Norway shifts prison officer training to three-year bachelor program without pay
The two-year paid training for prison officers will be replaced by an unpaid three-year bachelor degree in criminal enforcement.
After five decades, Norway's prison officer education is being overhauled from a two-year paid scheme to a three-year bachelor program in criminal enforcement, with no salary during study. Kristian Mjåland, pro-rector at Kriminalomsorgens høyskole og utdanningssenter, expects the additional year to enhance competence and equip officers for the more demanding work environment. He notes that while the inmate population has declined, remaining prisoners often present more intricate problems.
Staff turnover has risen sharply, prompting concerns about retention. In 2024, Agder prison alone lost over 40 employees, highlighting the urgency of the change. The new pathway is slated to begin with the next intake of trainees.
Why it matters
The reform could improve prison safety and reduce staff shortages by boosting officer qualifications.
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