Government proposes major changes to education system in Denmark with new epx program

The government has announced two proposals outlining its vision for the future of the education system. A significant shift includes the introduction of a new vocational and professional education path, known as epx (Vocational and Professional Exams), which will replace the current hf program. This initiative is designed for students who plan to pursue skilled vocational training but are not yet ready for direct entry into vocational schools after primary education. It also targets students aiming for professions that require further education.

Plans include establishing 87 educational institutions for epx, with a minimum average grade requirement of two for entry. The new program aims to be available from 2030, necessitating new facilities, teacher training, and curriculum development at an estimated cost of five billion kroner, with an additional annual budget of 2.3 billion kroner for operation.

Overall, there will be three pathways to attain a youth education qualification: stx (General Student Examination), hhx (Higher Commercial Examination), and the new epx. However, the future of the existing htx (Higher Technical Examination) remains uncertain, with considerations for its partial integration into stx to enhance technical focus.

Furthermore, the government intends to shorten the duration of certain professional programs, including nursing and teaching, by three months, while raising entry grade requirements from primary school for stx and hhx from five to six. The tenth grade will be eliminated as a standalone offering, although it can still be taken at free schools and integrated into the epx program.

Lastly, the government aims to expand educational opportunities with the introduction of new one-year professional master’s programs and three-year vocational bachelor’s programs, along with increasing international student recruitment by adding 400 English-language spots in STEM fields. An annual budget of 2.1 billion kroner will be allocated to enhance the quality of higher vocational education.