International Exchanges – Finland: Helsinki

Pitzer/ISEP Exchange with University of Helsinki – This exchange is currently unavailable.

Location: Helsinki, Finland

Host Website: ISEP: University of Helsinki
ISEP Helsinki

Eligibility
Students must be in good standing at Pitzer College. ISEP requires student to have a 2.75 or higher GPA. Applicants should also be entering their 3rd year at the time of application. Most courses are intended for students who have completed entry level coursework in their major (at least 4-5 courses).

Preparation
At least one area studies course is strongly recommended. Additional preparation: Language, Culture and Society; Intercultural Communications; Introduction to International/ Intercultural Studies; Introduction to Sociocultural Anthropology

Application
Students must first apply through Pitzer’s Office of Study Abroad and International Programs. If accepted by Pitzer, students will complete the ISEP Exchange application. If accepted by ISEP, students will then complete the University application.

Program Dates
Fall semester: late August to late December
Spring Semester: early January to late May
Academic Year: late August to late May

Required Courses
Participants are required to take a full course load equivalent to four Pitzer course credits including a Finnish language course and one course with content on Finnish history, politics, literature or culture. In addition, students take the Pitzer course MLLC110 Intercultural Learning: Portfolio Writing via Sakai.

Intensive Language
Students must take a Finnish language course. Finnish language courses are offered at the beginner and intermediate levels.

Independent Study
See a Study Abroad Adviser.

Course Options
University of Finland offers the following programs: Agriculture/Forestry; Arts, Humanities and Philosophy; Behavioral Sciences; Biological and Environmental Sciences; Languages and Cultures; Law; Pharmaceutical Studies; Science; Social Sciences; Theology; Veterinary Medicine. Students typically take 5 to 8 courses. The language of instruction at the university is English, Finnish and Swedish. A number of courses are offered in English.

Visit the ISEP website shown above and select ‘Website for Course Availability.’

Credit Possible
Pitzer students are expected to take a full course load of 30 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) which is the equivalent of four Pitzer course credits. In addition to a full course load at the university, students will earn 0.5 Pitzer course credits for the writing course via Sakai. (See above under Required Courses.)

Housing and Board Options
Students are housed in residence halls. Students are provided with a monthly stipend to cover their meals and housing expense.

Student Visa/Residence Permit
A Residence Permit is required to study in Finland for more than 90 days. The application for the permit may take 4 to 6 weeks to process. Currently, there is no fee to obtain the permit.