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Noor Butt ja Rakhsa Adhikari.

Bachelor's Degree Programme in Human and Planetary Health

Join the new functionally bilingual programme where health meets planetary responsibility

Welcome to the programme designed to prepare you to meet the health challenges of today and shape the solutions of tomorrow. The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Human and Planetary Health offers a unique, interdisciplinary education that combines human biology, global and planetary health, and evidence-based health promotion.

In an era of global change, health professionals need to understand how individual, societal, and planetary health are interconnected. You will study how biological, social, and environmental factors shape health outcomes. This programme equips you with the knowledge and skills to promote health at individual, community, and global levels, all while contributing to a more sustainable future.

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Human and Planetary Health is a three-year full-time study programme, leading to the degree of Bachelor of Health Sciences. The programme comprises 180 ECTS and focuses on one major subject: Human and Planetary Health. The programme is jointly offered by the Department of Nursing Science, Institute of Biomedicine, Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, and the School of Pharmacy, integrating expertise from across the health sciences. 

The programme offers an excellent opportunity to learn Finnish language alongside your studies supporting integration into Finnish society and working life. The medium of instruction is English, and Finnish is integrated in the curriculum.

Key information

  • Level of degree: Bachelor's degree
  • Programme duration: 3 years / 180 ECTS
  • Language of instruction: English
  • Tuition fee: EU/EEA nationals no tuition fee, non-EU/EEA nationals 10,000€/academic year.
  • Campus: Kuopio

Why study with us?

  • Unique focus: Be part of the pioneering Bachelor's Degree Programme in Human and Planetary Health.
  • Multidisciplinary expertise: Learn from professionals across the health sciences.
  • International environment: Study in English in a multicultural community with exchange opportunities.
  • Language proficiency: Learn Finnish language alongside your studies.
  • Future pathways: Tailor your studies to your interests, building a strong foundation for further studies, including the Faculty of Health Sciences Master’s Degree Programmes at UEF in Toxicology and in Public Health, and preparing for diverse professional opportunities. 
Student sitting in lecture and smiling

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Studies

Bachelor's Degree Programme in Human and Planetary Health provides students with a strong background in human biology and health, in global and planetary health, as well as in health promotion and disease prevention.  

The programme is functionally bilingual: the medium of instruction is English, and Finnish is integrated in the curriculum. No Finnish language skills are required at the start of the studies. The programme is suitable both for international students beginning Finnish from the basics and for Finnish-speaking students who wish to complete their studies in English in an international learning environment. If student’s language of school education is not Finnish/ Swedish, 20 ECTS Finnish as a second language studies will be included in the studies.

The programme provides a solid foundation for professional growth and further academic studies. Graduates will be eligible to apply for master’s level studies in Finland or abroad, including the Faculty of Health Sciences Master’s Degree Programmes at UEF: Toxicology and Public Health. They will also develop a strong basis to explore career opportunities in public health, health promotion, and planetary health, across non-governmental organizations, policy institutions, as well as research and academic institutions.

The curriculum includes mandatory core as well as intermediate and major studies that are organized into study modules. It also includes modules focused on generic academic competencies, one of which includes the Bachelor’s Thesis. In addition, the curriculum offers elective studies, which may consist of minor studies, project work, or practical training. Finnish as a second language studies (20 ECTS) are included in the curriculum as a mandatory for those whose language of school education is other than Finnish/Swedish. Multilingual pedagogical approaches are included also in some individual mandatory courses and Finnish as a second language in the optional practical training.

