Open University studies
Take advantage of the Open University’s high-quality instruction in music, fine arts, theatre and dance at Uniarts Helsinki.
Courses we offer
The Open University provides high-quality, research-based university education that corresponds with our degree requirements. Teaching is organised in various forms: some of the studies are arranged independently while some are integrated in Uniarts Helsinki’s degree-oriented instruction. We also offer courses arranged in different parts of Finland by our partner institutions, such as summer universities, adult educations centres and folk high schools.
Applying
You can register for our courses by filling in a course-specific registration form online. The application period for autumn studies is in June–August, for spring studies in November–December, and for summer studies in April–May. The application period for individual courses may also be scheduled for other times. Read more about the application times and instructions.
As a rule, there are no age limits for studies, and most studies do not require previous university studies. Students are selected for the courses either in the order of registration or based on the skills required for the course. The application process may include a motivation letter, a pre-assignment, a proficiency test or an audition. We do not accept minors as participants in student groups where studying is based on embodied learning processes and physical contact. However, certain courses are suitable for upper secondary school students, and these are listed in the course calendar using a separate filter.
Study fees
Open University studies are subject to a fee. The right to study at the Open University can only be granted after the study fee has been paid. Read more about fees and cancellation terms for open university studies.
Free studies for upper secondary level students
Starting in autumn 2023, Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University will be offering courses suitable for students in upper secondary level education. These courses are free of charge for this group. See the course selection and instructions for upper secondary level students.
Studying at the Open University
When the course organiser is Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University, the course participants are mainly Open University students and teaching usually takes place in the evenings, weekends or in shorter periods. When the Open University studies are integrated into degree studies, Open University students attend the course alongside Uniarts Helsinki degree students. Integrated studies are usually daytime studies.
At Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University, you can also complete path studies to two different degree programmes: the early music programme or the arts management, society and creative entrepreneurship programme. You can Open University path studies as the basis for eligibility to apply to a degree programme in a separate admissions group. If you are planning to apply to these degree programmes, read more about Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University path.
Since studying at the Open University is considered part-time studying, Open University students are not eligible for the state-paid financial aid for students (study grant aid or student loans) or for any discounts or benefits given to full-time students.
Studying at an Open University while unemployed and receiving an unemployment benefit is possible under certain conditions. You must agree on the matter with the employment office (TE Office) before applying to studies. Visit the Job Market Finland website for more information on your individual situation.
Open University courses offered in English
At Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University, you can pursue studies in the arts with English as the language of instruction.
Subscribe to our newsletter
By subscribing to the Uniarts Helsinki continuous learning newsletter, you will receive an email with up-to-date information about the Open University’s course selection and application periods about five times per year. Subscribe to the continuous learning and Open University newsletter.
Admissions guide
Application instructions for this programme haven't been published yet.
You can apply to
Open University studies
Application period
The course selection for spring 2026 will be published on 4 November 2025. The application period begins on 18 November 2025 at 9:00 AM and ends on 9 December 2025 at 11:59 PM.
Unit
Explore Uniarts Helsinki‘s Open Campus
Ask about the programme
open@uniarts.fi
Courses we offer
The Open University provides high-quality, research-based university education that corresponds with our degree requirements. Teaching is organised in various forms: some of the studies are arranged independently while some are integrated in Uniarts Helsinki’s degree-oriented instruction. We also offer courses arranged in different parts of Finland by our partner institutions, such as summer universities, adult educations centres and folk high schools.
Applying
You can register for our courses by filling in a course-specific registration form online. The application period for autumn studies is in June–August, for spring studies in November–December, and for summer studies in April–May. The application period for individual courses may also be scheduled for other times. Read more about the application times and instructions.
As a rule, there are no age limits for studies, and most studies do not require previous university studies. Students are selected for the courses either in the order of registration or based on the skills required for the course. The application process may include a motivation letter, a pre-assignment, a proficiency test or an audition. We do not accept minors as participants in student groups where studying is based on embodied learning processes and physical contact. However, certain courses are suitable for upper secondary school students, and these are listed in the course calendar using a separate filter.
Study fees
Open University studies are subject to a fee. The right to study at the Open University can only be granted after the study fee has been paid. Read more about fees and cancellation terms for open university studies.
Free studies for upper secondary level students
Starting in autumn 2023, Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University will be offering courses suitable for students in upper secondary level education. These courses are free of charge for this group. See the course selection and instructions for upper secondary level students.
Studying at the Open University
When the course organiser is Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University, the course participants are mainly Open University students and teaching usually takes place in the evenings, weekends or in shorter periods. When the Open University studies are integrated into degree studies, Open University students attend the course alongside Uniarts Helsinki degree students. Integrated studies are usually daytime studies.
At Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University, you can also complete path studies to two different degree programmes: the early music programme or the arts management, society and creative entrepreneurship programme. You can Open University path studies as the basis for eligibility to apply to a degree programme in a separate admissions group. If you are planning to apply to these degree programmes, read more about Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University path.
Since studying at the Open University is considered part-time studying, Open University students are not eligible for the state-paid financial aid for students (study grant aid or student loans) or for any discounts or benefits given to full-time students.
Studying at an Open University while unemployed and receiving an unemployment benefit is possible under certain conditions. You must agree on the matter with the employment office (TE Office) before applying to studies. Visit the Job Market Finland website for more information on your individual situation.
Open University courses offered in English
At Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University, you can pursue studies in the arts with English as the language of instruction.
Subscribe to our newsletter
By subscribing to the Uniarts Helsinki continuous learning newsletter, you will receive an email with up-to-date information about the Open University’s course selection and application periods about five times per year. Subscribe to the continuous learning and Open University newsletter.