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Studying at Lapland UAS

Studying at Lapland UAS includes contact studies at the school, practical training and independent studies. Adult education is mainly implemented as multi-format education which may include evening and weekend studies as well as online or virtual studies. The curriculum presents the study units of the degree programme and their objectives and learning outcome. Based on the curriculum, students compile an individual study plan (ISP) together with their teacher tutor, in which they plan the progress and manner of completing their studies in detail: e.g., they choose their line-specific studies and free-choice electives.

In compiling the individual study plan, credits may be given for prior learning acquired elsewhere. A transfer of credits for prior learning acquired elsewhere must be applied for during the first semester.

The structure of studies

A degree programme is an entity with one or more lines of study. Students are accepted to study in a degree programme or a line of study. A study unit is a basic unit in terms of content and structure. Several study units belonging to the same subject form a study module.

Basic studies develop students’ study skills and language skills and provide them with basic knowledge needed in research and development work. Students also become familiar with the core concepts and theoretical and professional principles of their field.

Professional studies familiarize students with the entities and applications of professional work and their scientific principles. Advanced professional studies in a Master’s degree programme deepen students’ application of theory in practice, as well as their project leading skills, R&D skills and social skills. The goal of elective courses is to deepen and supplement student’s professional know-how.

Supervised practical training that enhances professional skills familiarizes students with the main practical tasks associated with their field and the application of knowledge and skills in working life.

The bachelor’s thesis indicates students’ readiness to apply their knowledge and skills in specialized tasks or the development of working life related to their professional studies. The goal of the Master’s thesis completed in conjunction with a Master’s degree programme is to develop and indicate the ability to apply research data and use selected methods to outline and solve problems in working life and readiness to work independently in a demanding, specialized job.

Credits

The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is a measure of the scope of studies. Study units are allotted credits according to the amount of work they require. The average of 1600 hours required to complete the studies of one academic year correspond to 60 ECTS credits. Therefore 27 hours of work correspond to one ECTS credit.

Assessment and the grading system

Assessment of students’ competence is based on the objectives and learning outcome presented in the curriculum. The performance requirements for study units may include examinations and various written and oral exercises. Students have two opportunities to repeat a failed study unit and one opportunity to raise the grade of a completed study unit. Study unit examinations are arranged in conjunction with the study units and on general examination dates. Students must sign up in writing for examinations held on general examination dates at least two weeks in advance. The study unit performance requirements and principles of assessment are given in the curriculum. Study units are graded on a scale of:

Excellent (5)
Good (3–4)
Satisfactory (1–2)
Failed (0)

Diploma supplements and transcripts of records

Lapland University of Applied Sciences provides a diploma supplement as an appendix to the original degree certificate. The diploma supplement is being issued in a widely spoken European language, given automatically and free of charge to every student upon graduation. It is issued in all bachelor degree programmes and in all master’s degree programmes. This is in accordance with the goal of the European Commission at improving international ‘transparency’ and at facilitating the academic and professional recognition of qualifications (diplomas, degrees, certificates etc.).

Lapland UAS works to provide graduates with more international opportunities either working or studying abroad by issuing an internationally recognized document. The document contains essential information about the professional and academic competence of the individual graduate in question. The transcript of records is an official document in which a student’s studies are recorded. In the transcript students will find all completed courses with credits and grades. Lapland UAS also provides official transcripts of records to all exchange students. An official transcript will be sent to the international office of the exchange student’s home institution within 5 weeks from the end of each semester (January/June).

Academic guidance

Academic guidance (by tutor teachers) is an ongoing process which aims to improve a students’ adjustment to the academic system and to enhance her/his independent learning and to increase their expertise in their fields of study.

The content of the guidance consists of a personal study plan, recognition of prior learning, practical training, study techniques, physical, mental and social welfare and free time activities. Every study group is assigned a tutor teacher, who is responsible for following the study results and progress of the studies. Student counsellors assist students in preparing their individual study plans and in the preparation for international exchange periods.

Students are responsible for participating in education guidance and counselling. They are asked to give feedback of the studies and services.

Peer guidance

The international student tutor (kv-tuutori) is usually the first person you meet when you arrive. He/she will help you to settle down and find your way around campus and around town. International student tutors are degree students of Lapland UAS who are interested in the culture, customs, traditions and ways of life of people in other countries.

Internationalization

Internationalization affects all of our operations e.g. student and staff mobility internationalization at home, project work and in international degree programs and the development of joint/double degrees with European and international partners. We have cooperation with universities in Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, Russia, Argentina, Canada and the USA. Both Finnish and international students are encouraged to do their exchange periods in Europe. The length of these exchanges can vary from 2 months to the whole school year. You can do a study exchange or practical training abroad. You can find the partner universities and tips for possible placements from SoleMOVE program (system for International Mobility). Outgoing students are supported by Erasmus+ and travel grants. International faculty coordinators and International services assist students in applying for exchanges.

Communication and media

Every student at Lapland UAS will be provided with an e-mail account by the school: firstname.familyname@ edu. lapinamk.fi. The personnel’s e-mail is in form firstname. familyname@lapinamk.fi. E-mail is an important tool for communication among students, lecturers and other staff. So make sure to check your e-mail on a regular basis. The principal channels for disseminating information are:

www.lapinamk.fi/en The official website of Lapland University of Applied Sciences – APPLICANTS (especially for applicants).
https://www.lapinamk.fi/en/Students - the most important source of updated information on studies, student life and educational news. Here you will also find the curricula for degree programs as well as course descriptions.
Avack An electronic bulletin board used in the education units to announce possible changes and the latest information on class schedules and upcoming events.
Traditional noticeboards in the hallways of the education units
Virtual learning environments like Moodle
Tuudo - mobile application which brings together all of the most common electronic student services used in Lapland UAS

It is your responsibility to be active and to keep yourself updated, so as not to miss important info. Though we utilize digital communication channels at Lapland UAS, there is always the good old alternative to walk up and ask anyone for advice and info.