Introduction to the Bachelor's Degree Programme in Urban Sustainability Studies

The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Urban Sustainability Studies is a joint programme offered by ten European universities, part of the Young Universities for the Future of Europe (YUFE) Alliance. This innovative, interdisciplinary education aims to tackle real-life challenges in urban sustainability, preparing students to excel in global collaboration and lead the way in sustainable development across Europe.

Programme Overview

• Target Degree: Bachelor in Social Sciences
• Programme Duration: 3 years full-time / 180 ECTS credits
• Language of Instruction: English
• Next Application Period: 7.1.-31.3.2026
• Programme Start: September 2026
• Tuition Fee: EU/EEA nationals - no tuition fee; non-EU/EEA nationals - 10,000 /academic year, with a 30% tuition fee waiver available
• Study Campus: Joensuu and exchange periods at YUFE universities

Structure of Studies

The programme is divided into six semesters over three years. It includes a blend of on-site and online courses, with the first year spent at the starting university, building a strong foundation in urban sustainability. The second and third years involve personalized studies through YUFE minors at different European universities, culminating in a dissertation.

YUFE Minors

Minors are thematic study modules offered across YUFE universities, lasting one semester. Students can choose from over 20 minors, including but not limited to:

• Borders, Europe & Russia
• Design and Perspectives on Heritage
• Driving Change: Activism, Engagement and Communities
• Economic Development
• Natural Sciences for Sustainability
• Societal Issues in a Contemporary World
• Smart Cities for Sustainable Culture
• Sustainable Business
• Urban Ecology in Europe: public policies, cultural narratives
• Urban Environmental and Sustainability Education
• Urban Health & Wellbeing
• Urban Inequality
• Urban Sustainable Development

Programme Objectives

The programme focuses on developing a deep understanding of how urban and rural areas impact natural resource use, connected to economic development, social inclusion, and sustainable growth. It aims to equip students with the ability to analyze complex issues from various perspectives and connect diverse cultural and disciplinary viewpoints.

Desired Competencies

The programme seeks candidates who are eager to develop the following qualities further:

• Intercultural Competence
• Critical and Analytical Thinking
• Commitment to Sustainability
• Flexibility and Adaptability
• Teamwork and Communication
• Curiosity and Creativity

Graduate Profile

Graduates of the programme will have built an international network with students, teachers, and businesses across Europe. They will be equipped with a unique blend of specialized knowledge and the ability to integrate diverse disciplines and cultural perspectives, making them interdisciplinary experts ready to tackle complex future challenges.

Admission Requirements

• Upper Secondary Education Certification: Applicants must have an upper secondary school degree that entitles them to enroll in a bachelor programme in the country where the degree was conferred.
• Language Requirements: Strong English language skills, proven through accepted language tests (TOEFL, IELTS, ITACE, Cambridge English, or PTE) or previous education conducted in English.
• Motivational Online Questionnaire: Applicants must explain their interest in the programme and their goals.

Application Process

1. Select Your Starting University: Choose one of the seven partner universities as your starting point.
2. Check Admission Requirements and Gather Documents: Ensure you meet the criteria and prepare your documents, including certificates of completed education and proof of language proficiency.
3. Submit Your Application: Apply online through YUFE's Virtual Campus, uploading required documents and answering motivational questions.

Tuition Fees and Waivers

• Annual Tuition Fee for Non-EU/EEA Students: 10,000 EUR
• Tuition Fee Waiver: 30% waiver available for all accepted students liable to pay tuition fees.

Application Period

The next application period is from 7.1. to 31.3.2026 for studies starting in September 2026. Applications are submitted online via YUFE's Virtual Campus.

University of Eastern Finland

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Overview:

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is an international, participatory, and inclusive scientific community with campuses in Joensuu and Kuopio. It offers a wide range of Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral programs, as well as non-degree programs for exchange students. UEF is known for its high standard of interdisciplinary research, focusing on finding solutions to global challenges and building a sustainable future.

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Services Offered:

Study:

Bachelor's and Master's degree programs taught in English, Doctoral programs, exchange studies, summer school, and study opportunities for people fleeing the war in Ukraine.

Continuous Learning:

Open University, continuing professional education, Centre for Continuous Learning, educational services for businesses, internationality, Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC), specialization studies, and non-degree studies.

Research:

Research communities, research excellence, research environments, UEF Doctoral School, conferment ceremonies, impactful research, open science, UEF Data support, and UEF Connect expert search service.

Collaboration:

Business collaboration and partnerships, international collaboration, partnerships and networks, and alumni network.

University:

UEF strategy, sustainability and responsibility, information for visitors, campuses and facilities, organization, faculties, units, and independent institutes, university contact information, and staff contact information.

Work at UEF:

Open positions, career opportunities, personnel benefits, Human Resources Excellence in Research, equal and accessible university, guide for international staff, and life in Finland.

Contact Information:

Staff contact information, faculties, units, and independent institutes, UEF Connect expert search service, Communications and Media Relations, and UEF's contact information.

News and Events:

News, events, dissertations, science events, and services for media.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Interdisciplinary Research:

UEF's high standard of interdisciplinary research provides solutions to global challenges and builds a sustainable future.

Open Science:

UEF's research is based on open science that makes an impact.

Versatile Research Environments:

UEF offers a high standard of scientific research in its diverse research environments.

International Community:

UEF is an international, participatory, and inclusive scientific community.

Study Opportunities:

UEF offers a wide range of study opportunities, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral programs, as well as non-degree programs for exchange students.

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Academic Programs:

Philosophical Faculty

Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology

Faculty of Health Sciences

Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies

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Other:

• UEF has four faculties and campuses in Joensuu and Kuopio.
• UEF has over 16,000 degree students, 16,600 adult education students, and 3,200 members of staff.
• UEF is committed to responsible and impactful collaboration in education and research.
• UEF offers a goal-oriented and incentivized career model for its teachers and researchers.
• Finland is an exotic and safe country to study and work in.