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Study Buddies group on Joensuu campus

Do you miss people to study with, being on campus and setting a rhythm for studying? In the Study Buddies group, you get to study together with others and try out the Pomodoro technique of intervals and short breaks. In the group, everyone will work independently on what is currently timely in their studies, be it writing, reading or other types of assignments.

The Study Buddies group is open for all UEF students on the Joensuu campus. You do not need to register beforehand, you can just show up. Participation is free of charge.

The group is facilitated in turns by the special education teacher Tiina Juurela, the study psychologist Saara Kuusisto, the campus priest Oona Leiviskä and the career counsellor Hanna Reinikainen. All facilitators will be present in the first session.

Timetable for spring 2026: February 2, February 9, February 16, February 23, March 9, March 16, March 23, March 30, April 13, April 20 and April 27. The group meets on Mondays at 16.00–17.00. If you wish, you can continue studying in the room until 18.00.

Room: Seminar room M110, Metria building, Joensuu campus

Further information: Saara Kuusisto ([email protected])

Philosophical Faculty – Study Guide 2025–2026

Introduction

Philosophical Faculty (opens in a new tab) is one of the four faculties of the University of Eastern Finland. It operates on the Joensuu campus and consists of four departments:
• School of Humanities,
• School of Educational Sciences and Psychology,
• School of Applied Education Science and Teacher Education and
• School of Theology .
The University of Eastern Finland Teacher Training Schools are also part of the Philosophical Faculty.
The Philosophical Faculty provides expert education and conducts scientific research in the following fields:
• Educational sciences and psychology,
• Home economics and craft science,
• Languages and cultural studies,
• Logopedics, and
• Theology.

More information about international Bachelors’ Degree Programmes.

More information about international Master’ Degree Programmes.

Guidance

Philosophical Faculty: Principles of Study Guidance

Guidance and Sources of Information

Study guidance is the responsibility of the entire staff. The objectives of study guidance are:
• to engage the student in the university community and in academic studies
• to support the student in progressing through their studies in a purposeful order and graduating within the target time.
General information about studies is available in:
• the Faculty’s study guide,
• the Smart Start guides for new students,
• Kamu Student Databank and
• Study Communities.
Information about academic subjects and degree programmes can be found in the Peppi study guides (opens in a new tab).
Details regarding language and communication studies are available from the Language Centre office and study community (login required, opens in a new tab).

Personal study plan (PSP)

Students are responsible for planning and progressing in their studies. Academic freedom also entails taking responsibility for one’s studies.
Guided study planning is mandatory for all new students. The Personal Study Plan (PSP) course includes contact teaching, individual guidance, and independent work. The aim is to help students plan and schedule their studies so that the duration of studies and financial aid are sufficient for completing both the Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
Matters affecting studies, such as individual study arrangements granted to the student, should be discussed during the PSP meeting with the subject tutor, personal teacher, or PSP counsellor.
The personal study plan should be updated whenever plans or the curriculum change.
The personal study plan includes a plan for completing the entire degree: the studies to be completed and the student’s self-designed schedule. During the first academic year, the student prepares a study plan for the Bachelor’s degree with the guidance of a subject tutor, personal teacher, PSP counsellor, or faculty coordinator. At the final stage of the Bachelor’s degree, a new personal study plan is prepared for the Master’s degree.
More detailed instructions for preparing the study plan are available in the study communities.
Once the study plan is approved, the student will receive credits for the following study units:
• Orientation to University Studies
• Personal Study Plan

Study Rights

Philosophical Faculty: Duration of Study Rights in Teaching Qualification Studies and Specialisation Education

The Philosophical Faculty offers the following teaching qualification studies:
• Separate pedagogical studies for subject teachers
• Separate studies for special education teachers
• Separate studies for early childhood special education teachers
• Separate studies for guidance and career counsellors
• Separate studies for craft teachers
• Supplementary studies for the qualification of craft teachers
• Multidisciplinary studies in subjects and thematic entities taught in basic education
• Separate studies providing professional competencies for tasks in early childhood education and pre-primary education

Students admitted to separate teaching qualification studies must begin their studies at the start of the semester following the admission. Studies are considered to have been started if the student completes at least 10 ECTS credits of studies included in the curriculum during the first academic year. Recognised prior learning is not counted towards completed studies.

The right to study is valid until the end of the semester during which the studies can be completed according to the curriculum. If the studies are not completed within the scheduled timeframe, the student must apply for an extension of the study right. Granting an extension requires that the student has completed at least 10 ECTS credits of curriculum-based studies during the first academic year. Slower progress is possible for justified reasons. Justified reasons include, for example, maternity, paternity or parental leave, voluntary military service or national defence obligations, illness during the study period, or other serious life circumstances beyond the student’s control. Employment alone is not a sufficient reason
for slower progress or for granting an extension.

An extension may be granted for the time required to complete the studies according to the personal study plan submitted with the extension application, but for no more than two semesters.

If the studies remain incomplete even after the granted extension, the student must apply for an additional extension. In such cases, the student must again have completed at least 10 ECTS credits of curriculum-based studies during the academic year. It is not possible to apply for an additional extension for the separate studies providing professional competencies for tasks in early childhood education and pre-primary education, as this programme is offered only for a limited period.

The decision to grant an extension is made by the Dean of the Faculty or a person to whom the decision-making authority has been delegated.

If the student does not begin the required studies at the start of the semester following admission, or if an extension is not granted, the student will lose their right to study in the programme. A new right to study can only be obtained through the student admission process.

The right to complete separate studies also ends when the studies for which the right was granted have been completed. However, the student has the right to complete elective (minor subject) studies until the end of the semester in which the separate studies were completed.

It is possible to apply for an extension to the right to study in specialisation education programmes organised by the Philosophical Faculty in accordance with the Universities Act.
If a corresponding programme continues, an extension may be granted either for the estimated time required to complete the studies or the student may complete their studies with the next student group. If the corresponding programme is no longer offered, an extension may be granted until the end of the following semester at most, and the remaining studies must be such that they can be completed without contact teaching.

The extension must be applied for using the electronic form in the UEF e-Services, provided that the UEF user credentials are valid. Alternatively, the extension can be applied for using a paper form. The application must include the required attachments in accordance with the university’s instructions. More information is available in Kamu: https://kamu.uef.fi/en/tietopankki/study-right-and-registration/extension-to-study-right/. Applying for an extension in separate teaching qualification studies and specialisation education is free of charge.

Studying with an extension in separate teaching qualification studies and a specialisation education programme does not incur additional costs for the student.

Philosophical Faculty: Degrees Completed

Higher education degrees: Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree

In the student admission process, students are generally granted the right to complete both the Bachelor's and the Master's degrees in the degree programme to which they have been admitted. However, students in the early childhood education programme are granted the right to complete only the Bachelor's degree.

In the Philosophical Faculty, it is recommended that the Bachelor's degree be completed with the minimum required scope. Studies included in the Bachelor's degree cannot be used toward the Master's degree. The advanced studies module in the major subject cannot be included in the Bachelor's degree.

As a rule, students must complete the lower university degree before proceeding to complete the higher university degree. This rule may be waived if it is justified for the smooth progress of studies. Even in such cases, the student must have completed the lower university degree before starting the thesis included in the higher university degree.

• The lower university degree in the field of humanities is called the Bachelor of Arts (BA, 180 ECTS credits) and the higher university degree is the Master of Arts (MA, 120 ECTS credits).
• The lower university degree in the field of education is called the Bachelor of Arts (Education) (BA, 180 ECTS credits) and the higher university degree is the Master of Arts (Education) (MA, 120 ECTS).
• The lower university degree in the field of psychology is called the Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) (BA, 180 ECTS credits) and the higher university degree is the Master of Arts (Psychology) (MA, 150 ECTS credits).
• The lower university degree in the field of theology is called the Bachelor of Theology (BTh, 180 ECTS credits) and the higher university degree is the Master of Theology (MTh, 120 ECTS credits).

Doctoral education in the Philosophical Faculty

The doctoral education at the University of Eastern Finland is organised by the university’s doctoral education services and doctoral programmes. All doctoral researchers complete their degrees within doctoral programmes. Doctoral researchers in the Philosophical Faculty complete their degrees in the Faculty’s own doctoral programme (opens in a new tab).

Doctoral degrees offered:
• In the field of humanities, the doctoral degrees are Licentiate of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy.
• In the field of education, the doctoral degrees are Licentiate of Philosophy (Education) and Doctor of Philosophy (Education).
• In the field of psychology, the doctoral degrees are Licentiate of Philosophy (Psychology) and Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology).
• In the field of theology, the doctoral degrees are Licentiate of Theology and Doctor of Theology or Doctor of Philosophy.

The Licentiate degree is an optional degree. The primary degree to be completed is the Doctoral degree.

