Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology - study guide 2026 - 2027

Guidance is every student's right. Guidance at the university is part of a lifelong guidance continuum that supports the development of expertise, participation in society, continuous learning and a meaningful life.
At the University of Eastern Finland, guidance is defined according to the comprehensive guidance model as follows:
"Guidance is a collaborative activity in which the person acting as a guidance counsellor supports and promotes a process that is meaningful to the student, using systematic methods so that the process progresses, produces results and strengthens the student's agency."
Agency refers to the expansion of an individual's capacity to act through the development of competence, self-efficacy, participation, and finding one's own path. Agency is built through the actions of individuals and communities and is shaped by social structures and organisational cultures.
Guidance focuses on the key processes that the student goes through during university studies: learning, building expertise, and growing into a member of the academic community, student communities and work communities.
The guidance relationship is a collaborative relationship between the guidance counsellor and the student. The student is the expert of their own situation and experience, and guidance always starts from the student’s perspective. As a form of activity, guidance is dialogical and flexible, which enables it to be adapted to the student’s individual needs.
At the university, guidance is provided both as a working method within the duties of teaching and research staff, and as a service offered by professional guidance counsellors. In addition, students act as peer guidance counsellors for each other through peer tutoring.

At the beginning of your studies, you will prepare a personal study plan (PSP). The PSP is your own tool for outlining the structure of your degree, clarifying your academic goals, and scheduling your studies. It follows the structure of your degree programme, and its purpose is to support timely graduation and successful transition into working life.

Each student is assigned a PSP counsellor who supports you in planning your studies and serves as a contact person for study-related matters. New students are also assigned a peer tutor at the start of their studies. The tutor is a senior student from the same academic subject and will help you become familiar with the university, the learning environment, the student community, and your field of study. You can find the contact details of your PSP counsellor and tutor in your study community.

Your PSP counsellor will:
• Help you structure and organise your studies so that your PSP meets the requirements of your target degree.
• Support you in identifying your competencies and clarifying your academic goals.
• Assist you in making informed choices and navigating challenges.
• Provide timely guidance at different stages of your studies and encourage you to progress.
• Explain ethical aspects of studying and the principles of accessible learning.
• Approve your personal study plan.
As a student, you are expected to:
• Prepare your personal study plan (PSP) and update it as needed during your studies.
• Make use of academic guidance and seek support from your PSP counsellor or other guidance services when necessary.
• Familiarise yourself with study-related instructions and ethical guidelines and follow them.
• Register for courses and, if required, separately for examinations.
• Cancel your registration in time if you are unable to attend a course or examination.
• Submit your coursework and assignments by the given deadlines.
• Complete your studies and degree within the target timeframe.
• Make decisions regarding your studies, keeping in mind that personal goals can be achieved in various ways.
Topics covered in PSP counselling include:
• The objectives, structure, and expected duration of your degree.
• Subject combinations – options for minor subjects, freely chosen studies, and elective courses.
• Study practices, academic ethics, accessible learning, and other forms of student well-being support at the university.
• Recognition of prior learning (RPL) – substitution and inclusion of studies completed elsewhere.
• Setting personal goals and scheduling your studies.
• Opportunities for internationalisation during your studies.
• Career planning and employment prospects.
• General information about the university’s guidance and counselling services.
Study planning also involves matters beyond academic content, such as housing and healthcare. Therefore, it is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the university’s shared services, which offer support for studying and learning.

General Study Guidance in the Faculty
• Faculty study affairs: Maarit Merimaa-Piirainen, Head of Academic Affairs
• Degree certificates: Aada Kokkonen, Academic Affairs Secretary
• Doctoral education: Riikka Levänen and Niina Laatikainen, Academic Affairs Specialists in Doctoral Education, shared email lumetdissertations(at)uef.fi

Bachelor’s and Minor Subject Students
• Biology: Seija Hämäläinen, Academic Affairs Specialist
• Photonics: Hanna Laukkanen, Academic Affairs Specialist
• Mathematics and Physics: Hanna Laukkanen, Academic Affairs Specialist, and Hanna Pirinen, Academic Affairs Specialist
• Chemistry: Mari Heiskanen, Academic Affairs Specialist
• Sustainable Technologies: Pauliina Karvinen, Academic Affairs Specialist
• Forest Sciences: Noora Ala-aho , Academic Affairs Specialist, and Anne Tikkanen, Academic Affairs Secretary
• Technical Physics: Helka Äyräväinen, Academic Affairs Specialist, and Sanna Jylhä, Academic Affairs Secretary
• Computer Science, Joensuu: Oili Kohonen, Academic Affairs Specialist, and Hanna Pirinen, Academic Affairs Secretary
• Computer Science, Kuopio: Paavo Pakoma, Amanuensis, and Merja Leppänen, Academic Affairs Secretary
• Environmental Science: Henna Jääskeläinen, Academic Affairs Secretary

You can find your PSP counsellor for your degree programme in your study community. Contact details for staff members are available through the UEF Connect search engine.

The aim of guidance and counselling services is to support your study ability throughout the different stages of your academic path — helping you get started, plan and study effectively, graduate on time, and find employment after graduation. To support your studies, the university offers a comprehensive overview of guidance and counselling services in Kamu.

