Higher education in Finland – why choose a university of applied sciences?

LAB Lahti campus art on the hallway wall.

Julkaistu

30.1.2026

Do you know how a university and a university of applied sciences differ? We have gathered the ABCs of what you should understand about the differences between these two higher education institutions to help you choose the best option for you.

The Finnish higher education system comprises universities of applied sciences and universities, both granting bachelor’s and master’s degrees. All higher education institutes offer quality education and excellent opportunities, but may differ in areas such as educational focus and degree structures.

University of applied sciences

Bachelor's degrees 210–270 ECTS credits
Completion of the degree takes 3.5–4.5 years
Master’s degrees 60–90 ECTS credits
Completion of the degree takes 1.5–2 years
Practical education
Education with an emphasis on the occupational field
Prepare students for various professional roles

University

Bachelor's degrees 180 ECTS credits
Completion of the degree takes 3 years
Master’s degrees 120 ECTS credits
Completion of the degree takes 2 years
Theoretical education
Education emphasizes scientific research
Provide students with in-depth knowledge of various fields

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree from a university of applied sciences usually dive straight into the world of work. Applying to master’s degree programmes at a university of applied sciences requires a minimum of two years' work experience in a related field.

University students with a bachelor’s degree tend to continue straight to master’s studies since universities do not require any prior work experience.

Learning through close collaboration with the professional world

In universities of applied sciences, expertise is gained in close co-operation with the professional world. Studies include conducting research and development that promotes the development of businesses and regions.

Whereas university studies focus traditionally on research, in universities of applied sciences, the learnt theory is quickly put into practice and tested through various projects, group work, and exercises that often involve collaboration with businesses.

Käytävämatto jossa lukee the best of both worlds

Practical work placement offers irreplaceable experience

In universities of applied sciences, you learn by doing. That is why all students undergo a practical work placement period worth 30 ECTS credits during their studies. This is equivalent to 20 weeks of work in their field of study.

Social and Health Care students complete their practical work placement through clinical training periods that amount up to 80 ECTS credits.

In practical work placement, students work in real-world companies, becoming part of the work community. This learning method allows students to become familiar with professional tasks in a real working environment and enhances their professional competence and essential workplace skills.

How to choose between a university and a university of applied sciences?

Now that you understand the key differences between the two higher education institutes in Finland, how do you make the right choice for you?

Both are excellent choices and provide quality education, so choose the degree programme you believe will lead to the future you're envisioning for yourself, or that has the most interesting study contents in your opinion, or that enables the job you wish to do after graduation.

Please note that practices can vary between institutions.