Kristiania University College: From Correspondence Courses to Modern Higher Education
The journey of Kristiania University College is a testament to the evolution of accessible education in Norway. What began as a visionary project to break down geographical barriers to learning has transformed into a comprehensive modern institution, integrating diverse academic disciplines under one unified identity.
The Foundations: Norsk Korrespondenceskole (NKS)
The institution's roots trace back to 1914 with the establishment of Norsk Korrespondenceskole (NKS). Founded by Ernst G. Mortensen, NKS was built on the principle of correspondence courses—a method of distance learning where instructional materials are sent to students via mail, allowing them to study independently of their physical location.
Mortensen's mission was to democratize education, ensuring that learning opportunities were available to everyone, regardless of where they lived. This approach saw rapid success; the student body grew from an initial 125 students in 1914 to 9,000 students by 1929.
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In recognition of his contributions to society and the field of education, Ernst G. Mortensen was awarded the title of Knight of The Order of St. Olav in 1939, a prestigious honor granted for "distinguished services rendered to Norway and mankind."
The Transition to Kristiania University College
A century after its founding, the institution underwent a significant structural transformation. On March 27, 2015, the Norwegian government mandated structural changes and mergers among various universities and colleges across the country to streamline higher education.
In response to this directive, several specialized institutions were merged into a single entity known as Kristiania University College. The merger integrated the following schools:
- Markedshøyskolen
- Norges Kreative Høyskole
- Norges Helsehøyskole
- NKS Nettstudier
- Høyskolen Campus Kristiania
To mark this new era, the renowned architectural firm Snøhetta was commissioned to develop the university college's new visual identity, aligning its brand with its modern academic ambitions.
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Continued Expansion
The growth of the institution did not stop with the initial merger. In 2017, the foundation further expanded its academic portfolio by incorporating the Westerdals Oslo School of Arts, Communication and Technology.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1914 as Norsk Korrespondenceskole (NKS).
- Founder: Ernst G. Mortensen.
- Early Growth: Increased from 125 students (1914) to 9,000 students (1929).
- Major Merger: Formed Kristiania University College in 2015/2016.
- Visual Identity: Designed by the architectural firm Snøhetta.
- Latest Addition: Westerdals Oslo School of Arts, Communication and Technology joined in 2017.
| Era/Year | Entity/Event | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 1914 | Norsk Korrespondenceskole | Launch of correspondence education |
| 1939 | Ernst G. Mortensen | Awarded Knight of The Order of St. Olav |
| 2015-2016 | Kristiania University College | Merger of five specialized colleges |
| 2017 | Westerdals Oslo School | Incorporation into the portfolio |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the original institution?
The institution was founded by Ernst G. Mortensen in 1914.
What was the original purpose of Norsk Korrespondenceskole?
The goal was to make education accessible to everyone, regardless of their location, through the use of correspondence courses.
Why was Kristiania University College formed?
It was formed as a response to a March 2015 Norwegian government decision that structural changes and mergers of universities and colleges were necessary.
Which firms helped with the university's branding?
The architectural firm Snøhetta was responsible for creating the university college's new visual identity.
Which schools were part of the initial merger?
The merger included Markedshøyskolen, Norges Kreative Høyskole, Norges Helsehøyskole, NKS Nettstudier, and Høyskolen Campus Kristiania.