Why University of Oulu for studying Electronics

The Finnish education system is considered to be one of the best in the world. There are 13 science universities and 22 universities of applied sciences in Finland. The concrete reason for me to apply for a master’s in Finland was that it is known as the safest and the most beautiful country in the world.

A paper triangle placed on a balcony

Why University of Oulu, Finland?

The University of Oulu is one of the largest and northernmost universities in Finland. It has 8 faculties, 13800 students, and 3700 employees in two campuses located in Linnanmaa and Kontinkangas. In fact, it is ranked within the top three per cent of all universities in the world. The University offers 21 Master´s programmes (2 years) and three Bachelor´s programmes (3+2 years) taught in English. One of the most interesting facts is that the technology developed at the University of Oulu is used by 2.6 billion people every day.

In addition, this state has been providing high-quality education to international students in different sectors over the last few decades. Also, universities in Finland provide scholarships to students which motivates us to focus on studying rather than on working. Moreover, they provide excellent accommodation to their students during their studies.

3. Why a master’s degree in Electronics?

The University of Oulu master’s degree programme in the field of electronics and electrical engineering is ranked between 76th to 100th position in the world according to Shanghai's ranking of academic subjects published in 2022.

Moreover, the University of Oulu has a close connection to the world-renowned hub in the field of information system technology, wireless network and electronics technology which provides job opportunities for students in the companies such as Alif Semiconductor, Nokia, MediaTek, ROHM Semiconductor, Nordea, Realife Tech, etc. The two years master´s programme is based on state-of-the-art research by distinguished professors with years of experience in the specific field where students can learn both theoretical and practical aspects of electronics.

The two years master's programme in Electronics is divided into three specializations:

  • Electronics Design
  • Photonics and Measurement Technology
  • Electronic Materials and Components.

Electronics Design

This option mainly focuses on analogue and digital circuits, and systems design with a special emphasis on the design and verification of integrated circuits. Some of the main courses are Electronic System Design and Electronics Design.

Photonics and Measurement Technology

Studies in Photonics and Measurement Technology focus on the design of measurement systems and the development of printed electronics. Some of the major courses are Optoelectronics, Electronic Sensors, Printed Electronics.

Electronic Materials and Components

It focuses on materials, processes and structures that are used to develop electronic devices and components which are passive and active components, sensors, actuators, RF-devices, and circuit packages. Microelectronics project, Introduction to Nanotechnology, Printed Electronics and X-ray Diffraction are few of the major courses taught in this specialization.

4. Who can apply for masters’ studies in Electronics?

It has been a major concern for international students whether they can apply or not. Students with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an institution of higher education are eligible to apply at least three years of full-time studies (180 ECTS).

Applicants with bachelor`s degrees in Electronics and Communication Engineering, Electronics and Electrical Engineering, Telecommunication Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Digitalisation, Computing and Electronics and equivalent degrees can apply for master´s studies in Electronics.

Admission for international students opens and ends in January every year and interested applicants can apply through studyinfo.fi.

5. My journey to Finland: University of Oulu

There is a saying that “a dream without a plan is just a wish.” My dream was to pursue my master´s studies at one of the best universities in the world. My elder brother who started his journey to Finland in 2020 for a master´s studies at the University of Oulu recommended this institution to me for my future career.

After that, I applied to the University of Oulu in the nearest intake. I was delighted to receive the acceptance letter. I was so happy that I even remember the exact moment, it was 24th March at 11:48 pm. I am grateful to my brother who helped me through the entire admission process and for making my dream come true as well as to the whole admission team of the University of Oulu.

About the author

Prakash Ghimire is from Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Gautam Buddha. Currently, he is studying in the master’s programme in Electronics at the University of Oulu. He loves exploring new places as well as studying with his international colleagues in Finland.