Philosophical Faculty: Degree Programmes

Programmes taught in Finnish

School of Humanities
• English language, majors: English Language and Culture, English Language and Translation
• Literature
• Cultural Studies, specialisation areas: Ethnomusicology, Literature, Cultural Anthropology, Media Culture and Communication, Gender Studies, Sociology of Arts
• Logopedics
• Folklore Studies
• Swedish language
• Finnish language
• Russian language, majors: Russian language and Culture, Russian language and Translation
• General Linguistics and Language Technology

School of Educational Sciences and Psychology
• Special Class Teacher Education and Special Needs Education Teacher
• Special Needs Education Teacher, Master’s Degree Programme
• Degree Programme for Expertise in Education and Adult Education
• Degree Programme in Career Guidance and Counselling, also Master-level
• Psychology

School of Applied Educational Science and Teacher Education
• Home Economics
• Craft Teacher Education
• Class Teacher Education
• Early Childhood Teacher Education, also Master-level in Early Childhood Teacher Education and Early Childhood Special Needs Teacher Education

School of Theology
• Theology (Western), majors: Biblical Studies, Church History, Systematic Theology, Practical Theology, Religious Education, Study of Religions
• Theology (Orthodox), majors: Biblical Studies, Church History, Systematic Theology and Patristics, Practical Theology, Church Music, Study of Religions

Programmes taught in English
• Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development
• Early Language Education for Intercultural Communication
• English Language and Culture
• Linguistic Data Sciences
• Pedagogy and Teaching for Sustainability
• Clinical Linguistics

Completing Studies and Assessment

Philosophical Faculty: Instructions on Completion Methods

Attendance Requirements
The curriculum and syllabus define the methods of completion and assessment criteria for each course. As a rule, the attendance requirement for courses is 80%, but all assigned tasks must be completed. If a course has a different attendance requirement, it is specified in the syllabus, curriculum, or traineeship plan.

The teacher has a pedagogical responsibility to assess whether the student has achieved the learning objectives of the course. If compensatory assignments are given due to absence, they must address the knowledge and skills covered during the missed sessions. It is not always possible to arrange compensatory assignments, and a course cannot be completed solely by doing them.

Lectures generally do not require attendance, although exceptions may apply.

Exercises are used to practice content learned in lectures or through independent study. Regular attendance is required in exercises. Studies may include various practical courses that require attendance (often at least 80% of contact teaching hours) and successful completion of assigned tasks.

In seminars, participants present their seminar work (presentation, thesis, summary, etc.), engage in discussions, and act as opponents. Seminars are organised in both intermediate and advanced studies. Regular attendance is required in seminars, often at least 80% of contact teaching hours, and seminars usually cannot be replaced by alternative completion methods.

Acceptable reasons for absence include force majeure situations (e.g. military refresher training, funeral of a close relative), personal or child’s illness, urgent medical or dental appointments when rescheduling is unreasonably difficult, or compelling reasons related to pregnancy or childbirth. Other possible reasons, which must be agreed in advance with the teacher-in-charge, may include a compelling reason related to a university, student union, or student organisation duty, presenting one’s work at a scientific congress, or performing in a significant cultural or elite sports event. Absences due to holidays, employment, or participation in teaching or examinations of another subject are not considered acceptable.

Students must inform the teacher-in-charge of any foreseeable absence from compulsory teaching as early as possible, or notify them promptly in case of illness.

Acceptable reasons for absence apply only to the portion exceeding the permitted absence limit.

Mandatory Prior Studies
Participation in certain courses requires the completion of mandatory prior studies. The required prerequisites are listed in the course descriptions in Peppi’s study guides. Students are advised to verify these requirements before registering for examinations or teaching.

Completion of Studies
Courses are completed according to the schedule confirmed in the syllabus or as instructed by the teacher-in-charge.

Written or other assessable learning assignments related to teaching must be submitted by the end of the course or at a time separately specified by the teacher. However, students must be provided with an opportunity to resubmit assignments, allowing sufficient time for preparation. The resubmission period is one month from the date the assessment results are made available.

Philosophical Faculty: Assessment of Study Attainments

Study attainments are assessed using a grading scale from 0 to 5, with the following definitions: 5 = excellent, 4 = very good, 3 = good, 2 = satisfactory, 1 = sufficient, and 0 = fail. Attainments may also be assessed on the scale pass–fail. The minimum requirements for a passing grade are defined in the curriculum. (Education Regulations, Section 32)

The assessment of a study attainment is based on the course description confirmed in the curriculum. Each course must have defined learning outcomes. The assessment of competence is aligned with the learning outcomes specified in the curriculum, and the assessment is carried out using the grading scale assigned to the course in the curriculum. (Education Regulations, Section 33)

The assessment criteria for each course are presented in the course description. If the assessment of a specific course deviates from the definitions below, the assessment procedure is specified in the course description. For courses involving contact teaching, the content, learning outcomes, assessment criteria, and attendance requirements are presented during the first session.

Numerical grading scale
1 Sufficient - the student has achieved the knowledge-based and skill-based learning outcomes of the course at a sufficient level.
2 Satisfactory - the student has achieved the knowledge-based and skill-based learning outcomes at a satisfactory level.
3 Good - the student has achieved the knowledge-based and skill-based learning outcomes at a good level.
4 Very good - the student has achieved the knowledge-based and skill-based learning outcomes at a very good level.
5 Excellent - the student has achieved the knowledge-based and skill-based learning outcomes at an excellent level.

Pass-Fail Scale
In the Philosophical Faculty, a study attainment assessed on a pass–fail scale is considered passed if the student has achieved the knowledge-based and skill-based learning outcomes at a good level.

If a study module is assessed with the grade “pass,” the university admissions criteria may define the correspondence between the numerical scale (0–5) and the pass–fail scale in more detail.

Recognition of Prior Learning

Theses: Bachelor’s Thesis and Master’s Thesis

Philosophical Faculty: Guidelines

For the lower university degree, the student must complete a Bachelor's thesis as part of the intermediate studies in their major subject. For the higher university degree, the student must complete a Master's thesis (pro gradu) as part of the advanced studies in their major subject.

Any subject-specific guidelines related to thesis work are described in the curriculum (e.g., the possibility to write a Master's thesis in the form of an article-based thesis).

The thesis must be prepared in an accessible format. Further information on accessibility is provided during the thesis process, and related guidelines are also available in Kamu: https://kamu.uef.fi/en/tietopankki/graduation/theses/ Guidance on the content and format of the thesis, as well as technical instructions for writing (e.g., font size, line spacing, margins), is provided by the thesis supervisor or during the thesis seminar.

The use of artificial intelligence is regulated by UEF’s AI guidelines (updated 3 January 2025): https://kamu.uef.fi/en/tietopankki/students-rights-and-obligations/the-use-of-ai-in-teaching-and-research/ If an AI application is used to assist in the production of the thesis, the student must provide a written statement specifying which application (e.g., ChatGPT) was used and how. The guidelines concerning the use of AI in research apply to thesis work. The entire thesis may not be produced using AI applications. The thesis must include a sufficient amount of independent work to ensure that the learning outcomes set for the thesis are achieved.

These guidelines also apply, where appropriate, to the supervision, submission, storage, and evaluation of other types of theses.

Further instructions are provided in the following sections concerning thesis supervision, Bachelor's theses, Master's theses, and maturity tests.

Philosophical Faculty: Thesis Supervision

General Principles
The supervision process involves both rights and responsibilities for the supervisor and the student, which are agreed upon at the beginning of the process. For Master's theses in particular, it is recommended to prepare a supervision plan. The Faculty provides a shared template for this purpose, which departments may adapt for their own use.

The Faculty has common learning outcomes and assessment criteria that guide the thesis work and help ensure alignment with academic expectations. A shared understanding of the assessment criteria helps prevent potential misunderstandings or disagreements during the evaluation phase.

Each student writing a thesis is assigned at least one supervisor.

Progression of the Supervision Process
The responsible supervisor (also called 1st supervisor or principal supervisor) approves the student's proposed topic as suitable for a thesis. The starting point of the supervision process may vary between academic subjects, and students are expected to familiarize themselves with the practices of their own subject.

At the beginning of the process, it must be ensured that the student is aware of the learning outcomes and assessment criteria. The student and supervisor jointly prepare a timeline for the thesis, which the student is expected to follow. The supervisor is responsible for providing sufficient feedback and guidance to support the timeline, as agreed upon in the supervision plan.

The student is expected to work independently, actively, and with perseverance, making appropriate use of the supervision provided.

If the topic or content of the thesis exceeds the current supervisor’s area of expertise, the matter should be discussed jointly by the student, the supervisor, and the subject coordinator or the department’s pedagogical director. If necessary, a second supervisor may be appointed. The student may also request a change of supervisor for a justified reason, in which case the matter is discussed with the supervisor and the subject coordinator or pedagogical director.

Before submitting the thesis for evaluation:
1. The supervisor provides feedback on the final version of the thesis, based on the assessment criteria. The supervisor is responsible for reviewing the assessment criteria with the student both at the beginning of the process and before submission for evaluation.
2. The final version of the thesis must be checked using the plagiarism detection tool. The student submits their thesis to the system, and the supervisor reviews the report to determine whether citations and references comply with good scientific practice (separate guidelines are available for plagiarism detection).

