Nord University announces a vacancy for the position of Dean at the Faculty of Education and Arts

The position is being announced following consideration by the University Board, which has decided to establish an appointments committee for the recruitment. The dean will be appointed for a four-year term, with the possibility of reapplying for two additional terms (up to a total of 12 years).

• Job advertisement: Dekan for Fakultet for lærerutdanning og kunst- og kulturfag

The Faculty of Education and Arts offers study programmes and conducts research activities in Levanger, Nesna, Bodø and Vesterålen, with Levanger as the main workplace. The faculty educates future teachers and contributes through research and competence development in schools, kindergartens, the arts and cultural fields, and professional education programmes.

“This is a highly important leadership position, both for Nord University and for the development of teacher education and the professional disciplines in Norway. We are seeking a strategic and unifying leader who wants to help shape the education programmes of the future and strong academic environments in a sector undergoing change,” says Acting Rector Levi Gårseth-Nesbakk.

The new dean will lead the faculty during a period of continued development of its programme portfolio, research activities, and organisation. Changes in the sector, increased internationalisation, new financial frameworks, and higher demands for restructuring mean that the university is seeking a leader capable of combining strong academic credentials, strategic understanding, and solid organisational leadership.

“The faculty has strong academic environments, an important social mission, and highly skilled staff. At the same time, the faculty faces important strategic choices. Therefore, we need a leader who can both bring the organisation together and contribute to necessary development and renewal,” says Gårseth-Nesbakk.

The position requires a high level of academic competence, a minimum of a doctoral degree, and solid leadership experience from knowledge organisations. Experience in education and research leadership will be emphasised.

Nord University also opens for the possibility that external candidates may be offered a permanent academic position after the fixed-term period.

The position was announced on June 3. The application deadline is August 20, 2026. The nomination for the position is planned to be processed by the University Board on October 22, 2026.