Established: 1996
Type: University of Applied Sciences
Location: Multiple campuses across Finland, including Helsinki, Oulu, Pori, Pieksämäki, and Turku.
Social Services
Health Care
Diaconal Work
Sign Language Interpreting
Inclusivity
Sustainability
Community Engagement
Diak engages in research and development projects, often in collaboration with local communities, organizations, and international partners. The focus areas typically align with their academic strengths and societal needs.
Diak is active in international cooperation, offering opportunities for student and staff exchanges, joint projects, and partnerships with institutions worldwide. They participate in programs like Erasmus+ to foster global learning experiences.
Focuses on social work, social pedagogy, and community development.
Prepares students to work in social service settings, including child welfare, youth work, and social counseling.
Emphasizes nursing care, health promotion, and patient education.
Graduates are qualified to work as registered nurses in diverse healthcare environments.
Combines social work with diaconal (church-based) work.
Prepares students for roles in both public and church organizations, addressing social and spiritual needs.
Focuses on Finnish Sign Language and interpreting skills.
Prepares students to work as professional interpreters in settings, including education, health care, and social services.
Advanced studies in social work, social policy, and leadership in social services.
Prepares graduates for leadership roles in social service organizations and public administration.
Specialized studies in areas like advanced nursing practice, health promotion, and healthcare management.
Aims to develop expertise in clinical practice, research, and healthcare leadership.
Focus on global health issues, international health policy, and cross-cultural healthcare.
Designed for professionals aiming to work in international health organizations and NGOs.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Social Services |
3.5 years |
$10,000 |
Nursing |
3.5 years |
$10,000 |
Diaconal Social Work |
3.5 years |
$10,000 |
Sign Language Interpreting |
4 years |
$10,000 |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
---|---|---|
Social Services |
1.5-2 years |
$11,000 |
Health Care |
1.5-2 years |
$11,000 |
Global Health Care |
1.5-2 years |
$11,000 |
Nursing (Bachelor of Health Care)
Duration: 3.5 years
Tuition Fees: Approximately $10,000 per year
Global Health Care (Master of Health Care)
Duration: 1.5-2 years
Tuition Fees: Approximately $11,000 per year
High school diploma or equivalent
Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Entrance examination or interview (depending on the program)
Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Relevant work experience (for some programs)
Entrance examination or interview (depending on the program)
Bachelor’s Programs: Around $10,000 per year
Master’s Programs: Around $11,000 per year
Diak offers scholarships for non-EU/EEA students, which can partially or fully cover the tuition fees. Scholarships are usually based on academic merit and are awarded to students demonstrating strong academic performance.
Accommodation: $400 - $800
Food: $200 - $300
Transport: $50 - $100
Miscellaneous: $100 - $200
Orientation Programs: To help new students settle in and understand the academic system.
Student Counseling: Academic and personal counseling services.
Career Services: Assistance with internships, job placements, and career planning.
Language Support: Finnish language courses to help international students integrate better.
Select the degree program that aligns with your career goals and interests. Diak offers programs in English and Finnish, including Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
Educational Background: Completion of upper secondary education or equivalent for Bachelor’s programs. For Master’s programs, a relevant Bachelor’s degree and work experience are required.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (Finnish or English). Accepted tests for English programs typically include IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic.
Completed application form
Copies of educational certificates and transcripts
Proof of language proficiency
Possible entrance exam registration or interview scheduling
Any additional documents required by the specific program (e.g., CV, motivation letter, work certificates for Master’s programs)
Apply through the Finnish national application portal, Studyinfo.fi, during the application period. Diak participates in the joint application system, meaning you can apply to multiple programs at Finnish universities simultaneously.
Some programs may require you to take an entrance exam or attend an interview. The details will be provided by Diak if applicable. Prepare accordingly by reviewing the subjects and format of the exam.
After the application period closes, wait for the admission results, which are typically announced on Studyinfo.fi. If you’re accepted, you’ll receive an official offer letter.
Submitting any additional documents
Paying tuition fees (if applicable)
Arranging for residence permit and housing (for international students)
Attend the orientation sessions organized by Diak to get familiar with the university, meet fellow students, and settle into your new academic environment. Start your classes as per the academic calendar.
Residence Permit: Apply for a student residence permit if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen.
Housing: Look for accommodation options early, as student housing can be competitive.
Scholarships: Explore scholarship opportunities that Diak or other Finnish organizations might offer to international students.
Autumn Intake: The main application period typically occurs in January, with studies starting in August or September.
Spring Intake: Some programs may offer a smaller intake in the spring, with applications usually open in March-April and studies beginning in January.
Autumn Intake: The primary intake for Master’s programs also usually takes place in January, with studies commencing in the autumn.
Spring Intake: Availability of spring intake for Master’s programs can vary; check specific program details for exact dates.
Educational Background: Applicants must have completed an upper secondary education (such as the Finnish Matriculation Examination, International Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate, or equivalent foreign qualification).
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (Finnish or English). For English-taught programs, accepted tests typically include:
IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.0
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80
PTE Academic: Minimum score of 54
Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: Minimum score of 169
Specific Program Requirements
Some programs may have additional requirements such as entrance exams, interviews, or specific subject prerequisites. Check the individual program descriptions for detailed requirements.
Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
Work Experience: A minimum of two years of relevant work experience post-Bachelor’s degree. This requirement ensures that candidates have practical experience in their field of study.
Language Proficiency: Similar to Bachelor’s programs, proof of language proficiency is required. Accepted tests and scores are the same as those for Bachelor’s programs.
