Established in 1918, the Åbo Akademi (Åbo Akademi University) is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Turku (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Southwest Finland.
This institution also has a branch campus in Vaasa. Officially recognized by the Opetus- ja kulttuuriministeriö, Suomi (Ministry of Education and Culture of Finland), Åbo Akademi (ÅAU) is a small-sized coeducational Finnish higher education institution.
Åbo Akademi (ÅAU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 106-year-old Finnish higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
ÅAU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Looking to reach Åbo Akademi? Address, contact details, and online links below. For finance and tuition payment queries, the bursar or finance office is typically a separate contact point.
Address: Tuomiokirkontori 3
Postal Code: 20500
Other Sites: Also Graduate Schools, Centres of Excellence and National Centres of Excellence. Branch in Vaasa
Academic statistics for Åbo Akademi — including its student body and academic staff numbers. Read these alongside rankings; institution scale changes how rankings should be interpreted.
Academic Year: August to July
Accrediting Agency: Ministry of Education and Culture
Admission Requirements: Secondary school certificate (ylioppi lastutkinto/studentexamen) or equivalent, and in some cases entrance examination
Total Students: 5,500
Student Enrollment: 5
Academic Staff Range: 300-399
Campus Setting: Urban
Memberships & Networks
European University Association (EUA) Coimbra Group
Degrees
Pick your degree level at Åbo Akademi from the breakdown. Late-entry and transfer options vary by level and country — fewer universities accept mid-degree transfers at master's than at bachelor's.
Other10 programs
Business Administration
Economics
Education
Engineering
Fine Arts
Law
Natural Sciences
Pharmacy
Political Sciences
Religion
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Opetus- ja kulttuuriministeriö, Suomi.
Biotechnology (Centre) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Biotechnology
Arts, Psychology and Theology (Faculty) 14 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Art History
Communication Disorders
Comparative Religion
English
Ethnology
Gender Studies
German
History
Nordic Studies
Psychology
Religion
Russian
Swedish
Theology
Common Career Paths
Psychologist
Counsellor
Clinical Researcher
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Economics and Social Sciences (Faculty) 21 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Accountancy
Business Administration
Civil Law
Commercial Law
Economics
Information Sciences
International Business
International Economics
International Law
International Relations and Diplomacy
Law
Management
Maritime Law
Political Sciences
Private Law
Public Administration
Social Policy
Social Sciences
Sociology
Statistics
Women's Studies
Common Career Paths
Economist
Policy Analyst
Financial Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Education and Welfare Studies (Faculty) 9 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Adult Education
Developmental Psychology
Education
Home Economics
Mathematics Education
Physical Education
Preschool Education
Science Education
Special Education
Common Career Paths
Teacher
Educational Administrator
Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Science and Engineering (Faculty) 15 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Biochemistry
Cell Biology
Chemistry
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Geology
Marine Biology
Mathematics
Mineralogy
Molecular Biology
Paper Technology
Pharmacy
Physics
Software Engineering
Wood Technology
Common Career Paths
Engineer
Project Manager
Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Social Sciences, Business and Economics (Faculty) 13 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Accountancy
Business Computing
Commercial Law
Economics
International Law
Law
Maritime Law
Marketing
Mass Communication
Political Sciences
Public Administration
Public Law
Sociology
Common Career Paths
Business Analyst
Operations Manager
Strategy Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Human Rights (Institute) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Human Rights
Social Sciences (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
Social Sciences
Common Career Paths
Researcher
Policy Analyst
Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Programs Offered
Below are Åbo Akademi's active programmes grouped by degree level, with search. Use the filter to narrow by keyword and the level groupings to compare options at the same qualification tier.
Bachelor's Degree
2 programmes
There are 2 programmes to choose from at Åbo Akademi for undergraduates. A bachelor's degree builds the broad disciplinary foundation most employers and postgraduate courses expect.
There are 34 programmes to choose from at Åbo Akademi for graduates, aimed at advanced expertise, a career change, or a stepping stone toward doctoral research.
