Choosing a semester abroad isn’t only about academics—it’s about inspiration. For Nicolas Hustedt, his Erasmus exchange offered theology in a new context, blending academic growth with international city life in Oslo.

When Nicolas Hustedt chose where to go for his Erasmus exchange, he had several options across Norway. In the end, Oslo and MF stood out.

I think that’s really important for the future of theology.

– I was interested in Norway, and I had the possibility to go to Stavanger or Trondheim. But I thought Oslo would be especially interesting, because it’s such an international city where many people come together.

Link to society

Another important factor was MF itself. For Nicolas, the school’s strong connection to society made a real difference.

– I think that’s really important for the future of theology. It felt like something that would truly complement my studies.

Back home in Germany, Nicolas is doing a Magister Theologiae in protestant theology at University in Göttingen– an older degree structure that combines a bachelor and master. At MF, he took courses in method design and theological anthropology, which offered him a fresh academic perspective.

– At my home university, systematic theology mainly focuses on ethics and dogmatics, so anthropology was something new. It was a great supplement to my studies, he says.

Life at MF

Nicolas also appreciated the academic environment at MF, which he found both welcoming and collaborative.

– In Germany, theology can sometimes feel quite competitive. But here, the lecturers are very supportive and open to discussion. That made the learning experience really enjoyable.

Nicolas describes his courses with Professor Asle Eikrem and Professor Gard Granerød as especially meaningful.

– Gard has worked at my home university before with research, so it was interesting to have that connection. And since I’m particularly interested in the Old Testament, our conversations were very engaging, he explains.

Outside the classroom, Oslo itself has been a highlight.

– I really like the combination of urban life and nature. I live close to the forest, so after studying I can just go for a hike. That balance is something I really appreciate, Nicolas says.

Student life at MF has also made a strong impression. Nicolas quickly became involved in several social activities.

– I joined different clubs, like the language café and the board game club MF BRIK. It was a great way to meet people, and I’ve made many new friends.

Advice for future Erasmus students

For future Erasmus students, Nicolas has some clear advice:

– I would definitely recommend using the student housing options MF suggests – it makes things much easier. When it comes to social life, try to get involved in activities at MF itself, it helps you experience Norwegian culture in a deeper way. Otherwise, it can easily become more of a typical Erasmus ‘bubble’.