The degree programme leads to a higher education degree which is a first cycle Bachelor-level degree in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). According to the eight-level classification of the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) the degree represents level 6.

Specific admission requirements

Please see the Applicant's Guide or the website www.seamk.fi/hakeminen.

Applicant's Guide's instructions are written in Finnish for degree programmes taught in Finnish and in English for degree programmes taught in English. On the website, application and instructions are in Finnish language for the degree programmes taught in Finnish.

Specific arrangements for recognition of prior learning

Seinäjoki UAS's common practices are observed in the assessment and recognition of prior learning (RPL). The final thesis and Maturity Test are not included in the RPL process. Other studies can either be replaced by courses of equivalent content or other acquired expertise. Studies completed in other institutions may also be incuded in the optional and elective studies.

To receive credit for the practical training for prior work experience a report must be submitted to the degree programme according to the practices observed. Previously acquired expertise expires in 10 years. The teacher who processes the applications may request additional information or demonstration of prior learning, if necessary. The following are used to assess prior learning:

Certificates from courses or other training of similar content
Interviews with the student in question and written reports
Job references and additional information acquired from employers
Skills test if necessary
Comparison of the above to the goals petaining to competence in the course(s) in question

Qualification requirements and regulations

Please see the Degree Regulations of Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences.

Pedagogical approach

A variety of teaching methods are utilised in the degree programme, the most important of which is project work. Projects engage students in problem-based, investigative learning, which simulates life in the working world.

Profile of the programme

Beginning studies in the field of culture is a challenging endeavour. It calls for passion and an appreciation for culture, which is a learning process in itself. This is the essence of the fascination of culture as a profession.

Creative work is innovative when it has a goal. Work in the field of culture and education especially should be both creative and innovative. Guidance and career counselling provide students with sustainable support throughout their entire academic career, guiding them through their studies in the field of culture, elucidating the distinctive characteristics of the field, and encouraging students in their learning process.

The aim of the Degree Programme in Design is to prepare students for various duties in the field of design. Emphasis in the programme is placed on user-oriented design that places the wishes and needs of the user in the forefront. Students will have command of project-based, goal-oriented methods of working, and they will be competent in working on multi-professional teams. Students learn through hands-on projects that simulate life in the working world. They will become familiar with the professional practices in each area of specialisation. Students have the opportunity to work in well-equipped workshops during their studies and to complete some of their studies as exchange students in partner institutions abroad.

The Graphic Design line of specialisation provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to create and manage a business and product image. Teaching in the first part of the programme concentrates on developing students’ basic skills in graphics and essential approaches needed to work in the field, such as the principles of designing and the use of computer programmes.

As their studies progress, students delve more deeply into the duties of a graphic designer through projects with various partners. Project partners include companies, associations and representatives of product design and marketing communications. During the projects, students gain extensive insight into the different perspectives of graphic design. At the end of the programme, students practise working as an independent professional. The aim is to prepare students to work in communities where one’s professional knowledge and skill is just as important as interaction and the ability to collaborate.

Occupational profiles

Graphic designers work in advertising offices, entrepreneurs or in small and mid-sized companies designing printed or electronic material.

Internationalization in the Degree Programme

The Degree Programme in Design emphasizes internationality. There is an international study module (30 credits) which is held in spring semester. Students have a possibility to carry out a part of their studies abroad. Also practical training or a part of it can be done abroad. The best time going abroad to study or to have a practical training is the spring semester of the second year of study or the third year of study. The material and publications used in courses are international.

Access to further studies

Students who have completed this programme are eligible to continue on to a university of applied sciences' master's degree programme in design. (University of applied sciences act 351/2003, in Finnish)

Course structure

Students complete 60 credits of coursework each academic year.

Examination regulations, assessment and grading

Please see the Degree Regulations of Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences.

Graduation requirements

Please see the Degree Regulations of Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences.

Mode of study

Students study full-time in this programme.

Contact persons

Head of degree programme: Mr Esa Leikkari, +358 40 830 4270, esa.leikkari(at)seamk.fi

Student counsellor: Mrs Tuija Huusko, +358 40 830 4227, tuija.huusko(at)seamk.fi

ECTS department coordinator / International coordinator: Ms Eija Pennanen, +358 40 830 4272, eija.pennanen(at)seamk.fi

ops.seamk.fi - Kampusranta 11, 2nd floor (Frami F), 60320 SEINÄJOKI - Puhelin: +358 20 124 5000 - Faksi: +358 20 124 5001 - opintotoimisto@seamk.fi