Degree regulations

Section 1: Diaconia University of Applied Sciences (Diak)

The mission of a university of applied sciences is to provide higher education based on the requirements and development of working life, on research and on artistic and educational foundations. The education is directed towards professional expert duties and supporting the student’s professional growth. In addition, the mission of a university of applied sciences is to conduct applied research, development and innovation activities, and artistic activities that serve the higher education provided by universities of applied sciences, promote working life and regional development, and renew the region’s economic structure. In carrying out its duties, a university of applied sciences must provide opportunities for continuous learning. (Act 932/2014.)

The campuses of Diaconia University of Applied Sciences (Diak) are located in Helsinki, Oulu and Pori. In addition, degree education is offered through Diak Eastern Finland and the online campus. Diak educates experts for service in society and the church. Our degree programmes also provide competencies for international duties. Diak prepares experts and professionals for the fields of social services, health care, church work and interpreting. Diak provides education leading to bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees in universities of applied sciences, specialisation education, education consisting of components of degrees, studies at the Open University of Applied Sciences, and other continuing professional education. (Act 932/2014; Decree 1129/2014.) Some programmes are implemented in cooperation with other higher education institutions.

The principal language of instruction at Diak is Finnish. In the bilingual Degree Programme in Nursing, the languages of instruction are Finnish and Swedish. The language of instruction in the English-language Degree Programme in Social Services (DSS) and Degree Programme in Nursing is English. In addition, we provide bilingual instruction in Finnish and English. In the Degree Programme in Sign Language and Alternative and Augmentative Communication, the languages of instruction are Finnish and Finnish sign language.

Section 2: Objectives of programmes leading to a Bachelor’s/Master’s degree

The objective of studies leading to a bachelor’s degree in a university of applied sciences is that the graduate shall possess:

• broad-based practical basic knowledge and skills and the theoretical foundations required to work as an expert in the field concerned;
• competencies to monitor and promote developments in their own professional field;
• the prerequisites for developing their own professional competence and for lifelong learning;
• adequate communication and language skills for duties in their own field and for international activities and cooperation (Decree 1129/2014, Section 4).

The objective of studies leading to a master’s degree in a university of applied sciences is that the graduate shall possess:

• extensive and advanced knowledge and the necessary theoretical knowledge required to work as a developer of working life in demanding expert and managerial positions;
• an in-depth understanding of their own professional field, its position in working life and its societal significance, as well as competencies to monitor and analyse developments in research knowledge and professional practice in the field;
• competencies for lifelong learning and the continuous development of their own professional competence;
• good communication and language skills for duties in their own field and for international activities and cooperation (Decree 1129/2014, Section 5).

Section 3: Degrees, degree titles and qualifications

Bachelor’s degrees, programmes

• Tulkki (AMK), (Bachelor of Humanities), Interpreting in Sign Language and Alternative and Augmentative Communication, 240 ECTS, 4 years
• Tulkki (AMK), (Bachelor of Humanities), Public Service Interpreting, 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Sairaanhoitaja (AMK) (Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing), 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Sairaanhoitaja (AMK) (Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing), Diaconal Nursing, 240 ECTS, 4 years
• Sairaanhoitaja (AMK), (Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing; bilingual programme in Finnish and Swedish), 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing, 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Terveydenhoitaja (AMK) (Bachelor of Health Care, Public Health Care) (includes the Sairaanhoitaja (AMK) / Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing qualification), 240 ECTS, 4 years
• Sosionomi (AMK) (Bachelor of Social Services), 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Sosionomi (AMK) (Bachelor of Social Services), Diaconal Work, 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Sosionomi (AMK) (Bachelor of Social Services), Christian Youth Work, 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Sosionomi (AMK) (Bachelor of Social Services), Christian Early Childhood Education, 210 ECTS, 3.5 years
• Bachelor of Social Services, 210 ECTS, 3.5 years

Master’s degrees

• Tulkki (YAMK) (Master of Humanities), interpretation, 90 ECTS, 1.5–2 years
• Sairaanhoitaja (YAMK) (Master of Health Care, Nursing), 90 ECTS, 1.5–2 years
• Terveydenhoitaja (YAMK) (Master of Health Care, Public Health Care), 90 ECTS, 1.5–2 years
• Sosionomi (YAMK) (Master of Social Services), 90 ECTS, 1.5–2 years.

The curricula of the Degree Programmes in Nursing and Public Health Nursing take into account the requirements established for nursing and public health nursing education (EU Directives 2005/36/EC; 2013/55/EU; 2013/59/Euratom; 2024/782/EU), the Act and Decree on Health Care Professionals (Act 559/94; Decree 564/94), and the Radiation Act (Act 859/2018). The educational provision also complies with the nationally agreed competence requirements for health care education at universities of applied sciences.

The curriculum of the Degree Programme in Social Services is based on the competence recommendations concerning social services degrees at universities of applied sciences and on current legislation governing the field. The curriculum of the Degree Programme leading to the Tulkki (AMK), Bachelor of Humanities, Interpreter also takes into account special legislation governing languages and interpreting, which safeguards linguistic equality and accessible communication.

The Sosionomi (AMK) (Bachelor of Social Services) degree provides an opportunity to become eligible for the position of social services specialist in early childhood education. For this, the degree must include at least 60 ECTS credits of studies oriented towards early childhood education and social pedagogy in accordance with the student’s Personal Study Plan (PSP) (Act 540/2018). Studies in early childhood education and social pedagogy are defined in the curricula.

The Degree Programme in Bachelor of Social Services, Early Childhood Education in the Church includes the studies required for eligibility as a social services specialist in early childhood education, with the clarifications mentioned above. Degree Programmes leading to eligibility as Bachelor of Social Services, Diaconal Social Work or Bachelor of Social Services, Youth Work in the Church may not include the studies required for eligibility as a social services specialist in early childhood education.

In the following degree programmes, the student becomes eligible for the role of deacon/deaconess, youth work leader or instructor in early childhood education in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland: Bachelor of Social Services, Diaconal Social Work; Bachelor of Social Services, Youth Work in the Church; Bachelor of Social Services, Early Childhood Education in the Church; and Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing, Diaconal Nursing. These programmes take into account the decisions of the Church Council regarding the degree required from holders of the office of deacon, youth work leader and instructor in early childhood education. If a student completes 8 ECTS credits of studies in mission and international diaconia within programmes that provide ecclesiastical eligibility, the student obtains eligibility for the office of mission and international work leader (Church Order 657/2023; Church Statutes Collection, No. 178).

Section 4: Continuous learning and cross-institutional studies

At Diak, continuous learning provision comprises studies with the Open University of Applied Sciences, pathway studies, specialisation education and continuing professional education.

Open University of Applied Sciences: Studies included in bachelor’s and master’s degrees at a university of applied sciences may be completed as Open University of Applied Sciences studies or otherwise as separate studies, for which the student has been granted a study right by the university of applied sciences that is limited in time and content.

