Master of Contemporary Societies in Social & Public Policy

University of Helsinki
Contemporary Societies in Social & Public Policy
Masters
Public University
Finland

Course Details

Category	Details
Time	Full time
Campus	Main Campus
Duration	2
Deadline-Date
Fee Per Year	€ 13,000.00
Application Fee	Around €80 - €100
Currency	euro
Intake Link	https://studies.helsinki.fi/instructions/article/academic-year-and-teaching-periods
Deadline Link	https://www.helsinki.fi/en/admissions-and-education/apply-bachelors-and-masters-programmes/apply-international-masters-programmes/explore-our-international-masters-programmes
Intakes	Aug
Program language requirement	IELTS Academic: Overall 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in the writing section. TOEFL iBT: Overall 92, with a minimum of 22 in the writing section. PTE Academic: Overall 62, with a minimum of 54 in the writing section. Cambridge English: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency, overall score of 180.

Who can Choose this program?

Your degree should be in one of the following: Social Policy Public Policy / Public Administration Sociology Political Science Economics Development Studies Social Work (with a strong policy focus) Law (with a focus on social justice or policy)

Additional Information

Category	Details
Scope of the program
Program entry requirement	A 4-year Bachelor's degree (BS/BSc Hons, BA Hons) from an HEC-recognized university is required. A 2-year Bachelor's degree followed by a completed Master's degree (M.A./M.Sc.) is also acceptable.
Required GPA	Minimum Competitive Range: 80% and above (or a First Class with Distinction). Strong, Competitive Range: 85% and above significantly strengthens your application.
GRE Required
GMAT Required
Application Process	1. Understand the Education System Finland’s higher education system includes two types of institutions: Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS): Focus on practical training and applied research tied to industry needs. Regular Universities: Emphasize scientific research and academic programs up to the doctoral level. 2. Choose and Apply You can apply for Master’s programs through:  University or UAS official websites  Studyinfo.fi, Finland’s centralized application portal. You may apply using either a Joint Application (up to six programs in one form, ranked by preference) or Separate Applications (directly to each university or program). 3. Meet Language Requirements Most programs are offered in English. Non-native speakers must submit proof of proficiency via IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or Duolingo (if accepted). Some institutions also conduct their own English tests. 4. Prepare Documents Required documents usually include:  Academic transcripts and degree certificates  Official translations (if applicable)  Proof of English proficiency  Employment or internship certificates (for UAS programs) 5. Follow Deadlines Main admission periods typically run from December to January for English-taught programs. Some UAS may extend deadlines to March. Always verify exact dates on each university’s website. 6. After Acceptance Once accepted, apply for a Finnish residence permit (for stays over 90 days). Universities often assist with housing and student services be sure to contact them early.
Available Scholarships	https://studyabroadupdates.com/category/study-in-europe-others/study-in-finland/
Program accreditation
Living expenses	Cost of Living in Finland for International Students Finland is renowned for its exceptional quality of life, safety, and world-class education system. While it is relatively affordable compared to other Nordic countries, living expenses can vary depending on the city (with Helsinki being the most expensive) and individual lifestyle choices. On average, international students should budget between €700 and €1,500 per month to cover essential living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other daily necessities. Estimated Monthly Living Expenses: - Accommodation (€250 – €1,200): Student dormitories are typically the most affordable option. Private apartments, particularly in larger cities such as Helsinki, tend to be more expensive. - Food & Groceries (€200 – €400): Preparing meals at home significantly reduces costs. Many universities offer subsidized meals for students, priced between €2.50 and €5. - Transportation (€30 – €60): Public transportation is efficient and offers student discounts. Cycling is also a popular and cost-effective alternative. - Health Insurance (€25 – €60): Non-EU students are required to purchase health insurance (€300–€700 per year). EU students can access healthcare services using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). - Internet & Mobile Plans (€20 – €40): Includes mobile data and home internet services. Many providers offer competitive student packages. - Entertainment & Social Life (€50 – €200): Covers activities such as gym memberships, cinema tickets (€10–€15), café visits, and social events.
