Polytechnics and universities must have different roles, critics say

Finland's well-functioning higher education system faces potential disruption as the Ministry of Education and Culture explores changing polytechnic (AMK) degree titles to align with university bachelor's and master's degrees. Critics argue this move would dismantle a system that successfully caters to diverse learners and societal needs.

Finland's higher education landscape includes 13 universities, the National Defence University, and 24 polytechnics. This structure allows individuals to find educational paths suited to their backgrounds and career aspirations, ensuring society benefits from a skilled workforce. Universities focus on research-based education and a broad civic mission, adhering to high international standards and ethical practices. Polytechnics, conversely, are tasked with providing higher education for professional roles, emphasizing links to the workforce and regional development.

The article strongly advocates for preserving the current, distinct degree titles. It asserts that these titles are well-established and widely recognized, and their harmonization would create confusion in the labor market, as applicants with the same title might possess vastly different qualifications. Furthermore, the piece argues against polytechnics offering doctoral programs, stating that research training requires extensive resources that should not be fragmented. The title of 'professor' is also deemed exclusive to universities and state research institutions, not polytechnics, due to its association with independent scientific research and academic leadership.