Yrkesfag

Yrkesfag, or yrkesfaglig utdanning, is a category of upper secondary education in Norway designed to provide vocational training for skilled trades. It is one of two main tracks in videregående opplæring, the other being general studies (studiespesialisering). Yrkesfag aims to prepare students for work in specific trades while securing a broad base of general knowledge.

Structure and training: The program combines school-based instruction with work-based learning through apprenticeship or placements in industry. It features fellesfag (common subjects) and yrkesfaglige programfag (trade-specific subjects). Many programs are organized as a 2+2 model—two years in school and two years in a company apprenticeship—but arrangements vary by program and region. The course leads to a national examination and the fagbrev, the certificate of apprenticeship, which qualifies the holder to work as a skilled tradesperson.

Fields: Yrkesfag covers a wide range of trades, including byggfag and anlegg (construction and civil engineering), elektro (electricity and ICT), teknikk og industriell produksjon (engineering and industrial production), helse- og oppvekstfag (health and care), restaurant- og matfag (catering and food service), naturbruk (agriculture and outdoor work), and design og håndverk (design and crafts).

Pathways after completion: Graduates can enter the labor market directly or pursue further education through vocational colleges (fagskole) or other study routes that lead to higher education admissions.