VID celebrates 10 years

Published: January 27th 2026.

In 2026, VID Specialized University will mark our 10 year anniversary. We are building on a history that stretches all the way back to 1843. This means that VID is the oldest institution for private higher education in Norway, with deep roots in pioneering work for human dignity, care and social justice.

From roots in 1843 to VID today

VID was established in 2016 through a merger of several university colleges with strong academic and value-based traditions. On January 1, 2016, four diaconal university colleges were merged: Diakonhjemmet Høgskole in Oslo, Haraldsplass diakonale høgskole in Bergen, Høgskolen Betanien in Bergen and Misjonshøgskolen in Stavanger.

Pioneer spirit

From its earliest days, VID has been characterized by pioneering activity. The institutions that today make up VID were among the first to educate professionals in health, social work and theology, fields that have been decisive for the development of the welfare state in Norway. This pioneering spirit still lives on at VID.

A group of students take a selfie on top of a mountain — Students on a hike up Besseggen in 2016

An anniversary – and a look ahead

The anniversary year is not only about looking back, but also about pointing the way forward. VID is developing academically, organizationally, and physically. Among other things, work is underway to further develop our campuses, with a focus on high-quality learning environments, meeting places, and sustainable solutions.

At the same time, VID is taking an important step forward by submitting an application for university status in the coming months. This reflects our ambition to strengthen our research, education, and contribution to society.

Students running in a park — Freshers' Week at VID in 2016

You are part of the story

When VID marks its 10th anniversary in 2026, it is also a celebration of those of you who are studying here now, who have studied with us previously or who in some other way have or have had a connection to VID. History is shaped not only by institutions and years, but by the people who fill them with life, commitment, and new perspectives.

Throughout the year, we will celebrate VID’s 10th anniversary. There will be both small and large highlights along the way, and several of our established events will take on a clear anniversary character. This gives us the opportunity to celebrate not just one day, but an entire year – together.

So, congratulations on the anniversary!