ammattikorkea

Ammattikorkeakoulu, commonly shortened amk, is a type of higher education institution in Finland that focuses on applied sciences and professional education. These universities of applied sciences provide practice-oriented teaching and close ties to working life and the public sector. They offer bachelor’s degrees (typically 180 ECTS) and master’s degrees (60–90 ECTS after a bachelor’s degree) in fields such as technology, health care, business, culture, and social services. Education emphasizes work-based learning, internships, and project work carried out in collaboration with employers.

Ammattikorkeakoulut have their roots in the reforms of Finnish higher education in the 1990s, when polytechnic institutes were reorganized into universities of applied sciences to complement traditional universities. They are governed by the Ministry of Education and Culture and operate in close cooperation with industry and municipalities. Most programs are taught in Finnish or Swedish, with an increasing number offered in English to attract international students and staff. Funding comes primarily from the state, with additional income from student fees in some programs.

A key aim of amk is to integrate teaching with applied research, development and innovation activities (RDI) that address real-world needs. Campuses are typically distributed across regions, providing local access to higher education and regional development. Graduates are prepared for professional roles requiring practical skills and applied knowledge; many enter the workforce directly, while others continue to postgraduate studies or engage in further RDI projects.

The term ammattikorkea denotes the professional, applied focus that characterizes these institutions, distinguishing them from traditional research universities. Similar concepts exist in other Nordic countries under different names.