Tutkintojärjestelmä

Tutkintojärjestelmä refers to the degree system in Finland. It outlines the structure and classification of higher education degrees awarded by universities and universities of applied sciences. The Finnish degree system is largely aligned with the Bologna Process, which aims to standardize degrees across Europe.

The system includes two main types of higher education institutions: universities and universities of applied sciences (ammattikorkeakoulut). Universities primarily conduct scientific research and offer academic education, leading to degrees such as Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Philosophy. Universities of applied sciences focus on more practical, work-oriented education, offering degrees like Bachelor of Engineering, Master of Business Administration, and Bachelor of Social Services.

The degrees are structured in a three-cycle system: a Bachelor's degree (kandidaatti/amk-tutkinto) typically takes three years of full-time study. A Master's degree (maisteri/yliopistollinen ylempää ammattikorkeakoulututkinto) usually follows a Bachelor's degree and takes an additional one to two years. The highest level is a doctoral degree (tohtori), which is research-based and generally requires several years of study and a dissertation. The system ensures a clear progression of academic and professional qualifications within the Finnish higher education landscape.