The goal of student well-being services is also to promote study ability, but additionally to support health, well-being within student communities, create a safe and healthy learning environment, and prevent social exclusion.

According to the University’s Education Regulations (§23), a guidance plan must be in place. Students pursuing a university degree are entitled to receive guidance at all stages of their studies.

The Faculty Council shall decide on the principles of study guidance, which include the rights and responsibilities of both students and academic staff providing guidance and counselling, as well as instructions for drawing up, approving, and updating the personal study plan (PSP).

These principles may be part of the curriculum or included in a university-wide guidance framework, which is approved by the Vice Rector for Education.

In the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, you can complete Bachelor’s, Master’s, Licentiate, Doctoral, and Master of Science in Technology degrees.

Bachelor of Science (BSc) 180 ECTS credits, majors (and specialisations):
• Subject Teacher (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Computer Science)
• Subject Teacher (Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry)
• Biology (Biologist and Subject Teacher)
• Physics (until 31 July 2029)
• Information Technology
• Chemistry (Chemist and Subject Teacher)
• Mathematics (Mathematician and Subject Teacher)
• Applied Physics (until 31 July 2029)
• Computer Science (Subject Teacher)
• Environmental Science

Bachelor of Science, Agriculture and Forestry (BSc, Agr&For) 180 ECTS credits, majors:
• Forest Sciences
• Sustainable Forest Bioeconomy

Bachelor of Science, Technology (BSc, Tech), 180 ECTS credits, majors (and specialisations):
• Photonics
• Sustainable Technologies (materials, industrial and digital products)
• Technical Physics

Master of Science (MSc), 120 ECTS credits, majors (and specialisations):
• Subject Teacher (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Computer Science)
• Subject Teacher (Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry)
• Biology (Biologist and Subject Teacher)
• Biology of Environmental Change
• Computational Colour and Spectral Imaging
• Environmental and Ecosystem Ecology
• Environmental Health and Technology
• Physics (until 31 July 2029)
• Imaging and Light in Extended Reality
• Information Technology
• Chemistry (Chemist and Subject Teacher)
• Mathematics (Mathematician and Subject Teacher)
• Research Chemists
• Applied Physics (until 31 July 2029)
• Computer Science (Subject Teacher)
• Environmental Science
Master of Science, Agriculture and Forestry (MSc Agr&For), 120 ECTS credits, majors:
• European Forestry
• Forestry
• Forest Sciences

Master of Science, Technology (MSc Tech), 120 ECTS credits, majors (and specialisations):
• Data Engineering (as of 01 August 2026)
• Data Technology (as of 01 August 2026)
• Photonics
• Intelligent Photonics for Security Reliability, Sustainability and Safety
• Sustainable Technologies (materials, industrial and digital products)
• Medical Physics
• Technical Physics (atmospheric physics, computational technology, medical physics and engineering and material technology).

The total target duration for completing both the Bachelor's and Master's (or Master of Science in Technology) degrees is five academic years: three years for the Bachelor's degree and two years for the Master's or Master of Science in Technology degree.

In degree programmes leading to both lower and higher university degrees, students have the right to complete their degrees within two academic years beyond the combined target duration.

In programmes leading only to a lower university degree, students have the right to complete the degree within one additional year beyond the target duration.

In programmes leading only to a higher university degree, students have the right to complete the degree within two additional years beyond the target duration.

The Faculty admits doctoral researchers to pursue the degrees of Licentiate of Philosophy, Doctor of Philosophy, Licentiate of Agriculture and Forestry, Doctor of Agriculture and Forestry, Licentiate of Science (Technology), and Doctor of Science (Technology) within the Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology.

Specialist training is intended for individuals already active in working life who have completed a higher education degree or acquired equivalent expertise through other means.

At the faculty, it is possible to complete professional postgraduate training in medical physics, which includes the completion of a Licentiate or Doctoral degree, as separately determined by the Faculty.

General information and instructions related to study rights are available in Kamu, including topics such as:

• Registration procedures,
• Normative duration of studies,
• Applying for an extension to the study right, and
• Studies at UEF after graduation – alumni study right.

Contact details for student and learning services can be found on the university’s webpage (scroll down > University Services > Student and Learning Services).

If a student applies to change their major in a way that also changes the target degree (degree title), this is considered a transfer application and must be submitted via the national application system at Opintopolku.fi. Detailed instructions on transfer applications are available there.

If a student applies to change their major within the University of Eastern Finland without changing the target degree, this is not considered a transfer application but rather another type of academic decision. The Faculty Council defines, as part of the admission criteria, the principles under which a student may change their degree programme within the faculty, as well as the principles under which a student from another faculty may transfer to complete their degree in this faculty.

1. Changing the Major Subject at the Master’s Level

Students admitted to a Master's programme are generally not allowed to change their major subject. The faculty provides more detailed instructions and admission criteria if changing the major is possible. Otherwise, students wishing to change their major must apply through the Master's level admission process based on their completed Bachelor's degree. Applications are submitted electronically via Studyinfo.fi, and the process follows the general joint application procedure.
For English-language Master's programmes, it should be noted that if a scholarship recipient changes their major to another English-taught Master's programme (provided the target degree does not change), they will not be granted a new scholarship. Scholarships are awarded only once.

