The Norwegian Police University College

The Norwegian Police University College (PHS) is Norway's sole institution dedicated to educating and training police officers, with a history spanning over a century. Established as a university college in 1992, PHS offers Bachelor's and Master's programs, along with continuing professional development courses, aiming to provide a comprehensive theoretical and practical foundation for police work. It plays a crucial role in ensuring justice, safety, law, and order through its commitment to education, research, and dissemination of knowledge.

Academics

PHS offers a three-year Bachelor in Police Studies, a professionally oriented program covering law, ethics, criminology, and practical training, including fieldwork and internships. The college also provides Master's programs, such as the Master in Police Science, which focuses on research, leadership, strategic management, and advanced investigative techniques. The teaching approach emphasizes a blend of theoretical instruction and hands-on experience through simulated scenarios and practical exercises. PHS actively conducts research in areas like law, police science, criminology, psychology, and sociology, contributing to evidence-based policing practices.

International Students

While the primary focus for full-time Bachelor's students is Norwegian citizens, PHS engages in international collaborations and offers opportunities for exchange students. The college participates in programs like Nordplus, Horizon, and Erasmus+, facilitating student and staff exchanges with partner institutions in various European countries. Support services for students include counseling, academic support, and career guidance. Although ethnic minorities have been underrepresented, PHS is involved in projects investigating diversity perspectives within the Norwegian Police Service.

Campus & Location

The main campus of the Norwegian Police University College is centrally located at Majorstuen in Oslo, within walking distance of the city center. The Oslo campus boasts modern facilities, including training apartments, specialized rooms for forensic teaching, interrogation rooms, a training simulator, a practice police station, a canteen, a library, gymnasiums, and fitness rooms. Students also have access to swimming training at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences. Oslo offers a vibrant city life with various cultural events, and public transport passes are available for students at discounted rates.

Career Outcomes

Most graduates of the Norwegian Police University College find employment within the Norwegian police force, starting as police officers and having opportunities to advance to higher ranks or specialized units. The college maintains strong connections with police departments and other law enforcement agencies, providing students with ample opportunities for internships and job placements. Career services include job placement assistance, career counseling, and workshops on job search strategies. Graduates can pursue diverse roles such as operational policing, investigation, prevention, traffic police, environmental crime, and even specialized areas like drone piloting or forensic technician work.