Academic and Working Life Skills (20-34 ECTS) 

  • Personal Study Plan 1 (1 ECTS)
  • Personal Study Plan 2 (1 ECTS)
  • Personal Study Plan 3 (1 ECTS)
  • Orientation for International Students (1 ECTS)
    • Alternative: Orientation to University Studies (1 ECTS)
  • University Study Skills (1 ECTS)
  • University Computing Skills (2 ECTS)
  • Information Skills and Sources in Health sciences for International Students (1 ECTS) 

Language and Communication studies (12-26 ECTS): 

  • Introduction to Academic English for Human and Planetary Health (3 ECTS)
  • Writing and Presenting in Academic English for Human and Planetary Health (3 ECTS)
  • Finnish as a second language (20 ECTS) (If student’s language of school education is other than Finnish/ Swedish)
  • Swedish for Students of all Faculties, Written Skills (1,5-2,5 ECTS) (If student's language of school education is Finnish/Swedish)
  • Swedish for Students of all Faculties, Spoken Skills(1,5-2,5 ECTS) (If student's language of school education is Finnish/Swedish)
  • Science communication and interaction (3 ECTS) (If student's language of school education is Finnish/Swedish)

Human Biology and Health (35 ECTS) 

  • Fundamentals of Chemistry (5 ECTS)
  • Basics in Cell Biology (3 ECTS)
  • General Human Biology and The Locomotor System (3 ECTS)
  • Digestive and Neural Systems (3 ECTS)
  • Cardiorespiratory System (3 ECTS)
  • Metabolism, Immunology and Endocrinology (3 ECTS)
  • Human Diseases and Conditions (3 ECTS)
  • Biosafety (1 ECTS)
  • Microbiology in Health Sciences (4 ECTS)
  • Fundamentals of Nutrition (3 ECTS)
  • Fundamentals of Pharmacology and Toxicology (4 ECTS) 

Global and Planetary Health (32 ECTS) 

  • Environmental Health and Environmental Change (5 ECTS)
  • Introduction to Global Health MOOC (3 ECTS)
  • Public Health and Vulnerable Groups (4 ECTS)
  • Introduction to Health, Culture and Society (3 ECTS)
  • Food and Culture (2 ECTS)
  • Global Perspectives for Climate and Health (7 ECTS)
  • Public and Planetary Health (2 ECTS)
  • Planetary Health (3 ECTS)
  • Introduction to Perspectives of Nursing Science in Global Crises Management (3 ECTS)
  • Introductory Public Health (4 ECTS) 

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (37 ECTS) 

  • Introduction to Finnish Health and Social Services System (2 ECTS)
  • Introduction to Health Policy (2 ECTS)
  • Values and Knowledge Basis in Health Sciences (3 ECTS)
  • History of Medicine and Public Health (2 ECTS)
  • Global and Local Public Health Issues (5 ECTS)
  • Health Promotion in Communities (5 ECTS)
  • Health Across the Lifespan (3 ECTS)
  • Active Living for a Healthier Planet (4 ECTS)
  • Introduction to Occupational Health (2 ECTS)
  • Foods for promoting health: Innovative research and emerging trends (5 ECTS) 

Research Methods in Health Sciences (26 ECTS) 

  • Epidemiology I (2 ECTS)
  • Biostatistics 1 (3 ECTS)
  • Basics of Research Methods in Health Sciences (2 ECTS)
  • Health survey methods (3 ECTS)
  • Introduction to Qualitative Research (2 ECTS)
  • Basic statistics in English (5 ECTS)
  • Bachelor's Thesis in Human and Planetary Health (6 ECTS)
  • Bachelor's Thesis Seminars (3 ECTS)
  • Maturity Test (0 ECTS) 

Elective studies (16-30 ECTS) 

Professional Development: 

  • Practical Training (5-10 ECTS)
  • Project Work (5-10 ECTS) 

Recommended Minor Subjects: 

  • Minor Subject in Finnish as a Second Language (25 ECTS)
  • Basic Studies in Statistics (25 ECTS)
  • Computer Science, Basic Studies (International students) (25 ECTS)
  • Data Science, basic studies (International Students) (25 ECTS)
  • Basic Studies for Sustainable Future (25 ECTS)  

Individual study units: 