A study right for studies with the Open University of Applied Sciences is applied for by registering through Diak’s online store. Studies with the Open University of Applied Sciences generally do not have prior educational requirements, but participation may require prior knowledge and skills as well as study competencies needed in higher education studies and in the field of education concerned. Significant prerequisites are stated in the registration information for the studies. Applicants are admitted primarily in order of registration. If a criterion other than registration order is used in student selection, the selection criteria are described and published in the additional information concerning the studies.

In accordance with decisions of the Church Council, it is also possible to attain eligibility as a deacon, deaconess, youth work leader or instructor in early childhood education by completing degree-complementing studies as Open University of Applied Sciences studies. This requires that the applicant has a prior relevant university of applied sciences degree in social services or health care, or a university of applied sciences degree in community education, as stipulated in the Church Statutes Collection. (Church Order 657/2023; Church Statutes Collection, Nos. 162, 164, 165.)

A graduate holding a Bachelor of Social Services degree may, through complementary studies, become eligible to work as a social services specialist in early childhood education as defined in the Early Childhood Education and Care Act (Act 504/2018). The complementary studies are completed as Open University of Applied Sciences studies. The total extent of the studies is 60 ECTS credits.

Pathway Studies: Diak Open University of Applied Sciences offers students studying at partner upper secondary institutions the opportunity to complete university of applied sciences studies alongside their upper secondary studies. Pathway studies are designed especially for students aiming to secure a study place at a university of applied sciences and wishing to develop the study competencies required for university of applied sciences studies and entrance examinations.

Specialisation Education: Specialisation education provided by universities of applied sciences consists of programmes intended to be undertaken after a higher education degree and designed for individuals already active in working life, promoting professional development and specialisation. Only education with foundations that have been agreed through cooperation between universities of applied sciences may be organised as specialisation education (Act 1173/2014; Decree 1438/2014).

The contracting parties agree on the title, extent, objectives, target group and demonstration of the student’s expertise. The extent of the education is generally 30-40 ECTS credits. Applications for specialisation education are submitted through Studyinfo.

Continuing Professional Education: Diak provides continuing professional education and customised training for work communities and organisations. Diak may also provide degree education as commissioned education. Cross-Institutional Study (Inter-Institutional Studies): Cross-institutional study refers to an opportunity offered to a higher education student to complete studies at another higher education institution. The student must have a valid right to study at their home institution, on the basis of which they may complete studies at host institutions. The student must also be registered as attending their own institution. The student may select studies from the offering of another higher education institution in accordance with agreements between the institutions.

Section 5: Student selection

Diak students include all individuals who hold a right to study in any education or studies offered by Diak, such as degree education, studies in the Open University of Applied Sciences, other separate studies or specialisation education. Admission as a student may take place in several different ways.

When admitting students to degree education, the provisions of Sections 26 and 27 of the Universities of Applied Sciences Act (Act 932/2014) concerning accessibility, the prerequisites for admission and access to information related to student selection are applied in the fields of social services and health care and in the humanities. A person may not be admitted as a student to degree education if, due to their state of health or functional capacity, they are unable to undertake the practical tasks or practical training included in the studies where these involve safety requirements and where the obstacle cannot be removed through reasonable measures. A previous decision concerning revocation of the right to study may also constitute an obstacle to admission if considerations relating to the protection of the health and safety of other persons so require.

If a person admitted as a student holds a social services or health care qualification that requires valid authorisation to practise as a licensed or title-protected social welfare or health care professional, the authorisation must be valid.

Students are selected through joint application procedures and separate application procedures, and student selections generally follow the national field-specific selection criteria. The Director of Education and Vice Rector confirms Diak’s selection criteria. The application options for bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees in universities of applied sciences are defined separately each year.

In degree education, the results of student selection are confirmed by the Director of Education and Vice Rector, with the exception of the results of the national UAS entrance examination, certificate-based admission and the International UAS Exam.

In degree education, higher education institutions notify applicants of admission through the Studyinfo.fi service. The applicant accepts the study place within the specified deadline in the My Studyinfo service. At the same time, the applicant must register as attending or non-attending. If the student does not return the notification of acceptance of the study place by the deadline, they forfeit the study place. The notification of acceptance of a study place is binding and cannot be changed or cancelled.

The Director of Education and Vice Rector confirms the selection criteria for specialisation education and decides on student admissions.

An applicant dissatisfied with the student selection decision for degree education or specialisation education may submit a written request for rectification to Diak’s Examination Board within 14 days of the publication of the selection results. When the results are published, information must be provided on how the applicant can obtain information on the way the selection criteria were applied in their case and how a request for rectification may be submitted. The selection result cannot, as a consequence of a request for rectification, be altered to the detriment of a person admitted as a student.

Section 6: Admission of transfer students

A transfer student refers to a student admitted to studies leading to a higher education degree whose right to study is transferred from one higher education institution to another, or within a higher education institution from one programme to another, in such a way that the degree title attached to the target degree changes (Act 932/2014).

In the fields of social services and health care, the university of applied sciences has the right to obtain from an applicant seeking admission as a transfer student the health-related information necessary for evaluating admission, as well as information from another higher education institution regarding any pending proceedings concerning revocation of the applicant’s right to study.

The Director of Education and Vice Rector confirms the selection criteria for transfer applications and makes the decision on admission.

The results of transfer applications are published in the Studyinfo.fi service. The applicant accepts the study place within the specified deadline in the My Studyinfo service. At the same time, the applicant must register as attending or non-attending. If the student does not return the notification of acceptance of the study place by the deadline, they forfeit the study place. The notification of acceptance of a study place is binding and cannot be changed or cancelled. Any attendance and non-attendance semesters already used by an applicant admitted through the transfer application process are transferred with the student to Diak.

An applicant dissatisfied with the student selection decision in the transfer application process may submit a written request for rectification to Diak’s Examination Board within 14 days of the publication of the selection results. When the results are published, information must be provided on how the applicant can obtain information on the way the selection criteria were applied in their case and how a request for rectification may be submitted. The selection result cannot, as a consequence of a request for rectification, be altered to the detriment of a person admitted as a student.

Section 7: Registration as an attending or non-attending degree student

A degree student must register each academic year as either an attending or a non-attending student. Annual registration is a statutory obligation. Failure to register results in the loss of the right to study. A new student completes the registration in the My Studyinfo service, and a continuing student in MyDiak.

Only an attending student has the right to complete studies and receive credits entered in the study register. A student registered as non-attending does not have the right to complete studies. A non-attending student is not entitled to student welfare benefits and is also not covered by the insurance policies of the university of applied sciences. If the curriculum has changed during the period of absence, a student returning to studies will be offered studies in accordance with the curriculum in force.

After accepting a study place, a student may register as non-attending during the first academic year if they

• are completing service under the Conscription Act (Act 1438/2007), the Non-Military Service Act (Act 1446/2007), or the Act on Voluntary Military Service for Women (Act 194/1995);
• require leave from their studies in order to care for their child in connection with the child’s birth or adoption (14 January 2022/53); or
• are unable to commence their studies due to their own illness or disability (Act 932/2014).

