The Finnish Open University is not an autonomous university as such, but rather a system of study. A number of Finnish universities provide Open University courses in cooperation with their departments and faculties.
Basic Principles
- Openness: open to all, regardless of age and educational background
- Equivalence: the quality and standard of teaching are equivalent to the teaching at the university
- Equality: the Open University promotes educational and regional equality
All goals of study are considered equal, whether studies are pursued as a hobby, for professional qualification or for a university degree. Studying is part-time (evening and weekend classes).
The Open University does not grant degrees. Courses are however part of university degree programmes and may therefore be incorporated into a university degree if the student applies and is admitted to university studies later.
For more information about the Open University system in Finland: www.avoimenfoorumi.fi.