Double degree opens doors to the world

Annette Olup received her diploma from both Turku University of Applied Sciences and the German OTH Regensburg at the same time. According to Olup, the double degree has been one of the best decisions she has made during her studies. The double degree has enabled her to study in an international environment and has increased her courage as well as her language skills.

Text: Johanna Stenroos-Vuorio, photos: Annette Olup

Turku University of Applied Sciences is known for its internationality and multicultural learning environment. One concrete example of its international activities is the dual degree, which can be completed at a partner university during the course of studies.

In 2025, Turku UAS has 15 international double degree agreements with universities in different countries. Annette Olup, a business student, decided to do a double degree in Germany, at the OTH Regensburg.

Olup started her business administration studies in Turku University of Applied Sciences at Salo in autumn 2021 and was impressed by the warm and close atmosphere of the campus right from the start.

− I particularly liked the fact that it was easy to approach teachers and get support when needed on a small campus. The studies felt practical and meaningful right from the start, she says.

She was already interested in internationality at the beginning of her studies. When she was told about the possibility of a double degree, the decision was easy.

− I knew immediately that I wanted to seize the opportunity. Regensburg seemed the most suitable option − the German business environment is highly regarded and the city itself is attractive.

Challenges and growth

The double degree means that Olup graduated from both Turku University of Applied Sciences (Bachelor of Business Administration, BBA) and OTH Regensburg (Bachelor of Arts, BA).

Adapting to the new learning environment was not entirely straightforward. The language barrier, different teaching methods and cultural differences took some getting used to. The biggest challenge, however, was finding an internship abroad − OTH Regensburg’s requirements did not allow you to do an internship in Finland.

− I sent job applications every day and attended several interviews. Although there were rejections, I learned a lot from each one. Finally, I got a job at BMW Financial Service in Munich.

An international environment develops many skills

According to Olup, completing a double degree has been the best decision she’s made during her studies.

− I’ve had the chance to study in an international environment, develop my language skills and meet great people. The experience gave me much more than I expected.

Annette Olup’s story shows how international study can open doors, build courage and provide unique experiences that will last well into the future. A double degree is not just an academic achievement − it is also a journey of self-development, understanding new cultures and building networks.

Regensburg, a beautiful and historic city in Bavaria, offered Olup an inspiring environment to study with motivated international students. The studies were intensive and English-language learning took some getting used to at first, but brought with it a huge amount of development and preparedness for international working life.

− Nowadays, working in English sometimes feels even more natural than working in Finnish, Olup says.

Annette Olup feels that she has received support from both the Salo campus and the international services of Turku University of Applied Sciences. The application process, study plans and communication during the exchange worked well and the well-being of the student was genuinely important. Family support was also an important asset.

− The double degree made me appreciate more and more the perspectives of people from different cultures and I also learned a lot about myself. I am now much more courageous, social, self-motivated and ready to face new challenges in my life.

Annette Olup recommends the double degree to anyone who is interested in an international career, wants to develop their language skills and is ready to step outside their comfort zone. A bold, good and open mind will go a long way. In addition, studying in a new environment develops the skills to be generally associated with what is known as “internal entrepreneurship”. These include initiative, problem-solving, risk-taking and the ability to act independently.