A new English-language degree programme in energy and environmental engineering at Oamk – Sofia, a student in the field, appreciates the practical study-related projects

When Sofia Turunen was graduating from upper secondary school and browsing through study options on the Studyinfo website, Oamk’s degree programme in energy and environmental engineering immediately caught her eye. She had already considered that an engineering field might suit her very well.

“Energy and environmental engineering sounded the most interesting, because the industry offers the opportunity to develop and implement technical solutions to improve the efficiency of energy systems, harness renewable energies and promote environmental sustainability. I got the feeling that this could be my thing,” Sofia says.

During her studies, Sofia’s feelings about the field have only grown stronger. She is specialising in energy engineering and considers the studies to have been inspiring.

The degree programme covers a wide range of topics related to energy production plants, hybrid energy solutions, processes related to different forms of energy, as well as energy use, distribution and control.

In Sofia’s opinion, the most interesting thing has been learning about renewable energies. After her studies, she would like to work with something related to them.

“I believe that renewable energies will play a key role in the future energy system.”

Sofia has found the most rewarding part of her studies to be the practical projects in which she has learned numerous useful workplace skills.

“Project work has taught me especially about teamwork and project management, including scheduling, division of tasks and achievement of goals as a team. My problem-solving skills and ability to apply technical knowledge have also improved.”

In addition, Sofia has liked the small size of the student group. Thanks to it, the other students and teachers have become very familiar to her.

“It has always been very easy to ask teachers for help if you don’t understand something.”

Sofia considers Oulu an excellent city for students. In her opinion, it is suitably small and offers students a host of events and programme.

“For example, if you like to exercise, UniMove offers various opportunities to do so. Student events are also organised nearly every week.”

In the autumn of 2025, an English-language degree programme in energy and environmental engineering will begin at Oamk. The application period for it will open in January. Antti Kemppainen, Head of Studies, considers English-language education to be important for increasing international networking and competence in the energy sector.

“ The energy sector is in the midst of a major transformation, and the industry needs experts,” Antti says.

The content of the new degree programme differs in some respects from the Finnish-language programme in energy and environmental engineering, but they also have a lot in common.

“The English-language degree programme contains more studies related to sustainability, the environment, legislation and economics. Students will have the opportunity to focus their studies according to their own interests.”

According to Antti, English-language studies in energy engineering are suitable for anyone who is interested in the field and wants to influence its future.

“The programme provides versatile tools for solving future challenges in the energy sector.”

Sofia Turunen believes that the launch of the English-language degree programme is positive. Her studies have shown her that the field is very international.

“There are many international businesses in this field, and you need the English language in many duties. It is also good if Oulu can attract more international talent.”

Sofia recommends energy engineering studies for anyone interested in the field, new technologies and societal questions.

“There are really diverse employment opportunities in energy engineering, so everyone can seek duties matching their own preferences.”