Varhaiskasvatuksen opettaja, kandidaatti ja maisteri (3 v + 2 v)Social Sciences & Education300 credits
Master's Programme in Finnish Language, Master of Arts (2 years). Åbo Akademi UniversitySuomen kielen maisteriohjelma, filosofian maisteri (2 v.), Åbo AkademiHumanities & Cultural Studies2 years120 creditsSwedish
The Master's Programme in Finnish Language at Åbo Akademi University deepens the student’s knowledge of grammar, semantics, and use of the Finnish language. Each student must take advanced 5 credit courses in Finnish grammar and the theory and methodology of linguistics. The student must also participate in a research seminar and write an M.A. thesis as well as pass a 10 credit exam that covers all obligatory areas of Finnish linguistics. In addition to the studies that are obligatory to all students of Finnish Language, each student is supposed to build his/her own expertise in Finnish Linguistics by taking 10 credits of optional courses that support his/her studies in the Finnish Language.
Master's Programme in French Language and Literature, Master of Arts (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityHumanities & Cultural Studies2 years120 creditsSwedish
As a world language, French is the official language in 29 countries and is spoken by 279 million people all over the world. In addition to strong, practical language proficiency, studies in French Language and Literature will provide you with expertise in French linguistics and cultural and literary knowledge. Linguistics will provide you with the fundamental concepts for understanding and describing language and linguistic phenomena. You will gain a multifaceted understanding of the French-speaking culture by studying French society as well as the French-speaking world at large. French language literature and its literary history will provide you with even deeper insights into the culture.The master level studies in French Language and Literature require good knowledge of French.-----Les études de master au Département de langue et de littérature françaises sont divisées entre cours obligatoires et cours dont le choix relève de l’étudiant : linguistique, littérature francophone, didactique, communication interculturelle sont parmi les diverses options proposées. Tout étudiant doit faire un travail de recherche (mémoire de master de 50 à 80 pages) au cours de la deuxième année. Ce mémoire porte sur un thème dont l’étudiant a convenu avec son professeur.
Master's Programme in English Language and Literature, Master of Arts (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityHumanities & Cultural Studies2 years120 creditsSwedish
The study of English language and literature at Åbo Akademi University is broad in scope: encompassing linguistics, literature and culture. All our courses adopt an interdisciplinary approach to the subject area.The linguistic programme equips students with the basic concepts and terminology needed to describe the language and understand linguistic phenomena. Coursework involves linguistic studies, the analysis of different types of written and spoken texts in context, sociolinguistics and language history, as well as various aspects of language learning and teaching.The literary programme develops an awareness of the methods and terminology used in literary criticism; hones critical skills for readers of Anglophone literatures; and finesses students’ knowledge of literary history within English-speaking world.The study of culture and society critically examines the values, ways of life, media, political and social institutions in English-speaking countries including Great Britain and the USA. Since the understanding of a language is related to its socio-cultural context we consider that, rather than being peripheral, such cultural considerations are central to our programme.All students at the master’s level undertake a period of at least 8 weeks’ language practice abroad, in an English-speaking community of their choice, either for work or study.
Master Programme in German Language and Literaturen, Master of Arts (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityHumanities & Cultural Studies2 years120 creditsSwedish
Students of German Language and Literature will become experts in language and culture, both in a contemporary and historical context. The studies with provide you with proficiency in the German language, both in terms of general language use and language for special purposes (jargon), advanced insights into the German grammar and practice, as well as the morphological and syntactic structures of German. In addition, you will learn about German culture, history and society, and their relation with the language. You will also gain insights into German literature and the concepts, methods and theories used in literary studies, which will enable you to analyse various types of text materials in a systematic manner.
Master Programme in Russian Language and Literature, Master of Arts (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityHumanities & Cultural Studies2 years120 creditsSwedish
On the master's level within Russian Language and Literature, Russian is studied as a foreign language. However, prior knowledge of Russian is required as is presupposed by a Bachelor’s degree in Russian language. The courses are taught in Russian. Master's level studies include both theoretical courses (lexicology, stylistics, history of the Russian language) and practical seminars (language of mass-media, translation, among others), as well as various special courses on linguistic and literary themes, and specifically on the teaching of Russian as a foreign language. Knowledge of Swedish is not required prior to admission, but language courses in Swedish are mandatory for all foreign students.
