Savonia University of Applied Sciences

Kuopio, Finland

Savonia University of Applied Sciences is one of Finland’s largest and most respected universities of applied sciences, known for its strong focus on practical education, industry collaboration, and regional development. Established in 1992, Savonia operates mainly in the cities of Kuopio, Iisalmi, and Varkaus.
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Tuition Fees, Cost of Living & Accommodation at Savonia University of Applied Sciences

Cost Of Living

$ 12000

Undergraduate Fees International Students

$ 38800

Post Graduate Fees International Students

$ 21000

Bachelors

  • $ 38800
  • $ 38800
  • $ 38800
  • $ 38800
  • $ 38800
  • $ 38800

Masters

  • $ 21000

Savonia University of Applied Sciences Departments

  • School of Business
  • School of Design
  • School of Engineering and Technology
  • School of Health Care and Social Services
  • School of Music and Dance
  • School of Natural Resources
  • School of Tourism and Hospitality

Unique Selling Proposition (USP) of Savonia University of Applied Sciences

The key unique selling point of Savonia University of Applied Sciences lies in its strong work-life orientation and practical, hands-on learning approach, where education is closely integrated with real industry projects and business collaboration. The university emphasizes project-based and multidisciplinary learning, allowing students to work on real-world challenges alongside companies and organizations, ensuring high employability after graduation. Another major USP is its strong focus on research, development, and innovation (RDI), where students actively participate in applied research that supports regional industries and global challenges, especially in areas like sustainability, digital solutions, and healthcare. Additionally, Savonia stands out for its international outlook, with partnerships in over 30 countries and participation in global mobility programs, providing students with valuable global exposure. 

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Distinguished Alumni of Savonia University of Applied Sciences

Infrastructure & Facilities at Savonia University of Applied Sciences

Savonia University of Applied Sciences operates across three main cities—Kuopio, Iisalmi, and Varkaus, with multiple campuses offering a modern and decentralized learning environment.

Kuopio (Microkatu campus): Main hub with advanced facilities and student services

Iisalmi & Varkaus campuses: Specialized and more focused learning environments

Campuses are urban, well-connected, and industry-oriented

This multi-campus structure allows students to study in regionally integrated environments linked to industries and businesses.

The infrastructure at Savonia University of Applied Sciences is modern, practical, and industry-focused. With multi-city campuses, advanced laboratories, digital learning systems, strong library services, and innovation centers, the university provides a well-rounded environment that supports both academic learning and real-world application.

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Savonia University of Applied Sciences Student Life

Student life at Savonia is highly international and inclusive, with students from various countries studying together. The university promotes cultural diversity, equality, and collaboration, making it easier for international students to adapt and feel welcomed. Regular events, orientation programs, and group activities help students build friendships and experience different cultures.

Savonia offers a vibrant social scene supported by the student union SAVOTTA.

Organizes events, parties, and cultural festivals

Provides opportunities to join student clubs and associations

Encourages participation in sports, music, and hobby groups

These activities help students maintain a balanced academic and social life.

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Savonia University of Applied Sciences Career support

Campus recruitment at Savonia University of Applied Sciences is highly industry-integrated and practice-oriented, with strong links between students and employers throughout their studies. The university facilitates recruitment through initiatives like the Talent Hub Eastern Finland, which connects students with companies via a talent pool database, employer meetings, and collaboration projects such as internships, theses, and part-time jobs. Savonia regularly organizes career events, networking sessions, and recruitment fairs where companies like Nordea and regional firms interact directly with students, offering opportunities for internships, projects, and employment. Additionally, students gain practical exposure through mandatory internships (e.g., 30 ECTS in some programs) and company-based projects integrated into coursework, significantly enhancing employability. 

 

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Step-by-Step Guide to Admission Requirements at Savonia University of Applied Sciences

To apply for a bachelor’s degree at Savonia University of Applied Sciences, international students must have completed an upper secondary qualification (high school or equivalent) that gives eligibility for higher education in their home country, such as IB, EB, or other recognized certificates.

Applicants are required to submit academic transcripts, certificates, and official translations (if not in English, Finnish, or Swedish) along with a valid passport/ID.

They must also provide proof of English language proficiency through accepted tests or prior education in English.

Admission is typically based on the International UAS Entrance Exam, though alternative routes such as SAT scores or certificate-based selection may also be used. Applications are submitted via the national portal Studyinfo.fi within the specified deadlines, and non-EU/EEA students must pay an application fee and tuition fees.

