaging in cultural, professional, and social activities. Students benefit from comprehensive support services, including dedicated career centers, mentoring programmes, and academic advising. BI champions diversity, inclusivity, and internationalization, with 25% of its student body coming from outside Norway. On-campus housing options, modern sports facilities, and active student associations ensure a stimulating and supportive environment. Varied extracurriculars—from case competitions to music and arts initiatives—provide well-rounded opportunities for personal and professional development.
Mission, Vision, and Values
BI Norwegian Business School is committed to shaping responsible leaders for a sustainable future, emphasizing ethical business practices, innovation, and global citizenship. The institution values academic excellence, societal impact, and the development of knowledge-driven solutions for contemporary challenges.