Content of Supervision
Although supervision practices vary between academic subjects, the core elements of thesis supervision are largely similar:
• Goal Orientation: At the beginning of the supervision process, the student and supervisor align their work by reviewing the learning outcomes and assessment criteria of the thesis. It is also important for the student to reflect on their personal goals. These goals and related discussions help guide the process and foster commitment to collaboration—both in the supervisory relationship and in peer groups (e.g., seminars). The student’s goals may evolve or become more specific during the process. Goal orientation also includes continuous mutual feedback throughout the process.
• Nature of Supervision and Clarification of Roles and Responsibilities: The supervision process is based on the student working independently, proactively, and actively. The supervisor supports and guides this work and provides assistance when needed. If students are working in pairs, the working methods and responsibilities of pair work must be discussed and agreed upon together.
• The supervisor has both a supportive and an evaluative/monitoring role. The evaluative role is reflected in the feedback and final assessment of the thesis, as well as in situations where the supervisor grants permission to proceed with, for example, data collection based on the research plan.
• The relationship between the student and supervisor must be based on mutual trust. The student must be able to rely on the supervisor’s expertise and the accuracy of their guidance. Conversely, the supervisor must be able to trust the student’s integrity in conducting research, gathering and presenting information, and adhering to the ethical principles of scientific research.
• Working Methods: At the start of the supervision process, the working methods and rhythm of individual and group supervision are clarified and agreed upon. This includes remote and in-person meetings, how and when students can seek supervision, how often the supervisor provides feedback on written work, and how delays are handled. The time allocated for supervision is defined in the curriculum and in the teacher’s workload plan.
• Facilitating Group Work: The supervisor guides the group through its various stages and supports its functioning so that students can contribute to each other’s progress through peer feedback and collaborative idea development. The supervisor also promotes good discussion practices and encourages students to take responsibility for their contributions to the group’s work.
• Resources: Support for thesis work is available through information retrieval courses, language and communication studies, and study psychologists.

Philosophical Faculty: Bachelor’s Thesis

General Information
For the lower university degree, the student must complete a Bachelor's thesis as part of the intermediate studies in their major subject. The thesis is a small-scale academic research project that follows the scientific principles of the relevant discipline. It may be completed either individually or as a pair, in accordance with the practices agreed upon within the academic subject. In joint theses, each student’s individual contribution must be clearly identifiable and assessable. In the Philosophical Faculty, collaboration between students
may also be demonstrated during the supervision process.

As a rule, the Bachelor's thesis is written in the language of the degree programme or in the language specified in the curriculum. The right to use another language in the thesis is granted by the head of education of the department or school. (Education Regulations, Section 26.)

The title page of the thesis must include the author’s name, the title of the thesis, the place and date of publication, and the type of thesis. Abstracts are placed immediately after the title page. More detailed information on the language of the thesis, abstract, and maturity test is provided in the section Language of the Maturity Test in the Philosophical Faculty in this guide. The recommended length of the abstract is 300 words.

The thesis and its details, including the title, are recorded in the student register as part of the completed study attainment.

Submission and Assessment of the Bachelor’s Thesis
The student has the opportunity to revise the thesis based on the feedback and suggested corrections received. Once the Bachelor's thesis is finalized, the student submits it for plagiarism detection and then forwards the same version to the supervisor for review. NB!
The submitted version may no longer be modified.

The thesis is stored for two years either in paper format or electronically, as determined by
the department/school.

The assessment of theses are governed by the Education Regulations, particularly Sections 35 and 37, and the rectification procedure is described in Section 44.

Learning Outcomes and Assessment of the Bachelor’s Thesis

Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the Bachelor’s thesis, the student:
• demonstrates familiarity with key literature and previous research related to the topic;
• has mastered the fundamentals of scientific thinking and the research process in accordance with the practices of their discipline;
• is able to report the research process and findings in writing, following the conventions of their field, and
• is able to assess the reliability and limitations of their own research and is familiar with the ethical principles of scientific research.

The assessment criteria are presented in a table in the accordion section Assessment Matrix for Bachelor’s Theses in the Philosophical Faculty in this guide.

The grading scale for the Bachelor’s thesis is: 0=Fail, 1=Sufficient, 2=Satisfactory, 3=Good, 4=Very Good, 5=Excellent. The assessment scale includes seven criteria that are considered when determining the final grade. The final grade is not necessarily the rounded average of the individual criteria. The assessment also takes into account factors such as the level of difficulty of the topic or other aspects that may significantly influence the grade either upwards or downwards. If any individual criterion is assessed with a grade of 0, the thesis cannot be approved.

Assessment area	1 Sufficient	2 Satisfactory	3 Good	4 Very good	5 Excellent
1 Familiarity with the research area, selection and application of literature This criterion assesses the student's command of the discipline and its application: whether the theoretical approach and use of concepts are appropriate and relevant from the perspective of the topic. It also evaluates the quantity and relevance of sources, source criticism, and the ability to engage in dialogue with and between sources.	The theoretical approach and key concepts are poorly aligned with the research task. The literature is presented inadequately. The use of literature is limited or relies heavily on secondary sources.	The theoretical approach and key concepts are loosely connected to the topic. Literature is mainly summarized. The number of sources is moderate.	The theoretical approach and key concepts are appropriate and described adequately. The use of sources demonstrates sufficient familiarity with the literature.	The theoretical approach and key concepts form a coherent whole and are presented skillfully. Sources are critically assessed and successfully related to each other. The use of literature shows broad familiarity with the topic area.	The theoretical approach is commendable and consistent. Conceptual mastery is excellent and analytical. The ability to engage in dialogue with and between sources is outstanding. The use of literature demonstrates deep understanding of the research topic.
2 Research task and delimitation This criterion assesses the clarity and appropriateness of the research task, as well as the definition and delimitation of the thesis’s purpose and objectives. The thesis must be connected to previous research.	The formulation of the research task is incomplete or unstructured. The presentation of the research task and the justification for choices are weak.	The formulation of the research task is appropriate, but the connection to previous research is minimal. The objectives of the thesis remain partly general.	The theoretical approach and key concepts are appropriate and described adequately. The use of sources demonstrates sufficient familiarity with the literature. The research task is appropriately justified and delimited. The research task is consistently connected to previous research.	The research task is successfully justified and clearly delimited. The research task demonstrates good command of the research area.	The research task is insightfully justified and delimited. The research task demonstrates excellent command of the research area.
3 Research material and data analysis methods This criterion assesses methodological choices, including the acquisition, adequacy, and relevance of the research material. It also assesses whether the use of the method of analysis is appropriate, justified, and professionally applied. In empirical theses, this is a particularly important area of assessment.	The methodological choices are modest and disconnected from the research task. The use of the method of analysis is inconsistent. There are serious shortcomings in the acquisition, adequacy, or relevance of the material collected by the student.	The methodological choices are somewhat unstructured in relation to the research task. The use of the method of analysis is mostly consistent. There are deficiencies in the acquisition, adequacy, or relevance of the material collected by the student.	The methodological choices are appropriate in relation to the research task and are justified. The use of the method of analysis is appropriate. The material collected by the student is sufficient and well suited to answering the research task.	The methodological choices are logically justified in relation to the research task. The use of the method of analysis is appropriate and well justified. The material collected by the student is of high quality and enables in-depth analysis.	The methodological choices are logically and commendably justified in relation to the research task. The use of the method of analysis is appropriate, excellently justified, and professionally applied. The material collected by the student is insightfully gathered and excellently suited to the purpose of the research.
4 Results and their analysis This criterion assesses the adequacy, appropriateness, and technical execution of reporting the results, as well as their relevance to the theoretical framework and the research task.	The presentation of research results is unclear and illogical. The connection between the results and the theoretical framework, as well as the response to the research task and its questions or problems, is insufficient.	The research results are presented appropriately. The connection between the results and the theoretical framework, and the response to the research task and its questions or problems, remains superficial.	The research results are presented logically and illustrated appropriately. The results are connected to the theoretical framework and respond to the research task and its questions or problems.	The research results are presented precisely and illustrated successfully. The results are logically related to the theoretical framework and respond accurately to the research task and its questions or problems.	The presentation of research results is precise, diverse, and skillfully illustrated using the data. The results are expertly connected to the theoretical framework and respond accurately and convincingly to the research task and its questions or problems.
5 Conclusions and reflection This criterion assesses the argumentation and coherence of the conclusions and reflections drawn from the results, as well as their connection to the theoretical framework and findings. It also evaluates the reflection on the strengths and weaknesses of the thesis and its reliability.	The conclusions are presented in a fragmented and incomplete manner. Argumentation is weak. The reflection of research results in relation to the theoretical framework and previous research is minimal. Reflection on the research process and the reliability of the thesis is weak or absent.	The conclusions are presented somewhat coherently, but argumentation is insufficient. The research results are reflected in a fragmented manner in relation to the theoretical framework and previous research. The research process and the reliability of the thesis are reflected upon superficially.	The conclusions are presented coherently and with appropriate argumentation. The research results are appropriately reflected in relation to the theoretical framework and previous research. The research process and the reliability of the thesis are appropriately reflected upon.	The conclusions are presented coherently and with well-developed argumentation. The research results are successfully reflected in relation to the theoretical framework and previous research. The research process and the reliability of the thesis are reflected upon in a diverse and critical manner.	The conclusions are presented insightfully and with skillful argumentation. The research results are commendably reflected in relation to the theoretical framework and previous research. The research process, reliability, and applicability of the thesis are reflected upon in a diverse, professional, and critical manner.
6 Presentation This criterion assesses the language and fluency of the text, as well as adherence to academic conventions within the discipline.	The language contains numerous errors. There are clear deficiencies and inconsistencies in citations and the reference list. The careless structure of the text hinders comprehension. The text is formulated contrary to academic conventions. The structure of the thesis does not fully comply with academic standards.	The language contains errors. There are minor deficiencies and inconsistencies in citations and the reference list. The text is at times carelessly structured and partly formulated contrary to academic conventions. The structure of the thesis mostly complies with academic standards.	The language is mostly good. Citations and the reference list follow academic conventions and are nearly error-free. The text is well-structured and adheres to academic conventions. The structure of the thesis complies with academic standards.	The language is good. Citations and the reference list follow academic conventions and are error-free. The text is well-structured, precise, and adheres to academic conventions. The structure of the thesis complies with academic standards.	The language is excellent. Citations and the reference list are error-free and precisely follow academic conventions. The text is excellently structured, precise, and convincing, and adheres to academic conventions. The structure of the thesis excellently complies with academic standards.