Specific Program Requirements
Some Master’s programs might have additional criteria such as a portfolio, specific prior coursework, or professional certifications. Detailed requirements are provided in the program-specific admission guidelines.
Scholarship |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount/Coverage |
Application Process |
Remarks |
---|---|---|---|---|
Early Bird Scholarship |
Non-EU/EEA students enrolled in Bachelor’s or Master’s programs |
50% reduction in tuition fee for the first academic year |
Automatically considered upon early application |
Apply by the deadline specified in the offer letter |
Scholarship for Academic Excellence |
Non-EU/EEA students continuing their studies |
50% reduction in tuition fee for the following academic year |
Apply after completing the first academic year |
Based on academic performance |
Finnish Government Scholarship Pool |
Postgraduate students from selected countries |
Varies (covers living costs and travel expenses) |
Apply through the Finnish National Agency for Education |
Competitive, based on academic and research merit |
Institutional Scholarships |
Non-EU/EEA students |
Varies (partial or full tuition fee waiver) |
Apply during the application process or after admission |
Specific criteria may apply depending on the scholarship program |
Campus Location |
Programs Offered |
Accommodation Options |
Cost of Accommodation (Approx.) |
Facilities Included |
---|---|---|---|---|
Helsinki |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work, etc. |
HOAS (Foundation for Student Housing) |
€400 - €700/month |
Internet, laundry, common areas, kitchen |
Oulu |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
PSOAS (Student Housing Foundation of Northern Finland) |
€300 - €500/month |
Internet, laundry, common areas, kitchen |
Pieksämäki |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
Diak Student Housing, private rentals |
€250 - €400/month |
Internet, laundry, common areas, kitchen |
Pori |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
Student housing via Porin YH-Asunnot |
€300 - €450/month |
Internet, laundry, common areas, kitchen |
Turku |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
TYS (Turku Student Village Foundation) |
€350 - €600/month |
Internet, laundry, common areas, kitchen |
Diak is known for its strong emphasis on practical and professional skills.
Programs are designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
Opportunities for internships and practical training are integral parts of the curriculum.
Academic advising and counseling services are available to help students succeed.
Language support and tutoring services are offered for non-native speakers.
Workshops and seminars are conducted to enhance learning and professional skills.
Numerous student organizations and clubs cater to a wide range of interests, from cultural and social activities to professional development.
Diak’s Student Union (O’Diako) organizes events, parties, sports activities, and trips.
Joining clubs is a great way to meet new people and engage in campus life.
Regular events such as cultural festivals, sports competitions, and social gatherings.
Themed parties, movie nights, and other social events provide a lively campus atmosphere.
Opportunities to participate in national and international student exchange programs.
Access to sports facilities such as gyms, swimming pools, and sports halls.
Organized sports teams and fitness classes, including yoga, aerobics, and team sports.
Outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and cycling are popular, given Finland’s natural beauty.
Opportunities to experience Finnish culture through local events and festivals.
Student discounts for cultural activities such as museum visits, theater performances, and concerts.
Workshops and classes to learn Finnish language and traditions.
Affordable and comfortable student housing options are available through providers like HOAS (Helsinki), PSOAS (Oulu), and TYS (Turku).
Shared apartments, single rooms, and studios with amenities like internet, laundry, and common areas.
Housing facilities are usually well-connected to campus by public transport.
Monthly living expenses for a student in Finland typically range from €700 to €1,200, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Student discounts available for public transport, meals, and services.
Integrated into Curriculum: Practical training is a mandatory part of all degree programs at Diak. Students are required to complete internships in relevant fields as part of their studies.
Wide Network of Partners: Diak collaborates with organizations, including healthcare providers, social services, NGOs, and public sector institutions, to provide students with internship opportunities.
Real-World Experience: These internships allow students to gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and build networks in their chosen field.
Career Counseling: Diak offers career counseling services to help students with career planning, job searching, and professional development.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and seminars on topics such as resume writing, interview skills, and job search strategies.
Job Placement Support: Assistance with finding job placements, including job listings, application guidance, and interview preparation.
Career Fairs: Diak organizes career fairs and networking events where students can meet potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and make professional connections.
Industry Connections: Through partnerships and collaborations with industries, students have opportunities to connect with professionals and organizations in their field of study.
Alumni Network: A strong alumni network that can provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and job leads.
High Employability: Graduates from Diak have high employability rates due to the practical nature of their education and the strong emphasis on professional skills.
Relevant Fields: Graduates typically find employment in sectors such as healthcare, social services, education, and non-profit organizations.
Start-up Support: For students interested in entrepreneurship, Diak provides support through workshops, mentoring, and resources to help start and grow their own businesses.
Innovation and Projects: Opportunities to participate in innovation projects and competitions to develop entrepreneurial skills and bring ideas to life.
Campus Location |
Address |
Programs Offered |
Special Features |
---|---|---|---|
Helsinki |
Kyläsaarenkuja 2, 00580 Helsinki |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work, etc. |
Largest campus, diverse student body, central location |
Oulu |
Albertinkatu 16, 90100 Oulu |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
Northern location, close-knit community |
Pieksämäki |
Keskuskatu 32, 76100 Pieksämäki |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
Small-town atmosphere, specialized programs |
Pori |
Otavankatu 3, 28100 Pori |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
Coastal city, modern facilities |
Turku |
Linnankatu 56, 20100 Turku |
Social Services, Health Care, Diaconal Work |
Historic city, vibrant student life |