Degree Programme in Social Services
- Degree
- Bachelor of Health Care
- Degree title
- Bachelor of Social Services
Qualification Awarded and the Level of Qualification
Bachelor of Social Services, EQF 6
Contact Information
Vesa Joutsen
Head of Competence Area Social Services and Health Care
Tiina Säilä
Student Counsellor
E-mail:
firstname.lastname@tuni.fi
Special Admission Requirements
General admission criteria, see TAMK’s websites.
Recognition of Prior Learning
It is possible for students to have their prior competence recognised.
See TAMK’s credit transfer guidelines
Qualification Requirements and Regulations
Completion of curriculum studies and achievement of related competence objectives.
Further information:
TAMK Degree Regulations
Ammattikorkeakoululaki ja asetus ammattikorkeakouluista
Profile of the Programme
The degree is a bachelor-level professional higher education degree.
The degree complies with the criteria set by the Finnish national degree system as well as with the European framework for degrees and other competence.
Ministry of Education and Culture
Key Learning Outcomes
The foundation of social work studies is based on nationally agreed-upon areas of competence. These areas include ethical competence in social work, client work competence, service system competence, critical and participatory societal competence, research and development competence, and leadership competence.
During the first year of study, the foundation for social work is established. The themes covered in the studies include the theoretical fundamentals of social work, interpersonal encounters, communication, social worker-client interactions, as well as citizenship and membership in society. Throughout the year, students learn various methods of social work with clients and acquire the ability to support clients’ goal-oriented life management. Students also gain an understanding of the societal responsibilities and ethical basis of social work.
In the second year, the focus shifts to social phenomena, competence in the social and healthcare service system, and ethical client work. Alternative professional studies commence, allowing students to develop specialized skills and plan their career paths. Students become proficient in utilizing different forms and methods of social work, while also evaluating and enhancing them. Practical training provides students with professional, theoretically grounded expertise. Additionally, international exchange opportunities are available during this stage of studies.
The third year emphasizes investigative development in social work, working in multifaceted operational environments, as well as competence in teamwork, leadership, and entrepreneurship. During this year, students design and execute projects aligned with TAMK’s strategic goals and workplace needs. Students also complete a work-life-oriented thesis that demonstrates their capacity for developmental and research-oriented approaches.
By the end of the third and fourth years of study, students are equipped to work in various social work roles. These roles involve guiding clients or client groups purposefully, even in demanding and complex situations and contexts. The social worker’s leadership competence is further enhanced through applied internships, and students graduate prepared to transition into professional social work roles.
Occupational Profiles of Graduates with Examples
Social work education prepares graduates to work in various professional roles within the field of social services. However, the specific content of the education may vary slightly depending on the focus areas of different universities of applied sciences. A social worker (sosionomi) can work in areas such as early childhood education, family support, child protection, youth work, well-being services in schools, adult social work, criminal justice, substance abuse and mental health services, disability support, special education, elderly care, and multicultural services.
Social workers may find employment in the public, private, or third sectors (e.g., non-governmental organizations). Job titles can include social worker, service coordinator, service manager, social service advisor, children’s home supervisor, substance abuse and mental health counselor, and early childhood social worker. Some social workers also hold leadership positions in social, educational, and rehabilitation units, particularly as supervisors or team leaders in institutions, residential facilities, or day activity centers.
Access to Further Studies
The degree gives eligibility for master’s degrees.
Examination Regulations, Assessment and Grading
Assessment of study performances is based on TAMK’s assessment criteria
The detailed assessment criteria can be found in course implementation plans. The teaching and assessment methods are agreed on with students at the beginning of each course.
TAMK Degree Regulations
Graduation Requirements
Completion of studies and achievement of competence objectives in the extent set by the curriculum.
Mode of Study
Qualification Bachelor of Social Services
The Extent of the Education is 210 credits (cr) and it lasts for 3.5 years
Implementation method full-time study
Development of the Programme
The Ministry of Education and Culture’ definitions of policy and TAMK’s strategy have been considered in the curriculum.
Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing and structure:
Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing plans by specialisation
Studies for Exhange Students, Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing and structure:
Degree Programme in Social Services
Studies for Exhange Students, Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing and structure:
Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing plans by specialisation
Studies for Exchange Students, Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing and structure:
Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing and structure:
Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing plans by specialisation
Degree Programme in Social Services
Timing and structure: