Lapland Vocational College in Finland is offering students a chance to take a one year course in Elfing.
The Finnish province is synonymous with the Father Christmas myth, with Lapland the alleged residence of the famous Chris Crinkle.
But as of April 2008, Lapland's tourists will be able to meet professionally qualified elves to further increase the appeal of the country as a winter holiday destination.
"Qualifying as an Elf won't be easy and the students must take a series of exams to pass the course," Kari Rekild, project manager of the 'Elf Academy' told the Daily Mail.
"The Elves will learn how to keep the visitors safe and happy on Husky tours, sleigh rides and snow mobile trips," he added.
As if the Elfish tendencies of the residents weren't enough to raise a visitor's Christmas spirits, ordinary Fins are renowned for their Christmas spirit too.
According to Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat, Christmas cheer is particularly evident in the north of the country, where residents are keen to show tourists it is a "Christmas country".
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