Ready, steady, grow – How’s education in Helsinki?
This Nordic nation is renowned globally for its top-notch educational system: the approach to education fosters independence, personal growth and self-motivation, encouraging students to explore new ideas and pursue their interests with enthusiasm and resilience. Let’s dive into how these well-rounded, competent individuals are ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
Life-long
learning
The educational journey here starts early with comprehensive school, which encompasses first through ninth grades. From the age of seven, children embark on a path that builds a solid academic foundation across a wide range of different subjects.
By the end of this nine year journey, students are well-rounded individuals, equipped with critical thinking and necessary skill sets to make informed decisions about taking their next crucial steps.
After wrapping up the ninth grade, students arrive at a major crossroads. It’s mandatory to continue their education journey by choosing either general upper secondary school or vocational education and training (VET). Choosing the next adventure will shape not just their educational journey but also carve out their future career paths.
General upper secondary school
For those drawn to academic pursuits, general upper secondary school is the way forward. Spanning three years, this path is all about deepening knowledge across a range of subjects, honing critical thinking skills, and gearing up for the national matriculation examination. It’s an ideal prep for university and the wide array of opportunities that follow.
Students have the freedom to choose which school they wish to attend, but getting in is based on students’ grade point average from comprehensive school – the more applicants for a certain school, the higher the point average to get in is.
Vocational education and training (VET)
If practical skills are more your style, vocational education provides a compelling route. VET programs are tailored to deliver specific career skills and practical experience, preparing students directly for the job market or further studies.
Whether delving into scholarly studies or diving into a career through vocational training, each option is designed to provide a robust foundation for future ambitions.
Higher education: fuelling innovation and practical skills
Finnish higher education is where the magic happens, especially when it comes to pushing the boundaries of technology, environmental sciences, and medicine. Higher education is divided into two main sectors: Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences.
Traditional universities like Aalto university, LUT university or the university of Turku focus on scientific research and education, while universities of applied sciences like Haaga-Helia, Laurea or Metropolia emphasise preparing students for professional careers in fields like engineering, business, and nursing.
Both paths offer Bachelor’s and Master’s programs, and sometimes you can even pick the best of both by doing your Bachelor’s in a university of applied sciences and later on adding the finishing up with a Masters in university.
Regardless of the path chosen, Finnish higher education institutions are known for their innovative teaching methods, strong emphasis on research and development, and a supportive learning environment that encourages students to think independently.
Students are actively encouraged to broaden their horizons through internships, international exchange programs, and hands-on projects like founding a real company as a part of your studies. These experiences are designed to boost your global competitiveness and prepare you for work-life, wherever your career may take you.
Psst! Open university courses are an option that provides an opportunity for anyone, regardless of their educational background or age, to access university-level studies. These courses are ideal for those looking to expand their knowledge or explore new academic interests. With no formal admission requirements, Open university allows you to study at your own pace, choose from a wide range of subjects, and even collect credits that can contribute towards a degree.
What happens after graduation?
The transition from academia to industry is fairly smooth, thanks to the strong connections Finnish higher education institutions maintain with the business world. This practical orientation means that graduates are well-equipped not just with knowledge, but with the know-how to make a tangible impact in their careers right from the start.
Moreover, the thriving startup scene is a reflection of Finland’s innovative ethos. Universities here are also launchpads for entrepreneurship, offering startup hubs, courses in entrepreneurship, and incubation programs that help transform student projects into viable businesses. Many of Finland’s notable startups, like Wolt and Rovio, first took shape within university walls.
