LLinE Lifelong Learning in Europe

STUDY VISIT 1. DIAK - DIACONIA POLYTECHNIC to be published in LLinE

Polytechnics, the non-university sector of higher education, started to take shape in Finland in the 1990´s. This radical restructuring of the education system brought Finland in line with other European countries. The development of the Finnish Polytechnics follows the Bologna Declaration, and so the Finnish Polytechnics contribute to the integration process of European higher education as a whole.

There are 31 Polytechnics in Finland, offering 40 degree programmes in various fields, including business and engineering, culture and media, and health care and social services. In Polytechnics, students obtain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in their chosen field. The duration of polytechnic studies is 3.5 – 4.5 years. The curriculum is comprised of basic and professional studies, practical training and a thesis.

Polytechnic studies are a practice-oriented alternative to university education, providing academic knowledge combined with career skills. Polytechnics aim to raise the level of vocational training and flexibly meet the needs of rapidly changing working environments

Diaconia Polytechnic (Diak) was founded in 1996. It consists of 8 units, located in different parts of the country. In addition to these units, the Diak Central Administration Office, incl. Diak International Office, is located in Helsinki.
Diak studies focus on the education, nursing, social welfare, sign language interpretation and media sectors.

Diak bases its core set of values on Christianity. Therefore, Diak emphasises justice, solidarity and the human dignity of each person and empowers people to influence societal change and fight against social exclusion.

Diak has a student population more than 2 800. Approximately 40 % of our students choose study modules that make them eligible for the post of diaconia in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. With these qualifications, graduates can be employed as deacons/deaconesses or youth work leaders in parishes or church-related organisations.