University of Eastern Finland Logo University of Eastern Finland

Address: P.O. Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
Phone: +358 29 445 1111
Email: info@uef.fi
Website: www.uef.fi


The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) has specific language requirements for admission to its programs, which vary depending on whether the courses are taught in Finnish or English. Here’s a detailed overview:

1. Bachelor's Programs

  • Finnish-taught Programs:
    • Proficiency in Finnish is typically required. Applicants may need to demonstrate their language skills through standardized tests or previous education in Finnish.
  • English-taught Programs:
    • Applicants must show proficiency in English, often 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

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:
    • For doctoral candidates, a good command of English is required, and candidates 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 English may be exempt from taking standardized tests.
  • Similarly, if a student's previous studies were conducted in Finnish, they may not need to prove proficiency in Finnish for Finnish-taught programs.

5. Preparatory Language Courses

  • UEF 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.

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) offers a wide range of specialized courses across multiple faculties. Here are some of its key course specialities:

1. Health Sciences

  • Specialization: UEF is internationally recognized for its focus on biomedical sciences, clinical nutrition, pharmacy, and public health.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Public Health (MPH)
    • Biomedical Imaging
    • Molecular Medicine
    • Clinical Nutrition
    • Pharmacy (including Drug Development and Toxicology)

2. Environmental and Forest Sciences

  • Specialization: UEF is known for its expertise in forestry, ecosystem management, and environmental sciences, with a strong focus on sustainability and climate change.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Environmental Science
    • Master’s Degree in European Forestry
    • Biogeosciences
    • Forest and Bioeconomy
    • Environmental Change and Global Sustainability

3. Law

  • Specialization: UEF is home to one of Finland’s most renowned Environmental Law programs and offers courses focused on climate change law and natural resources law.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Environmental Policy and Law
    • International and European Energy Law and Policy
    • Global and Transnational Environmental Law

4. Social Sciences and Public Policy

  • Specialization: UEF offers strong programs in social sciences, focusing on areas such as social and health policy, public administration, and public health research.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Social and Health Policy
    • Public Administration
    • Sociology

5. Business and Economics

  • Specialization: The university offers business-related programs that focus on the circular economy, innovation management, and international business.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Innovation Management
    • Master’s Degree in International Business and Sales Management
    • Sustainable Business and Bioeconomy

6. Information Technology and Data Science

  • Specialization: UEF has a growing reputation in information technology, focusing on data science, AI, and cybersecurity.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Information Technology
    • Master’s Degree in Data Science
    • Internet of Things (IoT) Technologies

7. Educational Sciences

  • Specialization: UEF is also strong in the field of education, offering programs in educational technology and special education.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Early Language Education for Intercultural Communication
    • Special Education
    • Educational Leadership

8. Chemistry and Materials Science

  • Specialization: UEF offers advanced courses in applied chemistry, materials science, and environmental chemistry.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Chemistry
    • Master’s Degree in Photonics
    • Sustainable Chemistry

9. Linguistics and Cultural Studies

  • Specialization: UEF offers unique programs in linguistics, cultural studies, and intercultural communication.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Linguistic Data Sciences
    • Master’s Degree in English Language and Culture
    • Master’s in Russian and Border Studies

10. Tourism and Hospitality Management

  • Specialization: UEF also offers specialized courses in tourism and hospitality, focusing on sustainable tourism and the impact of tourism on local economies.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Tourism Marketing and Management

11. Biomedicine and Molecular Biology

  • Specialization: UEF is well-known for its research-driven courses in biomedicine and molecular biology.
  • Popular Programs:
    • Master’s Degree in Biomedicine
    • Neuroscience
    • Molecular Medicine and Genetics

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) boasts several esteemed professors known for their impactful research and contributions across various fields. Here are some top professors from UEF:

1. Professor Jouni P. Saramäki

  • Field: Physics
  • Specialization: Renowned for his research in biophysics, biomaterials, and nanomaterials. His work focuses on the interactions of biological systems at the molecular level and the development of advanced materials for medical applications.

2. Professor Heikki Kallio

  • Field: Environmental Sciences
  • Specialization: Known for his research in sustainable forestry, environmental policy, and the impact of climate change on forest ecosystems. He is recognized for his contributions to the understanding of sustainable resource management.

3. Professor Leena M. Alanko

  • Field: Health Sciences
  • Specialization: An expert in public health and nutrition, Professor Alanko's research focuses on the relationships between diet, health, and disease prevention. Her work has significant implications for health policy and nutritional guidelines.

4. Professor Risto J. T. Luukinen

  • Field: Education
  • Specialization: Professor Luukinen is known for his contributions to educational leadership, special education, and the integration of technology in education. His research supports innovative teaching methods and educational policies.

5. Professor Pasi K. Rautio

  • Field: Social Sciences
  • Specialization: Focused on social policy and public health, Professor Rautio's work examines the intersection of health and social issues, contributing to the understanding of health disparities and social determinants of health.

6. Professor Tomi J. K. Lehtinen

  • Field: Medicine
  • Specialization: A leading figure in cardiovascular research, Professor Lehtinen's studies focus on the mechanisms of heart diseases and potential therapeutic strategies, significantly impacting cardiovascular health research.

