The world of work is changing rapidly – Here’s how your studies will prepare you for the future
Starting in autumn 2026, the University of Oulu will strengthen the development of generic skills, across all degree programmes. The University of Oulu has identified the following six common generic skills:
- analytical, critical and creative thinking skills
- well-being and self-development skills
- international and multicultural skills
- sustainability, responsibility and ethics skills
- multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary skills
- communication, interaction and digital skills.
University's common degree-specific learning outcomes have been developed for these skills through a participatory process. Generic skills will be systematically developed throughout studies in all degree programmes. These skills will help you learn new things, develop your expertise, enhance your employability, succeed in your career, and grow into an expert in your field as well as a responsible contributor to society.
"We want to ensure that all our students develop the capabilities needed to address future challenges and act responsibly in a rapidly changing world," says Mirja Illikainen, Vice Rector for Education.
We encourage you to explore the common generic skills and their learning outcomes through the materials below. Understanding which skills, you will develop during your studies will help you recognise your own growth and communicate your competencies to future employers.
Introduction to the common generic skills for new students:
Wherever you study you will learn the same working-life skills (PowerPoint presentation).
Webpage on the University of Oulu’s common generic skills and learning outcomes:
Common generic skills and learning outcomes of the degrees.