Karelia University of Applied Sciences was established in 1992 and is located in Joensuu, operating across two campuses situated close to the city center. The university offers bachelor's and master's degree programs, as well as continuous education (life-long learning) within the Finnish and European higher education system. Karelia aims to support international students and provide an open, globally oriented learning environment that offers strong academic and professional opportunities.
Both campuses are easily accessible by bicycle or bus from anywhere in Joensuu. The surrounding area features several notable attractions such as the Botania tropical garden, the historic Pielisjoki Castl
e by the river, Joensuu City Hall, Joensuu Church, and the famous Koli National Park.
Students can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities in the city, including visiting the Botania Art Garden, hiking and exploring nearby forest trails, spending time at swimming pools and water centers such as the Rantakylä Swimming Pool, attending theatrical and artistic performances, and visiting cultural venues and museums. Joensuu also hosts major annual events such as the Ilosaarirock Music Festival.
Karelia UAS is a multidisciplinary institution offering programs across various fields, including health care and social services, business, engineering, forestry, media, arts, and hospitality management. It also provides professional master's degree programs designed mainly for those with a bachelor's degree and at least two years of work experience, along with numerous open studies and continuing education opportunities.
The university offers a wide range of facilities and services that enhance the student experience, including a well-equipped library, student cafeterias, independent study areas, wireless internet, computer labs, audiovisual production facilities, and specialized spaces for health and social services training. Students can also participate in many on-campus social and recreational activities such as events organized by the student union, various sports opportunities, cultural and artistic activities, and research or development projects conducted in collaboration with industry partners.
Karelia UAS is distinguished by its practical, application-oriented teaching approach, diverse academic fields, strong connections with the labor market, international and multicultural environment, modern facilities, and flexible learning opportunities. The university is committed to providing students with a high-quality educational experience and preparing them for global career paths.
Joensuu is a city located in the northeast of Finland and serves as the capital of the North Karelia region. The city sits on the northern shore of Lake Pyhäselkä, which forms the northern part of Lake Saimaa—Finland’s largest lake system. Joensuu is surrounded by a landscape of lakes and forests, along with several neighboring municipalities and natural areas.
The city features many well-known tourist attractions, including Joensuu City Hall, Joensuu Church, the Botania Botanical and Tropical
Garden, the Carelicum Cultural Centre, the Onni Art Museum, and the Joensuu Arena. Visitors can enjoy numerous recreational activities such as exploring parks and gardens like Botania, engaging in water activities on the city’s rivers and lakes, attending cultural events and festivals, and visiting local museums and art galleries.
Joensuu is home to several museums, theaters, art exhibitions, historic buildings, and green spaces. Examples include the Onni Art Museum, the Karelia Museum (part of the Carelicum Centre), Joensuu City Theatre, the Regional Theatre of Karelia, the exhibition halls of the Onni Art Museum, the Carelicum Cultural Centre gallery, Joensuu City Hall, Joensuu Church, Botania Garden, and the riverside parks along the Pielisjoki River.
The city hosts distinguished higher-education institutions such as the University of Eastern Finland and Karelia University of Applied Sciences. Joensuu also offers an efficient transportation network that makes it easy for students and residents to move around the city, including local buses, the Joensuu railway station, waterway transport, and Joensuu Airport.
Throughout the year, Joensuu celebrates a variety of events and festivals, making it one of the remarkable cultural and recreational cities both in Finland and globally.