The aim of the project is to launch a Master of Science in Technology (MSc, equivalent to DI in Finland) programme in Central Ostrobothnia. The Faculty of Information Technology at the University of Jyväskylä will be responsible for providing the education in cooperation with the Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius. The programme is designed to meet the needs of the local business sector, strengthen competitiveness, and improve the availability of skilled workforce. The programme will be differentiated from other MSc programmes through interdisciplinary minors and close collaboration with working life.
The project emphasizes identifying future skill requirements and supporting the development of the regional economy. The MSc programme will provide the expertise needed to create high value-added solutions and innovations, thereby supporting new business opportunities.
Tailoring the programme to regional needs and fostering close cooperation with companies are central objectives. At the University of Jyväskylä, part of the studies can be carried out as work assignments within companies, and the goal is to establish a flexible model of collaboration between education and working life. While the project does not primarily target international education opportunities, it may open pathways for further studies.
The concrete output of the project is an action plan that considers regional characteristics and ensures the smooth start of the MSc programme. The results will also benefit other regional actors and education providers.
Project objectives summarised
Long-term goals:
Produce highly educated professionals for Central Ostrobothnia
Strengthen regional competitiveness
Promote innovation and the green transition
Concrete goal:
Establish the foundation for launching the MSc programme in Central Ostrobothnia
Action plan:
Provide a preliminary action plan for the University of Jyväskylä to start the MSc programme in Central Ostrobothnia
Sub-goals:
Regionalisation of the programme:
Tailor minors to meet regional needs
Identify regional specificities and requirements
Description of study arrangements:
Adult education alongside work
Flexible online studies
Collaboration with industry
Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius
Information Technology