Article Preview
Top2. Finnish Education System
The Finnish education system (Figure 1) is composed of:
Figure 1. The Finnish educational system (source: Arcada University of Applied Sciences)
- •
Nine-year basic education (comprehensive school) for the whole age group, preceded by one year of voluntary pre-primary education. Students usually start school at age 7
- •
Upper secondary education, comprising general education and vocational education and training (vocational qualifications and further and specialist qualifications)
- •
Higher education, provided by universities and polytechnics (universities of applied sciences)
Basic education is a free, general education. Graduating from comprehensive school does not give students an exam, but certificates eligibility for further studies. After basic education, 95.5% of school-leavers continue in additional voluntary basic education in upper secondary schools or in initial vocational education and training (VAT). General upper secondary education is a three-year voluntary education that ends in the matriculation examination. After graduation from general upper secondary education students are qualified to apply to a university or polytechnic education. (MEC 2015)
Vocational education and training is a voluntary three-year education. The vocational qualification provides extensive basic skills for different occupations in the field and more specialized skills in at least one sector. Prior studies and work experience can shorten the study time. After graduation from vocational education and training students are qualified to apply to a university or polytechnic education. (Ibid.)
The Finnish higher education system consists of two complementary sectors: polytechnics (also known as universities of applied sciences) and universities. The mission of universities is to conduct scientific research and provide undergraduate and postgraduate education based on it. 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. (Ibid.)