Toivo and Inka Continued from Vocational School to Higher Education: "In Practical Work, I’m Ahead of Others"

It is often thought that completing a vocational qualification after basic education is a direct path to working life. While this is often the case, the journey can also continue to further studies. A vocational qualification, like general upper secondary education, provides eligibility for higher education, meaning graduates can apply directly for further studies. Vocational studies are often recognized when transitioning to a university of applied sciences. The qualification also enables working in one’s field during studies.

A Top Grade in Chemistry Sparked Toivo Särkkinen's Interest in the Field

Toivo Särkkinen completed his vocational qualification at Tampere Vocational College Tredu and is now pursuing a degree in Laboratory Engineering at Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK). His studies at TAMK have progressed faster than usual.

"I’m only in my first year, but I’m already at the second-year level. I started on the second year due to pathway studies. Pathway studies meant that instead of a second internship in vocational school, I studied laboratory technology through the open university of applied sciences. By completing specific courses, I gained admission to TAMK as a degree student through a separate application process."

Vocational studies have been genuinely beneficial for Toivo.

"Even in theory courses, there’s a lot of familiar material from vocational school, but especially in practical lab work, I often find I’m far ahead of others."

Toivo developed an interest in chemistry during basic education; his final report card included a perfect grade in the subject. His excellent performance has continued in his studies: Toivo recently won a silver medal in the WorldSkills Competition in the Chemical Laboratory Technology category. The event was held in September in Lyon, France.

Watc the video: Interview with Toivo Särkkinen (YouTube)

Inka Works in Her Field Alongside Her Studies

Vocational studies have also been beneficial for Inka Myyryläinen, who graduated as a Practical Nurse from Salpaus Further Education in the fall of 2022.

"The vocational qualification has been extremely helpful in my studies at the university of applied sciences and has significantly supported my learning," says Inka.

She started her Public Health Nurse studies in a blended learning program in January 2023 and aims to graduate by the summer of 2025. At the same time, Inka works as a substitute nurse in the emergency department at Päijät-Häme Central Hospital, treating patients requiring short-term care or observation. The blended learning format enables her to work full-time while studying.

"I was able to transfer credit for some courses and one internship, which has helped accelerate my studies. Through my vocational qualification, I gained an excellent and comprehensive foundation in the social and healthcare field, which I feel has greatly facilitated learning new things. It has been easier for me to deepen and expand my professional skills thanks to this strong foundation," says Inka.

Inka has also achieved success in skills competitions in her field. In 2022, she won a gold medal in the Taitaja competition and was chosen as the “Taitaja of Taitajas,” representing Skills Finland and vocational education for a year.

"My aspiration is to work with children and young people. My dream workplace is a child health clinic, and I’m working hard to get there after graduation. For now, my plan is to work for a while and possibly continue my studies in the future," Inka shares.

Watch the video: Interview with Inka Myyryläinen (YouTube)

Special Admissions for Taitaja2025 Finalists at Turku University of Applied Sciences

The pathway studies mentioned by Toivo, where vocational students complete university-level courses during their vocational training, are one way to fast-track from vocational school to higher education. Many vocational schools and universities of applied sciences have such collaboration. A new initiative will launch next spring, allowing Taitaja competitors to apply for higher education through a special admissions process.

The annual Finnish national skills competition, Taitaja, will take place next spring in Turku. Skills Finland has granted the organization rights to Turku Vocational Institute, which, together with its partners, will oversee the event.

Turku University of Applied Sciences (TUAS) is one of the event’s partners and will open a special admissions process in February-March 2025 for degree programs in business, technology, ICT, and health and welfare. Admission spots will be limited. In total, 95 spots will be available in this special admission at TUAS, and selections will be based on points scored in the competition finals.

Read more: Special Admissions at TUAS and Taitaja2025 (Taitaja2025.fi)

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