7 Ethical principles
The research must be ethically sound in all respects. The planning, implementation, and reporting of the research must adhere to the ethical principles of research.

Philosophical Faculty: Master’s Thesis

General Information
To complete a higher university degree, the student must write a Master’s thesis as part of the advanced studies in their major subject.

As a rule, the Master’s thesis is written in the degree programme’s language of instruction or
in the language specified in the curriculum. The right to use another language in the thesis is granted by the director responsible for education at the department or school. (Education Regulations, Section 26.)

The title page of the thesis must include the author’s name, the title of the thesis, the place and date of publication, and the type of thesis. Abstracts are attached immediately after the title page. For theses written in Finnish, the abstract must be provided both in Finnish and in English. More detailed information on the language of the thesis, abstract, and maturity test is provided in the accordion section Language of the Maturity Test in the Philosophical Faculty in this guide. The recommended length of the abstract in Finnish is 300 words.

In general, the same guidelines apply to theses written in a minor subject as to Master’s theses.

Examination and Assessment of the Master’s Thesis
The examination and assessment of theses are governed by the Education Regulations, particularly Sections 35 and 37, and the rectification process is described in Section 44.

According to Section 35 of the Education Regulations, the format of the advanced studies thesis is determined by the main supervisor within the limits set by the curriculum. The thesis must be completed independently. It may be completed as a joint project or as part of a larger research project if permitted by the curriculum. In joint projects involving two or more students, each student’s individual contribution must be identifiable and assessable. In the Philosophical Faculty, collaboration between students may also be demonstrated during the supervision process. In the Philosophical Faculty, a student’s advanced studies thesis cannot be accepted as a thesis for two different major subjects (i.e. a double thesis).

Learning Outcomes of the Master’s Thesis
After completing the Master’s thesis, the student:
• is familiar with the academic discourse and literature related to the research topic
• demonstrates the ability for independent, critical and creative scientific thinking
• masters the scientific research method(s) and is able to apply them appropriately in their own research
• is able to present research findings in a structured manner and justify the research decisions made, thereby demonstrating the ability to participate in academic discourse in their field
• is able to critically evaluate their research results and relate them to the previous research
• adheres to good scientific practice and research ethics
• acquires readiness for further academic studies

The assessment criteria are presented in a table in the accordion section Assessment Matrix for Master’s Theses in the Philosophical Faculty in this guide.

Research Topic and Purpose of Study

Assessment area	Grade 1	Grade 2	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5
Justification of topic selection and relevance	The topic selection and its relevance are justified inadequately.	The topic selection and its relevance are justified satisfactorily.	The topic selection and its relevance are justified clearly.	The topic selection and its relevance are justified successfully.	The topic selection and its relevance are justified comprehensively from societal, scientific, and/or practical perspectives.
Delimitation of the topic; setting of objectives	There are significant shortcomings in delimiting the research topic and setting objectives.	The delimitation of the research topic is unclear, and the objectives remain general.	The delimitation of the research topic is appropriate, and the objectives are clear.	The delimitation of the research topic is successful. The objectives are set carefully and comprehensively in relation to the topic.	The delimitation of the research topic and the setting of objectives demonstrate a critical research approach. The objectives aim for clear novelty value.
Justification of the research task and research problem/question	The justification of the research task is weak.	The justification of the research task is vague.	The research task is appropriately justified and linked to the theoretical framework and previous research.	The research task is successfully justified and competently linked to the theoretical framework and previous research.	The justification of the research task demonstrates in-depth mastery of the theoretical framework and previous research.

Theoretical Familiarity and Research Literature

Assessment area	Grade 1	Grade 2	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5
Familiarity with research and literature related to the topic; definition of concepts	The selected concepts and theoretical approach correspond poorly to the research task. The description of concepts is inadequate.	The selected concepts and theoretical approach are loosely related to the research task. The description of concepts is partly superficial.	The selected concepts and theoretical approach are appropriate in relation to the research task. The concepts are described properly, reflecting sufficient familiarity with the literature.	The selected concepts and theoretical approach are successful. The concepts are described comprehensively and used competently.	The selected concepts and theoretical approach form a commendable and coherent whole. The concepts are mastered flawlessly and used creatively and analytically.
Critical evaluation of research literature and its application to the research task	The number of sources is limited and their use is uncritical. Secondary sources are overly emphasized.	The number of sources is reasonable, but their use is mostly descriptive.	The number of sources is sufficient and they are well-suited to the chosen topic. The use of sources is appropriate.	The selection of sources demonstrates broad familiarity with the subject. Sources are used skillfully and evaluated critically.	The selection of sources reflects deep understanding of the research topic. The use of sources is insightful and the critical evaluation is well-informed.

Research Method and Data

Assessment area	Grade 1	Grade 2	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5
Methodological appropriateness	The methodology is disconnected from the research task. The presentation of the methodology is modest.	The methodology is rather unstructured in relation to the research task. Its justification is thin.	The methodology is appropriate for the research task. It is justified appropriately.	The methodological choices are consistently valid. The methodology is justified skillfully.	The research is constructed in a particularly commendable methodological manner. The methodology is justified in depth.
Data collection, sufficiency and relevance	There are serious shortcomings in the sufficiency or relevance of the data collected by the student.	There are shortcomings in the sufficiency or relevance of the data collected by the student.	The data collected by the student is sufficient and well-suited to addressing the research task.	The data collected by the student is of high quality and enables in-depth analysis.	The data collected by the student is of excellent quality and highly appropriate for the purpose of the study.
Mastery of data analysis methods and justification of interpretation	The data analysis is poor and the justification of interpretation is inconsistent.	The data analysis is satisfactory and the justification of interpretation is mostly consistent.	The data analysis is good and the justification of interpretation is consistent.	The data analysis and justification of interpretation are skillful and professional.	The data analysis and justification of interpretation are exceptionally skillful and offer new perspectives.

Research Results and Their Presentation

Assessment area	Grade 1	Grade 2	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5
Addressing the research task and research questions/problems	The research task and questions have been addressed inadequately.	The research task and questions have been addressed superficially.	The research task and questions have been addressed appropriately.	The research task and questions have been addressed precisely.	The research task and questions have been addressed commendably and skillfully.
Logical structure and clarity of presentation of results	The presentation of results contains inconsistencies, ambiguities, and errors.	The results are presented mostly logically and without errors, although the connection to the theoretical framework is weak.	The results are presented logically and are linked to the theoretical framework.	The results are presented clearly and systematically in relation to the research questions, data, and theoretical framework.	The results are presented excellently and insightfully in relation to the research questions, data, and theoretical framework.
Illustration of results	The results are illustrated partly inadequately or incorrectly.	The results are illustrated in a formulaic manner.	The results are illustrated appropriately.	The results are illustrated skillfully.	The results are illustrated insightfully.
Reliability of results	The evaluation of the reliability of the research results is inadequate.	The evaluation of the reliability of the research results is superficial.	The evaluation of the reliability of the research results is appropriate.	The evaluation of the reliability of the research results is inadequate.	The evaluation of the reliability of the research results is methodologically comprehensive and commendable.