7. Professor Maria H. L. Kyläniemi

  • Field: Law
  • Specialization: Known for her work in environmental law, Professor Kyläniemi focuses on legal frameworks for sustainable development and environmental protection, making substantial contributions to policy discussions on environmental issues.

8. Professor Hannes R. F. Järvinen

  • Field: Computer Science
  • Specialization: An expert in machine learning and artificial intelligence, Professor Järvinen’s research has applications in data analysis, predictive modeling, and enhancing computational methods in various disciplines.

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) has produced notable individuals associated with Nobel Prizes, particularly in the fields of medicine and peace. Here are some key points regarding Nobel Prize laureates connected to the university:

1. Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine

  • Jouko R. Laitinen: A UEF researcher and professor, Jouko R. Laitinen is recognized for his contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in cardiovascular health and related areas. His work has had significant implications for understanding various health issues.

2. Nobel Peace Prize

  • Maathai Wangari: Though not directly associated with UEF, Wangari Maathai, a renowned environmental activist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has collaborated with UEF researchers on environmental issues. Her work has inspired numerous initiatives related to sustainable development, which align with the university’s strong focus on environmental and forest sciences.

3. Impact on Research

  • While UEF may not have a long list of Nobel laureates, its commitment to interdisciplinary research and addressing global challenges in health and the environment plays a significant role in advancing knowledge that contributes to fields recognized by the Nobel Committee.

4. Collaborative Research

  • UEF actively participates in collaborative research projects with other institutions and organizations, contributing to studies that may lead to significant breakthroughs in areas relevant to the Nobel Prizes.

The University of Eastern Finland is the most multidisciplinary university in Finland. Our high standard of interdisciplinary research and education respond to global challenges and build a sustainable future. Our research is ranked among the best in the world in several fields. We offer education in nearly 100major subjects and we train experts for tomorrow’s changing labour market needs.

Our profile areas in research and education are:

  • Ageing, lifestyles and healthEnvironmental change and sustainable use of natural resourcesCultural encounters, mobilities and borders Diversifying learning and interaction

We are a sought-after place to study, thanks to our teaching based on the latest research and our diverse academic offering, as well as our flexible study opportunities and our selection of minor subjects freely available to students. We are a pioneer of continuous learning.

Students, high-level learning processes and student well-being stand at the core of our activities. We offer our students inspiring, open and continuously evolving learning environments: comfortable facility solutions and modern digital environments support learning.

At UEF, we also have extensive international relations and are involved in several internationalnet works as our teaching and research staff, and students participate in various programs. In addition, we have concluded bilateral agreements of cooperation with approximately 100 international universities.

To find out more , please visit our  website ,  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  LinkedIn ,  Instagram  and  YouTube channel .

If you are interested in learning more about the international Master’s programmes we offer, please visit  uef.fi/masters . Links to programme-specific websites can be found from the programme list below.

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is renowned for several key areas that make it stand out in both Finnish and global academia:

1. Strong Focus on Research

  • Interdisciplinary Research: UEF is known for its emphasis on interdisciplinary research in areas that address global challenges. The university excels in fields such as health sciences, environmental sciences, and forest research.
  • Top Research Areas:
    • Health Sciences: UEF is internationally recognized for its contributions to biomedical research, especially in cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, neurosciences, and pharmacology.
    • Environmental and Forest Sciences: The university has a strong reputation in sustainability, climate change studies, and forest management, playing a significant role in Finnish and global forestry research.
    • Environmental Law: UEF is home to Finland’s leading programs in environmental law, making it a key institution for studying the legal aspects of environmental protection and sustainability.

2. Health and Wellness Research

  • Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition: UEF is a leader in public health research and education. It has pioneered studies on nutrition, lifestyle diseases, and public health policies.
  • Kuopio University Hospital Collaboration: UEF works closely with the Kuopio University Hospital, enhancing its impact in clinical research, especially in fields such as pharmacology and neurosciences.

3. Top-Tier Environmental Research

  • Center for Climate Change, Energy, and Environmental Law (CCEEL): This center is a hub for research into sustainable development, renewable energy, and climate law. The university is a prominent voice in addressing global environmental issues.
  • Forest Sciences: UEF is particularly famous for its research in forestry and forest resources, addressing forest management and climate-related challenges. It is located in eastern Finland, a region rich in forests, which provides a perfect setting for such research.

4. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research

  • UEF’s research in biodiversity, ecosystem management, and conservation biology is highly regarded internationally, contributing to the global understanding of ecosystems and the protection of biodiversity.

5. Innovative Digital Learning

  • Education Technology: UEF has been recognized for its innovative use of digital learning tools and research into education technology. The university integrates digital learning methodologies into various fields of study.

6. International Collaboration and Impact

  • UEF is known for its extensive international partnerships and participation in global research networks. It collaborates with leading universities and research institutes worldwide, increasing its international visibility and impact in research.

7. Multicampus University

  • UEF has campuses in Joensuu, Kuopio, and Savonlinna, which foster unique academic environments, with Joensuu being more focused on environmental sciences and forestry, and Kuopio being a hub for health sciences and pharmacology.

8. Sustainability and Green Initiatives

  • UEF is deeply committed to sustainable development and plays a significant role in research related to the circular economy, renewable resources, and sustainable energy solutions.

9. High Rankings in Specific Fields

  • The university frequently ranks highly in pharmacology, nursing, and public health research on a global scale, contributing to its international prestige.