Oppikoulu

Oppikoulu is a Finnish term that generally refers to vocational or applied upper secondary education. It is one of the two main pathways available after comprehensive school, the other being lukio, which is general upper secondary education. Oppikoulu programs are designed to provide students with specific skills and knowledge for a particular trade or profession, preparing them for direct entry into the workforce or further studies in vocational higher education.

These institutions offer a wide range of fields of study, including but not limited to, healthcare, technology, business, arts, and hospitality. The curriculum typically combines theoretical instruction with practical, hands-on training, often including periods of on-the-job learning in actual workplaces. The duration of oppikoulu programs can vary, but they are generally completed within two to three years.

Upon successful completion of an oppikoulu program, students receive a vocational qualification. This qualification is recognized by employers and allows graduates to pursue employment in their chosen field. It also serves as a basis for continuing their education in universities of applied sciences, which offer higher vocational degrees. Oppikoulu plays a crucial role in the Finnish education system by catering to diverse student interests and career aspirations, ensuring a skilled workforce for various sectors of the economy.