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Campus
Recruitment By top Companies

Campus recruitment at Savonia University of Applied Sciences is highly industry-integrated and practice-oriented, with strong links between students and employers throughout their studies. The university facilitates recruitment through initiatives like the Talent Hub Eastern Finland, which connects students with companies via a talent pool database, employer meetings, and collaboration projects such as internships, theses, and part-time jobs. Savonia regularly organizes career events, networking sessions, and recruitment fairs where companies like Nordea and regional firms interact directly with students, offering opportunities for internships, projects, and employment. Additionally, students gain practical exposure through mandatory internships (e.g., 30 ECTS in some programs) and company-based projects integrated into coursework, significantly enhancing employability. 

 

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    Savonia University of Applied Sciences Corporate Partnership

    • Savonia University of Applied Sciences has strong corporate partnerships that are deeply integrated into its education and research activities. The university collaborates with over 2,400 working-life partners, including regional industries, SMEs, and international companies, supporting practical training, joint research, and innovation projects. Its involvement in initiatives like the North Savo Energy Cluster (2020) connects Savonia with major companies such as energy and technology firms to develop sustainable industrial solutions. Additionally, Savonia works closely with companies through R&D projects, internships, thesis collaborations, and testing services, ensuring students gain real-world experience while businesses benefit from research expertise.

    Notable Achievements of Savonia University of Applied Sciences

    Savonia University of Applied Sciences has achieved significant recognition for its quality education and innovation-driven approach. In 2020, Savonia was awarded the Great Place to Work certification, highlighting its positive work culture and staff satisfaction, and it successfully renewed this recognition in 2021. The university has also been consistently acknowledged for its strong regional impact and applied research excellence, contributing to economic and social development in Eastern Finland. In 2022, Savonia strengthened its global presence through expanded international partnerships and mobility programs. Additionally, its continued involvement in major EU-funded research and development projects (2020s) and leadership in areas such as healthcare innovation, sustainability, and digitalization further demonstrate its achievements as a forward-looking, industry-connected institution.

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    Achievements

    01.
    High-quality applied research, regional development impact, and industry collaboration

    In 2022, Savonia strengthened its global presence through expanded international partnerships and mobility programs. Additionally, its continued involvement in major EU-funded research and development projects (2020s) and leadership in areas such as healthcare innovation, sustainability, and digitalization further demonstrate its achievements as a forward-looking, industry-connected institution.

    Year
    2022
    02.
    Great Place to Work certification

    In 2020, Savonia was awarded the Great Place to Work certification, highlighting its positive work culture and staff satisfaction, and it successfully renewed this recognition in 2021.

    Year
    2020

    Notable Innovation, Research & Development Savonia University of Applied Sciences

    Savonia University of Applied Sciences has been actively engaged in applied research and development through a range of industry-oriented projects. Notable initiatives include the FutureEdu Project (2019–2021), which developed virtual and augmented reality–based learning environments, and the Biosphere / Biorefinery Project (2020–2022), focusing on sustainable energy and bio-based materials. The university also contributes to regional innovation through the North Savo Energy Cluster (established 2020), promoting energy-efficient technologies. More recent projects such as NeuroChallenge (2023–2026) explore brain health and healthcare innovation, while GameON (2024–2026) enhances digital skills through gaming-based learning. Additionally, the WellbeingVerse Services Project (2025–2027) integrates AI, extended reality, and wearable technologies for advanced healthcare solutions, alongside ongoing work in AI, cybersecurity, water management, and circular economy (2023–2028), highlighting Savonia’s strong focus on practical, innovation-driven research.

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    Notable Innovation

    01.
    GameON Project

    This project enhances digital skills and employability through gaming and simulation-based learning, helping students and professionals adapt to modern digital work environments.

    Year
    2024
    02.
    NeuroChallenge Project

    A research initiative aimed at advancing brain health and neurological innovation, focusing on developing solutions for mental well-being, diagnostics, and healthcare technologies.

    Year
    2023
    03.
    Biosphere / Biorefinery Project

    Savonia worked on sustainable solutions by converting biomass into renewable energy and bio-based products. The project supported circular economy goals and promoted environmentally friendly industrial practices.

    Year
    2020

    Explore Programs & Courses at Savonia University of Applied Sciences

    Program name
    Tuition Fees
    Deadlines
    €9700
    Rolling
    €8,000 – €10,000
    7th Jan
    (October)
    Bachelor of Engineering in Industrial Management 4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
    €9,700
    Rolling

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