Three new master’s programmes to start at the University of Vaasa in autumn 2026 – Focus on resilience and artificial intelligence
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The University of Vaasa expands its educational offering with three new master’s programmes that respond to the rapidly evolving competence needs of society and working life. The new programmes, Preparedness and Resilience, Artificial Intelligence for Accounting and Finance, and Artificial Intelligence and Analytics, will begin in autumn 2026. They provide students with up‑to‑date expertise, international perspectives, and strong career opportunities. The application period for the new programmes is open 2-31 March 2026.
– Our fields of study promote Finland’s economic growth, development of productivity, energy transition and digital transformation, the renewal of economic life, as well as the security and resilience of society. We are the fastest-growing and most efficient university in Finland, with a strong commitment to supporting national economic growth. Moreover, the employment rate of our graduates is among the highest in the country, says Minna Martikainen, Rector of the University of Vaasa.
The Master’s Programme in Preparedness and Resilience trains professionals to identify societal risks and lead networks related to preparedness and resilience. The Master’s Programme in Artificial Intelligence for Accounting and Finance prepares students to lead AI‑driven change in the fields of accounting and finance. The Master’s Programme in Artificial Intelligence and Analytics provides a strong mathematical basis for applying artificial intelligence across disciplines.
The new master’s programmes build future competence in fields that are key to both Finnish society and international markets.
– We want to educate experts who do not merely react to change but actively shape it. Through these new programmes, we strengthen the University of Vaasa’s role as a contributor to understanding and solving the transformations taking place in society and working life, Martikainen continues.
Preparedness and Resilience – building expertise for society’s overall security
The Master’s Programme in Preparedness and Resilience develops specialists capable of understanding the societal effects of global change and managing rapidly evolving risks. The programme addresses the rising demand for expertise that strengthens the ability of organisations and society to respond to security and preparedness challenges.
Throughout the studies, students gain an in‑depth understanding of preparedness, resilience and comprehensive security from the perspectives of governance, leadership, risk management, and strategic planning. The programme covers various approaches to resilience and preparedness, multi‑actor networks, EU and international resilience policies, democratic decision‑making processes, and the strategic leadership, coordination and development of cooperation in preparedness and resilience. The programme leads to a Master of Administrative Sciences degree, which can be completed in either Finnish or English.
Artificial Intelligence for Accounting and Finance – AI expertise for demanding roles in the financial sector
The Master’s Programme in Artificial Intelligence for Accounting and Finance places strong emphasis on the digital transformation of accounting and finance. It educates experts to utilise machine learning, data analytics, intelligent systems, generative AI and automation technologies in accounting and finance roles.
The programme examines how AI and data‑driven technologies shape financial analysis, accounting processes, reporting practices and regulatory compliance. Key themes include responsible AI, ethical data use and sustainability reporting in organisations’ financial processes. The two‑year programme leads to a Master of Science in Economics and Business Administration.
Artificial Intelligence and Analytics – A strong mathematical foundation for AI across disciplines
The international and multidisciplinary Master’s Programme in Artificial Intelligence and Analytics educates experts with strong mathematical understanding and practical analytics skills to apply AI and data across various fields. The mathematics curriculum, tailored for AI applications, can be combined with other degree programmes at the university depending on the student’s background and interests.
Graduates are equipped to develop and apply advanced AI and data analytics solutions and to take central roles in AI‑driven innovation projects across sectors.
The two‑year programme leads to a Master of Science in Technology, Master of Science in Economics and Business Administration, Master of Administrative Sciences, or Master of Arts, depending on the chosen specialisation.