Visa Process Details	Finland Student Visa Application Process for Pakistani Students: 1. Submit Online Application: You need to submit your residence permit application online. 2. Submit Required Documents: You will need to submit required documents at your appointment.  Completed Residence Permit Application.  Valid Passport.  Passport-Size Photos.  Admission Confirmation Proving Enrollement.  Sufficient Funds.  Health Insurance Coverage.  Academic Transcripts and Certificates.  Language Profeciency Certificate.  Accommodation Proof.  Biometric Data.  Visa Application Fee Payment Confirmation.  Family Registration Certificate (FRC).  Any Other Supporting Documents (when applicable). 3. Biometric Identity Check: You will be required to provide biometrics (photographs and fingerprints) for security inprocessing requirement. 4. Visa Interviews: Be prepared for a possible visa interview as part of your application process. 5. Processing Application: After submission, your application will be submitted to the Finnish Immigration Service for review. 6. Length of Residence Permit: Length of residence permit will be based on length of courses requiring renewal each year for length of study program. 7. After Completing Degree: If you want to stay in Finland after completing your degree you will need to submit a new visa or apply for a renewal of your residence permit.
Part timework	Several well-established companies in Finland actively hire part-time employees, including international students seeking flexible work opportunities. Here are some of the most popular employers among students: S Group Industry: Retail and Hospitality About: A leading Finnish cooperative network operating supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, and service stations nationwide. Opportunities: Roles in customer support, retail sales, and hospitality services. Finnair Industry: Aviation About: Finland’s flagship airline, recognized for its innovation and international connectivity. Opportunities: Positions in customer relations, baggage handling, and airport operations. Wartsila Industry: Energy and Marine About: A global technology company delivering sustainable solutions for the marine and energy sectors. Opportunities: Internships and part-time roles in engineering, IT, logistics, and project coordination. KPMG Finland Industry: Professional Services About: A top consulting firm offering expertise in auditing, taxation, and business advisory. Opportunities: Student internships in finance, auditing, and consulting departments. University of Helsinki Industry: Education and Research About: Finland’s oldest and most prestigious university, renowned for academic excellence and global collaboration. Opportunities: Research assistantships, tutoring, and administrative support roles. Valmet Industry: Technology and Manufacturing About: A multinational technology company specializing in automation systems and process industries. Opportunities: Engineering and technology internships, along with part-time technical roles. Nordea Bank Industry: Banking and Financial Services About: The largest financial institution in the Nordic region, offering modern banking solutions. Opportunities: Part-time work in finance, customer service, and operational support.
Post-study work opportunity	After completing a post-study work visa, international students can start working in different sectors across Finland. Finland's job market is well knowns for its demand for skilled workers, especially in industries like information technology, healthcare, education, and engineering. Here’s a overview of employment opportunities for graduates in Finland. • Information Technology (IT) and Software Development – Includes roles in artificial intelligence, data analysis, cybersecurity, software engineering, and gaming. • Engineering and Manufacturing – Covers mechanical, electrical, civil, and industrial engineering, as well as automation, robotics, and sustainable manufacturing. • Healthcare and Life Sciences – Offers positions for doctors, nurses, pharmacists, biomedical engineers, and researchers in healthcare innovation. • Education and Research – Teaching, curriculum development, academic research, and university administration. • Business, Finance, and Management – Opportunities in accounting, banking, consulting, entrepreneurship, and international business. • Renewable Energy and Environmental Technology – Roles in clean energy, sustainability, waste management, and environmental engineering. • Telecommunications and Electronics – Careers with major Finnish companies like Nokia and emerging tech startups. • Architecture and Construction – Involves design, urban planning, and infrastructure development. • Tourism and Hospitality – Hotel management, event coordination, and travel services. • Creative Industries and Media – Includes design, film, digital media, marketing, and communication sectors.

What are the admission requirements for the Master's program at the University of Helsinki?

To apply, you need a 4-year Bachelor's degree from an HEC-recognized university or a 2-year Bachelor's followed by a completed Master's degree. A minimum GPA of 80% is recommended, with a competitive edge at 85% and above.

What is the cost of studying at the University of Helsinki?

The tuition fee for international students is €13,000. Additionally, an application fee of around €80 to €100 is required.

What are the language proficiency requirements for the Master's program?

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests. Accepted scores include IELTS Academic (6.5 overall, 6.0 in writing), TOEFL iBT (92 overall, 22 in writing), PTE Academic (62 overall, 54 in writing), or Cambridge English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 180).

Can international students work part-time while studying in Finland?

Yes, international students can work part-time while studying. Various companies, including S Group, Finnair, and KPMG Finland, offer flexible employment opportunities suitable for students.

What is the cost of living for international students in Finland?

International students should budget between €700 and €1,500 per month for living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and other daily necessities.