The Museum of University History (MUV) has been assigned the task of disseminating, documenting, preserving and researching the heritage of the University of Oslo (UiO) and the history of science in Norway. The Museum has a special responsibility for the architectural heritage. MUV is organized as a section of the Museum of Cultural History at the University of Oslo.
Founded in 1811, the University of Oslo is Norway’s oldest university and has played a pivotal historical role. Through a diversity of tasks and functions, the University is an integral part of society at a local, national and international level. The University of Oslo has been pivotal in the emergence of a Norwegian research sector, the development of higher education, the shaping of professions, the socialisation of social elites, and the dissemination of knowledge. It has also been an important arena for political, cultural and social tensions.
A museum for diversity
MUV was established as a museum by the University Board in 2001. MUV aims to shed light on the historical diversity of the University of Oslo and make it relevant to the present and future. Universities, science and research-based knowledge, expertise and technologies have played a key role in shaping the world we live in, and are increasingly important in shaping our future. It is important to maintain an informed scholarly and public discussion about science and its societal role. We believe that historical insight into our academic heritage helps uphold the quality of this discourse.
Collaboration
MUV collaborates across the University’s organisation and disciplines. The Museum also collaborates with external institutions and participates in national and international networks for research, university heritage and history of science.
Outreach and dissemination
MUV uses the University’s buildings for exhibitions and events and provides extensive online resources. We give guided tours and talks, collaborate with other UiO units on teaching programmes, and act as an adviser on various outreach activities at the university.
Research
MUV conducts research on a range of aspects of the history of science and university history. This research is related to, but not restricted by, MUV’s tasks of managing and communicating the historical heritage of the University of Oslo.
Management and documentation
MUV creates, documents and manages a number of valuable university collections. We collaborate with various institutions at the University to maintain knowledge of photographs, objects and their history. MUV participates in the University’s antiquarian building administration, and has a special responsibility for the Observatory, one of Norway’s oldest existing scientific buildings.
Addresses
Visiting address
Kristian Ottosens hus (map)
Problemveien 9
Blindern campus, Oslo
Mail address
Museum of University History (MUV)
P.O. Box 1077 Blindern
N-0316 Oslo, NORWAY