The university's Strategic Plan for 2009-2015, states that the University of Agder shall be a model for how education and research can lead to active participation in the region. By creating and participating in diverse arenas for interaction within the region, the UiA has built up extensive cooperation with regional cluster networks, research institutions, and the public and private sectors.
The University of Agder wants to have a strong international component. The university has several types of cooperation that contribute to this, including strategic partnerships with selected institutions and countries, as well as EU and EEA projects. The university wants to enter into international projects with regional partners.