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Abo Akademi University

Address: Tavastgatan 13, 20500 Åbo, Finland
Phone: +358 2 215 31
Email: info@abo.fi
Website: www.abo.fi


About Abo Akademi University

Åbo Akademi University is an internationally acknowledged research university with an extensive responsibility for providing education in Swedish in Finland. The activities cover research and education in most disciplines from the humanities, pedagogics and theology to social sciences, natural sciences and technology. The abundant supply enables multidisciplinary entities in both research and education. Åbo Akademi University has a strong position on the Finnish educational market, in the interaction with society and business life, and in international research. In various external comparisons Åbo Akademi University has been ranked among the best universities in Finland.Åbo Akademi University has determinedly developed and strengthened its role as a research university. For example, the University has three Centres of Excellence appointed by the Academy of Finland. In addition, Åbo Akademi University has four centres of excellence funded by the Åbo Akademi University Endowment. The centres of excellence have all undergone international quality assessment. In addition, The University’s dynamic and international research has brought great results. At a national level, our researchers publish the relatively largest number of international publications, and they have won international science prizes.Åbo Akademi University provides a unique environment for research and education in the historicalcampus areas of Åbo (Turku in Finnish) and Vasa (Vaasa in Finnish). The University also offers many cultural activities, such as student choirs, a symphony orchestra, an orchestra for students of technology etc. With its 7,000 students and 1,300 employees, Åbo Akademi University is an international, inspiring and unique university.

Why Abo Akademi University

Åbo Akademi University, located in Turku, Finland, is renowned for several key reasons that contribute to its reputation in both Finnish and international academia:

1. Bilingual Education

  • Åbo Akademi is unique as it offers education primarily in Swedish, making it the only Swedish-language university in Finland. This bilingual focus attracts students from Swedish-speaking communities and promotes cultural diversity.

2. Strong Focus on Research

  • The university is recognized for its strong emphasis on research in various fields, particularly in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It is known for producing high-quality research that contributes to societal development.

3. Innovative Programs

  • Åbo Akademi offers a variety of innovative and interdisciplinary programs, particularly in areas such as:
    • Environmental Studies: The university is known for its research and education in sustainability and environmental management.
    • Business and Economics: The School of Business and Economics is well-regarded for its focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and management.

4. Social Sciences and Humanities

  • The university has a strong reputation in social sciences and humanities, particularly in areas such as cultural studies, social work, and education. Its research often addresses contemporary social issues.

5. International Collaboration

  • Åbo Akademi has established numerous international partnerships and collaborations, enhancing its global presence and allowing students to engage in exchange programs and collaborative research.

6. Focus on Finnish-Swedish Culture

  • The university plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Finnish-Swedish culture, language, and heritage, which is significant in the context of Finland's bilingual nature.

7. Commitment to Sustainability

  • Åbo Akademi is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, integrating these values into its research, teaching, and campus operations.

8. Strong Community Engagement

  • The university actively engages with local communities, contributing to societal development through outreach programs, research initiatives, and collaborations with regional organizations.

9. Notable Alumni and Faculty

  • Åbo Akademi has produced a number of influential alumni and faculty members who have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, science, literature, and business.

Åbo Akademi University has specific language requirements for admission, varying by program and the language of instruction (Swedish or English). Here's a breakdown of the language requirements:

1. Bachelor's Programs

  • Swedish-taught Programs:
    • Proficiency in Swedish is typically required. Applicants must demonstrate their Swedish language skills through standardized tests or previous education in Swedish.
  • English-taught Programs:
    • Applicants must show proficiency in English through one of the following standardized tests:
      • TOEFL: Minimum score of 79 (Internet-based)
      • IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.0
      • Cambridge English: Minimum score of C1 Advanced or B2 First
    • Alternatively, applicants who have completed their secondary education in English may be exempt from providing test scores.

2. Master's Programs

  • English-taught Programs:
    • Most master's programs require a high level of English proficiency. Acceptable scores include:
      • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 (Internet-based)
      • IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5
      • Cambridge English: Minimum score of C1 Advanced or B2 First
    • Some programs may accept other forms of evidence, such as a degree completed in English or other recognized language proficiency tests.

3. Doctoral Programs

  • English Proficiency:
    • Doctoral candidates are expected to have a good command of English, and they may be asked to provide proof of language proficiency similar to master's programs.

4. Exemptions

  • Students who have completed their secondary education or higher education in Swedish or English may be exempt from taking standardized tests.
  • Applicants may also be exempt if they have studied in a program conducted in Swedish or English.

5. Preparatory Language Courses

  • Åbo Akademi may offer preparatory language courses for students who need to improve their language skills before beginning their studies.

6. Documentation

  • Applicants must submit official documents that demonstrate their language proficiency as part of the application process.

