The was Molde's 20th season in the second tier of Norwegian football and their first since their relegation from 1. divisjon in 1980. This season Molde competed in 2. divisjon (second tier) and the Norwegian Cup. In the league, Molde finished in 2nd position in 2. divisjon group B, 2 points behind winners Sogndal and qualified for promotion play-offs. Molde won promotion to the 1982 1. divisjon after winning the play-offs on goal difference against Brann and Pors.