2. Changing the Major Subject or Degree Programme When the Faculty Changes
A Bachelor's level student may apply to change their major to another faculty. This change may take place no earlier than after the first semester of studies. The Faculty Council defines, as part of the admission criteria, the principles under which a student from another faculty may transfer to complete their degree in this faculty. The condition is that the target degree remains unchanged.

More information is available from the faculty/academic subject to which the student wishes to transfer. If changing the major is not possible, the student may apply to change their major to another faculty through the joint application process. Applications are submitted electronically via Studyinfo.fi.

3. Changing the Major Subject or Degree Programme Within the Same Faculty
The change may take place no earlier than after the first semester of studies, within the same faculty and on the same campus, provided the target degree remains unchanged. The faculty may require, as part of the admission criteria, a certain number of completed credits in the previous study right. For example, the student may be required to have completed a specific number of credits in the subject they wish to transfer to, such as at least the basic studies.

Programme-specific instructions may include additional requirements and restrictions. Applications are submitted using the faculty’s own application form. More information is available from the academic subject to which the student wishes to transfer. If changing the major is not possible, the student may apply to change their major to another faculty through the joint application process. Applications are submitted electronically via Studyinfo.fi.

The assessment, registration and publication of study attainments are governed by the Education Regulations.

Information related to the assessment, registration and publication of exam results is available in Kamu.

Information related to the finalisation and locking of study modules is available in Kamu.

Policies related to examninations are outlined in the university’s Education Regulations and further information is available in Kamu.

Guidelines for Exams in the Faculty (tähän linkki tiedekunnan englanninkielisiin ohjeisiin)

A study attainment is used to assess the student’s knowledge and skills based on lectures, literature, and other course materials.

According to Section 2 of the University of Eastern Finland’s Education Regulations, a study attainment may include, for example, an exam, learning assignment, essay, seminar participation
and seminar paper, lecture, exercises and laboratory work, practical training, various combinations of these, or another method of completion specified in the curriculum. A study attainment may consist of partial attainments. A study attainment may also refer to recognition of prior learning or other demonstration of competence required by the curriculum (e.g. maturity test, licentiate thesis, or doctoral dissertation).

1. Examination

At the University of Eastern Finland, faculties and departments/schools have used various terms for examinations, and the meanings of these terms have also varied between units. In this guideline, the definitions have been simplified, and the general term examination is used for all types of exams (a study attainment may also be completed in other ways than by examination, and these alternatives are described separately in the course description).

The course description in the curriculum must specify in more detail how and when the study attainment is organised. The curriculum indicates whether the course implementation and completion take place in the spring or autumn semester. The teaching schedule provides more detailed information, including the specific timing of the study attainment/exam, room details, and retake opportunities.

In the course description or alternatively at the beginning of the course, the teacher in charge must provide a written description of the examination method before the studies begin, including the following information:

• How the exam is conducted: is it held on campus, written on paper or on a computer?
• How many exam sessions are arranged (to allow for retakes or absences)?
• How retaking or raising the grade is handled?
• How to register for the exam?
• How the exam is supervised?
• What materials or tools are allowed during the exam?

Section 31 of the Education Regulations outlines the principles for organising examinations.

2. 
   Electronic examinations

Descriptions and up-to-date instructions for electronic examinations are available on the pedagogical support site of the University of Eastern Finland’s intranet. The link to the site is: Electronic Exams (sharepoint.com).

2.1 Supervised Electronic Examination
Electronic on-campus exams can be organised either as Exams or Moodle bring-your-own-device (BYOD) exams.

Exams are conducted in a separate Exam system (https://exam.uef.fi), and the student completes the exam in a video-monitored (recorded video surveillance) Exam room at a time of their choosing within a time window defined by the teacher. Exam rooms are available on both campuses.

A BYOD exam is held in a traditionally supervised lecture hall, but students use their own computers to complete the exam, for example via Moodle or Exam. The exam may be conducted as a closed SEB exam, where access to other websites and materials is restricted. BYOD exams are well suited for situations where all students answer the same questions at the same time.

2.2 Unsupervised Electronic Exam

Remote electronic exams can be conducted in Moodle, or a BYOD exam can be organized as a so called open exam, allowing students access to all materials and the internet.

3. Supervised Remote Exam Conducted Elsewhere

A supervised remote exam conducted elsewhere may be allowed on a one-time basis in exceptional circumstances and for specific reasons. This refers to taking the exam in another location approved
by the department/school (e.g. another educational institution).

The student is responsible for the arrangements and any supervision fees charged by the exam location. The remote exam is generally taken at the same time as the on-campus exam at the University of Eastern Finland. A separate detailed guideline for teaching staff has been prepared
for organizing remote exams conducted elsewhere.

For minor subject students, a supervised remote exam may be arranged on another campus, for example, in cooperation with the department/school of the major subject.

