General information about Summer Universities in Finland

In brief

There are  20 summer universities in Finland, and they organise courses both in cities and smaller towns across the country throughout the year. Each year nearly 62,000 students, including more than 1,100 international students, enrol on courses organised by the summer universities.

Summer universities give an opportunity for both personal and professional development. All summer universities operate in close partnership and permanent collaboration with Finnish universities, Universities of Applied Sciences and other institutions of learning.

Courses are open to everyone regardless of age or prior education.  However, it is essential to notice that summer universities offer short-term courses, not degree programmes. The language of instruction is mainly Finnish, but some courses are taught in English. Among our non-Finnish speaking students, the most popular courses are on Finnish language and culture .

In addition to student fees, summer universities receive their funding from the state and municipalities. Summer universities take part in educational and cultural projects that aim for regional and European development. Therefore their role as educators is important.

Summer universities plan their curricula on a yearly basis in cooperation with Finnish universities. Interdisciplinary programmes are offered in the fields of cultural studies, European studies, Finnish language and culture, art, dance, music, theatre, education, environmental sciences, health care and social sciences. Please note that each summer university has its own curriculum.

What Summer Universities Offer

• -Open university studies. These courses are carried out in accordance with the requirements of the universities and the students earn ECTS credits.
  -Further vocational training
  -Preparatory and extramural courses
  -Studia general lectures
  -Seminars and events on cultural and regional issues
  -University activities for the third age

The fees usually vary from 70 to 600 euros. Please note that summer universities do not award grants for either Finnish or international students, and all the expenses must be covered by the student. Students are admitted on the courses in the order of registration. The prerequisites and application dates for the courses are not uniform, so please contact your own summer university for more information. Additional information is also provided by the Association of Summer Universities in Finland.