At the beginning of studies, a student may register as non-attending only for the reasons stated above. This absence of two semesters is not counted towards the time allowed for completion of studies.

After the first academic year, a student may register as non-attending for a total of two semesters. This period of absence is not counted towards the time allowed for completion of studies. In addition, periods of absence resulting from service under the Conscription Act, the Non-Military Service Act or the Act on Voluntary Military Service for Women, or from leave taken in connection with the birth or adoption of a child, are not counted towards the time allowed for completion of studies (Act 932/2014, Section 29).

If a student registers as non-attending during the first academic year because of their own illness or disability, this absence consumes the entitlement to two semesters of absence.

Within the prescribed time limits, a student may change a previous annual registration for the following semester before that semester begins. During an ongoing semester, a student may change their attending or non-attending status only for justified reasons and only if no study credits have been accumulated during that semester. The student must provide an explanation of their situation and, where the reason is health-related, a medical certificate or other equivalent certificate.

Section 8: Duration of the right to study

A degree student’s right to study is valid for a limited period. The duration of the right to study is determined according to the extent of the programme. Degree studies are organised in such a way that the student can complete the studies within the target duration (Decree 423/2005, Section 13). A degree student must complete their studies within a period that exceeds the target duration by no more than one year.

When the period of the right to study expires, the student may apply for discretionary additional time (Section 10).

A degree student may resign from Diak, that is, relinquish their right to study. Notice of resignation must be submitted in writing in accordance with the instructions issued by Diak. If a student who has resigned from Diak wishes to obtain a new right to study, they must apply for admission in accordance with the current application procedures.

In Open University of Applied Sciences studies and other studies completed under a separate right to study, the duration of the right to study corresponds to the implementation period of the studies included in the granted right to study. In specialisation education and continuing professional education, the duration of the right to study corresponds to the implementation period of the programme.

A degree student at Diak may not simultaneously study at Diak under an Open University of Applied Sciences right to study or another separate right to study. An exception applies to students registered as non-attending where continuing studies through the Open University of Applied Sciences significantly supports the progress of their studies and enables graduation within the target duration. The Study Counsellor assesses fulfilment of these conditions in each individual case.

Section 9: Transfer of the right to study within Diaconia University of Applied Sciences

An application to change to another degree programme may be submitted only within UAS degree programmes in the fields of social services and health care. A prerequisite for changing the right to study is that the student has completed their studies in accordance with their Personal Study Plan (PSP) and has no overdue credits. A further prerequisite is that, despite any additional studies resulting from the change, the degree can still be completed within the target duration and that there is space in the student group to which the student is transferring. Degree students may apply for a transfer after completing at least one semester of studies. Degree students commencing in January may apply for a transfer during the following autumn semester, and those commencing in August during the following spring semester.

The student applies for a change of right to study in writing and submits a reasoned application to the Study Counsellor by the end of March or October. The Study Counsellor reviews the student’s study attainments, considers whether it is possible to complete the remaining studies within the target duration and, if necessary, arranges a discussion concerning the transfer.

The decision on changing the right to study is made by the Director of Education and Vice Rector upon the proposal of the Study Counsellor. A written decision is provided to the applicant no later than one month after the final application deadline. An applicant dissatisfied with the decision may submit a written request for rectification to Diak’s Examination Board within 14 days of the publication of the selection results.

Section 10: Discretionary extension

Upon application, Diak may grant a student additional time. The student must present a goal-oriented and realistic plan for completing their studies. The student must apply for additional time during the validity of the original right to study, and there is a fee of EUR 50 for processing the application. The fee is based on the Government Decree on Fees Charged for the Operations of Universities of Applied Sciences (Decree 1440/2014, Section 3).

A prerequisite for granting additional time is that the extent of outstanding studies does not exceed 60 ECTS credits in education leading to a UAS bachelor’s degree and 40 ECTS credits in education leading to a UAS master’s degree, and that the studies can be completed within one academic year.

A decision on discretionary additional time is made by the Head of Student Services upon the proposal of the Study Counsellor. The granting of additional time is based on the decision-maker’s discretion and assessment of the prerequisites for completing the studies (Act 932/2014, Section 30a). As a rule, additional time is granted only once and for no more than one year. During the additional time period, a student may register as non-attending only on statutory grounds.

The student has the right to seek rectification of a decision concerning the loss of the right to study from the Board of Diaconia University of Applied Sciences Ltd within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision (Act 932/2014).

Section 11: Revocation of the right to study

A student loses their right to study for the following reasons (items 1–3 pursuant to Section 32 of Act 932/2014):

1. The student fails to register as attending or non-attending by the specified deadline.
2. The student does not complete their studies within the right-to-study period provided for by law and any discretionary additional time granted.
3. The student accepts, on or after 1 August 2026, a right to study leading to a qualification at the same or lower level in education commencing on or after 1 January 2027 (Act 345/2026).
4. A student liable to pay tuition fees fails to pay the tuition fee by the deadline specified by the university of applied sciences and does not register as non-attending.
5. The student resigns at their own request.

Section 12: Reinstatement of the right to study

If a student who has lost their right to study later wishes to commence or continue their studies, they must apply to the university of applied sciences for reinstatement of the right to study. The application may be submitted without participating in student selection. (Act 932/2014.) A student who has lost their right to study may not complete studies until the right to study has been reinstated. A student who has resigned from Diak must apply for admission in accordance with the current application procedures if they wish to obtain a new right to study.

1. If a student has lost their right to study due to neglect of the statutory registration obligation under the Universities of Applied Sciences Act and applies for reinstatement, there is a processing fee of EUR 50. The decision on reinstatement is made by the Head of Student Services upon the proposal of the Study Counsellor, or where necessary by the Director of Education and Vice Rector.
   
   When determining the duration of the reinstated right to study, the remaining right-to-study period and semesters of absence are taken into account. Semesters during which the student did not hold a right to study due to failure to register are counted as semesters of absence if the student still has unused semesters of absence available. Where all semesters of absence have already been used, the period of absence resulting from failure to register consumes the student’s right-to-study period.
   
   The student has the right to seek rectification of the decision from the Board of Diaconia University of Applied Sciences Ltd within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision (Act 932/2014).
2. A student who has exhausted their right to study and has not completed their UAS bachelor’s degree may apply, through a separate application procedure, for a new right to study for the purpose of completing the degree. A new right to study may be granted if the applicant has completed at least 150 ECTS credits in an unfinished degree at a Finnish university of applied sciences and if no more than 10 years have elapsed since the loss of the right to study, calculated from the date of application. If the applicant has completed fewer credits, studies may be completed through Open UAS studies until the required number of credits has been attained. When granting a new right to study, the student is given a period of study considered sufficient for the completion of the degree. Students admitted through the separate application procedure have the statutory right to register as non-attending under the Universities of Applied Sciences Act, but they are not eligible for discretionary additional time. If the student does not complete the degree within the right-to-study period granted through the separate application procedure, the remaining studies required for the degree may be completed through Diak Open University of Applied Sciences. The studies are subject to the fees specified in the fee schedule. Once all studies required for the award of the degree have been completed, the student may apply once more through the separate application procedure for a new right to study in order to graduate.
3. A student who has lost their right to study on the basis of the one-study-place provision must apply for admission in accordance with the current application procedures if they wish to obtain a new right to study.
4. Failure by a tuition fee-paying student to register or to pay the tuition fee by the due date results in the loss of the right to study. Reinstatement of the right to study requires payment of both the tuition fee and the application processing fee prescribed by decree. The payment obligation applies to all semesters for which the student has registered as attending. Loss of the right to study is reported to the Finnish Immigration Service.

