One thing among many that sets Finland apart in the league of global nations is its advanced higher education system. Each year, the world class premier universities in Finland open their gates to international students seeking to study there. In fact, there are quite a number of generous scholarships including comprehensive funding for higher education in Finland that ambitious students from anywhere can take advantage of. Whichever field of study one decides to take to, universities in Finland always has a way of providing top notch training that prepares students for the challenging job environment out there. Maybe its time to really think about venturing into studying in Finland.
Universities in Finland matches up the country’s great reputation globally
Apart from being the happiest country, Finland’s education system is also ranked among the best in the world. Every school-going kid has the right to learn irrespective of their background. This is because education is free in all public schools. Also, Finland boasts of having the best universities globally. However, before joining one, ensure you are choosing the right course.
The Finnish government prohibits doing business in the name of private learning institutions. Thus, the number of private schools is not significant in Finland. Additionally, the municipalities and the government fund public institutions in the country.
Just like the other European countries, their learning system is designed to offer a conducive environment to accommodate everyone. Therefore, it’s compulsory for kids between 7 and 16 years to be in school. Further improvement in the education sector is ongoing to make the learners fit in the dynamic world.
Top-Ranked Universities in Finland
Finland has five main levels of education. They include pre-primary education, early childhood education, and care, basic secondary education, vocational education, and higher education. For one to become a lecturer in Finland, one should have a master’s degree prior to taking a teaching course. This is to make sure that learners get well-trained teachers.
At the end of high school, students usually sit for a matriculation exam. The average points that the students get determine the vocational or higher education school that one may join. Let’s look at the best among the many schools and universities available in Finland
University of Helsinki
The University of Helsinki is the oldest university located in the capital city of Finland. It was recently (2021) ranked at position 98 among the world’s best universities. This is according to Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University of Helsinki is the best university in Finland. However, in Europe, it was ranked at position 33. The institution has 22 faculties and research institutes with over 32,000 enrolled students.
Furthermore, the degree programs available in the institution are taught in English, Swedish, and Finnish. Therefore, as an international, you do not have to worry about the language of instruction. You will get lots of courses taught in English.
The institution’s main research aspects are globalization, sustainable development, health, and technology. Tuition fee is mainly applied to programs taught in English. However, the ones taught in local languages are free. Also, as a new student, you don’t have to worry about anything. This is because orientation is done for international students during the first week of reporting to the campus.
Turku University of Applied Sciences
With over 10,000 foreign and local students, Turku University is one of the most disciplined higher learning institutions. The university is located in the Southwest of Finland. Before becoming a university in 2006 Turku university started operating as a polytechnic in the early 90s. According to 2022-2023 research, Turku UAS has been ranked position 406 in the world’s best schools and 188 in Europe.
Out of the 13 aspects used to rank the institutions, Turku university got 56.6 points. With this kind of rating, Learners are guaranteed an amazing learning experience. Besides, TUAS ensures learners get innovative, professional, and communication skills.
Tampere University
Tampere university emerged at position 400 in the world’s best universities and 165 in Europe. Therefore, Tampere is also among the best universities in Finland. The university has a wide range of degree programs that are recognized internationally. Moreover, 8 % of the 20,000 students at Tampere University are foreigners.
Tampere University has about 45 study programs that are taught in English. The good thing is that EU citizens are also included in the free learning program. Lastly, Tampere University has specialized more in communication technology, culture, and business administration.
Why Finland’s Education System is Highly Ranked
A good number of Finland schools have appeared on the top list of best global schools. An evaluation was done by a global academic panel on their research performance to come up with the ratings. There are several aspects of Finland’s education system that have attributed to its success.
Standardized Tests
Finland’s education system doesn’t support standardized tests. At the end of upper secondary school, there is a national matriculation exam. It is a voluntary exam where grading takes place on an individual basis. This is the best way to test students compared to the other nation’s tests that force students cram to pass exams.
Furthermore, Finnish teachers do not teach students for the sole purpose of meriting in exams. The ministry of education is tasked to sample several groups of students across all learning stages. The strategy helps in monitoring their progress.
In general, Finland’s education system is programmed to instill in students the basics. It is different from the other nation’s systems that focus on excelling in tests. Free education at school is being used to balance inequality in society. Besides, through individualized guidance, students get psychological counseling and quick access to health Care services.
Less Strenuous Days
In Finland, students have less strenuous days. They commence their classes between 0800 hours and 0845 hours. Additionally, at the end of every lesson comes a 15- or 20-minute break. This system of learning gives learners ample time to take part in extracurricular activities. They also have a good time to refresh their minds therefore learning becomes easy.
Schooling in Finland appears to be more relaxed. The learning atmosphere and environment are also soothing for both teachers and students. In most cases, unhealthy practices that create an imbalance between school time and life have long been forgotten. Students complete most of the tasks in school. Therefore, there is less amount of homework given out. Which has resulted in a reduction of unnecessary pressure associated with meriting in subjects.
Good Teacher Student Relationship
Another norm making the Finnish education system worth emulating is the teacher-student relationship. There are relatively fewer students and teachers in Finland. As a result, students have a good relationship with their teachers in their academic journey. Thus, a good long-term relationship aids teachers in closely monitoring the student’s progress.