The decline in applications for IT programs seen last year has continued, according to the latest figures from Samordna opptak.
Norway’s coordinated admission system received 12% fewer applications for bachelor’s degrees in computer science and related fields this year compared to 2023. The drop follows a similar trend in 2023, when first-time applicants fell by 8%.
Engineering and natural sciences programs also saw a reduction in interest, though less steep. Applications for electrical engineering dropped by 5%, while physics and mathematics combined fell by 4%. Business administration remained stable with a marginal increase of 1%.
The decline comes despite strong labor market demand for IT professionals. According to Statistics Norway, the tech sector added 3,200 new jobs in 2023, and the number of unfilled positions has risen for three consecutive years. The average advertised salary for software developers now exceeds 750,000 NOK annually.
Educators point to rising living costs and student debt as possible factors. A recent survey by the Norwegian Students’ and Academics’ International Assistance Fund found that 68% of prospective students cited financial concerns as a major influence on their choice of study. The government has not announced new measures to address the trend.
Source: digi.no