Program structure

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development at the University of Eastern Finland is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of education and its role in promoting sustainable development. The program spans three years, totaling 180 ECTS credits, and is delivered in English.

Programme Structure:

1. Major Subject Studies (95 ECTS):

   • Introduction to Education and Lifelong Learning (5 ECTS): Explores key concepts in education and lifelong learning.
   • Adult Education Promoting Sustainable Development (6 ECTS): Examines the role of adult education in advancing sustainability.
   • Qualitative Research Methods for Bachelor Programmes (5 ECTS): Introduces qualitative research methodologies applicable to educational sciences.
   • Theory and Practice of Network and Project Work II (5 ECTS): Focuses on collaborative projects and networking within educational contexts.

2. Minor Subject Studies (50–60 ECTS):

   • Students select either:
     • A combination of basic and intermediate studies in a chosen field, or
     • Two sets of basic study combinations.

3. Other Studies (25–35 ECTS):

   • Elective courses chosen by the student to complement their major and minor studies.

Learning Methods:

• Multicultural and Diverse Contexts: The program emphasizes learning in multicultural settings, addressing both local and global perspectives on sustainable development.
• Innovative Learning Spaces: Utilizes out-of-school learning environments and methods typical of adult and lifelong learning, such as intergenerational or informal learning, nonformal education, associations, workplaces, organizations, and civic movements.
• Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Service-Learning: Some courses are based on PBL or service-learning, where students collaborate with working-life organizations to plan, implement, and develop projects supporting sustainable development and lifelong learning.

Career Opportunities:

The program equips students with competencies applicable to a wide variety of occupations. Graduates can pursue careers in educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, community development, policy-making, and other sectors focused on education and sustainable development. The program also provides a solid foundation for further studies in international Master's programs.

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

Fees and Funding

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) has the following tuition fees and funding options:

Tuition Fees:

• EU/EEA Nationals: No tuition fee.
• Non-EU/EEA Nationals: €10,000 per academic year.

Funding Opportunities:

• Tuition Waivers:

  • Coverage: Up to 50% of the tuition fee.
  • Eligibility: In 2025, UEF offers a partial tuition waiver of 50% for 70% of the selected students who are liable to pay tuition fees.

For detailed and up-to-date information, please refer to UEF's official Tuition Fees, Waivers, and Scholarships page.

Scholarship Guidance

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) offers several funding opportunities for students enrolled in the Bachelor's Degree Programme in Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development:

1. UEF Scholarship:

• Coverage: 100% tuition waiver for the entire duration of the studies (3 years for Bachelor'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.

Additional Considerations:

• 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.
• Living Expenses: Scholarships and tuition waivers do not cover living expenses or travel costs to Finland. Applicants should ensure they have adequate funds to cover these expenses.
• Financial Planning: Prospective students are advised to finalize their financial plans well in advance, as scholarships and waivers are limited and competitive.

For detailed and up-to-date information, please refer to UEF's official Tuition Fees, Waivers, and Scholarships page.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the Bachelor's Degree Programme in Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Educational Background:

• Secondary Education: Completion of an upper secondary education qualification that provides eligibility for university-level bachelor's studies in the awarding country.

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 secondary education 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:

• Educational Certificates: Officially certified copies of the upper secondary education 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 Bachelor's Degree Programme in Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), please follow these steps:

1. Application Period:

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

2. Application Portal:

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

3. Required Documents:

• Educational Certificates: Officially certified copies of your upper secondary education 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.