5 Reasons Why You Should Choose to Study at the University of Helsinki

The happiest country in the world, sauna, and snow, snow, snow – that is what most likely pops into peoples’ minds first when thinking about Finland. But did you know that Finland also offers world class education that is regularly ranked high in the PISA study? And that it is one of the safest and most sustainable places globally?

Located in the southern part of the country, Helsinki offers a wonderful place to live, learn, and grow. As the largest and oldest institution of academic education in Finland, the University of Helsinki is home to more than 31,600 degree students at 11 faculties. And maybe soon to you too?

But what makes studying at the University of Helsinki so different? What are the reasons for many international Masters students to move to one of the most northern countries in Europe? Here are five reasons why!

Choosing your courses freely, conducting research on a topic you burn for, and discussing your opinions openly – these are some examples of what academic freedom looks like to students at the University of Helsinki. As one of the main pillars of the university, academic freedom shapes research, teaching and learning on many different levels. Reflecting the Finnish concept of equality, this also means that the hierarchy between teachers and students is relatively flat. Your opinions in courses really matter, and you can actively participate in discussing and developing topics and possibilities for student life, teaching and research. The sky is the limit!

Most of the Masters programmes at the University of Helsinki are highly interdisciplinary, offering a variety of approaches and perspectives on different topics and issues. Your teachers and classmates will come from various disciplines and backgrounds, giving you the chance to explore questions and themes from multiple points of view. Your personal opinion and experience are equally valued, and you will face new challenges that will make you grow – academically and personally. Collaborate with clever minds from around the world and find the most sustainable solutions for the future together.

Next to all the studying and research, the University of Helsinki also scores with its vibrant student life. Typical for the “Finnish-student-life-experience” is the participation and engagement in one of the many student organizations. Student organizations are typically part of bigger student unions acting as advocates of students’ interest in the university, the city and society. They bring together students with similar interests (such as sports, music, politics, culture) and organize joint activities for their members. Especially for international students, this is an excellent opportunity to meet new like-minded people, participate in great events, and make connections that might last a lifetime!

Finland not only ranks as one of the best countries when it comes to education but also counts as one of the greatest countries for work-life balance. Finns value keeping up a healthy balance between work, family and friends and, in many cases, are eligible for a four-week paid summer holiday each year! Students also benefit from this: Each year, most degree courses already usually end around the end of May and only continue at the end of August (which basically means you have around two months off each year). Many students then spend time at the traditional Finnish summer cottages, travel (if the situation allows it) and rest. Others also use the time to get practical experiences within summer internships or take part in summer courses at the university.

Students in the international Masters programmes at the University of Helsinki not only bring with them different academic backgrounds but also contribute to a mix of nationalities and identities in the classroom. Working together thus also means that you get the chance to develop your intercultural communication skills! Even though the primary language of instruction in the international Master’s programmes is English, you also have the opportunity to learn other languages as your optional studies. As most Finns speak English very fluently, Finnish language skills are not necessarily required when living and studying in Finland. However, why not set yourself a challenge and dive into Finnish culture by participating in one of the university’s Finnish language courses?

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