Open University studies
Take advantage of the Open University’s high-quality instruction in music, fine arts, theatre and dance at the University of the Arts 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 August, for spring studies in November or December, and for summer studies in April or May. The application period for individual courses may also be scheduled for other times.
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, for example, a motivation letter, a pre-assignment, a proficiency test or an audition. We do not accept minors in student groups where studying is based on physicality and contact. However, certain separately announced courses are suitable for upper secondary school students.
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 at the Open University
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 offerings and instructions for upper secondary level students.
As a Ukrainian citizen, you can study for free at Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University until 31 July 2025. The exemption from the course fee only applies to courses that are arranged by the Open University. Additional information: open@uniarts.fi.
Studying at the Open University
The courses organised by Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University itself are mainly attended by Open University students, and the aim is to organise teaching in the evenings, weekends or in shorter periods. We also offer studies integrated into degree studies, in which case Open University students attend the course with 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, Early Music or Arts Management, Society and Creative Entrepreneurship. Path studies are completed at the Open University and they can be used 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. See the Job Market Finland website for more information on your individual situation.
Subscribe to our newsletter
By subscribing to our newsletter, you will receive up-to-date information about the Open University’s course selection and application periods to your email approximately five times a year.
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 autumn 2025 will be published 3 June 2025 at 3:00 PM. The application period begins 17 June 2025 at 9:00 AM. The application period ends 18 August 11:59 PM (studies integrated into degree-oriented instruction) or 21 August 2025 at 11:59 PM (studies organised by the Open University).
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 August, for spring studies in November or December, and for summer studies in April or May. The application period for individual courses may also be scheduled for other times.
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, for example, a motivation letter, a pre-assignment, a proficiency test or an audition. We do not accept minors in student groups where studying is based on physicality and contact. However, certain separately announced courses are suitable for upper secondary school students.
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 at the Open University
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 offerings and instructions for upper secondary level students.
As a Ukrainian citizen, you can study for free at Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University until 31 July 2025. The exemption from the course fee only applies to courses that are arranged by the Open University. Additional information: open@uniarts.fi.
Studying at the Open University
The courses organised by Uniarts Helsinki’s Open University itself are mainly attended by Open University students, and the aim is to organise teaching in the evenings, weekends or in shorter periods. We also offer studies integrated into degree studies, in which case Open University students attend the course with 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, Early Music or Arts Management, Society and Creative Entrepreneurship. Path studies are completed at the Open University and they can be used 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. See the Job Market Finland website for more information on your individual situation.
Subscribe to our newsletter
By subscribing to our newsletter, you will receive up-to-date information about the Open University’s course selection and application periods to your email approximately five times a year.