Discussion and Conclusions

Assessment area	Grade 1	Grade 2	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5
Evaluation of key findings and their relation to previous research and theory	The research findings are discussed and related to previous research and the theoretical framework sparsely and unclearly.	The research findings are discussed and related to previous research and the theoretical framework in a fragmented manner.	The research findings are discussed and related to previous research and the theoretical framework well.	The research findings are discussed professionally and clearly linked to previous research and the theoretical framework.	The research findings are discussed very professionally and insightfully. The discussion is logically and analytically connected to previous research and the theoretical framework.
Argumentation	The argumentation is fumbling and the conclusions are unsubstantiated.	The argumentation is partly appropriate, but some conclusions are weakly justified.	The argumentation is clear. The conclusions are based on the research findings and are well justified.	The argumentation and justification of conclusions are commendable.	The argumentation is systematic and convincing. The conclusions are excellently justified.
Critical reflection; consideration of the significance and applicability of the results	The reflection on the study and the evaluation of its applicability are minimal.	The study is reflected upon and its applicability is evaluated to some extent.	The study is critically reflected upon and its applicability is evaluated appropriately.	The study is critically and successfully reflected upon, and its applicability is evaluated professionally.	The study is critically and deeply reflected upon, and its applicability is evaluated with high expertise.

Structure and Presentation

Assessment area	Grade 1	Grade 2	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5
Scientific and discipline-specific referencing practices and bibliography	There are clear shortcomings and inconsistencies in referencing practices and the bibliography.	There are minor shortcomings and inconsistencies in referencing practices and the bibliography.	Referencing practices and the bibliography are consistent and nearly error-free.	Referencing practices and the bibliography are consistent and flawless.	Referencing practices and the bibliography are consistent and flawless, excellently adhering to discipline-specific standards.
Coherence and consistency of structure	The structure is incoherent.	The structure is fairly consistent.	The structure is consistent and forms a unified whole.	The structure is consistent and cohesive.	The structure is logical and insightful.
Scientific style, language and linguistic fluency	The thesis contains numerous linguistic and terminological issues that hinder comprehension.	The thesis contains linguistic and terminological issues that reduce readability.	The thesis is linguistically and terminologically fluent.	The language and use of terminology in the thesis are flawless.	The presentation style and terminology in the thesis are confident, consistent, and in line with disciplinary conventions.
Layout	The layout is careless and includes solutions that are atypical for academic reporting in the field.	The layout generally follows academic reporting conventions in the field, but is somewhat unfinished.	The layout follows academic reporting conventions in the field and is polished.	The layout follows academic reporting conventions in the field and is polished. The visual presentation supports clarity and readability.	The thesis consistently follows academic reporting conventions in the field, is illustrated innovatively and skillfully, and is carefully polished.

Ethical Principles

Assessment area	Grade 1	Grade 2	Grade 3	Grade 4	Grade 5
Ethical sustainability of the research, and evaluation of research ethics	The research is ethically sustainable, but the evaluation of research ethics is inadequate.	The research is ethically sustainable, but the evaluation of research ethics is superficial.	The research is ethically sustainable and the evaluation of research ethics is appropriate.	The research is ethically sustainable and the evaluation of research ethics is diverse.	The research is ethically sustainable and the evaluation of research ethics is thorough.

Philosophical Faculty: Maturity Test

Demonstrating Language Proficiency in the Maturity Test
In both the lower and higher university degrees, the student must write a maturity test that demonstrates familiarity with the subject of the thesis and proficiency in either Finnish or Swedish. A student with two school education languages (Finnish and Swedish) must write the maturity test in both languages. A student with Swedish-language school education must apply for exemption from the Swedish language studies required for the degree from the Language Centre after receiving a record of a maturity test written in Swedish.

If the student has already demonstrated proficiency in Finnish or Swedish in the maturity test for the lower university degree, they are not required to demonstrate proficiency in the same language again in the maturity test for the higher university degree.

In English-language degree programmes, the maturity test is written in English. Exceptions apply to students with Finnish- or Swedish-language school education who are studying in an English-language Bachelor’s programme, or who are studying in an English-language Master’s programme and have not completed a maturity test as part of their lower university degree (e.g. if the degree was completed abroad). These students must write the maturity test according to the instructions provided here.

If the student has received their school education in a language other than Finnish or Swedish, or abroad, the language of the maturity test is determined separately. Within the framework permitted by the Degree Regulations, the heads of departments in the Philosophical Faculty may grant permission to write the maturity test in a language other
than Finnish or Swedish. At the beginning of their studies, students must apply for a decision regarding the required language studies if their school education language is other than Finnish or Swedish, if they have received their school education abroad, or if their school education language is unclear. The application must be submitted to the UEF Student and Learning Services, to Academic Affairs Specialist Riikka Myllys ([email protected]).

Completing a Maturity Test
Students in the Philosophical Faculty may complete the maturity test in one of three ways, depending on the situation:
1. The thesis is accepted as the maturity test, or
2. The abstract of the thesis is accepted as the maturity test, or
3. For justified reasons, the department’s/school’s curriculum may require students to write the maturity test under supervised conditions.

When the student writes the thesis in Finnish or Swedish, the supervisor approves the thesis or its abstract as the maturity test in Finnish or Swedish. The supervisor shall assess both the language and content of the thesis or abstract as part of the maturity test. If the student has already completed a maturity test in the same language as part of their lower university degree, only the content is assessed in the maturity test for the higher university degree.

When the student writes the thesis in a foreign language, the supervisor approves the abstract written in Finnish or Swedish as the maturity test in Finnish or Swedish. The supervisor shall assess both the language and content of the abstract as part of the maturity test. If the student has already completed a maturity test in the same language as part of their lower university degree, only the content is assessed in the maturity test for the higher university degree.

The language in which the maturity test and thesis abstract must be written is described in the accordion section Language of the Maturity Test in the Philosophical Faculty in this guide.

According to UEF’s AI guidelines, the maturity test must be completed in such a way that generative artificial intelligence cannot produce the student’s maturity test.
https://kamu.uef.fi/en/tietopankki/students-rights-and-obligations/the-use-of-ai-in-teaching-and-research/ (dated 3 January 2025).
The abstract must contain a sufficient amount of independent work to ensure that the learning outcomes set for the maturity test are achieved.

Language of the Maturity Test in the Philosophical Faculty

Government Decree (794/2004)
Lower university degree: The student must write a maturity test that demonstrates
familiarity with the subject of the thesis and proficiency in Finnish or Swedish.
Higher university degree: The student must write a maturity test that demonstrates familiarity with the subject of the thesis and proficiency in Finnish or Swedish.

The student is not required to demonstrate proficiency in Finnish or Swedish again in the maturity test for the higher university degree if they have already demonstrated language proficiency in the maturity test for the lower university degree.
This requirement does not apply to students who have received their school education in a language other than Finnish or Swedish, or who have received their school education abroad. In such cases, the university determines the language of the maturity test separately.

Education Regulations, Section 26 – Language of Degrees and Instruction
The thesis included in the lower and higher university degrees is written primarily in the degree programme’s language of instruction or in the language specified in the curriculum. The right to use another language in the thesis is granted by the director responsible for education at the department or school.

Philosophical Faculty / Curriculum-Specific Provisions
The maturity test may be accepted in one of the following forms:
1. The thesis itself
2. The abstract of the thesis
3. As specified in the department’s/school’s curriculum, students may be required to write the maturity test, for example, under supervised conditions.

University of Eastern Finland / Recording the Study Attainment
For students who have received their school education in Finnish, the maturity test in Finnish is automatically recorded based on the Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis or its abstract.
If the student’s school education language is other than Finnish, the examiner of the Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis must notify the person responsible for recording the
completion of the approved maturity test and its language.

	School Education Language Finnish	School Education Language Finnish	School Education Language Finnish
Language of the Thesis	Finnish	Swedish	Foreign language
Language of the Maturity Test	Finnish	Finnish	Finnish
Basis for Recording the Maturity Test	Thesis	Summary	Summary

	School Education Language Swedish	School Education Language Swedish	School Eduation Language Swedish
Language of the Thesis	Finnish	Swedish	Foreign language
Language of the Maturity Test	Swedish	Swedish	Swedish
Basis for Recording the Maturity Test	Summary*	Thesis	Summary*

	School Education Language Finnish and Swedish	School Education Language Finnish and Swedish	School Education Language Finnish and Swedish
Language of the Thesis	Finnish	Swedish	Foreign language
Language of the Maturity Test	Finnish and Swedish	Finnish and Swedish	Finnish and Swedish
Basis for Recording the Maturity Test	Thesis and Summary	Thesis and Summary	Summary (3 Summaries)*

School Education Language other than Finnish or Swedish
Decision by the head of department/school (in English-language degree programmes, no separate decision by the head of department/school is made regarding the language of the maturity test – the language requirements are specified in the curriculum).

*If the thesis is written in Finnish, the summary must be written in both Finnish and English. If the thesis is written in a language other than Finnish, the summary must be written in Finnish and in the language of the thesis. If the student’s language of school education is Swedish, the summary must always also be written in Swedish.

Practical Training

Regulations Concerning Studies

Guidelines for Transitional Provisions between the New and Old Curricula

Language and Communication Studies

Philosophical Faculty: Language and Communication Studies in the Degree Programmes

Finnish-language Degree Programmes

Language and Communication Studies for Students Who Have Received Their School Education in Finnish or Swedish
The language and communication requirements are specified in each degree programme’s study guide in Peppi as well as in the Language Centre’s study community (opens in a new tab, login required).

