The goals of an environmental studies program include finding ways to increase energy efficiency, minimize pollution, increase environmental awareness and encourage alternative energy use. The main focus for students is to learn how to assess and solve environmental problems.

Norway (Norge) is the westernmost, northernmost — and in fact the easternmost — of the three Scandinavian countries. Norway is well known for its amazing and varied scenery. The fjords in the west of the country are long narrow inlets, flanked on either side by tall mountains where the sea penetrates far inland. The ultimate responsibility for the education lies with the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.