Degree students at the University of Eastern Finland have excellent opportunities to participate in student exchange and complete studies at foreign universities. The University of Eastern Finland has bilateral cooperation agreements with universities around the world and participates in various international exchange programmes and networks.

Studies completed abroad are recognised as part of the degree being pursued at UEF.

Further information on student exchange, applying for exchange studies, and other related matters is available in Kamu.

Accessibility refers to the implementation of the physical, psychological and social environment in a way that enables everyone to participate equally regardless of individual characteristics.

Further information on accessible studies is available in Kamu.

Individual study arrangements are intended to ensure equal opportunities for students with disabilities or health-related conditions. These arrangements concern the methods of completing a course but do not alter the learning outcomes of the course.

Further information on individual study arrangements and how to apply for them is available in Kamu.

In individual cases, the teacher-in-charge of a course may grant an exception to the method of completion defined in the curriculum for a particularly weighty reason (Education Regulations, Section 19).

Recognition of prior learning refers to procedures through which a student’s competence can be assessed and accepted as part of their studies. The competence may have been acquired during formal studies or in other contexts such as work experience or hobbies.

Further information on the recognition of prior learning is available in Kamu.

Leadership training completed during military service (NCO School, Reserve Officer School) may be recognised (included) as 5 ECTS credits towards the optional studies in the degree. The student applies for recognition through their own degree programme, following the established procedures.
A certificate of the completed leadership training is sufficient as an attachment to the application.

Information is available in Kamu on the following topics:
• Theses (including guidelines related to accessibility)
• Thesis and maturity test
• Submission, examination and grading of the thesis
• Originality check of the thesis 

The faculties’ curricula shall be drawn up in such a way that undergraduate studies include the option to complete a practical training period either in Finland or abroad, either as a compulsory or optional part of the studies. (Education Regulations, Section 22)

More information about practical training, criteria for international traineeships, and unsuitability to study – the SORA legislation is available in Kamu.

Teaching practice is an essential part of the studies for students training to become teachers.
General information about teaching practice and unsuitability to study – the SORA legislation is available in Kamu.

DEGREE REGULATIONS OF THE FACULTY OF SCIENCE, FORESTRY AND TECHNOLOGY

In the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, the University of Eastern Finland’s Regulations on Education, along with other current university guidelines and provisions, are observed. This document compiles faculty-specific instructions and clarifications to the regulations concerning degrees and studies completed within the Faculty.

1 § Educational Mission of the Faculty

The mission of the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology at the University of Eastern Finland is to promote and conduct broad-based research, and to educate professionals for expert, teaching, and leadership roles in the fields of natural sciences, forestry, and technology. The faculty offers degree programmes in both Finnish and English at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, producing internationally competent professionals for national and international positions.

2 § Degrees Offered by the Faculty and Student Admissions

Students may be admitted to pursue degrees within the Faculty as follows:

1. Lower university degrees:
   • Bachelor of Science
   • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Forestry
   • Bachelor of Science in Technology
2. Higher university degrees:
   • Master of Science
   • Master of Science in Agriculture and Forestry
   • Master of Science in Technology
3. Scientific postgraduate degrees (doctoral degrees):
   • Licentiate of Philosophy
   • Licentiate of Science in Agriculture and Forestry
   • Licentiate of Science in Technology
   • Doctor of Philosophy
   • Doctor of Science in Agriculture and Forestry
   • Doctor of Science in Technology

Education leading to the degrees of Master of Science, Master of Science in Agriculture and Forestry, and Master of Science in Technology is based on a lower university degree or equivalent prior education. Provisions regarding scientific postgraduate education are defined separately in the selection criteria and curriculum of the Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology (LUMETO).

Specialist training in medical physics may be included as part of a Licentiate or Doctoral degree completed within the Faculty, as separately determined by the Faculty.

The organisation and completion of degrees and studies shall comply with the provisions of the Universities Act (558/2009), the Government Decree on University Degrees (794/2004), the Decree on Qualification Requirements for Teaching Staff (986/1998), the valid University Regulations and Education Regulations approved by the Board of the University of Eastern Finland, including any amendments thereto, as well as the provisions and instructions set forth in these Degree Regulations. In subject teacher education, the degree requirements and selection criteria of the Philosophical Faculty shall also be applied where appropriate.

Students admitted solely to pursue a Master’s or Master of Science (Technology) degree may be required to complete up to 60 ECTS of supplementary studies to compensate for deficiencies in their prior education. These supplementary studies are not included in the minimum scope of 120 ECTS required for the Master’s or Master of Science (Technology) degree.

Degree students are admitted to a degree programme (Bachelor’s programme, Master’s programme, combined Bachelor’s and Master’s programme, or Doctoral programme) in accordance with the selection criteria separately confirmed by the Faculty. The selection criteria also define the procedures for changing the major subject and for transfer admissions. Admission to subject teacher education is carried out as separately stipulated. The selection of doctoral researchers is governed by the selection criteria for doctoral studies.