In Open University of Applied Sciences studies and other studies completed under a separate right to study, extension of the right-to-study period is possible where only a minor number of assignments remain outstanding from a component included in the right to study. Continuation of studies must be agreed, before the expiry of the right-to-study period, with the lecturer responsible for the implementation of the studies.

• The decision on extending the right to study for an individual Open University of Applied Sciences course is made by the lecturer responsible for the course or by the lecturer receiving the assessment.
• The continuation of studies for a student in Open UAS pathway studies is decided by the Study Counsellor.
• The continuation of studies for a student in Open UAS access-route studies is decided by the Study Counsellor.
• In specialisation education, any extension beyond the right-to-study period must be agreed separately with the programme delivery team or the responsible lecturer, who decides on the extension of the right to study.
• In Open University of Applied Sciences eligibility study packages, studies must be completed in accordance with the implementation plans of the courses included in the package or, by agreement with the lecturer responsible for implementation of a course included in the package, no later than within the right-to-study period granted to the student. Otherwise, the student must register for the studies again in accordance with the normal registration procedures.

Section 13: Suspension, revocation and reinstatement of the right to study

A student’s right to study may be suspended if the student refuses to undergo the examinations and tests referred to in Section 34(1) for the purpose of determining their state of health. The suspension remains in force until the student consents to the examinations and tests.

At the request of the university of applied sciences, a student must present a criminal records extract if they are assigned tasks in studies or practical training included in studies that essentially require working with minors. If the student refuses to provide the criminal records extract referred to in Section 34(4), their right to study may be suspended until such time as they present the extract for inspection.

Where studies involve requirements concerning the safety of minors, patient or client safety, or traffic safety, the university of applied sciences may revoke the student’s right to study if:

• by repeatedly or seriously endangering another person’s health or safety during their studies, the student has demonstrated that they are clearly unsuitable to undertake practical tasks or practical training related to the studies;
• it is apparent that the student does not, in terms of health or functional capacity, meet the prerequisites for admission as a student;
• during the application process, the student concealed information concerning a decision to revoke a right to study that could have prevented their admission as a student;
• the student has been convicted of an offence that may constitute an obstacle to studies or practical training related to studies that essentially require working with minors. (Act 932/2014.)

If the right to study has been revoked on the grounds of health or functional capacity, the right to study may be reinstated once the grounds for revocation no longer exist. The student must submit statements concerning their state of health to the university of applied sciences for the attention of the Director of Education and Vice Rector. The reinstatement of the right to study is decided by the Board of the university of applied sciences.

Measures, procedures, decision-making and appeals relating to the suspension and revocation of the right to study are set out in the guideline Disciplinary Measures at Diaconia University of Applied Sciences.

Section 14: Personal study plan (PSP, HOPS)

The basis of students’ Personal Study Plans (PSP) is the curriculum of the programme, which provides the general framework for the progression of studies and supports the learning process and professional development. The PSP supports the student’s goal-oriented studies and graduation within the target duration.

In degree education, students plan the progression of their studies under the guidance of a study counsellor during guidance sessions and, where necessary, through individual and group guidance. The conditions governing the completion of studies are described in the prerequisite requirements of the courses. The student updates their study plan as necessary during their studies. Any significant deviation from the prescribed order of studies and any studies to be completed at another higher education institution (inter-institutional studies, i.e. cross-institutional study) must always be agreed separately with the Study Counsellor.

In all degree programmes, students are entitled to complete studies exceeding the statutory scope of the degree by a maximum of five ECTS credits, provided that graduation is not delayed as a result. The student may include these completed studies in their UAS degree as studies exceeding the degree requirements. The two-credit preparatory English language studies included in the social services and health care curricula are not counted as excess studies.

During the first semester, the student completes studies at the campus to which they were admitted, provided that studies in accordance with their PSP are available there. Thereafter, they may complete studies in accordance with their PSP at locations other than their home campus.

On the decision of a study counsellor, special needs teacher or student counsellor, a student may be granted reasonable individual study arrangements relating to the completion of studies on the basis of a medical certificate or other statements. The student is obliged to inform the teacher of granted individual arrangements at the beginning of the course if they wish them to be applied.

Section 15: Study guidance

At Diak, study guidance is based on the guidance model Study Guidance and Career Guidance at Diak. Each intake group is assigned its own study counsellor, who guides and supports students in the progress of their studies and professional growth at different stages of their studies. Each intake group also has a group tutor, who guides students in matters related to the overall semester structure, monitors their study progress and supports their professional growth. Course teachers provide more detailed guidance regarding course content and implementation and monitor progress in study tasks.

Section 16: Class and guidance participation

Only degree students registered as attending, Open University of Applied Sciences students who have been granted a right to study, or students holding another right to study may participate in taught sessions and complete studies for which they have been granted a right to study. Students in degree education register for studies each semester. Open University of Applied Sciences students register for studies at the same time as they apply for a right to study through the registration system.

The student is obliged to follow and comply with the instructions and provisions issued by the course teacher concerning the completion of studies and participation in studies. The student must participate in the course orientation, taught course sessions and other study activities in the manner specified in the implementation plan. The student may be removed from the participant list according to the timetable defined in the implementation plan, in which case they must register for the next course implementation. The teacher must remove the student from the registration list no later than the end of the course if the student has not completed any assessed work on the course or if their progress on a continuously available course remains incomplete.

Acceptable study attainment requires achievement of the learning outcomes specified in the curriculum in accordance with the assessment criteria applicable to the stage of studies concerned, participation in taught sessions in accordance with the requirements of the implementation plan, and successful completion of the assignments and examinations included in the course. Students are required to accept a EULA or equivalent agreement enabling the checking of assignments with plagiarism detection software.

For courses completed as inter-institutional studies, i.e. cross-institutional study, the student must comply with the degree regulations of the institution providing the course.

Section 17: Practical training

The objective of practical training is to familiarise the student, under supervision, with practical work tasks that are particularly relevant to professional studies and with the application of knowledge and skills in working life.

In order to assess the development of professional competence, guidance discussions are organised during practical training periods. These discussions involve the student, a representative of working life and a teacher. The discussion is based on the student’s learning objectives and self-assessment as well as feedback from the representative of working life. Assessment is both formative and summative. If there is a risk of the student failing the practical training, the supervising teacher must arrange a guidance discussion immediately.

