This year, nearly 5,800 individuals applied for police training in Finland, marking the highest number since the current degree program began in 2014.
The Police University College in Finland has reported a significant increase in applicants for police training, with nearly 5,800 individuals submitting applications this year. This surge in interest comes amid government efforts to bolster police numbers, as highlighted by the remarks of the college's rector, Marko Laitinen. The current cycle reflects a more favorable recruitment climate, supported by initiatives outlined in the government's policy program.
The applicant pool is notably diverse, with a median age of 26 and approximately 40% of applicants being women. This demographic shift suggests a growing interest in policing careers among younger people and a broader appeal for women in this field, which has traditionally seen lower representation. With a promising 375 spots available for new recruits, the Police University College is poised to contribute significantly to the Finnish police force.
The breakdown of applications indicates strong interest in both Finnish and Swedish language programs, with nearly 5,600 applicants for the Finnish-language training and over 200 for the Swedish-language option. This dual-language approach underlines Finland's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in police training, ensuring that the future of law enforcement reflects the linguistic and cultural diversity of the country.