Master's Degree Programme in Advanced Practice Nursing (APN) (Vaasa), Master of Health Sciences (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityMedicine & Health2 years120 creditsEnglish
The study programme is designed to further develop nurses’ competencies in person-centred, evidence-based and effective clinical nursing. It covers both theoretical and clinical studies.This two-year programme of 120 ECTS follows the International Council of Nurses’ recommendations for Advanced Practice Nursing. The overall learning outcome is that students will gain advanced clinical competencies to work as advanced practice nurses, and skills to care for adults and older people with acute health problems and/or patients with complex and long-term health conditions.The International Council of Nurses (ICN; 2004) define an advanced practice nurse as: “A registered nurse who has acquired the expert knowledge base, complex decision-making skills and clinical competencies for expanded practice, the characteristics of which are shaped by the context and/or country in which s/he is credentialed to practice.”According to the Nordic model of APN the core competencies are direct clinical care, ethical decision making, coaching and guidance (health pedagogical methods), collaboration, consultation, case management, research and development, and leadership (clinical, system and health policy). Readiness for advanced, systematic and clinical assessment and clinical decision-making is a central key competence. According to research, advanced practice nurses contribute to high quality care and, especially improved patient satisfaction and patient safety.For more information about the programme, please visit: https://www.abo.fi/en/study-programme/masters-degree-programme-in-advanced-practice-nursing/
Master's Degree Programme in Biomedical Imaging, Master of Science (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityNatural Sciences & Mathematics2 years120 creditsEnglish
The Master's Degree Programme in Biomedical Imaging aims to train professionals with thorough theoretical understanding and practical skills in a wide range of imaging methods and technologies. This international programme is intended for students with a B.Sc. degree in areas of biochemistry, bioinformatics, biology, biomedical sciences, chemistry, computational biology, engineering, medical sciences, pharmacology or physics.After completion of the studies, the graduating M.Sc.:are expected to conceptualize different imaging modalities and modern imaging technologies, which includes light microscopy, advanced fluorescence techniques, super-resolution imaging techniques, electron microscopy and vivo imaging techniques such as nuclear imaging and magnetic resonans imagingare expected to learn to analyze imaging data using a broad range of bioimage informatics analysis techniques, related IT skills and statistical analysis.will be able to conceptualize a broad spectrum of state-of-the-art knowledge in biomedical imaging related to many different areas in cell biology, biophysics and biomedicine.Students will be able to obtain hands-on experience in laboratory and practical research work with analysis and evaluation, in projects that include imaging components. Depending on the advanced studies specialization, students will have basic to advanced knowledge and skills in medical imaging, microscopy or data analysis.Studies in the Biomedical imaging programme provide the students with an excellent basis for careers in life sciences, for example, academic or industrial research settings, product development, instrument development, diagnostics, hospital research laboratories, core facility management, and scientific administration. The broad interdisciplinary imaging network in Turku has collaboration in Europe, Nordic countries, USA, and Asia, and the Biomedical Imaging programme offers courses given by international experts.The programme is jointly administered by the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Åbo Akademi University and the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Turku. Successful completion of this two-year full-time programme results in the award of a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree (Swe: Filosofie magisterexamen) 120 ECTS.
Master's Degree Programme in Engineering of Data-intensive Intelligent Software Systems (EDISS, Erasmus Mundus), Master of Science (Technology) (2 years)Computer Science & IT2 years120 creditsEnglish
The master's programme in Engineering of Data-Intensive Intelligent Software systems (EDISS) is a two-year Erasmus Mundus double degree programme organized by four internationally recognized European universities: Åbo Akademi University (Finland), Mälardalen University (Sweden), University of the Balearic Islands (Spain) and University of L'Aquila (Italy). The programme bridges the gap between data science and software engineering by bringing together software engineers and data scientists in order to engineer data-intensive intelligent software systems. The objective of the EDISS programme is to educate experts that can integrate data science and machine learning solutions into software and system engineering processes.The main objectives of the programme is to give students both practical knowledge and theoretical insights ondata sciencesoftware architecturemachine learning solutionsintelligent systemsThe programme is a Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJMs) and it offers scholarships for the best students worldwide. Successful completion of this full-time programme leads to a double master's degree (one from Åbo Akademi University and one from the institution chosen for the second-year specialization).
Master's Degree Programme in Information Technology, Master of Science and Master of Science (Technology) (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityComputer Science & IT2 years120 creditsEnglish
The Master's Degree programme in Information Technology is designed to provide the students with an understanding of computation, communication and information processing in the context of our fast-changing society, and to enable them to be successful in their life-long careers. It will provide the students with the necessary knowledge and skills to join the IT-industry as well as data-driven industries, and to participate in demanding industrial and research projects. It also provides the required background to apply to a doctoral study programme.The programs consist of two different tracks. The Computer Engineering track (with a a focus on Software Engineering) which is offered in Turku and Vaasa, and the Computer Science track which is offered in Turku.In the programme, the students will have the chance to:learn advanced specification, design, programming, and validation techniques;develop complex, correct and reliable software-intensive systems;learn to build efficient algorithmic solutions for various computational challengeslearn to plan research & development projects, and use advanced management methods and toolslearn the theoretical background of real-time processing, computing theory, system architecture, distributed systems, web-based applications, control and signal processing, optimisation and evaluationparticipate in demanding software development projectslearn to build and analyze computational models to solve complex real-life problemslearn to discover and exploit hidden patterns in big data setsdevelop good communication and team-work skills in a multicultural and multilingual environmentSuccessful completion of this full-time study programme leads to a Master of Science degree in Computer Science or a Master of Science (Technology) degree in Computer Engineering (with a focus on Software Engineering).
