For the Finnish welfare society education is one of the priority directions of development. The education system is based on the equality of all people. The approach to learning is aimed to develop the individual skills of the student. In the process of studying, they should carry out the assigned tasks and independently seek ways to solve them. Study programs include academic work and development of skills, that you need for your future career.
Finland is suitable for international students, as here you can find many programs in English for different levels of study. In total, universities offer more than 400 programs in English.
Studies in Finland are measured in credits according to European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). One year of full-time studies is equivalent to 60 credits or 1600 hours of student work. The system of higher education in Finland consists of three levels: undergraduate (Bachelor’s degree), graduate (Master’s degree) and post-graduate (Doctor’s degree).
A first cycle or undergraduate studies lasts for three years (180 credits). You can obtain a Bachelor’s degree in various fields, excluding Law and Pharmacy. There are two of the most common degrees titles: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science. Studies often introduce with basic and intermediate studies, work practice, interdisciplinary programs, language and communication studies.
Graduate studies in Finland last for two years (120 credits). To apply for a Master’s degree you need to hold a Bachelor’s degree. A second cycle provides the student with academic skills, that are needed for post-graduate studies, scientific knowledge and methods, communication skills and language.
You can obtain Doctor’s degree in Finland after completion of graduate degree. The aim of this level is to provide students with in-depth knowledge. The degree takes four years, after that students will be able to demonstrate skills of critical thinking and write a doctoral dissertation.
Higher education has a dual structure and includes universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS). The main difference between them is their profiles. For those students, who would like to build an academic career, it is better to apply to universities. UAS provide more practical skills. All the organizations are autonomous to a great extent and have their own instructions and program structures. Also, both of educational institutions have their own student selection criteria. In most cases successful examinations on the previous study level and entrance tests are required.
