ammattiopistot

Ammattiopistot are Finnish vocational education institutions that provide vocational education and training (VET) for both youth and adult learners. They form part of the Finnish education system and offer qualifications that lead to recognized national credentials. Most ammattiopistot operate under municipal governance, but also include private providers. They teach based on a national core curriculum for vocational education and training and align with the Finnish Qualifications Framework, ensuring national consistency in standards and recognition.

Education at ammattiopistot combines school-based study with work-based learning. A central element is the possibility of apprenticeship-based training (oppisopimuskoulutus), where learners spend part of their time in a workplace and part in the school. Programmes typically lead to a basic vocational qualification (perustutkinto) and may include further or specialist qualifications, as well as shorter courses for continuing education and upskilling. The system is designed to respond to labour market needs by partnering with local employers and industries.

Fields of study cover a broad range of sectors, including technology and manufacturing, information and communications, business and administration, health and social services, social care and hospitality, culture and arts, and natural resources and the environment. In addition to initial vocational education, ammattiopistot offer adult education opportunities to support career changes, upskilling, and lifelong learning.

The network comprises a substantial number of institutions across Finland, combining regional accessibility with nationwide qualification standards. Ammattiopistot play a key role in facilitating transitions from schooling to employment, strengthening regional competitiveness, and providing flexible pathways for learners to acquire practical skills aligned with contemporary labour market demands.