The University of Jyväskylä is launching a new international bachelor’s degree programme in early childhood education

The three-year, 180 ECTS credit Bachelor’s Degree Programme in Early Childhood Education offers research-based training to become an expert in early childhood education, focusing on pedagogy and supporting children’s development and learning. The programme qualifies graduates to work as teachers in early childhood and pre-primary education in Finland.  

“The new programme combines the strong pedagogical tradition of Finnish early childhood education with an international perspective,” says University Teacher Olli Merjovaara from the University of Jyväskylä, the bachelor programme’s coordinator. “It offers students a career path leading to certification as early childhood education teachers and experts.” 

English-language instruction and strong support for learning Finnish 

The degree programme is functionally bilingual. The language of instruction is English, and as studies progress, Finnish language studies are integrated into courses that provide professional skills specifically for early childhood education. Learning Finnish and finding employment in early childhood education roles in Finland is also supported by offering a wide range of Finnish language courses. Students aiming to enter the Finnish labour market can include up to 25 credits of Finnish language studies in their degree as part of language and communication studies as well as elective courses. 

“Upon completing the degree programme, students will be qualified to work as early childhood education teachers in Finland, including in preschool,” says Merjovaara. “Teachers working in preschool must have excellent oral and written language skills in the language of instruction.” 

Merjovaara points out, however, that language proficiency must be demonstrated through an official exam. Active engagement in language learning is therefore crucial. 

“The programme supports the development of language skills, but the degree programme does not automatically guarantee the language proficiency required for teaching in Finnish. It also requires the student’s own motivation and dedication.” 

Focus on the values of Finnish early childhood education 

The bachelor’s degree programme emphasizes the core principles of Finnish early childhood education: child participation and agency, play and the pedagogy of play, and close collaboration with families. Graduates of the programme are able to support children’s growth, development, and learning while taking into account each child’s individual needs. 

Applications for the English-medium bachelor’s degree programme in early childhood education will be accepted during the first joint application round for higher education institutions, 7–21 January 2027. There are 25 study places available in the programme. 

Studies begin in August 2027 with an orientation period. 

Further information online: www.jyu.fi/earlyedu