Higher Education in Finland: A Comprehensive Guide to Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences
Finland's reputation for educational excellence extends to its higher education system, which offers a diverse landscape of opportunities for both domestic and international students. This system is characterized by a well-defined dual structure comprising research-oriented universities and vocationally focused universities of applied sciences (UAS). Both types of institutions provide a multitude of degree programs, many of which are conducted in English, thus increasing accessibility for students from around the globe.
Within the administrative purview of the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture, there are 13 universities. Additionally, the Finnish National Defence University operates under the administration of the defence sector. Complementing this academic sphere are 22 universities of applied sciences overseen by the Ministry, along with two additional UAS: Högskolan på Åland (Åland University of Applied Sciences) and the Police University College.
The existence of this clearly defined dual system suggests a deliberate and strategic approach to higher education in Finland. This structure likely aims to achieve a balance between the advancement of theoretical knowledge through research and the cultivation of practical skills that are directly applicable to the demands of the employment market.
It is important for prospective students to understand the fundamental differences between these two types of institutions. Universities in Finland primarily concentrate on scientific research and offer a spectrum of academic degrees, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral (PhD) levels. In contrast, Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) deliver professionally oriented higher education with a strong emphasis on practical application and maintain close relationships with the needs of the workforce and regional development. While UAS offer Bachelor's and Master's degree programs, they typically do not have the authority to award doctoral degrees. The duration of Bachelor's degree programs can vary between universities and UAS. Furthermore, Master's degree programs at UAS often have a prerequisite of a Bachelor's degree coupled with a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. This requirement indicates that UAS Master's programs are often geared towards professionals looking to deepen their vocational expertise, which differs from the more direct academic progression from Bachelor's to Master's common in universities. The differing emphasis on research versus practice likely shapes the curriculum, teaching methods, and assessment approaches used by each type of institution.
This guide aims to provide a thorough overview of both Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences. It will explore the subjects they offer, their locations throughout Finland, potential tuition fees for international students, and an evaluation based on available QS rankings and other pertinent criteria, all to assist in making informed choices about higher education pathways.
Spotlight on Finnish Universities
Finland is home to a network of esteemed universities located across the country. The 13 universities under the Ministry of Education and Culture are Aalto University, University of Helsinki, University of Eastern Finland, University of Jyväskylä, University of Lapland, LUT University, University of Oulu, Hanken School of Economics, University of the Arts Helsinki, Tampere University, University of Turku, University of Vaasa, and Åbo Akademi University. The Finnish National Defence University, while also a university, operates under the defence administration.
These institutions are situated in various cities, ensuring a wide geographical distribution of academic excellence. Helsinki is home to the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, Hanken School of Economics, the University of the Arts Helsinki, and the National Defence University. Aalto University also has a presence in Espoo. In the southwest, Turku hosts the University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, while Vaasa is home to the University of Vaasa, another campus of Åbo Akademi University, and a location for Hanken School of Economics. Further inland, the University of Jyväskylä is located in Jyväskylä, and the University of Oulu is in Oulu. LUT University has campuses in both Lappeenranta and Lahti, and the University of Lapland is situated in Rovaniemi. Tampere University is located in Tampere. Additionally, some universities extend their presence to other locations; for instance, Tampere University and the University of Turku have facilities in Pori, and Tampere University also has a campus in Seinäjoki. This geographical spread means that high-quality academic education is available across Finland, which might be an important consideration for students with specific regional interests or preferences for a particular type of environment.
Each of these universities boasts unique academic strengths and offers a diverse range of programs. The University of Helsinki, the oldest and largest university in Finland, comprises 11 faculties and numerous research institutes, offering a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various fields. Aalto University is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, particularly in the fields of art & design, technology, and business. The University of Jyväskylä is recognized for its strong programs in education and sports sciences, stemming from its origins as the first Finnish-speaking teacher training college. The University of Eastern Finland distinguishes itself with its expertise in environmental sciences, forestry, and public health, operating across campuses in Joensuu and Kuopio. Hanken School of Economics holds the distinction of being the oldest business school in Finland and is highly regarded for its programs in economics and business administration, with campuses in Helsinki and Vaasa. The University of the Arts Helsinki provides the highest level of education in music, fine arts, and performing arts in Finland, with its main operations in Helsinki but also activities in Kuopio and Seinäjoki.