Degree programmes in the School of Humanities: 14 ECTS
• Mother tongue (interaction skills and written communication) 5 ECTS
• Second national language (oral and written skills) 4 ECTS
• Foreign language 5 ECTS

School of Applied Educational Science and Teacher Education, School of Educational Sciences and Psychology (excluding psychology): 13 ECTS
• Mother tongue (interaction skills and written communication) 6 ECTS
• Second national language (oral and written skills) 4 ECTS
• Foreign language 3 ECTS

Psychology: 13 ECTS
• Mother tongue (interaction skills and written communication) 3 ECTS
• Second national language (oral and written skills) 4 ECTS
• Foreign language 6 ECTS

School of Theology: 12 ECTS
• Mother tongue (interaction skills and written communication) 4 ECTS
• Second national language (oral and written skills) 4 ECTS
• Foreign language 4 ECTS

The Language Centre organises teaching and proficiency tests related to the recognition of foreign language skills only in English. Another language may be accepted as the foreign language of the degree if the student has completed at least basic studies in that language. Students may apply for credit transfer for foreign language courses based on basic studies. At the University of Eastern Finland, credit transfer for basic studies is available in English, French, German, and Russian. The Language Centre processes all credit transfer applications related to language and communication studies.

The decision of the Academic Rector “Definition of the Language of School Education and Language Proficiency Requirements for Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees” specifies the criteria under which the head of department/school may grant a student exemption from studies in the second national language. The student must apply for the exemption at the beginning of their studies. If the head of department/school grants the exemption, the decision will specify other language and communication studies appropriate for the degree
to replace the compulsory language studies, so that the minimum scope of the degree is fulfilled.

Language and Communication Studies for Students whose Language of School Education is other than Finnish or Swedish
A student whose language of school education is other than Finnish or Swedish, as well as a student who has received their school education abroad, must apply to the head of department/school for a decision on which language studies are required. The application must be submitted at the beginning of studies.

If the head of department’s/school’s decision states that the student’s language of school education is other than Finnish or Swedish, or that the education was completed abroad, the following language and communication studies are required:
Degree Programmes in the School of Humanities, School of Applied Educational Science and Teacher Education, and School of Educational Sciences and Psychology: 2–14 ECTS
• 12 ECTS of Finnish language studies offered by the University of Eastern Finland Language Centre or through cross-institutional studies in UEF’s partner networks, and
• at least 2 ECTS of studies in one foreign language

The above-mentioned Finnish language studies are not required from a student whose degree includes Finnish as a major or minor subject (Finnish language, Teaching Finnish as a Second and Foreign Language, Finnish Language and Translation, Finnish Language and Culture for Non-Native Speakers), or who can otherwise demonstrate sufficient proficiency in Finnish.

School of Theology: 8–16 ECTS
• Depending on Finnish language proficiency, either 4 or 12 ECTS of Finnish language studies are required:
- If proficiency is sufficient, the student must successfully complete the courses “Interaction Skills for Students of Theology” (2 ECTS) and “Written Communication in Finnish for Students of Theology” (2 ECTS).
- Otherwise, the student must complete 12 ECTS of Finnish language studies offered by the UEF Language Centre or through cross-institutional studies in UEF’s partner networks.
• At least 4 ECTS credits of studies in one foreign language from the UEF Language Centre’s course offerings.

English-language Degree Programmes

English-language Bachelor’s Programme
The student’s language of school education affects the required language and communication studies.

If the student has received their school education in Finland in Finnish or Swedish, they must complete the following language and communication studies:
• Scientific Communication and Interaction 3 ECTS
• Second national language (oral and written skills) 3 ECTS
• English language studies 6 ECTS

If the student has received their school education in a language other than Finnish or Swedish, or has received their school education abroad, proficiency in Finnish affects the required language and communication studies:
• According to their proficiency in Finnish, 6 ECTS of Finnish language studies are required:
- If the student’s Finnish proficiency is good, they must successfully complete Written Communication (3 ECTS) and Interaction Skills (3 ECTS).
- Otherwise, the student completes 6 ECTS of Finnish language studies.
• English language studies 6 ECTS

The language and communication courses are described in detail in the degree programme study guide in Peppi.

English-language Master’s Programmes
The Master’s degree programme in Clinical Linguistics includes a 3 ECTS Finnish language course in the degree structure. In other English-language Master’s programmes in the Philosophical Faculty, students must complete at least four ECTS credits of studies in Finnish language, intercultural communication, or internationalisation. In the School of Applied Educational Science and Teacher Education, students who have obtained the right to study on or after 1 August 2025 must complete at least 6 ECTS of the same.

Language Proficiency Requirements for Teachers
The qualification requirements for teaching staff are regulated by the Government Decree 986/1998 as follows:

Principal
• Must have excellent oral and written skills in the language of instruction of the institution or in the language specified in the licence granted under the Act on Vocational Education and Training.

Principal under the Act on Liberal Adult Education and the Act on Basic Education in the Arts
• Must have proficiency in the language of instruction of the institution.

Teacher providing basic education or pre-primary education
• Must have excellent oral and written skills in the school’s language of instruction.
• If the language of instruction differs from the school’s official language, the teacher must have proficiency in the language used in teaching.

Language proficiency requirements in general upper secondary education
• Must have proficiency in the language used in teaching.
• A teacher of mother tongue and literature must have excellent oral and written skills in the relevant language.

A person is considered to have excellent oral and written skills in the language of instruction if their school education language is the same as the language of instruction and they have completed the maturity test in that language.

Applying for a Degree

General instructions related to graduation

Student’s Rights and Obligations

Minor Subjects

Cross-institutional Studies

Philosophical Faculty: Teaching Collaboration Agreements

Teaching Collaboration Agreements
The Philosophical Faculty has established teaching collaboration agreements with several higher education institutions and participates in various national networks. Most agreements apply only to specific student groups (e.g., degree students in a particular programme) and selected study modules, and are available only in Finnish.

Teaching collaboration agreements of the Faculty include:
• National network for Russian language studies
• National network for French language studies
• National network for German language studies
• National network for translation and interpreting studies
• Logonet – Collaborative education and research network of universities offering education in logopedics
• KESTO - Sustainability studies network
• Offering minor subject studies to psychology major students at the University of Oulu and the University of Eastern Finland
• Professional Intercultural Competence – Theory and Practice study module in collaboration with Karelia University of Applied Sciences
• Cross-institutional study collaboration between Diaconia University of Applied Sciences and UEF (Theology)
• Clinical Neuropsychology – Rehabilitation of Children and Adults with Hearing Impairments for logopedics degree students in collaboration with the University of Oulu
• Theology studies offered to teacher education students at the University of Lapland
• Cross-institutional course unit Demanding in collaboration between the UEF and the University of Lapland
• UEF craft studies – JYU multidisciplinary studies in class teacher education

The Faculty also participates in the Psykonet network.

For further information, please contact:
Satu Kouki, Head of Academic Affairs, [email protected].

Continuous Learning

Philosophical Faculty – Curricula

According to the Education Regulations (Section 2), the curriculum of the Faculty refers to a description of the educational mission and teaching responsibilities of the Faculty and its departments/schools. It determines, among other things, which degree programmes can be completed within the Faculty and in which languages the degrees are offered. The faculty curriculum includes the curricula of individual degree programmes as well as general provisions applicable to all programmes. (Education Regulations, Section 18)

A degree programme curriculum refers to a comprehensive framework that includes the degree structure and its learning outcomes, contents, methods of completion, and assessment criteria for the degree and its components. The curriculum also includes a separately confirmed syllabus (Section 2). The degree programme curriculum is a competence-based tool for planning and guiding teaching and studies (Section 18).

Both students and teachers are required to follow the curriculum (Section 18).
The curriculum of the Philosophical Faculty consists of the Faculty’s study guide in Kamu
and the study guides available in Peppi.
• Links to the degree programme guides can be found in the section Study Rights of
this study guide.
• Section Minor Subject Offering of this study guide includes a link to the Peppi minor subject guides.

Updating the Study Guide in the Philosophical Faculty
Satu Kouki
Head of Academic Affairs
[email protected]

Updating the Study Guide in the Philosophical Faculty (in English)
Juuso Loikkanen
International Affairs Specialist
[email protected]

How to get support for your studying?

Guidance and counselling for your studies

General guidance on studying

The Student and Learning Services’ customer service desk offers general study counselling, information on term registration and study rights and maintains the student register. Changes to personal information are done at the Student and Learning Services’ customer service. The customer services desk also provides study certificates and transcripts of records.

Phone number: +358 29 445 8900

phone service: Mon–Thu from 12 to 2 pm (12–14)

Opening/office hours:

on Wednesdays the customer service desk is open from 10 am to 2 pm (10–14).
At other times the customer service desk is open by appointment only. You can book an appointment in an hour, at the earliest, and a week in advance, at most. You can book a Teams meeting or an in-person appointment at the Joensuu or Kuopio customer service point through our booking site (opens in a new tab). The available times are shown in the booking calendar.

