Study Guide

Description

The title of a graduate in Laboratory Technology is Engineer (amk). The scope of the education is 240 credits (cr) and it lasts 4 years.
COMPETENCES ACQUIRED DURING THE TRAINING
The degree programme in Laboratory Technology graduates an engineer with a broad basic knowledge of science and the ability to become an expert in the field after graduation. The studies in laboratory technology focus on chemical analysis, sophisticated instrumental analysis, different aspects of biotechnology such as the theory and working methods of microbiology, biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology, measurements related to environmental monitoring and environmental impact, and laboratory quality management.

Laboratory engineering studies include basic engineering studies.
The training emphasises self-initiative, self-direction, teamwork, project and cooperation skills, versatile knowledge and development of analytical methods. A significant part of the learning takes place in a laboratory environment, working as part of a team. The training will also provide the capacity for continuous personal development. Laboratory technologists are expected to have a good command of the bigger picture, and to have innovative and problem-solving skills. In addition, quality management and quality skills, as well as environmental awareness, are key competences. The training provides a wide range of skills for research, production, design and development tasks.

PLACEMENT OF GRADUATES
Laboratory engineering graduates can work as engineers in various research institutes, government laboratories or in business and industry, including pharmaceutical, food, wood processing, chemical, environmental and life science research laboratories.
The work may include managerial and expert duties, research, product development and quality control, purchasing, sales and customer service.

VALUE BASE OF TRAINING
The core values of the training are professionalism and responsibility, high quality and reliability of laboratory research and the promotion of human and environmental well-being. The content of the training has been designed in cooperation with industry.

DELIVERY OF EDUCATION
The course consists of theoretical studies, laboratory exercises and various projects in working groups, as well as supervised practical training. The course will develop skills in self-directed work and knowledge management. Supervision of learning will be aimed at developing an exploratory approach to work in modern learning environments similar to laboratories in the world of work.
Students will establish links with the world of work through a variety of projects and internships, as well as through the production of a thesis to meet the needs of the world of work. The graduates must have good oral and written language skills and versatile communication skills in Finnish and English, as the field is becoming increasingly international. Graduates will be prepared for jobs requiring internationalisation skills, which is why language studies are integrated into vocational studies, students are also offered courses in English and lecturers from foreign higher education institutions visit the courses. Some of the studies can be carried out through international student exchanges. The recommended period for student exchange is the 3rd year of study.

Project-based studies develop working life skills by working in multidisciplinary environments and collaborating with students from different disciplines. Some of the studies may be joint with other courses or may include a choice of study in an exchange programme or work on business projects.

COMPETENCES ACQUIRED DURING THE DIFFERENT YEARS OF STUDY
The first year of study focuses on basic mathematical and scientific skills and knowledge of laboratory technology. After the first year, students will be able to operate in the learning and working environments of the UAS and will be aware of their education and future career. They will be able to use their communication and information acquisition skills and their mathematical and scientific knowledge as a basis for professional studies. The student will be able to work safely in the laboratory, following instructions and carrying out simple chemical analyses under supervision.

After the second year, students will be familiar with the most common biochemical, microbiological, synthetic and chemical analytical methods and will be able to use the main laboratory analytical instruments. The student will be able to apply his/her knowledge in working life. In the second year of study, students may choose to pursue optional and advanced studies according to their interests.

After the third year, students will be able to work in a laboratory as a member of a project team and independently carry out, design and develop laboratory analyses using sophisticated analytical methods in chemistry and biotechnology. The student will be familiar with laboratory planning and quality management. The student has deepened his/her knowledge through optional professional studies.

After the fourth year, the student will be able to apply his/her knowledge in working life, to design and implement a research and development project from working life and to report on it in the form of a thesis. The student has developed an investigative approach to the thesis. The student is able to critically evaluate research findings.

Curriculum development and working life cooperation

The curriculum follows the European and national qualifications frameworks (NQF and EQF). The curriculum has been designed in consultation with industry, the Vocational Advisory Board and students.

Further information

The new curriculum has increased the use of project-based, multidisciplinary work.
The aim is to provide high quality education that meets the needs of working life and contributes to students' graduation and employment. Laboratory technology engineers must have strong laboratory skills to meet the challenges of the future, with a focus on integrated management, problem-solving skills and "flexible multiskilling".