  • Pharmacology of drugs of abuse (2 ECTS)
  • Methods for Assessing Health Benefits in Functional Foods (5 ECTS)
  • Gut Microbiota in Health and Disease (5 ECTS)
  • Introduction to Evidence-Based Health (2 ECTS)
  • Global Health Impact Assessment (5 ECTS)
  • Perspectives of Nursing Science in Global Women's Health (5 ECTS)
  • Comparison of International Health and Welfare Systems (5 ECTS)
  • Career planning - self-study course (2 ECTS)
  • Career portfolio building (1 ECTS)
  • Job seeking self-study course (1 ECTS)
  • Job seeking – practical exercises (1 ECTS)
  • Basics of Finnish Working Life - self-study course (1 ECTS) 
     

After completing the Bachelor’s degree programme, the graduate:

  • demonstrates an understanding of health and diseases, and healthcare systems, integrating knowledge across molecular, individual, and population levels.
  • understands the complex interactions between human health and planetary health, applying sustainability in global health challenges.
  • identifies key societal, environmental, and behavioral determinants of health, and evaluates evidence-based solutions to promote well-being and address public health challenges.
  • demonstrates adequate communication and language proficiency in health sciences, including international actions and collaborations.
  • understands ethical, societal, and cultural considerations in health sciences, demonstrating cultural competence and a commitment to equitable and inclusive practices.
  • applies critical thinking and scientific reasoning, demonstrating basic skills in academic research, and research methodologies, analytical problem-solving, and evidence-based practice.
  • demonstrates capabilities to monitor progress and advancements within the field of health sciences, ensuring continuous professional and academic growth.
  • acquires capabilities for studies leading to a master's degree, for lifelong learning, and for professional roles in the field of health sciences across Finland and the global community.
     

After completing the Human Biology and Health studies, the student:

  • demonstrates an understanding of and the ability to communicate fundamental concepts, mechanisms, and biological phenomena related to human anatomy, physiology, and pathology.
  • demonstrates knowledge of chemistry, structures, functions, and biological roles of essential biomolecules in humans.
  • understands basic nutrition concepts, including nutrition recommendations, and identifies nutrients' functions and sources.
  • understands the principles of pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology.
  • understands the basics of microbial structure and function and is able to work safely and aseptically in a microbiology laboratory.  

 

After completing the Global and Planetary Health studies, the student:

  • identifies and explains key health risks and conditions from both global and local viewpoints.
  • demonstrates an understanding of public and planetary health concepts, recognizing the key social, environmental, and behavioral factors that influence individual and population health.
  • is able to evaluate global health challenges and crises and can develop evidence-based strategies to strengthen the resilience of healthcare systems.
  • understands the principles of cultural and social segregation or discrimination that underlie health inequalities in contemporary societies.
  • identifies the connections between nutrition, culture, and health and can apply this knowledge to promote well-being.


After completing the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention studies, the student: 

  • understands the fundamentals of well-being, health promotion, and healthcare from a global perspective as well as the specific context of the Finnish healthcare system, addressing individual and community needs.
  • understands and applies the foundational principles, strategies, and health promotion models in local and global contexts, considering cultural, economic, and ethical perspectives.
  • demonstrates an understanding of occupational health concepts and their roles in promoting well-being.
  • understands the role and potential of digital technologies in health promotion.
  • recognizes the role of the EU, WHO, and other global actors and regulations in health promotion.

 

After completing the Academic and Working Life Skills studies, the student:

  • understands the structure and required skills of university studies.
  • has skills in searching, evaluating, and utilizing scientific information from reliable sources.
  • uses professional terminology and expressions relevant to health sciences in written and spoken communication.
  • has the ability to interact in multicultural and multilingual environments, both in academic and professional contexts.
  • produces and understands essential academic texts, presentations, and discussions required for international studies and research contexts.
  • has basics for further improving their language skills, including Finnish language skills, to support lifelong learning, professional growth, and integration into Finnish society.
  • is familiar with master's degree study opportunities as well as career options and professional pathways in the field of Health Sciences.