Any more detailed requirements and prerequisite studies related to the commencement of practical training are stated in the information concerning the courses linked to practical training. A student who has successfully completed their previous practical training and the studies essential for the subsequent practical training may commence the next practical training period. If the previous practical training or studies essential to the practical training have not been successfully completed, the student must provide special justification in order to commence the next practical training period (with the exception of the Public Service Interpreting programme).

Practical training may also be completed outside the academic semesters in accordance with the PSP and Diak’s practical training guidelines.

In health care education, the number of ECTS credits allocated to practical training is governed by an EU Directive (2005/36/EC).

In certain situations, an Open University of Applied Sciences student may be permitted to complete practical training periods. The possibility of completing practical training is assessed separately.

At the request of the university of applied sciences, a student must present a criminal records extract if they are assigned tasks in studies or practical training included in studies that essentially require working with minors. The teacher responsible for practical training is responsible for ensuring that the criminal records extract has been checked before such practical training begins. If the student refuses to present the criminal records extract, the right to study may be suspended until the extract has been presented.

Section 18: International studies

In degree education, students may complete part of their studies abroad at higher education institutions or in practical training placements in accordance with arrangements agreed in their PSP and with Diak’s instructions. International studies may also be completed virtually or in blended form, including both virtual and physical mobility.

Prerequisites in accordance with the personal study plan must be completed before the start of the Orientation to International Exchange Studies course, which students take before their exchange period. International exchange periods must be completed during the expected completion time of the programme, and they must not delay graduation.

Section 19: Thesis and maturity test

The thesis and the thesis process are guided and defined by tthe Participatory and Research-based Development Handbook 2.0. In programmes other than Finnish-language programmes, the thesis is governed by separate instructions.

The thesis must be work-life oriented. A thesis included in a UAS bachelor’s degree is completed as pair work or group work. When justified reasons are given, it is also possible to complete the thesis individually, subject to a separate application. A thesis included in a UAS master’s degree is completed as pair work. When justified reasons are given, individual work is also possible.

The thesis report is written in Finnish when the student is enrolled in a Finnish-language programme and in English when the student is enrolled in an English-language programme.

In the Degree Programme in Public Health Nursing, in addition to the 15 ECTS credit thesis, a 5 ECTS credit development project is completed. The thesis must be completed before the development project associated with the KEH5 course.

A student completing a second higher education degree may utilise a previous thesis in the new degree. Instructions concerning the use of a previous thesis and the related conditions are provided in the Guide to Participatory and Research-Based Development.

The assessment criteria for UAS bachelor’s theses and UAS master’s theses are described in the Guide to Participatory and Research-Based Development. A thesis completed as group work is awarded either a common grade for the group or an individual grade for each student.

A thesis is always assessed by the supervising teacher and one other supervisor or examiner. A written assessment statement is prepared and delivered electronically to the student.

The student submits the thesis report to the institution for archiving and deposits it in the open collection of the Theseus database. Deposit in the restricted-access collection of the Theseus database must be agreed separately with the supervising teacher. Theses completed within church-sector qualification modules, theses completed within qualification modules for eligibility as a social services specialist in early childhood education, and development projects completed as part of the Public Health Nursing degree are not deposited in the Theseus database.

As a general rule, an approved thesis report is a public document. When preparing the thesis report, efforts should be made to address the topic in such a way that the thesis does not contain confidential information. If confidential information is nevertheless included, it should be placed in background material classified as confidential or, alternatively, in appendices that may be made confidential as an exception.

The author of the thesis submits an application concerning the confidentiality of appendices to the Examination Board. Statements from the thesis supervisors must be attached to the application. The Rector makes the decision on confidentiality on the basis of a proposal from the Examination Board. Confidentiality is based on the Act on the Openness of Government Activities (Act 621/1999) or other legislation. The legal basis and duration of confidentiality are stated in the decision and are determined by law.

Thesis assessments are public unless they contain information describing a person’s characteristics or other information classified as confidential under the Act on the Openness of Government Activities. Primary research materials and the thesis plan are confidential and may not be disclosed to external parties if such disclosure would be detrimental to the preparation, utilisation or assessment of the thesis.

For a UAS bachelor’s degree, the student must complete, under supervision, a maturity test relating to the field of the thesis, in which familiarity with the field and proficiency in Finnish or Swedish are assessed. An approved maturity test is a prerequisite for approval of the thesis. In Finnish-language programmes, the maturity test is completed in Finnish or Swedish depending on the student’s language of previous schooling. In English-language programmes, the maturity test is written in English. (Decree 1129/2014, Section 8.) A maturity test is not required for the development project included in the degree of Public Health Nurse (UAS) or for theses completed within social services and church-sector qualification modules. Upon application, the Examination Board may exempt a student from the maturity test where the student is not required to demonstrate the language proficiency referred to in Section 7 of Decree 1129/2014.

For UAS master’s degrees, the maturity test takes the form of a media release or an expert article. By agreement, it may also take the form of another written text.

A student dissatisfied with the assessment of a thesis may request rectification within 14 days of the date on which the assessment result and the application of the assessment criteria were made available to the student (Act 932/2014, Section 57). The rectification procedure for assessment is described in Section 23 of these Degree Regulations.

Section 20: Recognition and accreditation of prior learning (RPL) and and work-based learning accreditation

A degree student registered as attending may apply for the recognition and accreditation of prior learning (RPL) as part of their degree. The student is responsible for demonstrating their personal competence, ensuring its accuracy and providing the relevant information. The recognition of competence, application procedures and decision-making are described in Diak’s RPL guidelines.

In UAS master’s degree programmes, previously acquired competence and studies are assessed against the learning outcomes set out in the curriculum. Studies completed more than ten years previously are not recognised through the RPL process.

In joint degree programmes, where another institution is responsible for the teaching of the course in question, RPL matters are handled in cooperation with the higher education institutions providing the degree.

In studies with the Open University of Applied Sciences, the RPL procedure is used in those qualification modules where completion of studies through the Open University of Applied Sciences provides a statutory or otherwise professionally recognised qualification or competence.

In Open University of Applied Sciences pathway studies, the RPL procedure may be used where this is necessary to create a smooth study pathway for the student as a degree student.

A student dissatisfied with the recognition of studies completed elsewhere or competence acquired by other means may request rectification. The rectification procedure is described in Section 23 of the Degree Regulations, Rectification of the Assessment of Study Tasks, Theses and RPL Decisions.

Work-based learning accreditation refers to the acquisition, during studies, of the competence required for a degree through employment. Work-based learning accreditation is the individualisation of studies and practical training carried out in working life or within research, development and innovation (RDI) activities in various forms. The application procedures, documentation and decision-making concerning work-based learning accreditation are described in separate guidelines.

Section 21: Assessment of study tasks

Achievement of the objectives of a programme is assessed through course-specific study tasks such as examinations, learning assignments or other appropriate methods. At the beginning of a course, the student must be informed of the assessed tasks and the assessment criteria. The assessment criteria are based on the learning outcomes of the courses and Diak’s assessment criteria.

Course grades are entered into Diak’s student records system. The results of individual assessed tasks within a course are recorded in the online learning environment.