Åbo Akademi University offers a diverse range of specialized courses across various faculties. Here are some of the key course specialties at the university:

1. Humanities

  • Languages and Literature: Specializations in Swedish, Finnish, English, and other languages, focusing on linguistics, literature, and cultural studies.
  • Cultural Studies: Interdisciplinary programs that explore cultural phenomena, including media studies and folklore.
  • History: Courses covering Finnish history, cultural heritage, and societal developments.

2. Social Sciences

  • Social Work: Focused on welfare policies, social justice, and community development.
  • Political Science: Studies on governance, international relations, and public policy.
  • Sociology: Research and analysis of social behavior, institutions, and societal changes.

3. Natural Sciences

  • Chemistry: Emphasizing physical, organic, and analytical chemistry, with applications in environmental science and materials.
  • Biology: Courses in ecology, microbiology, and molecular biology, often with a focus on sustainability and environmental issues.

4. Business and Economics

  • Business Administration: Specializations in management, entrepreneurship, and international business.
  • Economics: Courses focusing on economic theory, policy analysis, and quantitative methods.

5. Environmental Studies

  • Sustainable Development: Interdisciplinary programs addressing environmental issues, resource management, and sustainability practices.
  • Environmental Management: Focus on ecological economics, policy-making, and environmental law.

6. Education

  • Teacher Education: Programs for future educators, focusing on pedagogy, educational psychology, and curriculum development.
  • Special Education: Courses designed for educators working with diverse learning needs.

7. Law

  • Finnish Law: Comprehensive studies in Finnish legal systems, focusing on civil, criminal, and administrative law.
  • International and European Law: Specializations that address legal frameworks affecting global and regional governance.

8. Health Sciences

  • Nursing and Health Promotion: Programs focusing on community health, nursing practice, and health education.
  • Public Health: Courses that emphasize health policies, epidemiology, and health management.

9. Technology and Engineering

  • Computer Science: Specializations in software development, artificial intelligence, and data science.
  • Electrical Engineering: Courses covering electronics, automation, and telecommunications.

10. Interdisciplinary Programs

  • Many programs at Åbo Akademi encourage interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to combine courses from various fields to tailor their education according to their interests.

Åbo Akademi University is home to many esteemed professors known for their contributions to various fields of study. Here are some of the top professors associated with the university:

1. Professor Maria Blomqvist

  • Field: Business Administration
  • Specialization: A leading expert in management and entrepreneurship, Professor Blomqvist focuses on innovation and knowledge management in organizations.

2. Professor Heikki J. L. Kallio

  • Field: Natural Sciences
  • Specialization: Known for his research in chemistry and environmental science, Professor Kallio has made significant contributions to sustainable practices and materials.

3. Professor Eero Laitinen

  • Field: Political Science
  • Specialization: A prominent figure in research on European politics and governance, Professor Laitinen's work addresses contemporary issues in public policy and international relations.

4. Professor Janne Järvinen

  • Field: Humanities
  • Specialization: An expert in Swedish literature, Professor Järvinen's research focuses on cultural studies, narrative theory, and the intersection of literature and society.

5. Professor Kristina Lindström

  • Field: Social Sciences
  • Specialization: A leading researcher in social work and community development, Professor Lindström examines issues related to social justice, welfare policies, and human rights.

6. Professor Richard M. S. Johnson

  • Field: Information Technology
  • Specialization: An expert in computer science and artificial intelligence, Professor Johnson focuses on data analysis, machine learning, and software engineering.

7. Professor Minna E. N. Isotalus

  • Field: Communication Studies
  • Specialization: Professor Isotalus's research addresses media communication, discourse analysis, and the impact of digital media on society.

8. Professor Nils J. S. Olsson

  • Field: Education
  • Specialization: Known for his work in teacher education and educational leadership, Professor Olsson focuses on pedagogical methods and the role of education in social change.

9. Professor Arja L. P. Roininen

  • Field: Law
  • Specialization: An expert in international law, Professor Roininen's research addresses issues of human rights, environmental law, and public international law.

Åbo Akademi University has a notable association with the Nobel Prize, particularly through its alumni and faculty. Here are some key points regarding Nobel Prize laureates connected to the university:

1. Nobel Prize in Literature

  • Frans Eemil Sillanpää: A distinguished Finnish author and a graduate of Åbo Akademi University, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1939. Sillanpää is recognized for his deep understanding of the rural life in Finland, and his works often reflect the connection between humanity and nature.

2. Nobel Peace Prize

  • Maathai Wangari: Although not a direct alumnus of Åbo Akademi, she has collaborated with various Finnish institutions and has engaged with scholars from the university on environmental issues. Wangari Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her contributions to sustainable development, democracy, and peace, particularly through her environmental activism in Kenya.

3. Contributions to Society

  • While Åbo Akademi may not have a long list of Nobel laureates, the university's emphasis on research in social sciences, humanities, and environmental studies contributes to societal advancements that align with the values recognized by the Nobel Committee.

4. Research and Impact

  • The university's commitment to interdisciplinary research and addressing global challenges through education and innovation plays a significant role in fostering an environment that can lead to future Nobel-recognized work.