3 § Courses and Study Modules

Studies leading to a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Master of Science (Technology) degrees may include studies in major and minor subjects, as well as so-called other studies. These other studies include language and communication studies and optional studies. The studies consist of individual courses, which may be compulsory, optional, or freely elective. Students must complete the studies in the second national language and in a foreign language as required by Section 6 of the Government Decree on University Degrees (794/2004), unless these have already been completed as part of a lower university degree.

Individual courses form broader study modules of varying scope, which may also be multidisciplinary. These modules include basic studies, intermediate studies, and advanced studies. The tables below provide information on the study modules included in Finnish-language degree programmes in the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology.

Students who have been admitted to complete both a lower and a higher university degree must complete the Bachelor's degree before pursuing the Master's degree. Provisions concerning subject teacher education and combined subject and class teacher education are set out in Section 6 of these Degree Regulations.

4 § Minor Subject Studies and Separate Studies

Degree students at the University of Eastern Finland may complete minor subject studies within the Faculty in accordance with the procedures specified separately by the departments/schools of the Faculty. As a rule, the Faculty applies an open minor subject policy. Students who do not hold the right to complete a degree at the University of Eastern Finland may pursue separate studies within the Faculty through alumni study rights, via the Open University, or if the department/school grants the right to complete separate or supplementary studies.

Minor subject students may complete

• Basic studies: 25-30 ECTS
• Intermediate studies: 30-45 ECTS
• Advanced studies: 30-60 ECTS

The detailed content and scope of study modules are defined in the curriculum. The curricula may also include specific provisions and recommendations regarding the selection of minor subjects.

In addition, it is possible to complete individual courses and study modules, specialisation programmes, and continuing education modules within the Faculty with a separate paid study right, as well as to participate in contractual education (inter-institutional cooperation and international joint studies).

5 § Degree Programmes in Finnish and English Offered by the Faculty

In the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, degrees can be completed in the degree programmes listed below. The objectives and contents of the degrees and studies are defined in the curricula. A Master's degree or a Master of Science (Technology) degree provides eligibility for scientific postgraduate studies in the respective major subject.

The establishment and discontinuation of degree programmes are governed by Section 6 of the Education Regulations of the University of Eastern Finland. The Faculty Council of the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology has decided to discontinue the degree programmes listed in the table below. Separate transitional provisions have been prepared for the discontinued degree programmes.

6 § Subject Teacher Education

The right to study in teacher education or in pedagogical studies for teachers may be granted either through the joint application process (Subject Teacher in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or Computer Science, or Combined Subject and Class Teacher in Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry), or later during studies through a separate application procedure and aptitude test organised by the Philosophical Faculty (Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Computer Science).

The qualification requirements for teaching staff are defined in the Decree on Qualification Requirements for Teaching Staff (986/1998):

To teach in general upper secondary school, a teacher must have:

• A higher university degree, 120 ECTS
• At least 120 ECTS of basic, intermediate and advanced studies in one teachable subject (Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics or Computer Science)
• At least 60 ECTS of basic and intermediate studies in all other teachable subjects
• 60 ECTS of teacher’s pedagogical studies

To teach in basic education, a teacher must have:

• A higher university degree, 120 ECTS
• At least 60 ECTS of basic and intermediate studies in each teachable subject
• 60 ECTS of teacher’s pedagogical studies

A person is qualified to provide class teaching if they meet the above-mentioned qualifications for subject teaching in basic education and have also completed multidisciplinary studies in the subjects and subject areas taught in comprehensive school.

The contents of teacher education programmes in the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology are defined in more detail in the curricula of the respective degree programmes. Section 13 of the Degree Regulations provides further details on changing the major subject or specialisation within subject teacher education.

7 § Doctoral Education

At the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, doctoral degrees available include Licentiate of Philosophy, Licentiate of Agriculture and Forestry, Licentiate of Science (Technology), Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Agriculture and Forestry, and Doctor of Science (Technology). Doctoral researchers are admitted to the Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology (LUMETO). The selection criteria of the Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology specify the regulations concerning student admissions, while the curriculum defines the degrees, the studies included in them, and the contents of the education.

8 § Bachelor’s Thesis and Master’s Thesis

The Bachelor's degrees in Natural Sciences, Agriculture and Forestry, and Technology include a Bachelor's thesis, the scope of which is 6–10 ECTS depending on the degree programme. In addition to literature-based research, the thesis may include an experimental component. The experimental part may be completed as part of a research project, in which the student must have a clearly defined and assessable independent contribution. Section 35 of the Education Regulations provides further provisions on completing a thesis as a joint project. The Bachelor's thesis is supervised and assessed by a member of the university staff who holds at least a higher university degree.

The advanced studies in the major subject include a thesis (Master’s thesis), which demonstrates the student’s ability for scientific thinking, mastery of research methods, familiarity with the topic of the thesis, and competence in scientific communication. The scope of the Master’s thesis is 30 or 40 ECTS, and 20 ECTS in subject teacher education. The scope of the thesis in technology studies is 30 ECTS. In addition to literature-based research, the thesis may include an experimental component, which can be completed as part of a research project, provided the student has a clearly defined and assessable independent contribution. The thesis supervisor must hold at least a higher university degree, and at least one of the supervisors must hold a Licentiate degree or higher.