The assessment scale is either Excellent 5, Good 4, Good 3, Satisfactory 2, Satisfactory 1, or Pass/Fail, or Participated in Teaching (Part.).

For pair and group assignments, the workload is expected to be distributed equally among students. On request, a student must be able to demonstrate their own contribution to the joint output. Different grades may justifiably be awarded to individual students for the same assignment.

If a student submits a learning assignment late without a justified reason and without agreeing a later submission date with the teacher, the grade awarded will be reduced by one grade level. If the grade for the late assignment would have been one (1) before the reduction of one grade level, the student will fail the assignment.

Practical training periods are assessed on a Pass/Fail basis. The teacher supervising the practical training is responsible for the assessment.

The student must receive feedback, assessment results and an entry in the student records system within one month of the end of the course. The results of assessed tasks for courses delivered between 1 June and 31 July must be entered by 15 September. The teacher responsible for the course or assessed task is responsible for ensuring that results are entered into the student records system immediately after the grade has been confirmed. If the student has not yet completed the course, the lecturer responsible for assessment enters the outstanding components in the student records system. If the student has not submitted an assessable task by the due date, the one-month assessment period is calculated from the next pre-announced Diak common submission date for overdue assignments.

For courses delivered on a continuous-enrolment basis, the completion period is the implementation period stated in the implementation plan, and no right to submit overdue work is available.

For courses assessed on a Pass/Fail scale, the possibility of completing overdue work is stated on a case-by-case basis in the implementation plan.

A student has the right to receive information on the application of the assessment criteria to their study task. At the student’s request, they must be given an opportunity to examine an assessed written or otherwise recorded study task. Assessment criteria for study tasks must be retained for six months following the publication of the results (Decree 352/2003, Section 19). The assessment rectification procedure is described in Section 23 of these Degree Regulations.

A passing grade for a study task cannot be improved. A passing grade is also not removed from the student records system. A failed study task can be retaken twice, unless otherwise agreed for special reasons.

In the Degree Programme in Public Service Interpreting, the partial examinations of the course Demonstration of Professional Interpreting Competence (TUV09) are assessed numerically and entered on the transcript of records.

In the Degree Programme in Sign Language and Alternative and Augmentative Communication, the partial examinations of the Final Studies course (PTO) are assessed numerically, while the overall course grade is recorded as Pass/Fail.

The assessment designation Part. (Participated in Teaching) is used only in language teaching for students exempted from language proficiency requirements who have actively participated in the teaching.

Section 22: Final Studies in the Humanities programme and working as an interpreter

In the Degree Programme in Sign Language and Alternative and Augmentative Communication (2019 Curriculum), the student completes the Final Studies course at the end of their studies, during which their professional competence is assessed as a whole. The student may participate in the course after completing all preceding studies included in the programme, excluding elective studies, thesis studies and final semester studies.

In the Degree Programme in Public Service Interpreting (2019 Curriculum), the student completes the course Demonstration of Professional Interpreting Competence at the end of their studies, during which their professional competence is assessed as a whole. The student may participate in the course after completing all preceding studies included in the programme, excluding elective studies, thesis studies and final semester studies.

A student in the Degree Programme in Sign Language and Alternative and Augmentative Communication may work independently in interpreting assignments after completing the Final Studies course with good results.

Section 23: Rectification of the assessment of study tasks, theses, final studies in the Humanities and RPL decisions

A student dissatisfied with the assessment of a study task may request rectification orally or in writing from the teacher who carried out the assessment. The request for rectification must be submitted within 14 days of the date on which the assessment result and the application of the assessment criteria were made available to the student (Act 932/2014, Section 57). A person dissatisfied with the decision made in response to a request for rectification may seek rectification from Diak’s Examination Board within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision.

Rectification procedure for the assessment of study tasks:

• The student requests rectification orally or in writing, preferably by email, from the assessor within 14 days of the date on which the assessment result and the application of the assessment criteria to their own study task were made available to the student.
• The assessor reassesses the student’s study task (e.g. examination or learning assignment). The assessor provides the student with written feedback describing the application of the assessment criteria and any other grounds for the assessment (for example, achievement of the course learning outcomes). At this stage, the grade may still be changed on justified grounds. The assessor delivers the decision, including the grounds for the reassessment, to the student within one month of receiving the request for rectification.
• If the student is dissatisfied with the assessor’s decision, they may seek rectification from the Examination Board within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision. In the request for rectification, the student must clearly state the decision to which rectification is sought, the rectification requested and the grounds on which rectification is requested. The student submits the request for rectification to the Examination Board.
• Once the Examination Board has considered the matter, it sends its decision to the student.

Rectification procedure for the assessment of a thesis:

• The student requests rectification orally or in writing, preferably by email, from the assessor within 14 days of the date on which the assessment result and the application of the assessment criteria to the thesis were made available to the student.
• The assessor reassesses the student’s thesis and provides written feedback describing the application of the assessment criteria and any other grounds for the assessment. At this stage, the grade may still be changed on justified grounds. The assessor delivers the decision, including the grounds for the reassessment, to the student within one month of receiving the request for rectification.
• If the student is dissatisfied with the assessor’s decision, they may seek rectification from the Examination Board within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision. In the request for rectification, the student clearly states the decision to which rectification is sought, the rectification requested and the grounds for the request. The student submits the request for rectification to the Examination Board.
• Where necessary, the Examination Board agrees with the Head of Degree Programme in the relevant field on a reassessment of the thesis. The reassessment is carried out by a teacher who has not supervised the thesis concerned. The teacher assesses the thesis and prepares a statement using the thesis assessment template within one month of being assigned the reassessment. The reassessment concerns the thesis report or another equivalent written component. A reassessment may not lower an already awarded grade.
• Once the Examination Board has considered the matter, it sends its decision to the student.

Rectification procedure for the assessment of final studies in the humanities:

• The student requests rectification orally or in writing, preferably by email, from the assessor within 14 days of the date on which the assessment result and the application of the assessment criteria to their own performance were made available to the student.
• The assessor reassesses the student’s performance. The assessor provides written feedback describing the application of the assessment criteria and any other grounds for the assessment (for example, achievement of the course learning outcomes). At this stage, the grade may still be changed on justified grounds. The assessor delivers the decision, including the grounds for the reassessment, to the student within one month of receiving the request for rectification.
• If the student is dissatisfied with the assessor’s decision, they may seek rectification from the Examination Board within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision. In the request for rectification, the student must clearly state the decision to which rectification is sought, the rectification requested and the grounds on which rectification is requested. The student submits the request for rectification to the Examination Board.
• Once the Examination Board has considered the matter, it sends its decision to the student.

A student dissatisfied with the credit transfer of studies completed elsewhere or competence demonstrated by other means (RPL procedure) may request rectification orally or in writing from the decision-maker. The request for rectification must be submitted within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision (Act 932/2014, Section 57). A person dissatisfied with the decision made in response to a request for rectification may seek rectification from Diak’s Examination Board within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision.