Many Finnish universities offer a significant number of their degree programs in English, making them accessible to a wide range of international students. Åbo Akademi University stands out as the only multidisciplinary Swedish-language university in Finland, with campuses in Turku and Vaasa. The diverse academic landscape ensures that prospective students can find programs aligning with their specific interests across various disciplines.
For international students from outside the EU/EEA area, tuition fees are generally applicable for English-taught Bachelor's and Master's programs. These fees can vary considerably, ranging from approximately €8,000 to €20,000 per academic year. However, it is noteworthy that doctoral programs often do not charge tuition fees, regardless of the student's nationality. To provide a more specific understanding of the costs involved, some examples of annual tuition fees for Master's programs include: Aalto University at €15,000 , the University of Helsinki with a broad range of €8,000 to €20,000 , the University of Jyväskylä ranging from €9,000 to €12,000 , the University of Lapland at €8,000 , LUT University at approximately €9,472 (based on 10,167 USD - ), Tampere University between €10,000 and €12,000 , Hanken School of Economics at €15,000 , the University of Turku around €11,500 (based on Turku UAS fees - and likely similar for the university), the University of Oulu with a range of approximately €10,100 to €12,300 (based on 10,869-13,043 USD - ), the University of Vaasa at €14,000 , Åbo Akademi University in the range of €10,000 to €12,000 , and the University of the Arts Helsinki at approximately €5,280 (based on 5,648 USD - ). It is important to note that many universities offer scholarships and tuition fee waivers for eligible international students, which can help offset these costs. The wide variation in tuition fees underscores the importance of researching the specific costs associated with a chosen field of study, while the availability of scholarships indicates potential avenues for financial support.
The global standing of Finnish universities is often reflected in international rankings. Several institutions consistently achieve high positions in the QS World University Rankings. For the 2025 rankings, notable overall placements include Aalto University at #113 , the University of Helsinki at #117 , LUT University at #336 , the University of Oulu at #344 , the University of Turku at #375 , Tampere University at #462 , the University of Jyväskylä at #489 , Åbo Akademi University in the range of #621-630 , and the University of Eastern Finland at #535. Furthermore, subject-specific rankings highlight particular areas of global excellence within these institutions. For instance, Aalto University is ranked 8th globally in Art & Design , and the University of Helsinki demonstrates strong performance in Pharmacy & Pharmacology at #46. The consistent presence of multiple Finnish universities in the top global rankings signifies a strong overall academic reputation. Subject-specific rankings can be particularly informative for students with defined academic interests, showcasing where Finnish institutions excel on a global scale.
Beyond the QS rankings, Finnish universities also receive recognition in other prominent global ranking systems. In the THE World University Rankings for 2025, the University of Helsinki is ranked at #107, LUT University in the 251-300th band. Tampere University is positioned among the top 350, and the University of Vaasa in the 401-500th range. The University of Oulu is ranked 251st in Europe and #115 globally , while Aalto University is recognized as the 21st best young university worldwide. The Shanghai Ranking (ARWU) for 2024 places the University of Helsinki at #99, the University of Turku at #382, the University of Oulu at #401, Tampere University at #430, the University of Eastern Finland at #485, and the University of Jyväskylä within the top 500. Notably, the University of Vaasa is ranked among the top 25 globally in Business Administration according to the 2024 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS). National rankings also provide valuable perspectives. EduRank's 2025 Finland rankings place the University of Helsinki at #1, the University of Turku at #4, the University of Jyväskylä at #6, Åbo Akademi University at #8, the University of Lapland at #11, and the University of the Arts Helsinki at #13. Beyond rankings, indicators such as research output and citations highlight the academic influence of these institutions. The University of Helsinki demonstrates significant research output across various fields , Aalto University's research is considered impactful , and the University of Vaasa's research quality is highly rated. Furthermore, positive student feedback is a crucial aspect of a university's overall quality. Hanken alumni report high levels of satisfaction with their education , international students at the University of Lapland are very satisfied with their study experience , and the University of Oulu also enjoys high student satisfaction. The diverse methodologies employed by different ranking systems can lead to variations in institutional positions. Therefore, considering a range of rankings offers a more holistic view of a university's standing across various criteria. Strong research output and positive student feedback are also vital indicators of a university's overall quality, extending beyond mere ranking numbers.