You can find up-coming exceptions to opening hours here there are any:

Before contacting us, please check if you can find the answer to your question in Kamu or in KamuBot!

Email address: [email protected]

If your message contains confidential attachments, for example a document providing grounds for statutory absence, send it from your UEF email. All email exchange between UEF email addresses are encrypted. If your UEF account does not work and you want to send us encrypted email, please contact us and we will give you instructions on how to send your message encrypted.

Visiting address:

Joensuu Campus, Aurora building, entrance A, ground floor (Yliopistokatu 2)
Kuopio Campus, Canthia building, 2. floor, Oppari (Yliopistonrinne 3)

Postal address:

Joensuu: University of Eastern Finland, Student and Learning Services, P.O. Box 111, FI-80101 Joensuu
Kuopio: University of Eastern Finland, Student and Learning Services, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio

Digital support and study facilities

Learning support

Student and Learning Services’ Customer Service

Phone number: +358 29 445 8900

phone service: Mon–Thu from 12 to 2 pm (12–14)

Opening/office hours:

on Wednesdays the customer service desk is open from 10 am to 2 pm (10–14).

At other times the customer service desk is open by appointment only. You can book an appointment in an hour, at the earliest, and a week in advance, at most. You can book a Teams meeting or an in-person appointment at the Joensuu or Kuopio customer service point through our booking site (opens in a new tab). The available times are shown in the booking calendar.

You can find up-coming exceptions to opening hours here there are any:

Before contacting us, please check if you can find the answer to your question in Kamu or in KamuBot!

Email address: [email protected]

If your message contains confidential attachments, for example a document providing grounds for statutory absence, send it from your UEF email. All email exchange between UEF email addresses are encrypted. If your UEF account does not work and you want to send us encrypted email, please contact us and we will give you instructions on how to send your message encrypted.

Visiting address:

Joensuu Campus, Aurora building, entrance A, ground floor (Yliopistokatu 2)

Kuopio Campus, Canthia building, 2. floor, Oppari (Yliopistonrinne 3)

Postal address:

Joensuu: University of Eastern Finland, Student and Learning Services, P.O. Box 111, FI-80101 Joensuu

Kuopio: University of Eastern Finland, Student and Learning Services, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio

Languages of degrees and instruction

In accordance with the provisions of the Universities Act (558/2009), the language of instruction and degrees at the University of Eastern Finland is Finnish. The university may also decide on the use of another language as the language of instruction and degrees, including study attainments.

This regulation stipulates the languages of degrees and instruction of the university, as well as
the language of completion of a course and the language of the thesis.

The regulation applies to Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes at the University of Eastern Finland, with the exception of degree programmes in languages and language and communication studies. In international degree programmes, the language of study,
instruction and degrees is English.

Part 1

The Faculty Council may decide on the use of a language other than Finnish in connection with the approval of the curriculum, taking into account the implementation of educational responsibility (Education Regulations, Section 26).

The language of the degree is the language in which the degree programme is implemented, also indicated in the curriculum of the degree programme. The majority of the compulsory part of a degree programme must be provided in the language of the degree. The compulsory part refers to basic, intermediate and advanced studies of a major or similar, or equivalent studies. ‘The majority’ means more than 50 % of the total amount of credits in the degree programme. As a rule, teaching on the courses of the compulsory part of a degree must be organised entirely in the language of the degree. An exception can be made in individual cases for pedagogical reasons.

Example: Most of the degree programmes at the University of Eastern Finland are conducted in Finnish. The university also offers degree programmes where the language of degrees is English.

Example: In a degree programme conducted in Finnish, all other studies except for basic and intermediate studies can be provided in English. Less than 50 % of basic and intermediate studies can be provided in English.

Example: As a rule, the courses of the Finnish-language part of the degree programmes are taught in Finnish. In these degree programmes, students are always entitled to instruction in Finnish for the majority of their basic, intermediate and advanced studies.

Part 2

Each course has a language of instruction, and the language of instruction of the course is the one in which most of the teaching is provided (Education Regulations, Section 26). The course description shall indicate the language of instruction (Education Regulations, Section 19). If the language of instruction is other than Finnish, the course description shall indicate in which language the student can take the exam or complete another attainment related to the course (Education Regulations, Section 19). One or more languages may be used in teaching.

Example: The language of instruction is confirmed in the curriculum.

Example: When the language of instruction of a course is Finnish according to the curriculum, teaching (e.g. lecture, seminar) can be arranged in English for a maximum of less than 50 % of the student’s total workload on the course.

Part 3

The course assignments, exam questions (or equivalent) and answers are given in the language of instruction of the course, in which case it is also the language of completion of the course.
The language of the course refers to the language in which students complete their assignments on the course (e.g. learning assignments, reports, exam, learning diaries, etc.). In a degree programme conducted in Finnish, the student has the right to use Finnish or another language in accordance with the curriculum for both written and oral attainments (Education Regulations, Section 26).

Example: In a degree programme conducted in Finnish, the student always has the right to use Finnish in study attainments (such as learning assignments).

Part 4

The study material for courses is selected primarily on the basis of pedagogical consideration, taking into account the possibility to utilise the latest research data on a course. Regardless
of the language of instruction and completion of a course, material may also be offered in
other languages approved by the university. Decisions on study material and the language used
are made in connection with the approval of curricula, or in another process approved by the university related to the organisation of teaching.

Example: The language of instruction and completion is typically Finnish or English. Study material in German, for example, can be confirmed in the curriculum.

Part 5

At the discretion of the university, teaching can also be offered in language versions using, for example, recordings, subtitles or interpretation.

Part 6

As a rule, the thesis included in the Bachelor’s or Master’s degree is written in the language of the degree of the degree programme or the language specified in the curriculum. Decisions on the right to use another language in the thesis shall be made by the head responsible for education of the department/school/institute/unit. (Education Regulations, Section 26).

Academic Rector’s decision (pdf in Intra, requires registration)

Registration instructions for exchange students

These registration instructions are for exchange students starting their studies at UEF. If you are a new bachelor’s or master’s degree student, here you can find the registration instructions for new bachelor’s and master’s degree students.

The academic year at the University of Eastern Finland officially begins on 1 August and ends on 31 July. The autumn semester courses will begin from 1 September 2026 and the spring semester courses from 7 January 2027.

As a new exchange student, you must register as being present before they can start their studies. You can register either online or in person at the Student and Learning Services after arriving on campus.

On this page you can find information on the following subjects:

How to register

We recommend you register online before arriving on campus. If this is not possible, then you can register in person at the Student and Learning Services’ Customer Service on campus.

Option 1: Register online

To register online, fill out and submit the online registration form (opens in a new tab). If you choose to join the Student Union, attach the receipt for the Student Union membership fee to the form. You can find the payment instructions in the Student Union membership section below.

Option 2: Register in person

If you do not register online, you must register in person at the Student and Learning Services’ customer service once you are in on campus.

When you register in person, bring the following documents with you:

Your registration form (docx) filled out and signed
A valid ID document (for example, your passport)
Your receipt for the Student Union membership fee, if you choose to join the Student Union (see the next section for details). Accepted receipts include a receipt from the student union (if you paid at the student union office), a receipt issued by your bank, a printout from your online bank or a picture of these.

Student Union membership

Student Union (ISYY) membership is voluntary for international exchange students. You can find information on the membership benefits for exchange students on the ISYY website (opens in a new tab).

If you want to join ISYY, you can pay the membership fee in one of the following ways:

In person at the Student Union offices (opens in a new tab) after arriving on campus. You can pay with cash or credit card. Please note that banknotes larger than 50 € are not accepted.
By bank transfer to the Student Union bank account using the payment details below.

Membership fees:

Spring semester 2026: 37€
Full academic year 2026-2027: 73€
Autumn semester 2026: 36€
Spring semester 2027: 37€

Please note:

Remember to keep the payment receipt – you will need it when you register.
You are responsible for any transfer fees or service fees that your bank may charge.

Bank transfer details:

Recipient: Student Union of the University of Eastern Finland
Recipient’s address: Yliopistonranta 15, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
Bank name: Osuuspankki/OP Bank/Pohjola Bank Pl
Bank address: Koskikatu 9, FI-80100 Joensuu, Finland
IBAN: FI37 5770 0520 2461 63
BIC/SWIFT: OKOYFIHH
Message: Your full name and date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy)

Activating your UEF user account for the university’s information systems

All UEF students need a UEF user account. You need the account to, for example:

log in to the university’s information systems
use your UEF email
sign up for courses and exams

After you have received a confirmation email about your successfull registration, you will need to follow these steps in order to get a UEF user account (instructions are also in the confirmation email):

Follow the instructions for getting a UEF user account
Complete strong identification. This is a security step required by Finnish regulations.
Register as an MFA (multi-factor authentication) user. MFA adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a second verification step (for example, a code sent to your phone) when you log in.

Here you can find more detailed information on activating your UEF user account (opens in a new tab).