The main supervisor responsible for the supervision and assessment process must be a member of the university staff. Section 35 of the Education Regulations provides further provisions on the assessment of theses.

The thesis is written in the language specified in the curriculum. A student enrolled in a Finnish-language programme may, for special reasons, write the Master’s thesis in English with written permission from the head of the degree programme.

9 § Language and Communication Studies and Maturity Test

Language and communication studies 

At the University of Eastern Finland, the language and communication studies included in a degree are governed by the decision of the Academic Rector, available on UEF intranet under the title Definition of the language of school education and language proficiency requirements for lower and higher university degrees.

The language proficiency required by the Government Decree on University Degrees (794/2004) is usually demonstrated as part of the lower university degree. If the proficiency has not been demonstrated in the lower degree, it must be demonstrated in the higher university degree.

The curricula specify appropriate language and communication studies or other studies to be completed in place of the compulsory language studies. The university’s guidelines on the definition of the language of school education and the language proficiency requirements for degrees can be found on the intranet under Legislation, regulations, contracts and steering in education.

Maturity test 

The maturity test is written under supervision, either in the EXAM system or in another supervised examination setting, in a manner that prevents the use of generative artificial intelligence in producing the student's maturity test. In joint degree programmes, however, the maturity test is governed by specific instructions provided within the programme.

The student submits the final version of the thesis to the main supervisor for review, agrees on the date of the maturity test, and then registers for the test. The curricula provide more detailed instructions on completing and writing the maturity test. The student writes the maturity test in the language of their school education.

Maturity test for the Bachelor’s thesis

In addition to the Bachelor's thesis, the student must write a maturity test that demonstrates familiarity with the subject area of the thesis and proficiency in Finnish or Swedish (Government Decree on University Degrees 794/2004).

The maturity test at the Bachelor's level is approved in terms of both content and the language of school education by the thesis supervisor or, by decision of the head of department/school, another designated person. A separate guideline specific to the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology has been prepared regarding the language of the thesis and the maturity test (Appendix 1: Language of the Thesis and Maturity Test).

The maturity test is graded on a pass/fail scale. The assessment considers the student's mastery of the subject matter of their thesis. In addition, proficiency in Finnish or Swedish is assessed in accordance with Government Decree 794/2004, if the student's language of school education is Finnish or Swedish (or both). If the supervisor considers the student's Finnish language skills insufficient, the maturity test may be sent to the Language Centre for review by a Finnish language teacher. If the student completes the maturity test in Swedish, the supervisor sends the test to the Language Centre for language review. The contact person at the Language Centre in these cases is the Head of Academic and Student Affairs.

Maturity test for the Master’s thesis

Language proficiency is usually demonstrated as part of the lower university degree. In such cases, the language of school education, the language of the maturity test, and the language and communication studies included in the degree are recorded in the degree certificate of the lower university degree. If the student has received their school education in Finnish or Swedish and has not demonstrated their language proficiency in the lower university degree, the proficiency must be demonstrated in the studies included in the higher university degree. In this case, the student must write a maturity test that demonstrates both familiarity with the subject area of the thesis and proficiency in Finnish or Swedish. The language proficiency and the language of the maturity test are recorded in the degree certificate of the higher university degree.

The maturity test for the Master's thesis is graded on a pass/fail scale. The student writes the maturity test in the language of their school education, demonstrating mastery of the thesis topic and scientific writing. If language proficiency has already been demonstrated in the lower university degree, the assessment focuses primarily on the content. A separate guideline specific to the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology has been prepared regarding the language of the thesis and the maturity test )

10 § Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology follows the university’s guidelines on credit transfer and recognition of prior learning. These guidelines are available on the university’s intranet. The Faculty has issued its own specifications, and the curricula may include subject-specific clarifications.

A course completed at the University of Eastern Finland may be credited toward multiple study modules in accordance with the curricula of departments/subjects, provided that it is a compulsory course within those modules, cannot be substituted with other studies, and the curriculum does not explicitly restrict multiple credit transfers. If the course is an elective that belongs to several study modules, the student must complete additional elective studies to meet the content requirements of each module. Departments/schools provide more detailed regulations on this in their curricula.

From previously completed degrees within the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, compulsory studies belonging to the major subject are primarily credited. After this, previously completed minor subject studies or other studies may be included or substituted, provided that the total amount of credited studies does not exceed 50% of the scope of the degree being pursued.

Recognition of leadership training completed during military service

Leadership training completed during military service (NCO School, Reserve Officer School) may be credited (included) as 5 ECTS toward elective studies in the degree. The student applies for credit recognition through their own degree programme, following the established procedures. A certificate of completed leadership training is sufficient as an attachment to the application.

11 § Assessment of Study Attainments

The assessment of study attainments is regulated in Section 33 of the Education Regulations, and the grading scales and grades used in assessment are defined in Section 32. Section 34 specifies the procedures for communicating and recording the results of study attainments.

In addition to the Education Regulations, the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology provides the following guidelines regarding grades. The grading scale used in the assessment of study attainments is 0–5. The table below indicates the percentage range corresponding to each grade. The meaning of each grade is as follows:

The assessment criteria for each course are specified in the course description. The Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology recommends that numerical grading be used as the primary method of assessment.