Exploring Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences
Finland's higher education landscape also includes a robust network of Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS), playing a crucial role in providing professionally focused education. There are 22 UAS operating under the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture. These include Arcada University of Applied Sciences, Centria University of Applied Sciences, Diaconia University of Applied Sciences, Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, Humak University of Applied Sciences, Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK), JAMK University of Applied Sciences, South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (XAMK), Kajaani University of Applied Sciences (KAMK), Karelia University of Applied Sciences, LAB...source of Applied Sciences, Laurea University of Applied Sciences, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Oulu University of Applied Sciences (Oulu UAS), Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK), Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences (SeAMK), Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK), Turku University of Applied Sciences (TUAS), Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK), and Novia University of Applied Sciences. Additionally, two other UAS operate outside this direct administrative branch: Högskolan på Åland (Åland University of Applied Sciences) located in Mariehamn, and the Police University College situated in Tampere.
These UAS are strategically located in various cities and regions across Finland, often aligning with the specific economic needs and industries prevalent in their respective areas. Examples include Arcada in Helsinki , Kajaani UAS in Kajaani , Karelia UAS in Joensuu , LAB UAS with campuses in Lahti and Lappeenranta , Metropolia UAS in Helsinki , Satakunta UAS with campuses in Pori, Rauma, Kankaanpää, and Huittinen , Turku UAS in Turku and Salo , Haaga-Helia UAS with campuses in Helsinki, Porvoo, and Vierumäki , Laurea UAS operating in the Greater Helsinki region , Oulu UAS in Oulu and Oulainen , and Novia UAS with a presence in locations like Turku, Vaasa, and Jakobstad. Many UAS operate with multiple campuses, sometimes specializing in different fields, which further reflects their regional focus and connection to diverse industries. For instance, Karelia UAS has campuses in Tikkarinne and Wärtsilä, hosting different fields of study. Metropolia UAS, the largest Finnish UAS, has several campuses across the Helsinki metropolitan area.
UAS are characterized by their practice-oriented programs designed to meet the demands of the labor market. They offer a wide array of programs across various fields. Arcada UAS, for example, offers programs in Business, Engineering, Health Care, Information Technology, and Social Sciences. Kajaani UAS (KAMK) focuses on areas like Tourism, Sports, Business, Engineering, and Health. Karelia UAS provides education in Health Care and Social Studies, Business, Engineering, Forestry, Media, and Hospitality Management. LAB UAS specializes in innovation, design, business, and health. Metropolia UAS, being the largest, offers programs in Business, Technology, Health Care and Social Services, and Culture. Satakunta UAS (SAMK) provides programs in Business, Engineering, Health and Welfare, Information Technology, and Tourism. Turku UAS (TUAS) is particularly strong in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Healthcare. Haaga-Helia UAS is strongly business-oriented, with programs in business, tourism, hotel management, IT, and sports. Laurea UAS offers programs in Business, Social Services, and Tourism. Oulu UAS covers fields like Business, Engineering, Health and Social Care, IT, Media, and Natural Resources. Novia UAS offers multidisciplinary education with a practical orientation across various fields. A key feature of UAS programs is the emphasis on practical learning, which includes exercises, real-world projects, and mandatory practical training periods (internships). This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are equipped with immediately applicable skills for their chosen professions. Furthermore, many UAS offer their degree programs entirely in English, enhancing their appeal to international students.
