Savonia University of Applied Sciences

Savonia University of Applied Sciences (Savonia UAS) is a prominent Finnish institution of higher education, recognized for its practical, work-life-oriented approach to learning. As one of Finland's largest and most versatile universities of applied sciences, Savonia offers a dynamic and international environment designed to foster professional growth and continuous learning. With approximately 6,500 students, it plays a significant role in regional development and innovation.

Academics

Savonia UAS offers around 30 degree programs across six fields of study, encompassing both Bachelor's and Master's degrees. The largest fields of education are engineering and business. The teaching approach emphasizes strong connections to working life, with Master's programs, in particular, being heavily oriented towards the needs of the professional world and encouraging students to study while working. Notable English-taught Bachelor's programs include International Business, Information Technology, and Mechanical Engineering.

International Students

Savonia is a highly international university, with over 500 international students among its approximately 7,000 total students. The university provides comprehensive support services for international students, covering aspects from residence permits and financing to academic practices and campus services. While most instruction is in Finnish, several Bachelor's and Master's degree programs are taught entirely in English. Savonia also actively cooperates with international education partners in over 30 countries, facilitating student and staff mobility.

Campus & Location

Savonia UAS operates across three cities in Eastern Finland: Kuopio, Iisalmi, and Varkaus, with its main presence in Kuopio. Kuopio is described as a small to medium-sized urban setting, offering a blend of city life and natural beauty. The university's operations in Kuopio are consolidating in the Savilahti area, alongside the University of Eastern Finland campus and Technopolis Kuopio, creating a vibrant student hub.

Career Outcomes

Savonia graduates demonstrate strong career prospects, with an employment rate of approximately 90%. The university actively fosters industry connections through its research, development, and innovation (RDI) work, offering expertise and tailored problem-solving to enterprises and organizations. Career services aim to help students find individual career paths, and mechanical engineering graduates, for example, often find roles in international technology companies. Savonia also emphasizes regional employment, with about 60% of its graduates staying to work in the North Savo region.