To pass a study attainment, the student must achieve approximately half of the maximum score or demonstrate the level of competence required for an excellent performance. The grade “pass” generally corresponds to grade 1. However, a specific numerical threshold for a passing grade may be defined in the course description if necessary.

Separate guidelines on the assessment criteria for theses have been prepared by the departments/schools and are provided to the student when starting the thesis.

12 § Course Registration, Communication and Attendance Requirements

As a faculty-specific clarification to Section 30 of the Education Regulations, the following provisions apply:

Course registration  

Students must primarily register for courses in Peppi, unless otherwise specified in the course description.

Communication during the course 

The responsible teacher must ensure that the communication practices of the course are clearly communicated to students, either in the course description, the learning environment, or through other written means such as email.

Attendance requirements  

According to Section 30 of the Education Regulations, if the curriculum does not specify that the course or study attainment can be completed remotely, teaching takes place on campus. Attendance requirements related to course completion are defined in more detail in the curriculum. The course description specifies the attendance requirements, remote participation, and its implementation.

13 § Changes to Study Rights

Transfer applications, changes of major subject or campus within the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology are governed by the Faculty’s admission criteria. The student portal Kamu contains the Faculty’s guidelines, including links to the relevant forms in the e-services system. Changes may only be applied for during the Bachelor's stage, provided the student has completed a sufficient number of studies in the major subject.

Situations where a student has been admitted to pedagogical studies and wishes to return to the research track:

1. If the student has been directly admitted through the joint application process to subject teacher/class teacher education, they must apply for a change of degree programme to the research track. The change is applied for using the form “Change of Major/Specialisation/Degree Programme/Campus,” which requires logging into the e-services system.
   Upon making the change, the student’s study right for subject teacher pedagogical studies/class teacher multidisciplinary studies will be terminated. If the student later wishes to regain the study right for subject teacher pedagogical studies, they must participate in an aptitude test. It is possible to apply for a minor subject study right for studies leading to class teacher qualification if the student has completed teacher’s pedagogical studies or holds a study right for pedagogical studies at the University of Eastern Finland. These studies have a separate application procedure.

1. If the student has been granted the study right for pedagogical studies during their studies and is studying in the subject teacher education (admitted through an aptitude test), they may switch to the research track using the form “Change of Major/Specialisation/Degree Programme/Campus,” which requires logging into the e-services system.

Switching to the research track terminates the study right for the subject teacher education. If the student later wishes to return to the teacher track, they must reapply for the study right for pedagogical studies through the minor subject application process and participate in an aptitude test.

14 § Completion of Courses

Registration for exams and leaving the exam room 

Section 31 of the Education Regulations includes provisions on exam registration and leaving the exam. The Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology specifies the following additional details:

• Registration and leaving the exam are defined in the curriculum, the course’s learning environment, or in writing by the teacher-in-charge before the course begins.

• Further specifications may be provided at the unit level, i.e. departments or schools may have their own detailed instructions.

General exam instructions for on-campus exams, unless otherwise specified in the curriculum or communicated in writing before the exam:

• Students may enter the exam room up to 30 minutes after the scheduled start time.
• Students may leave the exam no earlier than 30 minutes after it begins.
• Only necessary items (writing tools, ID/passport or physical student card) may be brought to the desk. Permitted tools such as calculators or computers are specified separately.
• Mobile phones, smart devices, watches, and smartwatches must be left in bags at the edge of the exam room or outside the room, turned off or in airplane mode.
• If the student has been granted individual study arrangements and wishes to use them, they must contact the teacher-in-charge no later than 10 days before the exam.
• All papers used during the exam must be returned upon leaving the exam room. Students may later request access to the exam questions unless the teacher has restricted access for justified reasons.
• Students must verify their identity with a student card/digital student ID, passport, or identity card. A list of participants is maintained, and students sign the list and, if required, indicate the number of exam papers returned.
• In computer-based exams, general instructions provided by the course teacher apply.

A separate exam instruction document has been prepared by the Faculty

Number and method of retakes and grade improvements 

In addition to Section 30 of the Education Regulations, the Faculty specifies the following: Retakes
and grade improvements are carried out as defined in the curriculum, in the course description, or as specified in writing by the teacher-in-charge at the beginning of the course. For partial retakes, course-specific rules may apply regarding the implementation of the retake.

15 § Expiry of Studies

Courses or study modules completed more than 10 years ago may not be credited toward a degree. The inclusion of older studies or modules is governed by the curriculum. Decisions regarding credit transfers and the expiry of studies at the University of Eastern Finland are made by the unit in which the studies were originally completed.

Recommendations concerning the university’s degree certificate can be found on the intranet under Legislation, regulations, contracts and steering in education. A study module consisting of separate courses will be recorded in the degree certificate if its scope is at least 20 ECTS credits.

16 § Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

In addition to the university’s general guidelines and policy on artificial intelligence, the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology has prepared a separate written instruction document regarding the use of AI

The University of Eastern Finland does not have university-wide regulations concerning the expiry of studies. More detailed regulations may be provided in the curricula.