After completing the Research Methods in Health Sciences studies, the student:

  • demonstrates a basic understanding of scientific thinking, including the philosophy of science and the principles of evidence-based knowledge, and can explain how scientific reasoning differs from everyday problem-solving.
  • has a basic understanding of research methodologies in health sciences and demonstrates awareness of research ethics.
  • knows the basics of qualitative and quantitative research methods in health sciences and can apply suitable methods to study health-related topics.
  • has a foundation for conducting research and applying methodological knowledge in advanced studies or practical contexts.
  • demonstrates the ability to conduct a literature review, critically evaluate and synthesize existing research on a specific health-related topic, and presents the findings clearly, structured, and scholarly. 


After completing the Elective Studies, the student:

  • integrates knowledge from multiple disciplines, understanding the interconnections between health and other sciences and relevant fields.
  • has enhanced knowledge and skills based on personal, academic, and professional goals. 
     

How to apply?

In most cases, applicants who are eligible to pursue higher education in their home country are also eligible to apply for bachelor's level studies in Finland. To be eligible for admission to a bachelor's programme at the University of Eastern Finland, applicants must submit their application during the official admission period. The following documents must be uploaded in electronic format (paper copies are not required during the application process):

Please note: a language test is not required if the admission is based on SAT scores.

Programme-spesific requirements are listed below and on the Studyinfo application portal. Please review them carefully before applying.

General instructions about the application process are available in How to apply?.

Description of admissions criteria

Students are selected for the Bachelor's Degree Programme in Human and Planetary Health 
in two ways:

  • Admission group 1: based on the scores of SAT test intake: 20 student places
  • Admission group 2: based on the grades obtained in the Finnish matriculation
    examination, IB, EB or DIA/RP diplomas intake: 10 student places


The best 20 applicants in the SAT test-based admission group (Admission group 1) are 
accepted to the programme and the rest are rejected. The programme may accept more 
applicants by discretion to fill the available study places in the programme. Applicants are not 
placed on the waiting list.


The best 10 applicants in the certificate-based admission group (Admission group 2) are 
accepted to the programme. Selection results will be released in two stages:
a) for applicants who have graduated by the end of the application period: 5 student places,
and b) for applicants who will graduate in spring 2027: 5 student places. Applicants are not 
placed on the waiting list.


Any study places that remain unfilled in one admission group may be transferred and 
allocated to applicants from another admission group

Admission to the programme grants the right to pursue a Bachelor of Health Sciences 
degree. You may accept only one study place leading to a higher education degree that 
begins in the same academic term. Furthermore, under the one study right rule effective from 1 August 2026, you may hold only one study right leading to a bachelor's or master's degree at 
a time. Accepting a new bachelor's- or master's-level study right will automatically terminate 
any existing study rights at the same or a lower degree level.


A new right to study leading to a Bachelor of Health Sciences (Human and Planetary Health) 
degree cannot be granted if the applicant already holds a valid right to study in the Bachelor’s 
Degree Programme in Human and Planetary Health leading to a Bachelor of Health Sciences 
degree at the University of Eastern Finland.

 

Admission procedure

Admission group 1: Based on the scores of SAT test

The results of the SAT test-based admission will be announced in the My Studyinfo service on 
31 May 2027 at the latest.


The required SAT tests are Evidence-Based Reading and Writing AND Math.


The applicant must have completed the tests with a minimum total score of 1050.


The SAT test results are valid for two years from the day they are issued, i.e., the SAT test 
needs to be in effect during the application period, from 7 January 2025 onwards. If the 
applicant has completed the SAT test several times, the test with the highest score will be 
considered. Super scoring is not accepted, and the applicant cannot combine the section 
scores from different tests. Only the best total score is taken into consideration.


In addition, those admitted must achieve the minimum score separately, determined by the 
Dean of the Faculty after the application deadline. The minimum score will be announced in 
conjunction with the results. If several applicants at the threshold of admission have the 
same score, they will all be admitted.


The scores for the required SAT test must be at the Admission Services by 28 January 2027 at 
3 PM (UTC+2) to be considered in the spring 2027admissions round. The applicant must 
ensure that official SAT test results are sent directly from the test organizer (College Board) to 
the University of Eastern Finland. The University of Eastern Finland SAT code 43171 must be 
indicated as the score recipient when registering for the test. The 'Attachments' section 
provides information on submitting a copy of the SAT results. Test results submitted after the 
deadline, or solely by the applicant, will not be accepted. If the applicant has taken the test 
earlier, College Board must be requested to send the results directly to the University of 
Eastern Finland.


