IN-PERSON MADRID FOCUS ON PEDAGOGY. SECTION B

Abstract

Norwegian police education is internationally recognized and accredited as a higher education in Norway. Despite this, a lot of young people choose not to apply for police education. This article explores how young people in Norway perceive the police profession and what factors influence their consideration of police education as a career path. Based on a nationally representative web survey conducted in late 2024 among 1.011 respondents aged 16–23, the study finds that two-thirds of young Norwegians have a positive view of the police, while only 11% consider applying to the Norwegian Police University College (NPUC). Motivations to pursue police education are mainly intrinsic, linked to excitement, interest in the field, sense of societal responsibility, whereas barriers are primarily structural, such as limited job prospects, strict admission criteria, and uncertainty about the profession’s future. A significant share of those not initially considering NPUC would still accept a place if offered, indicating a latent interest. We therefore propose that the actual content of the education program be communicated more clearly, i.e. that the education consists of a future-oriented design with the use of innovative teaching and experimental pedagogics. Regarding limited job prospects, strict admission criteria, and uncertainty about the profession’s future, communicating clearer what the education actually consists of and offers to relevant target groups in a better way will possibly lead to more applications from young people. The findings are discussed in light of theories on career choice, institutional trust, and occupational attractiveness, with implications for future recruitment strategies.