Rectification procedure for RPL decisions:

• The student requests rectification orally or in writing, preferably by email, of the RPL decision from the person who made the decision within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision (Act 932/2014, Section 57).
• The person who made the RPL decision considers the request for rectification and sends the student a written decision with reasons. The decision states whether the RPL decision is changed.
• If the student is dissatisfied with the decision, they may seek rectification from Diak’s Examination Board within 14 days of receiving notice of the decision (Act 932/2014, Section 57). In the request for rectification, the student clearly states the decision to which rectification is sought, the rectification requested and the grounds on which rectification is requested. The student submits the request for rectification to the Examination Board.
• Once the Examination Board has considered the matter, it sends its decision to the student.

Section 24: Language proficiency requirements

In studies included in a UAS bachelor’s degree, or otherwise, the student must demonstrate such proficiency in Finnish and Swedish as is required under the Act on the Knowledge of Languages Required of Personnel in Public Bodies (Act 424/2003) for a post requiring a higher education degree in a bilingual authority district and which is necessary for professional practice and professional development. In addition, the student must demonstrate such written and oral proficiency in one or two foreign languages as is necessary for professional practice and professional development. The language proficiency demonstrated by the student is recorded on the degree certificate.

A student may apply for exemption from the language proficiency requirements prescribed in the Decree (Decree 1129/2014, Section 7) in the following cases:

• the student has never studied the language in question;
• the student has not studied Swedish or English in upper secondary education;
• the student has not studied Swedish or English in comprehensive school, but has completed studies in those languages in upper secondary education;
• the student received their school education abroad and has not studied Swedish or English.

In these cases, the decision on exemption from the language proficiency requirements is made by the Study Counsellor on the basis of educational certificates.

The Examination Board decides, upon application, on partial or full exemptions from the language proficiency requirements referred to in the Decree (Decree 1129/2014, Section 7) where special reasons exist. The application must include the grounds for the exemption (with supporting documentation), as well as a recommendation or statement from the Study Counsellor and a designated language teacher.

Special reasons for exemption from language proficiency requirements include:

• the student’s health-related or other special reason, such as severe dyslexia (Language Exemption Application Form A);
• the impossibility of completing language studies during the course of studies, for example due to an inadequate starting level (Language Exemption Application Form B).

If a student is exempted from the language proficiency requirements, the overall extent of the degree does not change. The completion of studies of an equivalent extent shall be agreed with the Study Counsellor if the student has not received a Participated in Teaching assessment for the language studies concerned.

The Examination Board may exempt a student in a Finnish-language programme whose first language is not Finnish from completing the Finnish-language component of the maturity test. The Examination Board also decides on matters concerning the maturity test where the student is not required to demonstrate the language proficiency referred to in the Decree (Decree 1129/2014, Section 8).

Section 25: Changing the working language in the Tulkki (AMK) (Bachelor of Humanities), Public Service Interpreting programme

In the Tulkki (AMK), (Bachelor of Humanities), Public Service Interpreting programme, change of the working language before the commencement of language studies is possible only in exceptional circumstances. A language change may be considered only before the actual language studies have begun, in practice during the first semester. As grounds for changing the language, the student must complete a language test equivalent to the testing of the second working language in the entrance examination. A change of working language is possible only for languages that were available in the joint application procedure during the student’s application round. A change of working language is possible only if the student passes the test at a sufficient level. If the language test does not demonstrate sufficient language proficiency, the student’s right to study remains unchanged and they continue their studies in the language for which they were originally admitted.

Section 26: Expiry of study attainments

The student must complete the learning assignments, examinations and other assessed tasks included in courses in accordance with the implementation plan. If a degree student is unable, for justified reasons, to complete assignments or examinations within the agreed schedule, they must complete outstanding tasks in accordance with the current overdue work procedure. The overdue work procedure is described on Diak’s website. The teacher responsible for the assessed task must check and assess an overdue submission and record the result in the student records system within one month from the next Diak overdue submission date. Missing tasks may prevent progression in studies and delay the student’s graduation.

Courses delivered on a continuous-enrolment basis do not include the right to submit overdue work. If the student does not submit all assignments by the end date of the course, they must complete the entire course again.

For courses assessed on a Pass/Fail scale, the possibility of completing overdue work is stated on a case-by-case basis in the implementation plan.

For Open University of Applied Sciences students, students studying under another separate right to study, and students in specialisation education, the right to complete assignments or examinations ends when the implementation period of the studies ends, unless the responsible teacher grants a discretionary extension before that date. In Open University of Applied Sciences qualification modules, studies must be completed in accordance with the implementation plans of the courses included in the module or, by agreement with the teacher responsible for the implementation of a course within the module, no later than within the period of the right to study granted to the student. Otherwise, the student must register for the studies again in accordance with normal registration procedures.

Study results entered in the student records system do not expire during the validity of the right to study for the degree.

If the student’s curriculum has changed, the student may complete missing studies in accordance with their Personal Study Plan (PSP) for as long as those studies remain available. However, missing assignments relating to a course must be completed no later than one year after the final offering of the course due to a curriculum change. Otherwise, the missing assignments must be completed in accordance with the curriculum currently in force.

Section 27: Certificates

The university of applied sciences awards the student a degree certificate for a completed degree. The degree certificate is an electronic document.

The student applies for the degree certificate through the Graduation Service in MyDiak in accordance with the instructions and the graduation schedule confirmed annually.

A UAS bachelor’s degree certificate states the extent of the degree, the degree title, the language proficiency demonstrated by the student and, where applicable, the professional qualifications included in the degree. A UAS master’s degree certificate states the name of the degree, the extent of the degree and the degree title.

Attached to the degree certificate are a transcript of records and a Diploma Supplement intended for international use, providing sufficient information about the university of applied sciences and the degree referred to on the degree certificate (Decree 1129/2014, Section 10).

For certificates relating to joint degrees, the provisions concerning certificates set out in the cooperation agreements will be followed.

If the student has completed the ecclesiastical studies required under the current decisions of the Church Council, the degree certificate will also state eligibility for the office of deacon/deaconess, youth work leader or instructor in early childhood education in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. If a church-sector student has completed at least 8 ECTS credits of studies in mission and international diaconia in accordance with a decision of the Church Council, eligibility for the office of mission and international work leader is also entered on the certificate.

If the student has completed 60 ECTS credits of studies in early childhood education or social pedagogy, the degree certificate will state eligibility for the position of social services specialist in early childhood education.

For degree students in the Degree Programme in Interpreting in Sign Language and Alternative and Augmentative Communication, the degree certificate will indicate the student’s specialisation either in sign language interpreting or in alternative and augmentative communication impairment interpreting.

For graduates of the Degree Programme in Public Service Interpreting, the Language Proficiency section of the degree certificate will state the interpreting languages (for example, Finnish and Arabic).

For studies completed through the Open University of Applied Sciences or under a separate right to study, a transcript of records is issued. If the student has completed studies leading to a separate professional or statutory qualification, a certificate including the relevant qualification wording is issued.

Students who have completed a specialisation programme are issued an electronic certificate and a transcript of records. Students who have completed continuing professional education are issued a certificate.

