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Itä-Suomen Yliopisto

Joensuu, Kuopio

Open university: Basic Studies in Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development, 2026-2027

Open university
Credits:
25 ECTS credits
Location:
-
Continuous learning category:
Teaching, education and psychology
Teaching format:
Online teaching, Distance teaching, Independent learning, Blended teaching
Price:
-
Jatkuva oppiminen verkkosivut

The basic studies in Lifelong Learning and Sustainability is a unique study module which integrates knowledge from various fields, covering topics such as lifelong learning, adult education, and how to promote sustainability through non-formal education and active citizenship.

The studies focus on lifelong learning across the life course, exploring its role in fostering social and cultural sustainability. 

Learning outcomes

The student will

  • Identify the position of educational sciences in the science system
  • Be aware of structures of formal educational systems and nonformal education
  • Know the different definitions and uses of lifelong learning as a policy concept and practice
  • Be aware of how education and development of society is linked
  • Understand how formal and nonformal education can contribute to sustainable development and active citizenship
  • Know how to search and use scientific and educational literature in presentations and essays
  • Develop intercultural communication skills

The basic studies consist of the following five courses:

More information, e.g. study methods, schedules and course registration periods, can be found on each course page.

You can register to all five courses at once for a total cost of 375€ (15€/ECTS credit point). This registration option is available until 31.10.2026. Alternatively, you may register for one course at a time with a price of 20€/ECTS credit point. Please note that if you already have registered for an individual course, you cannot register for the full study module.

The study right for the study module is valid for the academic year 2026-2027. However, please note that each course has its own schedule and deadlines and not all courses are available year-round. Please check the individual course schedules before registering.

The basic studies Lifelong Learning and Sustainable Development also offer an open university route to a Bachelor Degree Programme of the same name at the University of Eastern Finland. Read more here.

We also offer an intermediate level course from the degree programme: Adult education promoting sustainable development.

Join our online info session on 27 August 2026, from 4–5 pm (Finnish time) to learn more about the University of Eastern Finland’s Open University and our wide range of English-language courses. Learn more and register.

The study fee for the full study module is 375€ (15€ per ECTS credit).

The study fee is paid at registration. Please find more information: Registration, study fees and right to study | University of Eastern Finland (uef.fi)

By paying the study fee, the student receives a temporary right to study that entitles them to attend a particular course. The right to study is course-specific, and is required to complete the course as specified in the syllabus for the term, covering both teaching and course exams. If the course is continuously open for registration, the maximum time to complete the course is from 1 August to 31 July for that academic year.

Irrespective of time
Day time teaching

By paying the study fee, the student receives a temporary right to study that entitles them to attend a particular course. The right to study is course-specific, and is required to complete the course as specified in the syllabus for the term, covering both teaching and course exams. If the course is continuously open for registration, the maximum time to complete the course is from 1 August to 31 July for that academic year. Please check timetables for each course.

English

Register for studies

By using the registration link on this page, you can register to all five courses at once for a total cost of 375€ (15€/ECTS credit point). This registration option is available until 31.10.2026. Alternatively, you may register for one course at a time with a price of 20€/ECTS credit point. Please note that if you already have registered for an individual course, you cannot register for the full study module. 

How to register for Open University Studies 

1. Choose your studies 

Go to the registration service using the button on this page. You will see information about the course, which you can review before registering. Add the course to your study cart. You can also add other courses to the cart before proceeding. 

2. Identify yourself and pay 

Log in via the Suomi.fi service, fill in your personal details on the registration form, and confirm your registration. Pay for the studies at the time of registration. 

Registration is binding. Please read the Open University payment and cancellation terms before registering. 

If you cannot identify yourself via the Suomi.fi service, but you are able to pay using one of the following methods: Google Pay or Apple Pay, Visa or MasterCard, please register in the online service (choose ‘Skip identification’). Otherwise, contact the student affairs secretary (contact details below). Be prepared to verify your identity with an official ID after registration. 

If your employer is paying the course fee and you do not have access to a company credit card, contact the student affairs secretary before registering. You can find the contact details at the bottom of the page. 

Studies paid with a study voucher: the voucher must be activated in the Opin.fi service before registration and payment. 

3. Wait for confirmation and start your studies 

Processing the registration usually takes 2–5 business days, and at most 10 business days. After processing, you will receive an email with a link to the instructions for starting your studies. Please read the instructions carefully. 

UEF username 

  • If you are studying at the University of Eastern Finland for the first time, you will receive separate instructions on how to activate your UEF username. 
  • If you already have a UEF username, change your password. 

Your username will receive the necessary access rights once your study right begins. 

Didn’t receive the message? Check your email’s spam folder. If the message is not there, contact the Open University. 

Registration starts:
2026-08-06 09:00
Registration ends:
2026-10-31 23:59
Registration

More information about education

Profile picture: Sanna Vikla

Vikla, Sanna

Continuous Learning Specialist

Centre for Continuous Learning

+358504666591

Profile picture: Iina Airaksinen

Airaksinen, Iina

Academic Affairs Coordinator

Centre for Continuous Learning

+358504649747