Vocational education and training

Vocational qualifications in three years

Vocational studies are comprised of practical hands-on work combined with theory. The studies include a minimum of six months in on-the-job learning, where the student learns first hand in environments specifically geared to their area of study. These qualifications provide a solid basis for working life and the eligibility for further studies in a polytechnic or academic university.

The vocational education and training is provided by vocational institutions and as apprenticeship training. The basic qualifications take three years to complete. The duration of the schooling may vary if a student has earlier studies and work experience.

Adult education is open to everyone

Vocational adult education and training

• leads to qualifications
• develops professional competence or
• supports leisure time interests

Anyone can partake of the benefits of adult education regardless of their educational background. The adult education programme enables students to complete basic vocational or specialist vocational qualifications.

Adult education is even less constrained to a particular time and place, making it possible to study and work simultaneously. The training utilises the latest instruction methods, such as data technology and the opportunities offered by multimedia and network-based education.

Apprenticeship training is a flexible route to your future

Apprenticeship training is a flexible and practical method of learning in which the student (employee) and the employer enter into a fixed-term employment and education relationship. The education is carried out primarily through hands-on tasks in the workplace which supplement the theoretical studies provided at an institute of learning. All apprenticeship training arrangements are handled by the Vocational Apprenticeship Office.

An apprenticeship training agreement can be applied to already employed personnel, new employees or entrepreneurs. The employer pays the apprenticeship training student’s salary in accordance with the collective labour agreement valid in that particular field.

The Finnish Education System (pdf)
The Finnish Education System (ppt)

More information about Turku Vocational Institute in various languages