About this programme
The course aims to train professionals who are competent to work for socially sustainable communities in Finland and abroad. The specific focus of the programme is on community development work, with an emphasis on people’s participation and empowerment, and on identification of and fighting against different forms of discrimination in communities and societies. The students learn about social work and social policy issues from the Finnish, European and Global perspectives. They gain the skills required to plan and carry out social activities and analysis, implement participatory research, and analyze local conditions in relation to wider economic and social changes. Graduates will be able to work as social service workers in the Finnish context and as social workers in many other countries. Social Service Studies with a focus on Community Development Work prepare students for a variety of tasks in the social service field in both Finland and international contexts. Studying in English in a multicultural study group offers an opportunity to learn in a real international learning environment. The degree programme aims to equip the students with skills to support the engagement of local people and communities in social action, address the impact of globalization on local communities in different countries and develop innovative projects with communities and groups. It is not possible to qualify as a Bachelor of Social Services in the field of early childhood education (varhaiskasvatuksen sosionomi) in this degree programme.
Course details verified 10 Sep 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source