Work Visa/ Student Visa questions

Hi all!
I moved here to Oslo on a three month "visitors visa" and have been looking for work since I arrived. I have found an amazing job here that I love, and was intending to apply for a skilled worker visa. When I went to the UDI office they told me that in order to apply for this type of work visa I would have to have a degree and/or 10 years work experience.

I work in the fashion industry as a designer's agent, and in the US, it was not at all common for people in my industry to have a degree. It really isnt necessary! Also, I have only had about 7 years of work experience so far, so I dont know that that will be enough.

The consulate in the US also suggested that I could apply for a student visa and go back to school, but I really don't want to have to do that!

What have been your experiences and visa challenges that you have overcome. I am in desperate need of some advice! My return to US date is Jan 9th, and I really dont want to have to do that!!

Looking forward to any advice!
Thanks,
Jeanette