Social Services (in English)

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 Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences: >>

Profile of the programme

See the General Description of the Programme: >>
We train well rounded, responsible experts in social welfare to work boldly for human rights and a sustainable future.

Key learning outcomes

The curriculum of the degree programme is based on the following competence areas of the Bachelors of Social Services (the UAS social services network):

1. Ethical competence in social services
2. Competence in customer work
3. Competence in service systems in the social field
4. Critical and participatory societal competences
5. Research based development and innovation competences
6. Work community, leadership, and entrepreneurial competences

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, counseling, 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 within early childhood education.

Access to further studies

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

Examination regulations, assessment and grading

Examination regulations, assessment and grading are specified in the course implementation plan. The teacher in charge of the course will be responsible for the assessment. Students will be informed at the beginning of the course on the assessment principles, which must be based on the course objectives.

Graduation requirements

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

Mode of study

Mainly full-time studies.

Programme director

Head of Degree Programme
Laura Holmi
Email: laura.holmi(at)metropolia.fi

Level of qualification

Bachelor's Degree (First Cycle)

Workplacement(s) and Work-based Learning

Studies include approximately 40-45 weeks of practical training in total. There are several internships during studies starting from first year of studies.

Obligatory or Optional Mobility

It is possible to go to student exchange for 3 to 6 months during 2nd or 3rd year of studies.