Your UEF user account will start working once all of the following conditions are met:

you have registered as present
your study right has started
you have activated the account
you have been strongly identified and
you have registered as an MFA user.

If you have any questions regarding activating your account, please contact the Digital Services (opens in a new tab).

Finnish personal identity code

If you stay in Finland for longer than three months, you should obtain a Finnish personal identity code (henkilötunnus in Finnish). The identity code is important because it is used to transfer information between the university and various services. You will also need it for everyday matters such as:

opening a bank account
visiting a hospital or health centre
interact with Finnish authorities.

It is highly recommended that you apply for the identity code as early as possible.

Students from EU/EEA countries

As an EU/EEA citizen, you do not need a residence permit, but you should register your residency in Finland by visiting the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) (opens in a new tab) after your registration to the university is confirmed. Ask to be registered in the Finnish Population Information System and you will receive your Finnish personal identity code.

Students from non-EU/ETA countries

When you are granted a residence permit or a residence card, or when your right of residence is registered by the Finnish Immigration Service, your personal information will in most cases be automatically registered in the Finnish Population Information System. You will usually receive your Finnish personal identity code at the same time

If you did not receive a personal identity code together with your residence permit, visit the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) (opens in a new tab) during the first three months of your stay. Ask to be registered in the Finnish Population Information System – this means that you will be issued a personal identity code and your Finnish postal address will be registered.

After you receive your identity code

Once you have your identity code, it is very importat that you inform the Student and Learning Services’ customer service (contact information at the bottom of this page) so that it can be saved to the student register. You can do this in two ways:

In person: Visit the office and present your identity card or another document that shows your identity code.
By email: Contact the Student and Learning Services’ customer service and request instructions for sending the identity code in an encrypted email message. Wait for the instructions before sending your identity code – do not include the code in an unencrypted email for security reasons.

How to get a student card

For exchange students joining the student union is voluntary. If you do not join the student union, you can use the digital student card Tuudo. If you join the student union and pay the student union membership fee, you can use Tuudo, Frank or Slice. You can also order a plastic student card, if you wish.

Before you receive your student card, you can get a meal discount at the campus restaurants with a certificate of study. You will receive the certificate as an attachment in the confirmation email once your registration is complete

Student and Learning Services’ customer service contact information

If you have any questions regarding registration, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Student and Learning Services’ Customer Service

Phone number: +358 29 445 8900

phone service: Mon–Thu from 12 to 2 pm (12–14)

Opening/office hours:

on Wednesdays the customer service desk is open from 10 am to 2 pm (10–14).
At other times the customer service desk is open by appointment only. You can book an appointment in an hour, at the earliest, and a week in advance, at most. You can book a Teams meeting or an in-person appointment at the Joensuu or Kuopio customer service point through our booking site (opens in a new tab). The available times are shown in the booking calendar.

You can find up-coming exceptions to opening hours here there are any:

Before contacting us, please check if you can find the answer to your question in Kamu or in KamuBot!

Email address: [email protected]

If your message contains confidential attachments, for example a document providing grounds for statutory absence, send it from your UEF email. All email exchange between UEF email addresses are encrypted. If your UEF account does not work and you want to send us encrypted email, please contact us and we will give you instructions on how to send your message encrypted.

Visiting address:

Joensuu Campus, Aurora building, entrance A, ground floor (Yliopistokatu 2)
Kuopio Campus, Canthia building, 2. floor, Oppari (Yliopistonrinne 3)

Postal address:

Joensuu: University of Eastern Finland, Student and Learning Services, P.O. Box 111, FI-80101 Joensuu
Kuopio: University of Eastern Finland, Student and Learning Services, P.O. Box 1627, FI-70211 Kuopio

Mentoring programme

An annually recurring mentoring programme helps international students get to know Finnish working life and build their networks. Mentors are working life professionals from several different fields in Eastern Finland.

Mentoring is carried out in small groups, which guarantees the opportunity to participate for as many international students as possible.The mentoring language will be mainly English.

Get help with your career planning

Mentoring can help you find your strengths and areas for development and encourage you to take on new challenges. Also, the mentors can get new energy and fresh perspectives on their work through mentees aka actors.

By taking part in the mentoring programme, you will improve your skills in

job search and getting to know different career options and paths
developing professional expertise and finding your strengths
communication and interaction with others
building professional networks
developing self-confidence and self-knowledge

In addition to the mentor’s support, mentoring gives peer support and new views on topics discussed in the group.

What we expect from you

As an actor, we expect you to

commit to the mentoring programme and group meetings
take an active role in the group
share your expectations and goals with other participants
to understand that mentoring is about sharing working life experiences and spurring you in the first steps of your career, not getting a job offer or an internship from a mentor

How to apply

Application for the spring 2025 group mentoring programme will open in autumn 2024. International degree programme students in Eastern Finland are eligible to apply.

You can apply if you are ready to actively plan your future and share your career aims in a group. In addition, you commit to taking part in mentoring meetings from January to May approximately once a month.

The mentors leading the groups are professionals from different fields and diverse backgrounds. You will be placed in a mentoring group according to the following criteria:

Your preference of the mentor
Your commitment and motivation to the programme
Registration order

In the application form, we will ask for your personal and study information, your motives for participating and your expectations for mentoring. The information you provide is very important as it will be used in group formation. Some of the answers will also be sent to your mentor.

The schedule of the programme is annually as follows:

Online mentoring training for actors in December
Online kick-off meeting in January
4 to 6 mentoring meetings with your group. The group will agree on whether the meetings will be held face-to-face or online.
Online intermediate meeting for both mentors and actors in March
Final meeting in May

Further information:
[email protected] (Savonia students),
[email protected] (UEF students)

Curricula of Previous Years (2010 – 2021)

The study guides for all degree programmes and academic subjects for the academic years 2010-2021 that include information on curricula, course descriptions and degree structures and were previously published in WebOodi, are available on this website. The study guides are in PDF format and are not accessible in all respects. As of the academic year 2021–2022, the study guides are available in Peppi. WebOodi has been removed from service.

If the information is not available in an accessible format in the study guides of the faculties, departments and units for the academic years 2010–2021, the unit responsible for teaching must be contacted, in which case the information can be provided in an accessible format where necessary.

Academic Year 2020 – 2021

Academic Year 2019 – 2020

Academic Year 2018 – 2019

Academic Year 2017 – 2018

Academic Year 2016 – 2017

Academic Year 2015 – 2016

Academic Year 2014 – 2015

Academic Year 2013 – 2014

Academic Year 2012 – 2013

Academic Year 2011 – 2012

Academic Year 2010 – 2011

Tuition fees and waivers

All degree students at UEF must fund their studies and living expenses themselves. Your primary contact for matters related to tuition fees and tuition waivers is the programme coordinator.

It is essential to ensure that you have secured sufficient funding for the entire duration of your studies before departing from your home country. UEF does not offer any financial support or aid for students facing financial difficulties and cannot provide assistance in emergency situations.

Tuition fee payments

Students selected in 2025 or 2026 intake

The annual tuition fee must be paid by August 31. The tuition fee can be paid in one or two instalments. Please review UEF’s refund policy carefully.

If a student who is required to pay a tuition fee fails to pay the fee by the deadline, they must apply for having their study right reinstated.
Additionally, the university is required to inform the Finnish Immigration Service (MIGRI) if a student does not start their studies or withdraws. Please be aware that student residence permits are always granted for full-time studies, and Migri reviews completed credits as well.

Students selected for UEF in 2024 or earlier will receive payment instructions from the programme coordinator.

Tuition waivers

The acceptance letter indicates whether a student has been granted a tuition waiver or a UEF Scholarship. Please note that not all students receive one. Students who have been awarded a tuition waiver or UEF Scholarship should note the following general rules:

Master’s Programmes: Tuition waivers are granted for up to two academic years (4 semesters).
Bachelor’s Programmes: Tuition waivers are granted for up to three academic years (6 semesters).

If students are unable to complete the studies required for their degree within the specified time frame — two academic years for Master’s students and three academic years for Bachelor’s students — they will no longer receive a tuition waiver.

Are there scholarships or tuition waivers available at UEF during studies?
The Finnish Proficiency Tuition Waiver is open to all tuition-fee-paying students who fulfill the required criteria (see details below).

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Please note that special agreement programmes (e.g., Erasmus Mundus and Joint Degree Programmes) have their own scholarship programmes, and exceptions may apply.

Separate certificate

The separate certificate includes the name, scope, grade and completion date of the study module and, if necessary, a professional qualifications clause.

Before filling in the application form for a separate certificate, make sure that all courses in the study module have been recorded in the study register. Before applying for a separate certificate, contact the department/school/unit responsible for education and ask for the study module to be compiled and assessed. Once the study module has been compiled and assessed, the transcript of records shows the compiled study module and individual courses with grades. A transcript of records is attached to the separate certificate.

The delivery time of the separate certificate is approximately three – four weeks. During the summer and Christmas holidays the delivery of the certificate may be delayed.

Application form for a separate certificate issued by the faculty

Application form for a separate certificate issued by the Centre for Continuous Learning