Olsen, Abstract

Olsen, T. B., S. Kyvik , et al. (2005), 'The Promotion to Full Professor - Through Competition or by Individual Competence?', Tertiary Education and Management 11: 299-316

This paper analyses the outcome of a reform of the academic career structure in Norway. As of 1993, associate professors can apply for promotion to full professorships on the basis of individual research competence irrespective of vacant professorships.

This has now become a more important way of attaining a full professorship than through competition with other applicants. Only 30% of new professors are appointed the traditional way.

The reform has led to a substantial increase in the number of full professors in the university sector, from 37% of the tenured academic staff in 1991 to 47% in 2001. (© Olsen, Kyvik & Hovdhaugen)