The Finnish educational system is made up of the comprehensive school, upper secondary school or vocational education, and higher education. Higher education is provided by 20 universities and 28 polytechnics.
In accordance with the new Universities Act, Finnish universities are independent corporations under public law or foundations under private law (Foundations Act). They work on the principles of academic freedom and autonomy and are independent in their decision-making. All universities are state-run.
Universities confer Bachelor's and Master's degrees, and postgraduate licentiate and doctoral degrees. The mission of universities is to conduct scientific research and provide undergraduate and postgraduate education based on the research. Universities must promote free research and scientific and artistic education, provide higher education based on research, and educate students to serve their country and humanity. In carrying out this mission, universities must interact with the surrounding society and strengthen the impact of research findings and artistic activities on society.
University education is at present divided into different basic fields of study. For each field of study, there are statutes, defining the objectives, structure and extent of the basic degree. More explicit directions for the contents and structure of the degrees are given in the degree ordinance and regulations, formulated by the institutions for their instruction.
For more information about the educational system in Finland and the universities, please visit the Ministry of Education webpages.
