Tutkinnon

The Finnish word tutkinnon is the genitive form of tutkinto, which means a higher education qualification or degree obtained after completing a program of study at a university, polytechnic or university of applied sciences. The term is used broadly to refer to both bachelor‑level and master‑level degrees as well as professional qualifications that meet the national accreditation standards set by the Finnish National Agency for Education.

A typical undergraduate programme, known as kandidaatti, leads to a bachelor’s degree (kandidaatti­tutkinto). Students usually complete 180 ECTS credits over three years. Afterward, a postgraduate programme such as a maisteri (master’s) or doctoral programme (tohtori) may be pursued, which typically adds 60–120 ECTS credits and involves research components.

In everyday speech, tutkinnon is used to describe the field of study or the specific title of the qualification, e.g., “Koulutusta opin tutkinnon” or “päättänyt tutkinnon biologiassa.” The word also appears in legal and employment contexts to denote qualification requirements for positions.

The Finnish higher‑education system is governed by the Act on Higher Education and the Act on the National Agency for Education, both of which outline the criteria for awarding tutkinto titles. Recognition of foreign degrees takes place through the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System, ensuring that international students and Finnish graduates can have their qualifications acknowledged across borders.