Tuition fees for international students from outside the EU/EEA area at UAS generally range from €6,000 to €10,000 per academic year. However, some programs, particularly at the Master's level, might have higher fees. For Bachelor's programs, specific examples of annual tuition fees include: Arcada between €9,500 and €11,000 , Kajaani UAS ranging from €8,000 to €10,000 , Karelia UAS at €9,000 , LAB UAS at approximately €7,580 , Metropolia UAS around €10,420 , Satakunta UAS at €9,000 , Turku UAS at €12,000 for new students , Haaga-Helia UAS at €9,000 , Laurea UAS at approximately €8,470 (based on 9,037 USD - ), Oulu UAS at €10,000 , and Novia UAS at €10,000. Master's program fees can be higher, such as Laurea UAS at approximately €10,600 (based on 11,297 USD - ) and Novia UAS with fees potentially reaching €15,000. To help international students finance their studies, many UAS offer scholarships and early-bird discounts for those who accept their study place and pay their tuition fees early. While studying at a UAS generally involves lower tuition fees compared to research universities, it still necessitates careful financial planning for international students, and scholarships can provide valuable support.
While global rankings like QS primarily focus on research universities, Finnish UAS receive recognition through national rankings and specific achievements. Arcada UAS was ranked as the best UAS in Finland in 2017 , and Kajaani UAS (KAMK) was recognized as second among UAS of its size based on financial indicators in 2021. Turku UAS (TUAS) consistently ranks high in Finland for applied science research. Furthermore, several UAS have been awarded quality designations by the Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC), such as KAMK and Haaga-Helia. EduRank provides rankings for some UAS, offering a comparative perspective within Finland; for instance, Haaga-Helia is ranked 19th among Finnish higher education institutions. When evaluating UAS, prospective students should pay closer attention to national rankings, program-specific accreditations, and the institution's standing within its particular field and region, as global university rankings might not fully capture their strengths and focus.
A defining characteristic of Finnish UAS is their strong connection to industry and the professional world. These institutions often engage in close collaboration with businesses on research and development projects and provide numerous opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships. For example, TUAS collaborates annually with over 200 R&D projects , and Haaga-Helia UAS has established partnerships with 100 companies. JAMK University of Applied Sciences boasts partnerships with over 200 universities and numerous companies across 50 countries. This strong industry linkage often translates to high graduate employability rates. Haaga-Helia UAS reports that 80% of its graduates are in permanent employment within five years of graduation. Humak University of Applied Sciences indicates that 92% of its graduates are satisfied with their career prospects. Satakunta UAS (SAMK) states that 94% of its graduates are either employed or working as entrepreneurs , and Laurea University of Applied Sciences boasts a 96.5% employment rate for its graduates one year after graduation. Many UAS also offer dedicated career services to support their students in their job search and career development. The emphasis on practical skills and robust industry connections at UAS directly contributes to the excellent employability of their graduates, making them a compelling option for students aiming for a direct entry into the workforce upon completion of their studies.
Rating and Comparison
The Finnish higher education system presents a clear dichotomy between universities and universities of applied sciences, each with distinct strengths and focuses. Universities prioritize theoretical knowledge and research, offering a comprehensive range of degrees, including doctoral studies. They often feature prominently in global rankings based on their research output and academic reputation. In contrast, UAS emphasize practical skills and vocational training, primarily offering Bachelor's and Master's degrees. They maintain strong ties with the job market and typically exhibit high graduate employment rates.
The choice between a university and a UAS in Finland should be guided by a student's individual academic interests and career goals. Those inclined towards research-intensive studies and academic careers might find universities more suitable, while students seeking specific professional skills and immediate employment after graduation could find UAS a better fit.
