There are two kinds of language requirements for international degree students: admission requirements and degree requirements. Admission requirements must be met before acceptance to the University, while degree requirements must be met before a degree is granted. Admission requirements are intended to ensure that students have the minimum language skills necessary for successful study. Degree requirements include language skills needed in the student's specific field of study.
A basic instruction to the degree programmes at the University of Jyväskylä is mostly given in Finnish, with the exception of courses in the various language departments and in the International Master's Degree Programmes, which are taught entirely in English. If you plan to study as an undergraduate - for the Bachelor degree - in most fields you will eventually need good knowledge of Finnish, although you may use English in examinations and textbooks, and many subjects are often offered in English. If you foresee that your degree will require good knowledge of Finnish, it is very important to start your Finnish language courses at the very beginning of your studies in Jyväskylä.
The language requirements for international degree students are confirmed annually by the faculty councils and they vary according to faculty. Generally, they include Finnish language studies and courses in one foreign language (English, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Italian, or Latin). Since international students may have very different linguistic backgrounds, it is advisable to consult the Academic Advisor in your faculty in order to draw up a plan for language studies.
International Master's Degree Programmes, which are taught entirely in English at the University of Jyväskylä, may also have compulsory language requirements for both Finnish and international students; for example, in scientific writing. The requirements vary according to the programme and the faculty in which the Master's degree is being completed. Please consult the study guide and /or the Academic Coordinator of the relevant programme about the degree language requirements of your programme.
Study guide of the University