Master's Degree Programme in International Law and Human Rights, Master of International and Comparative Law (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityLaw2 years120 creditsEnglish
The Master's Degree Programme in International Law and Human Rights consists of compulsory studies in international and human rights law as well as elective studies. The students have the opportunity to specialise in areas such as international human rights law, migration and refugee law, international law and conflicts, and general international law. While the compulsory modules will ensure that graduates leave the programme with a level of knowledge that is well rounded and versatile, the elective studies will allow students to tailor the programme to suit their own individual career objectives.The programme is made up of courses and seminars offered to small or medium-size groups of 15-30 students. The language of instruction is English.For more information about the programme, please visit: https://www.abo.fi/en/study-programme/the-masters-degree-programme-in-international-law-and-human-rights/The Master's Degree Programme in International Law and Human Rights is designed to prepare its graduates for challenging careers in international organisations, non-governmental organisations, public administration or legal practice. The programme offers specialised knowledge and an in-depth understanding of topical issues in international and human rights law. Studies within the programme consist of courses analysing the structure of the legal order governing states and organisations as well as the rights of individuals in an increasingly complex international environment. The programme offers students the possibility to profile themselves in different specialisation areas, such as international human rights law, migration and refugee law, international law and conflicts, and general international law. Studies within the programme equip students with expert knowledge, provide the requisite background for advanced research, and develop the practical application skills. Student learning is enhanced through an encouraging and supportive learning environment and close student-teacher interaction. Courses within the programme make use of a broad range of teaching methods.
Master's Degree Programme in Peace, Mediation and Conflict Research (PEACE) (Vaasa), Master of Social Sciences (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversitySocial Sciences & Education2 years120 creditsEnglish
This two-year programme provides interdisciplinary, in particular psychological and anthropological approaches to the understanding of human aggression, peace, mediation, and conflict resolution. It aims at understanding mechanisms behind conflicts and wars in interpersonal as well as group and international contexts.This programme encompasses teaching of the evolution of aggression, escalation of conflicts and wars, as well as mediation, negotiation, and peacebuilding. The consequences of wars on society, and especially on children and women, are studied. More detailed information about the programme is available on the programme website.The aim of the Master's Degree Programme in Peace, Mediation and Conflict Research is to prepare students for professional activity in both interpersonal and international conflict situations, but also for postgraduate studies and independent research work. This programme is located at the Vasa campus of Åbo Akademi University. More detailed information about the programme is available on the programme website.
Master's Degree Programme in Social Exclusion (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityHumanities & Cultural Studies2 years120 creditsEnglish
The world around us is constantly changing, as are the complex interactions within our increasingly globalised societies. This deepening global integration has led to economic and social restructurings that have resulted in different forms of exclusion. These different forms of social exclusion are constantly intertwined to varying effects. An example would be the ways in which language barriers prevent labour force participation both on a structural level and on an interpersonal one.The Master’s Degree Programme in Social Exclusion provides the opportunity to critically examine these complex processes from a multidisciplinary perspective. In order to grasp the multifaceted nature of the concept itself, this perspective offers a focus by which to explore the many different ways that it can be understood.More information is available at: https://blogs.abo.fi/socialexclusion/about/.
Master's Degree Programme in Sustainable Chemical and Process Engineering, Master of Science (Technology) (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityEngineering & Technology2 years120 creditsEnglish
The Master's Degree Programme in Sustainable Chemical and Process Engineering covers many scientific and technological areas essential for human well-being, a clean environment and the sustainable use of natural resources. The curriculum provides a broad basis for specialization in sustainable, environmentally friendly processes and products, including resource and energy efficiency, biofuels, and chemicals from nature.