According to the Education Regulations (Section 18), the curriculum of a degree programme must specify, among other things, the number of completion and retake attempts for study attainments. Students must be provided with a sufficient number of opportunities to complete study attainments, taking into account the target durations of degrees. A student has the right to retake a failed study attainment and to improve the grade of a passed one at least once. The curriculum may, bearing this in mind, limit the number of times a grade for a course can be improved or a course retaken. Improving or retaking a course grade is done by retaking the entire course or a part of it. The improvement or retake must be carried out in the manner specified in writing by the teacher-in-charge at the beginning of the course or in the curriculum. A graded and approved thesis cannot be retaken or improved. (Education Regulations, Section 30)

If a completion opportunity specified in the curriculum is cancelled unexpectedly, or if the timing of a study attainment must be changed for a compelling reason—or both—students must be guaranteed the opportunity to complete the study attainment in an appropriate and equitable manner. (Education Regulations, Section 30)

More detailed regulations may be provided in the curricula.

Studies and teaching at the University of Eastern Finland are governed by the Education Regulations.

The ethical guidelines for teaching and studying are available in Kamu.

The faculties follow the university’s policy on the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and research.

Academic misconduct refers to a dishonest act or method carried out intentionally, negligently, or with the intent to deceive, aiming to give a false impression of one’s own or another person’s competence. A study attainment or entrance examination answer may be rejected if the student has committed fraud or misconduct while completing it. (Education Regulations, Section 28)

A teacher or supervisor may immediately require a student to leave the event if there is strong suspicion of fraud, or if the student disrupts the event, behaves violently or threateningly, or endangers another person’s life or health. This also applies to entrance examinations. A student’s right to participate in teaching may be denied for up to three working days if there is a risk that another person’s safety is compromised due to the student’s violent or threatening behavior, or if teaching or related activities are unreasonably disrupted due to the student’s disturbing behavior. (Education Regulations, Section 28)

In cases of disruptive behavior or academic misconduct, disciplinary actions under Section 45 of the Universities Act may be applied, including a written warning or temporary dismissal. A student suspected of misconduct or disruptive behavior must be given an opportunity to be heard. Misconduct may be investigated using tools such as plagiarism detection systems and video surveillance. The Dean decides on further actions following misconduct. The Dean may, at their discretion, report the misconduct to the Rector for disciplinary proceedings under Section 45 of the Universities Act. (Education Regulations, Section 28)

The Vice Rector for Education issues instructions and orders for handling misconduct and disruptive behavior. (Education Regulations, Section 28)

More information on the ethical guidelines for teaching and studying, as well as the electronic plagiarism detection tool, is available in Kamu.

Student Feedback

Students at the University of Eastern Finland have several opportunities to give feedback. Through feedback, students can influence teaching, guidance, counselling, and their development. Feedback is reviewed regularly, and student feedback contributes to the development of university operations.

More information about student feedback surveys is available in Kamu. Link missing!

Appeals

During studies, situations may arise where a student feels that their legal protection is not being upheld. This may concern, for example, the assessment of study attainments or the publication of exam results. If a student is dissatisfied with the actions of a department/ school (e.g. teaching), they should primarily contact the relevant teacher or academic subject and attempt to resolve the matter. In most cases, this is the most effective way to proceed. However, if the student feels that their voice is not being heard or that they are not receiving fair treatment or a justified resolution, they may submit customer feedback or file a request for rectification.

More information about submitting feedback and appeal within the university procedure is available in Kamu.

Students at the University of Eastern Finland have the right to a safe and pleasant study environment. The university does not tolerate any form of inappropriate treatment, bullying,
or harassment. Guidelines and procedures for handling harassment situations concerning students have been prepared and implemented.

More information about inappropriate treatment and harassment is available in Kamu.

The university grants open access to minor subject studies, except for fields where an aptitude test or proficiency test is used in student selection, or where there is another justified reason to restrict the right to study a minor subject. Any possible restrictions on the right to study minor subjects are specified in the curriculum. (Education Regulations, Section 13)

On the other hand, there are also degree programmes at the university that do not include minor subjects in their structure, or where the minor subjects are predetermined in the curriculum.

Information about minor subject studies is available in Kamu. There are several possibilities, including:

• Minor subjects offered by the faculties
• Internationalisation study modules

• Studies available through educational cooperation

The University of Eastern Finland offers a wide range of opportunities for continuous learning, including Open University studies, open MOOC online courses (Massive Open Online Course), specialisation education, and continuous professional education.

A student who has completed a postgraduate degree, a higher university degree, or a lower university degree at the University of Eastern Finland that does not entitle them to pursue a higher university degree, has the right to complement their studies free of charge during the academic year in which the degree was completed and for the two academic years following the completion of the degree by registering as a student (alumni study right). The alumni study right allows the student to complete studies organised by the University of Eastern Finland in accordance with the free minor subject right, or to complete minor subject studies for which they have obtained a minor subject right during the completion of their degree, or to complete other studies that are freely available. (Education Regulations, Section 15)

Further information on continuous learning (opens in a new tab) is available on the university’s website.