TAMK annual review 2024: Continuous learning

In 2024, continuous learning took major steps forward at TAMK. With the introduction of new education offerings and improved cooperation with other institutions of learning, continuous learning took an increasingly prominent role. We want to provide even more diverse and flexible learning opportunities for students in different stages of life. The results of these efforts were evident in the number of modules and completed credits as well as in increased national visibility.

New winds are blowing and growth is picking up

For continuous learning at TAMK, the year 2024 was a period of intense developments. The organisation of continuous learning underwent a rearrangement, and each school established a post for a continuous learning manager. Alongside degree-awarding studies, we set off to build various continuous learning modules made available as specialisation studies, as business options, through open UAS, and, in the future, through the Opin.fi service as well. The Ministry of Education and Culture provided strategic funding for our development efforts, helping pilot nearly 20 new continuous learning models.

Open UAS continued to grow. The number of accumulated credits increased by approximately 2,000 credits from 2023. In terms of modules, the top draws for students included the Work ability coordinator and HR and Payroll management modules. Four specialisation studies were launched under social services and health care, and we were also involved in some network learning options in culture and education.

Cooperation with secondary education likewise increased and underwent an upgrade. We launched pathway studies for secondary education students and increased regional ‘Finnish as a second language’ offerings. Additionally, we arranged project weeks for high-school students together with Tampere University and developed so-called introductory courses for students planning to continue their studies at a UAS. TAMK's accomplishments gained national visibility, and the models were presented as best practices at FINEEC's (The Finnish Education Evaluation Centre) webinar.

Preparatory programmes for higher education studies designed for immigrants became a mainstay at TAMK. Approximately forty students have participated in these programmes, and their education has had a major impact in their career in Finland.

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Hanna Ilola

Tampere University of Applied Sciences

Dean

Pedagogical Innovations and Culture

+358400263675hanna.ilola [at] tuni.fi (hanna[dot]ilola[at]tuni[dot]fi)

Key figures of continuous learning

Credits earned at open university of applied sciences

Source: Student administration system Peppi

In 2024, nearly 24,000 credits were earned at open university of applied sciences, an improvement from the slightly under 22,000 credits in 2023.

Fee-paying domestic education and services

In practice, the fee-paying domestic education and services for continuous learning include continuing education and training options tailored for companies. In 2024, the value of fee-paying education was just above 2.4 million, a slight decline from the 2.5 million euros in 2023.