Master's Degree Programme in Teaching and Learning (TLearn) (Vaasa), Master of Arts (Education) (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversitySocial Sciences & Education2 years120 creditsEnglish
With an emphasis on didactics, this programme aims to provide students with the pedagogical capabilities required for teaching assignments in primary and secondary education. Preparing students to be able to teach the relevant curriculum subjects for their chosen age range, the students will carry out a series of school-based tasks which link theory with practice and allow time for reflection.Students will learn the core values of Finnish teacher’s education, including to understand the holistic development of children, positive teacher/learner interaction, as well as the importance of synergizing the relationship between theory and practice.Orientated towards teaching assignments in primary and secondary education worldwide, this programme also provides general pedagogical qualifications to teach at any level of education as well as attend to their students’ academic and socio-economic growth. Skills learned throughout this course also include qualities to be reflective teachers who understand research-based evidence and thinking and its relation to education.The Master's Degree Programme in Teaching and Learning (TLearn) aims to prepare students to become experts in the areas of teaching and learning, in diverse educational environments with a specific focus on primary and secondary education. Students who complete this programme will obtain a General Finnish Teacher's Certificate, one of several requirements needed to qualify as a teacher in Finland. This programme is located at the Vasa campus of Åbo Akademi University, at the very heart of the Finland-Swedish Teacher Education. After completion of this programme, students can choose to pursue postgraduate studies at Åbo Akademi University.More detailed information about the programme is available on the programme website.
Master's Degree Programme of Governance of Digitalization, Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration) (2 years), Åbo Akademi UniversityBusiness & Management2 years120 creditsEnglish
Digitalization, the fourth industrial revolution, is both a threat and an opportunity for organizations: Digitalisation calls into question old operating models but at the same time enables new organizational forms and ways of working. Organizations, both private and public, can either adapt to the change or try to steer it. Controlling digitalization is a skill that is in high demand in the job market, and the Master’s degree programme in Governance of Digitalization focuses on teaching you exactly the expertise needed to lead digitalization.In this master's program you will learn:1) to assess information needs and requirements and value of information2) to create data driven insights through cutting edge analytics3) to develop and manage new digital services and the business models they need4) to organize the information technology required by the new operating modelsThis master programme combines latest knowledge from the fields of information systems and information studies in a unique way that gives its graduates a comprehensive and cross-disciplinary competence that covers digitalization and how it enables new ways to create knowledge and value to the customer, configure organizational processes, and develop cross-sectoral level co-operation between organizations.
At the highest level, Åbo Akademi runs 10 programmes. These doctoral programmes are built around a sustained research project rather than taught coursework.
Doctoral Programme in Arts Subjects, Åbo Akademi UniversityHumanities & Cultural Studies4 years40 creditsSwedish +1
How to apply to Åbo Akademi — a five-step structure with notes on documents, channels, and timing for each phase.
1
Identify the right programme
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Åbo Akademi runs 46 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
2
Check entry requirements
Before applying to Åbo Akademi, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for Finland.
3
Prepare your application documents
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Åbo Akademi's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
4
Submit via the institution
Lodge your application through the official website (www.abo.fi). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
5
Get in touch with admissions
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Reach the institution by phone at +358 (2) 215 31. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Åbo Akademi
Common questions students ask about Åbo Akademi — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
In what year was Åbo Akademi established?
Åbo Akademi was founded in 1918 (approximately 108 years ago).
Where is Åbo Akademi located?
Åbo Akademi is located in Turku, Finland.
Is Åbo Akademi a public or private institution?
Åbo Akademi operates as a public institution.
What is the student enrolment at Åbo Akademi?
Student enrolment at Åbo Akademi is around 5,000-5,999.
Who recognises Åbo Akademi?
Yes, Åbo Akademi is recognised by Ministry of Education and Culture.
Where can I learn more about Åbo Akademi?
Åbo Akademi's official website is www.abo.fi.
Top-Ranked Universities in Finland
The leading universities in Finland are listed below — useful for sizing Åbo Akademi against the country's top tier. Top-tier institutions in Finland typically set admissions standards that downstream universities track.
Network-level rankings exist for some European University Association (EUA) groupings (e.g., U21, Universitas 21). These differ from country rankings and reflect coordinated members' shared performance.
Industry partnership exclusives on Social Sciences & Education programmes vary — some Finland institutions hold sponsored chairs, others run rotating industry guest-teaching arrangements.
Below: institutions that students typically weigh against Åbo Akademi when finalising their shortlist. The comparison set reflects scale and prestige; specific programme fit still needs separate verification.