A graduate of Diak may request a recommendation for further studies by submitting a separate form. There is a fee of EUR 50 for the recommendation. Recommendations are not issued for employers or practical training placements.

Various certificates and statements are subject to a fee. Their pricing is based on the amount of work time required.

Section 28: Student’s obligation to follow study-related communications

Diak communicates general study-related matters to its students through electronic communication channels. Students are obliged to follow these communication channels actively throughout their studies.

General communication relating to courses takes place in the discussion area of the online learning environment. Diak email is used for email communication.

Students must keep their contact details in the student records system up to date throughout their studies.

Section 29: Quality assurance and student feedback

Diak’s quality system is based on the continuous improvement model PDCA (Plan, Do, Check & Study, Act). In this model, the development of operations is divided into the planning, implementation, evaluation and improvement of activities. The model is applied to all operations. The quality system ensures shared objectives at Diak, the utilisation of information supporting development, a participatory quality culture, and an adaptive and innovative way of operating.

The principal feedback channels for students are course-specific feedback, a student survey for first-year and third-year students, and the AVOP survey for graduating students. Students completing UAS master’s degrees provide feedback once a year. In addition, course-specific feedback is collected from master’s students and various self-assessments and peer assessments are conducted when necessary.

Diak operates a system through which reports can be submitted concerning exceptional situations related, for example, to inappropriate behaviour or study and work facilities. The system also functions as a reporting channel in accordance with the European Union Whistleblowing Directive.

Section 30: Examination Board

The Examination Board of Diaconia University of Applied Sciences consists of a Chair, who must be a principal lecturer or lecturer at the university of applied sciences, and two other members, one of whom must be a teacher at the university of applied sciences and the other a student in degree-level education (Act 932/2014).

A meeting of the Examination Board has a quorum when at least two members are present at a meeting. The Chair and members of the Examination Board, together with their personal deputies, are appointed by the Board of the university of applied sciences (Act 932/2014, Section 19). The term of office of the Examination Board is two years.

The duties of the Examination Board:

• deciding on requests for rectification relating to assessed tasks and the recognition of prior learning (Act 932/2014, Section 57);
• deciding on student applications for exemption from the language proficiency requirements prescribed in the Decree (Decree 1129/2014, Section 7) where special reasons apply;
• deciding on matters concerning the maturity test where the student is not required to demonstrate the language proficiency referred to in the Decree (Decree 1129/2014, Section 7(1));
• considering, where necessary, questions relating to the interpretation and application principles of the Degree Regulations;
• considering requests for rectification concerning student selection and making decisions on them;
• carrying out other duties assigned to the Examination Board by the Rector or the Board of the university of applied sciences.

Section 31: Academic integrity and misconduct

A teacher who suspects academic misconduct (for example examination fraud, unauthorised distribution of examination materials or examination questions, plagiarism of assignments, fraud related to the documentation of a practical training period or an RPL application, or submission of work completed by someone other than the student) shall inform the student of the matter and discontinue the assessed task in respect of that student. Disciplinary measures relating to the situation are set out in the guideline Disciplinary Measures at Diaconia University of Applied Sciences.

The use of artificial intelligence to support learning is guided through Diak’s internal and external communication channels and the online learning environment. The use of artificial intelligence contrary to the instructions may be interpreted as academic misconduct.

In matters concerning research misconduct related to a thesis, Diak applies the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) guidelines issued by the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity (TENK).

Section 32: Disciplinary measures

Disciplinary measures at universities of applied sciences are governed by the Universities of Applied Sciences Act (Act 932/2014, Chapter 6).

Situations requiring disciplinary measures include, for example, actions endangering the safety of individuals, disruption of teaching, breach of confidentiality for example during practical training and cooperation with working life and projects, working independently as a sign language interpreter or alternative and augmentative communication impairment interpreter before successfully completing the Final Studies course with good results, inappropriate or unethical conduct, and a student’s refusal to present a certificate relating to a drug test or, on the basis of evidence, use of a narcotic substance for non-medicinal purposes in such a way that the student’s functional capacity is impaired.

Disciplinary measures relating to these situations are set out in the guidelines Disciplinary Measures at Diaconia University of Applied Sciences and Drug Testing at Diaconia University of Applied Sciences. A Falcony report must always be submitted regarding situations requiring disciplinary measures.

Section 33: Confidentiality

A student may not, without authorisation, disclose to third parties any confidential information relating to a private individual, company or family that has come to their knowledge by virtue of their position or duties during studies or practical training. The obligation to confidentiality continues after the end of the period of study.

Section 34: Tuition fees

Teaching leading to a UAS bachelor’s degree or a UAS master’s degree and entrance examinations related to student admission are free of charge for students. In Open University of Applied Sciences education, specialisation education and other education, the provisions concerning the charging of fees for the activities of universities of applied sciences are applied as appropriate (Act 932/2014, Section 12; Decree 1440/2014; Decree 200/2024).

In Open University of Applied Sciences education and education provided as separate studies, a fee of no more than EUR 45 per ECTS credit may be charged.

In specialisation education, a fee of no more than EUR 120 per ECTS credit may be charged.

In the Open University of Applied Sciences, studies provided under a separate right to study, specialisation education and continuing professional education, the conditions governing the refund of study fees are specified separately in the rules of the registration system.

Students from outside the EU/EEA area who have been admitted to foreign-language UAS bachelor’s or UAS master’s degree programmes are required to pay tuition fees (Act 932/2014, Section 13a). Circumstances providing exemption from tuition fees are described in the Universities of Applied Sciences Act.

Instructions concerning the determination, payment and possible refund of tuition fees, as well as scholarship practices, are provided on Diak’s website.

These Degree Regulations enter into force on 1 August 2026. When applying these Degree Regulations, general principles of legal protection shall be observed. Where necessary, the Examination Board shall consider questions relating to the interpretation and application principles of the Degree Regulations. The Degree Regulations are updated annually and approved by the Board of the university of applied sciences. Amendments are updated in the public version of the Degree Regulations on Diak’s website.

The operations of Diaconia University of Applied Sciences are governed in particular by the following Acts, Decrees and regulations, as well as by the Rules of Procedure, Operational Regulations and Degree Regulations of Diaconia University of Applied Sciences:

• Universities of Applied Sciences Act (Act 932/2014), as subsequently amended;
• Government Decree on Universities of Applied Sciences (Decree 1129/2014), as subsequently amended;
• Government Decree on Fees Charged for the Operations of Universities of Applied Sciences (Decree 1440/2014), as subsequently amended;
• Administrative Procedure Act (Act 434/2003);
• Act on the Students’ Legal Protection Board (Act 956/2011);
• Act on Health Care Professionals (Act 559/1994) and Decree on Health Care Professionals (Decree 564/1994);
• Act Amending the Health Care Act (Act 1281/2022);
• Act Amending the Social Welfare Act (Act 790/2022);
• Act Amending Section 52 of the Social Welfare Act (Act 1156/2022);
• Act on the Openness of Government Activities (Act 621/1999);
• Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, Church Statutes Collection (Church Order 657/2023).