Program structure

The Master's Degree Programme in Biology of Environmental Change (BEC) at the University of Eastern Finland is a two-year, full-time program comprising 120 ECTS credits. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of environmental change biology, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Program Structure:

1. General Skills Studies:

   • Courses aimed at developing essential academic and research skills.

2. Advanced Level Courses in Biology:

   • In-depth studies focusing on the effects of environmental change on ecosystems and their bioprocesses, particularly the interactions between the atmosphere and ecosystems.

3. Master's Thesis (40 ECTS):

   • An independent research project that includes an experimental component, enhancing skills in data collection, analysis, and scientific reporting.

4. Alternative Studies:

   • Elective courses allowing specialization in areas such as:
     • Biology
     • Environmental Science
     • Environmental Law and Policy
     • Statistics
     • Sustainable Development

5. Practical Training:

   • Hands-on experience through exercises, book exams, and training within research groups.

6. Personal Study Plan (PSP):

   • A customized study plan prepared at the beginning of the studies with the assistance of teacher tutors, ensuring a tailored educational experience.

This structured approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in environmental change research, consulting, environmental institutes, or for pursuing doctoral studies in biological sciences. For more, Read Me

Fees and Funding

The Master's Degree Programme in Biology of Environmental Change (BEC) 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.

  University of Eastern Finland

Funding Opportunities:

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

1. UEF Scholarship:

   • Coverage: 100% tuition waiver for the entire duration of the studies (2 years for Master's programmes).
   • Eligibility: Awarded to the highest-ranked tuition fee-liable student based on admission results.
   • Application: Applicants subject to tuition fees can apply for this scholarship during the university application process by completing the relevant section on the application form.

     University of Eastern Finland

2. Tuition Waiver:

   • Coverage: Up to 50% of the tuition fee.
   • Eligibility: Granted to a limited number of applicants based on academic merit.
   • Application: Applicants can apply for this waiver during the university application process by completing the relevant section on the application form.

     University of Eastern Finland

3. Finnish Language Scholarship:

   • Coverage: Specific details are provided during the studies.
   • Eligibility: Available to students who demonstrate progress in learning the Finnish language during their studies at UEF.
   • Application: Information on applying for this scholarship is provided after enrollment.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) offers several scholarships and tuition waivers to support students enrolled in the Master's Degree Programme in Biology of Environmental Change (BEC).

Types of Scholarships and Waivers:

1. UEF Scholarship:

   • Coverage: 100% tuition waiver for the entire duration of the studies (2 years for Master's programmes).
   • Eligibility: Awarded to the highest-ranked tuition fee-liable student based on admission results.
   • Application: Applicants subject to tuition fees can apply for this scholarship during the university application process by completing the relevant section on the application form.

2. Tuition Waiver:

   • Coverage: Up to 50% of the tuition fee.
   • Eligibility: Granted to a limited number of applicants based on academic merit.
   • Application: Applicants can apply for this waiver during the university application process by completing the relevant section on the application form.

3. Finnish Language Scholarship:

   • Coverage: Specific details are provided during the studies.
   • Eligibility: Available to students who demonstrate progress in learning the Finnish language during their studies at UEF.
   • Application: Information on applying for this scholarship is provided after enrollment.

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 Biology of Environmental Change (BEC) 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 or equivalent in biology, environmental science, or a closely related field.

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.

4. Application Process:

• Application Period: The application window is from January 8 to January 22, 2025.
• Submission: Applications are submitted online through the Studyinfo.fi portal.
• Document Submission Deadline: All required documents must be uploaded by January 29, 2025, at 15:00 (Helsinki time, GMT+3).

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

Application Procedure

To apply for the Master's Degree Programme in Biology of Environmental Change (BEC) at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), please follow these steps:

1. Application Period:

• Start Date: January 8, 2025
• End Date: January 22, 2025, at 15:00 (UTC+2)

2. Application Portal:

• Submit your application through the national Studyinfo portal: studyinfo.fi

3. Required Documents:

• Degree Certificates and Transcripts: Officially certified copies of your bachelor's degree certificate and transcript of records.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Valid 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.

4. Document Submission Deadline:

• All required documents must be uploaded to the application form by January 29, 2025, at 15:00 (UTC+2).

5. Application Instructions:

• Ensure all documents are in PDF or JPEG format, with a maximum file size of 1.0 GB.
• Upload each document to the appropriate section of the application form.
• Scanned copies of original documents are accepted; paper copies are not required during the application period.
• Late submissions will not be processed.

6. Contact Information:

• For assistance, contact UEF Admissions Office: admissions@uef.fi

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