The Finnish higher education system is also renowned for its internationalisation. The country has a long history of welcoming international students, and many universities and UAS offer courses in English. Students from around the world can also take part in exchange programmes, such as the Erasmus programme, which enables students to study in another European country.

Posted At: Sep 12, 2023 - 278 Views

Higher education system in Finland

Finland is known for its world-class higher education system, which is renowned for its quality, equity, and accessibility. The Finnish higher education system is composed of universities, universities of applied sciences (UAS) and research institutions. It offers a wide range of study programmes in different disciplines, from degree programmes to postgraduate studies and research.  

The Finnish higher education system is characterised by its focus on quality and equity, and its commitment to providing access to education for all. The Finnish higher education system is highly competitive, and students are expected to meet high academic standards.  

Finland also offers a range of specialized vocational schools, such as the Helsinki School of Economics and Business Administration, the Tampere University of Technology, and the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health. These specialized vocational schools offer a range of qualifications, from short-term courses to longer degree programs.


In Finland, universities and UAS are the main providers of higher education. Universities offer a wide range of degree programmes, from Bachelor's degrees to doctoral programmes. UAS provide professional and vocational programmes, ranging from short-term courses to Bachelor's degrees and Master's programmes.  

Universities offer a wide range of disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, technology, and medicine. They offer traditional academic degrees such as Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees. Universities are also responsible for conducting research and developing new technologies.  

Universities of applied sciences offer a narrower range of disciplines, including engineering, business, and hospitality. They offer vocational degrees such as Bachelor of Engineering (BE) and Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) as well as Master's degrees in some fields. Universities of applied sciences emphasize practical applications of knowledge and skills. They are also responsible for providing professional education and training.  

The universities of applied sciences are divided into two main categories: universities of applied sciences and universities of business and hospitality. Universities of applied sciences offer degree programs in technology, engineering, business, health care, and social sciences. They focus on providing students with practical skills that will help them in their future careers. Meanwhile, universities of business and hospitality offer degree programs in tourism, hospitality, and business management.  

Finland is also known for its research-intensive higher education system. The country is home to a number of leading research institutions, and it is a major participant in international research collaborations.  

In conclusion, the Finnish higher education system is characterised by its focus on quality and equity, its commitment to internationalisation, and its strong research infrastructure. It is a great choice for students from around the world who are looking for a top-quality higher education experience.  

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