To facilitate a clearer comparison, the following tables provide key metrics for a selection of prominent Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences based on the data available:
Table: Key Metrics for Selected Finnish Universities (2025)
University Name
Location
General Focus
QS World University Ranking (Overall)
Estimated Annual Tuition Fees (Master's, €)
Noteworthy Subject Areas
Aalto University
Helsinki, Espoo
Technology, Business, Art & Design
113
15,000
Art & Design, Technology, Business
University of Helsinki
Helsinki
Comprehensive, Research-Intensive
117
8,000 - 20,000
Medicine, Life Sciences, Humanities
LUT University
Lappeenranta, Lahti
Technology, Business, Social Sciences
336
~9,472
Engineering, Technology, Sustainable Business
University of Oulu
Oulu
Science, Technology, Medicine
344
~10,100 - ~12,300
Computer Science, Engineering, Health Sciences
University of Turku
Turku
Multidisciplinary, Research-Oriented
375
~11,500
Biosciences, Medicine, Social Sciences
Tampere University
Tampere
Multidisciplinary, Technology-Focused
462
10,000 - 12,000
Engineering, Social Sciences, Health Sciences
University of Jyväskylä
Jyväskylä
Education, Sports Sciences, Humanities
489
9,000 - 12,000
Education, Sports Sciences, Humanities
Åbo Akademi University
Turku, Vaasa
Multidisciplinary, Swedish-Language
621-630
10,000 - 12,000
Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
University of Eastern Finland
Joensuu, Kuopio
Environmental Sciences, Forestry, Health
535
~9,470
Environmental Sciences, Forestry, Public Health
Table: Key Metrics for Selected Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences
UAS Name
Location
General Focus
Notable National Recognition
Estimated Annual Tuition Fees (Bachelor's, €)
Key Program Areas
Graduate Employability
Arcada UAS
Helsinki
Business, Engineering, Health, IT, Social
Ranked #1 in Finland (2017)
9,500 - 11,000
Business, Engineering, Health Care, IT
High
Kajaani UAS (KAMK)
Kajaani
Tourism, Sports, Business, Engineering, Health
Ranked #2 in financial indicators (2021)
8,000 - 10,000
Tourism, Sports, Business, Engineering, Health
High
Haaga-Helia UAS
Helsinki, Porvoo, etc.
Business-Oriented
FINEEC Quality Label
9,000
Business, Tourism, Hotel Management, IT, Sports
High
Metropolia UAS
Helsinki
Business, Tech, Health, Social, Culture
Largest UAS in Finland
~10,420
Business, Technology, Health Care, Social Services, Culture
High
Satakunta UAS (SAMK)
Pori, Rauma, etc.
Business, Engineering, Health, IT, Tourism
High employment rates
9,000
Business, Engineering, Health and Welfare, IT, Tourism
High
Turku UAS (TUAS)
Turku, Salo
ICT, Healthcare
Ranked high for applied science research
12,000 (new students)
Information and Communications Technology, Healthcare
High
Laurea UAS
Greater Helsinki
Business, Social Services, Tourism
High employment rates
~8,470
Business Administration, Social Services, Security Management
Business, Engineering, Health and Social Care, IT, Media
High
Novia UAS
Turku, Vaasa, etc.
Multidisciplinary, Practical Orientation
10,000
Various fields with practical focus
High
These tables offer a direct comparison of key institutions based on factors such as global and national standing, the cost of study, their primary academic or vocational focus, and potential career prospects.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Path in Finnish Higher Education
When considering higher education in Finland, it is crucial to carefully evaluate your individual academic interests and future career goals. Take the time to research the tuition fees and available scholarship opportunities specifically for international students. Determine whether the research-intensive environment of a university or the practice-oriented approach of a university of applied sciences aligns better with your learning style and professional aspirations. It is highly recommended to explore specific programs and institutions in detail by visiting their official websites and consulting other relevant resources. Ultimately, Finland offers a welcoming and high-quality environment for international students seeking both academic excellence and strong prospects for future career success.
