Study trip to Oslo: Between cinnamon buns and economics

In June 2025, students of the part-time bachelor's degree program in International Business Studies, together with Prof. (FH) Dr. Peter Dietrich, Director of Studies for the bachelor's degree program in International Business & Management and the master's degree program in International Business Studies, embarked on a five-day study trip to the Norwegian capital. They enjoyed intensive days visiting key economic and political institutions, engaging in exciting discussions with experts, and gaining vivid impressions of culture, research, and business practice. The excursion impressively combined specialist knowledge, international perspectives, and personal experience.

POLITICS, FINANCE, AND START-UP MENTALITY

The trip began with a visit to the Foreign Trade Office in Oslo. Austrian Ambassador Dr. Stefan Pehringer gave a personal account of current economic relations between Norway and Austria and key developments in Norwegian history. “The fact that Austrian Ambassador Dr. Pehringer spoke to us in person was a real highlight of the trip,” enthused one student. “It's not something you can take for granted as a student to get insights directly from an ambassador.” In the afternoon, the group immersed themselves in Norwegian sports and traditional culture during a tour of the Holmenkollen ski jump and museum.

On the second day, the students explored Oslo on a hop-on hop-off city tour before heading to Norges Bank. There, the focus was on topics such as financial stability and managing an independent currency outside the eurozone. The visit to Norges Bank left a lasting impression: “We are very grateful that we were able to gain exciting insights from three experts at Norges Bank,” emphasized one student. “Opportunities like this are extraordinary and have greatly broadened our view of the Norwegian financial system.”

A highlight of the third day was a visit to Kristiania University, where the focus was on exchange between science and business. In the afternoon, the group discussed start-up support and international investment strategies with representatives of the Oslo Business Region. The day ended with a dinner together in a typical Norwegian restaurant.

INNOVATION, CULTURE, AND GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS

The fourth day was all about pure innovation: At Thelper AS in the Oslo Cancer Cluster, the focus was on digitalization, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. “We want to fundamentally change the treatment paradigm for patients with solid tumors and significantly improve their lives—that's what our work is all about,” explained a Thelper AS employee in conversation with the study group, underscoring the social responsibility of modern biotechnology. Afterward, the Munch Museum inspired visitors with art, architecture, and a Nordic atmosphere.

The trip concluded with a visit to MS Belysning in Nannestad, where the focus was on supply chain management and international trade relations, with a particular emphasis on China.

The five-day study trip to Oslo not only offered students in-depth insights into business, politics, and innovation, but also the opportunity to network internationally and gain intercultural experience. The direct exchange with representatives from diplomacy, academia, and business was just as enriching as the shared experiences as a study group. With many new impressions – and the taste of perhaps the best cinnamon bun of their lives – the students look back gratefully on an all-round successful excursion.

Links:

• International Business Studies | pt