The independent nature of university studies in Finland allows for considerable freedom of choice in most fields within the general framework set by the degree regulations. Students are expected to show initiative and responsibility in planning and keeping their own schedules.

Finnish university degrees correspond to Bachelor’s (KANDIDAATTI), Master’s (MAISTERI) and Doctor’s (TOHTORI). In most fields, students can also take a Licentiate’s degree (LISENSIAATTI) before the Doctor’s Degree. The Bachelor’s degree takes at least three years to complete. It consists of basic and intermediate studies in the major subject, including a Bachelor’s thesis, studies in one or more minor subjects and language studies. The Master’s degree requires at least five years of full-time study (or two years after the Bachelor’s degree) and includes advanced studies and a Master thesis.

More information:
http://www.joensuu.fi/students/index.html

University study consists of several types of work: lectures and other instruction, exercises, essays or other independent work, set-book examinations, seminars, various forms of group work and so on. They can be compulsory or optional. Some degree programmes also include compulsory laboratory and practical work.

It is possible to take extra courses in addition to what is required for the degree. Students increasingly do part of their studies at other universities in Finland or abroad.

At the Savonlinna School of Translation Studies, the Degree Programme/ OPETUSSUUNNITELMA (both in Finnish and in English) provides information on the content and extent of the courses. The Degree Programme of the Savonlinna Department of Teacher Education is published only in Finnish.