The required SAT test cannot be substituted with any other tests.


About the SAT test
The SAT test is standardized, three-hour-long test designed to measure your knowledge in a 
particular subject area and your ability to apply that knowledge. The test is organized 
by College Board.


As the available seats for the SAT test are limited, early registration is strongly 
recommended.


The following links provide further information concerning the SAT tests:


The applicant’s eligibility for application and selection will be checked before the final 
selection decision.


Admission group 2: Based on the grades obtained in the Finnish matriculation examination, IB, EB or DIA/RP diplomas


The results of the certificate-based admission will be announced in the My Studyinfo service 
on 31 May 2027 at the latest.


Scoring the certificate-based admission
Applicants are ranked based on their admission score. The admission score will be calculated 
based on applicant’s grades in the matriculation examination. If the applicant has completed 
multiple examinations or parts thereof, the combination of grades that gives them the highest 
admission score will be considered.


The scoring tables of Health Sciences for certificate-based admission can be found on the 
Yliopistovalinnat.fi website:


The same page contains the criteria for equal points as well as the rules for calculating 
scores.


If several applicants on the threshold of admission have the same score after applying these 
criteria, all applicants with the same score will be accepted.


The applicant’s eligibility for application and selection will be checked before the final 
selection decision.

During the application period

Applicants must upload high-quality scans of their 1) original educational documents, 2) proof of English language proficiency, and 3) any programme-specific attachments to their electronic application during the application period. Paper copies are not required at the first application stage. Instructions on Studyinfo must be followed, and all documents submitted by the given deadlines.

Students in the final semester of their studies are eligible to apply. Their admission will be conditional until graduation is confirmed. For details, see: Eligibility Based on Educational Background. 

Programme-​specific attachments

SAT score report (If applying on the basis of the scores of SAT test). In addition to the official SAT test results directly sent from the test organizer (College Board), a copy of the official SAT score report must be uploaded to the application form.

Copy of passport or residence permit card 

Applicants must upload a copy of their passport's ID page or their ID card, or upload copies of both sides of their residence permit card to the online application form. General information on types of documents and how to submit them.

 

Document verification for accepted students

All applicants are conditionally admitted pending verification of their educational documents*. To finalize admission, students must submit verified copies of their degree certificates or diplomas by the specified deadlines. The university will assess the authenticity and eligibility of all submitted documents. Failure to verify documents will result in cancellation of the conditional admission. 

*Degrees completed at a Finnish university or university of applied sciences, as well as the Finnish matriculation examination, are verified through the national database.

There are several ways to submit documents for verification:

  1. Educational documents shared through electronic credential services
  2. Electronically signed or verified educational documents
  3. Educational documents sent by e-mail by the awarding institution
  4. Educational paper documents sent by post

We recommend using electronic verification methods. For detailed instructions, deadlines and tips, please refer to verification of official documents.

The annual tuition fee for non-EU/EEA students is 10,000€. There are no tuition fees for students who are citizens of EU/EEA countries or Switzerland.

Other National Fees: In addition to tuition fees, degree students are required to pay the Student Union membership fee and the Kela student healthcare fee. Please also note: a national application fee is collected from applicants from countries outside EU/EEA. 

 Tuition fees, waivers and scholarships. 

Application period 2027

Our application period is from 7 January 2027 at 8 am to 21 January 2027 at 3 pm. The application is completed and submitted online.

Apply via Studyinfo

Studyinfo.fi is the official national admissions portal with all the up-to-date information about study programmes leading to a degree in Finland.

Human and Planetary Health, Bachelor of Health Sciences

Apply via Studyinfo

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Contact us

For more information about the programme, please contact us via [email protected].

Admission Services will assist you in matters related to applying (e.g. questions related to the application form and required attachments): [email protected] fi or +358 29 445 8990.