Program structure

The Master's Degree Programme in Pedagogy and Teaching for Sustainability at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainability in educational contexts.

Programme Structure:

• Orientation Studies (7 ECTS): These courses introduce students to the university environment, the Finnish educational system, and the core objectives of the programme.

• Major Studies (91 ECTS): This segment includes:

  • Methodological Studies: Focused on research methodologies pertinent to educational sciences, preparing students for their Master's thesis.
  • Content Studies: Courses addressing sustainability from ecological, cultural, and social perspectives within educational contexts.

• Finnish Studies (4 ECTS): These courses offer an introduction to the Finnish language, enhancing students' integration into the local culture.

• Other Studies (18 ECTS): Elective courses that allow students to deepen their expertise related to their Master's thesis or personal interests.

The programme emphasizes a global perspective, tackling current sustainability issues through the lens of teaching and pedagogy, which are central to Finnish educational expertise.

For detailed course descriptions and the latest curriculum, please refer to the UEF course catalogue.

Fees and Funding

The Master's Degree Programme in Pedagogy and Teaching for Sustainability at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) has specific tuition fees and offers various funding opportunities to support students.

Tuition Fees:

• EU/EEA Nationals: No tuition fee.

• Non-EU/EEA Nationals: €10,000 per academic year.

Funding Opportunities:

UEF provides several scholarships and tuition waivers to assist students with their educational expenses:

1. UEF Scholarship: A 100% tuition waiver awarded to the highest-ranked tuition fee-liable student based on admission results. This scholarship covers the entire duration of the studies (two years for Master's programmes).

2. Tuition Waiver: Up to 50% of the tuition fee, granted to a limited number of applicants. This waiver is also applicable for the full two-year duration of the Master's programme.

3. Finnish Language Scholarship: Available during studies at UEF, this scholarship encourages students to learn the Finnish language.

Application Process for Scholarships:

• When to Apply: Scholarships and tuition waivers are applied for through the application form when applying to UEF.

• Selection Criteria: Scholarships are awarded based on merit, primarily considering the best scores in the application process.

Important Considerations:

• Limited Availability: The number of scholarships offered by UEF is limited.

• Financial Planning: Prospective students are advised to finalize their financial plans well in advance, as scholarships and waivers do not cover living expenses or travel costs to Finland.

• Early Bird Discount: A one-time deduction of €500 for the autumn semester is available to students who accept their study place and pay the tuition fee within three weeks of the result publication.

For detailed information and specific inquiries, it's recommended to contact the programme coordinator or visit the official UEF website.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) offers scholarships and tuition waivers to support students in the Master's Degree Programme in Pedagogy and Teaching for Sustainability.

Types of Scholarships and Waivers:

1. UEF Scholarship: A 100% tuition waiver granted to the highest-ranked tuition fee-liable student based on admission results. This scholarship covers the entire duration of the studies, which is two years for Master's programmes.

2. Tuition Waiver: Up to 50% of the tuition fee, awarded to a limited number of applicants. This waiver is also applicable for the full two-year duration of the Master's programme.

3. Finnish Language Scholarship: Available during studies at UEF, this scholarship encourages students to learn the Finnish language.

Application Process:

• When to Apply: Scholarships and tuition waivers are applied for through the application form when applying to UEF.

• Selection Criteria: Scholarships are awarded based on merit, primarily considering the best scores in the application process.

Important Considerations:

• Limited Availability: The number of scholarships offered by UEF is limited.

• Financial Planning: Prospective students are advised to finalize their financial plans well in advance, as scholarships and waivers do not cover living expenses or travel costs to Finland.

• Early Bird Discount: A one-time deduction of €500 for the autumn semester is available to students who accept their study place and pay the tuition fee within three weeks of the result publication.

For detailed information and specific inquiries, it's recommended to contact the programme coordinator or visit the official UEF website.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Master's Degree Programme in Pedagogy and Teaching for Sustainability at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Background:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in education or a related field from a recognized institution of higher education.

2. Language Proficiency:

• English Language Skills: Proficiency in English is mandatory. Applicants can demonstrate this by:
  • Language Tests: Achieving the minimum required scores in recognized English language tests, such as:
    • TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 92, with a minimum of 22 in writing.
    • IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in writing.
    • PTE Academic: Overall score of 62, with a minimum of 54 in writing.
  • Previous Education: Completing a bachelor's, master's, or higher degree in English in EU/EEA countries, or in countries such as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States. The degree must be taught and assessed entirely in English.

3. Application Documents:

• Degree Certificate and Transcript: Officially certified copies of the bachelor's degree certificate and transcript of records, along with English translations if the originals are not in English, Finnish, or Swedish.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Valid language test results or documentation of exemption.
• Motivation Letter: A letter outlining the applicant's reasons for applying to the programme and how it aligns with their career goals.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting educational background, work experience, and other relevant information.
• Copy of Passport: A copy of the information page of the applicant's passport.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Master's Degree Programme in Pedagogy and Teaching for Sustainability at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), please follow these steps:

1. Verify Eligibility:

• Educational Background: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in education or a related field from a recognized institution.
• Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English through recognized language tests such as TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or PTE Academic.

2. Prepare Application Documents:

• Degree Certificate and Transcript: Provide officially certified copies of your bachelor's degree certificate and transcript of records, along with English translations if necessary.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Include your language test results or documentation of exemption.
• Motivation Letter: A letter outlining your reasons for applying to the programme and how it aligns with your career goals.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV highlighting your educational background, work experience, and other relevant information.
• Copy of Passport: A copy of the information page of your passport.

3. Submit Your Application:

• Application Period: The application window is open from January 8 to January 22, 2025, closing at 15:00 (Helsinki time, GMT+3).
• Application Portal: Complete and submit your application through the Studyinfo portal.
• Document Submission Deadline: Ensure all required documents are uploaded by January 29, 2025, at 15:00 (Helsinki time, GMT+3).

4. Await Admission Decision:

• UEF will review applications and notify applicants of their admission status.

5. Confirm Your Study Place:

• If admitted, confirm your acceptance by the specified deadline to secure your place in the programme.

6. Plan for Tuition Fees and Scholarships:

• Tuition Fees: The annual tuition fee for non-EU/EEA students is €10,000.
• Scholarships: UEF offers tuition waivers and scholarships based on academic merit.

For detailed information and specific inquiries, please visit the official UEF website or contact the programme coordinator.