Studying

Science advances the knowledge of how the universe works: 

• Our understanding of the universe and all modern technology is based on advances made in scientific research over approx. the last 100 years. 
• The operation of computers and mobile phones relies fully on quantum mechanical principles, and the nature of matter in the universe has been unveiled by studies in particle physics, astronomy and cosmology. 
• New exciting discoveries are constantly made and will affect our future. For instance, studies on quantum information combined with the development of new materials are just about to open up the doors for quantum computing, and the analysis by artificial intelligence of big data will lead to new ways to cure disease.

As a student in the Bachelor's Programme in Science, you will: 

• be able to focus on one field of science or combine studies across two or three different fields for a truly multidisciplinary education. 
• receive a foundation in university-level math and basic programming skills during the first half-year, and then based on your own interest specialise in math and statistics, computer/data science, physics or chemistry, or a combination of these. 
• learn analytical, data collection and problem-solving skills, teamwork and project skills, communication and presentation skills, research skills, computational and data-processing skills, and be able to interpret and evaluate information.
• study at the Kumpula campus, the largest centre in the Nordic countries for research in exact natural sciences, and a dynamic study environment with a good sense of community. 
• enjoy a wide variety of constantly developing teaching methods, and get easily involved in research groups and active student organisations.
• have a bright employment outlook in various research institutes or industries, e.g., IT companies, nanoscience and chemical industries. 
• have the right, without a separate application, to continue in one of the nine MSc programmes of the Faculty of Science after completing your BSc degree.

Watch the video to see what our lecturers and students have to tell about the study fields and themes that are available in the Bachelor’s Programme in Science. You will also find out what kind of competence and work opportunities you gain by studying in the programme.

The Bachelor's Programme in Science comprises 180 credits, which can be completed in three years, in accordance with an approved personal study plan. 

The degree includes:

• 15-30 credits of mandatory common studies in basic math, basic computer science and statistics
• 15 credits of transferable skills courses that help in orienting yourself towards working life, and a group work course introducing modern science topics studied at the Faculty
• 10 credits of language studies, comprising 4 credits of academic English and 6 credits of basic courses in Finnish or Swedish (for students with Finnish or Swedish as secondary education language, 3 credits of Finnish and 3 credits of Swedish at an advanced level)
• 60-105 credits of basic and intermediate courses
• 10 credits of a final seminar (4 cr) and bachelor's thesis (6 cr)
• 35-50 credits of other courses according to your study track and personal study plan

During the first half year, all students receive a foundation in university-level math and basic programming skills. After this, they choose a study track, with second- and third-year university-level courses offered in mathematics and statistics, computer/data science, physics and chemistry. It is also possible to combine studies of two or three tracks to get a truly multidisciplinary education.

The degree includes on the BSc level a thesis of 6 credits. BSc thesis is a short (about 15–20 pages) literature study on a timely subject written following scientific standards and referencing practice.

In the Studies service, you can explore the degree structure, content and learning outcomes from the level of the degree programme to individual courses. 

Bachelor's Programme in Science has four study tracks: chemistry, computer and data science, mathematics and statistics and physics.

• Mathematics and Statistics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Computer and Data Science

You can select any of these study tracks according to your preferences at the beginning of your studies. The track determines which courses you should take. The programme allows you to specialize in your chosen study track or follow an interdisciplinary education by also taking courses from other study tracks.

The programme offers flexibility, allowing you to focus on one field of science or combine studies across two or three different fields for a truly multidisciplinary education. 

The Bachelor's Programme in Science is conducted entirely in English. If you know Finnish or Swedish, you can also participate in courses offered in those languages within the faculty. However, a minimum of 75% of the credits, including the Bachelor's thesis, must be completed in English. 

You can check out our courses in the online course catalogue for the University of Helsinki students.

Moreover, we encourage international students to learn Finnish and/or Swedish, which helps with integration into Finnish society.

The best way to know more about the Bachelor's Programme in Science is through our students and graduates!

Find out what they say about the programme, their studies and life in Helsinki, career paths or plans, and much more.

Student life and especially the student organisation culture is exceptionally rich and diverse in Finland. 

At the University of Helsinki, the student community is very active. More than 240 student organisations operate within the Student Union of the University of Helsinki (HYY), ranging from faculty and subject organisations to political and societal organisations, and from choirs and orchestras to sports and game clubs. Their activities include anniversary celebrations, academic dinner parties, cultural events, get-togethers and excursions.

Integralis ry is the student organisation for students of the Bachelor's Programme in Science.

Students in Finland are also entitled to many benefits and services. For example, affordable student housing, low-cost sports services and student-priced meals. You also get numerous discounts, for example on public transport fees across the country.