Degree Programme in Social Services

Specific admission requirements

Specific admission requirements are specified in the programme study plan. In addition to the level of English skills mentioned in the general admission requirements applicants are expected to have a sufficient level of Finnish language skills.

Specific arrangements for recognition of prior learning

A student has an opportunity to make earlier learning visible and get a decision on the recognition of these competences. For further information see the General instructions of recognition of prior learning.

Qualification requirements and regulations

The Degree Regulations of Metropolia university of applied scienses: >>

Profile of the programme

Look at the General Description of the Programme: http://www.metropolia.fi/en/degree-programmes/welfare-human-functioning/social-services/

We train well rounded, responsible experts in social welfare to work boldly for human rights and a sustainable future.

Key learning outcomes

The degree programme is based on the competence areas of Bachelor of Social Services:
1. Ethical competence in social services
2. Communication and interaction competence
3. Counselling and guidance competence
4. Participatory and critical societal competence
5. Research and development competence
6. Work community and leadership competence

For further information see curriculum: http://opinto-opas-ops.metropolia.fi/index.php?rt=index/nuoretJaAikuiset/SS12S1&lang=en

Occupational profiles of graduates with examples

The foundation of professionalism for Bachelors of Social Services is built on the socio-pedagogical approach. Bachelors of Social Services are capable of analysing social phenomena and understand their significance to people’s lives and wellbeing. Combining pedagogical (education and learning) and social (societal) perspectives at work is emphasised in social pedagogy. The work is carried out in the daily lives of people of different ages in their own living environment. Bachelors of Social Services are also capable of taking on tasks requiring development and leadership skills, promoting the social perspective within social services as well as multiprofessionalism and networking within the overlapping areas among welfare providers.

Bachelors of Social Services are qualified to work with various client groups in the field of social pedagogy. The work can consist of supervision, counselling, co-ordination of services and managerial work in communities or in a residential setting. Bachelors of Social Services work in early childhood education, child protection, in family work and youth work as well as with the elderly. They also work in prevention of substance abuse or promotion of mental health. The degree can give a qualification to work as a kindergarten teacher.

Access to further studies

Access to Master’s Degree studies at university of applied sciences or university and access to specialisation studies.

Examination regulations, assessment and grading

http://opinto-opas.metropolia.fi/en/information-on-metropolia/regulations/

Graduation requirements

A student is required to successfully complete the designated program of courses (210 ECTS).

Mode of study

Mainly full-time contact teaching

Programme director

Head of Department
Riikka Harju
Tel. +358 40 705 2835
Email: riikka.harju(at)metropolia.fi

Level of qualification

Bachelor's Degree (First Cycle)

Workplacement(s) and Work-based Learning

Opintoihin sisältyy yhteensä noin 30 viikkoa ohjattua harjoittelua. Harjoittelut alkavat ensimmäisenä lukuvuonna ja niiden ajankohta ja toteutustapa vaihtelevat. Harjoittelun kesto vaihtelee muutamista viikoista kuukausiin.

Obligatory or Optional Mobility

Opintojen aikana on mahdollista lähteä 3-6 kuukauden opiskelijavaihtoon, suorittaa työharjoittelu ulkomailla tai osallistua intensiivikursseille. Opiskelijavaihtoon on mahdollista lähteä 2. tai 3. lukuvuonna.