Overview

The Bachelor of Social Services in Early Childhood Education at Turku University of Applied Sciences prepares students to become socially aware, creative professionals who support children’s growth, rights, and well-being through a social pedagogical approach. The full-time, English-taught programme at the Salo IoT Campus combines theory and practice, equipping students with the skills to work in counselling, education, planning, and development roles across health and wellness services, while fostering inclusion and strong community connections.

Semester starts

August

Degree info

  • Bachelor of Social Services
  • 3.5 academic years / 210 ECTS
  • Language of instruction: English
  • Location: Salo, Finland
  • Tuition fee: 12 000 € / year

Edunation application period

Regular Admissions
• Rolling: TBA
• Regular: TBA

APPLY NOW

The objective of the Bachelor of Social Services studies is to train creative and socially aware professionals with reflective skills and a strong professional identity. The programme aims to develop experts who apply a social pedagogical approach in supporting children’s growth and well-being, promoting children’s rights, and strengthening social inclusion and community participation. Students are guided to critically examine and evaluate their own actions, integrating theory with practice to build the ability to respond thoughtfully to the needs of children, families, and communities.

The Bachelor of Social Services (AMK) degree comprises 210 ECTS credits with a planned duration of 3.5 years.

The programme includes:

  • Basic Studies – building foundational competences in interaction, counselling, learning, information seeking, and development.

  • Professional Studies – focusing on early childhood education, optional methodology studies, and research and development.

  • Optional Studies, Practical Trainings, and a Thesis – combining academic knowledge with real-world application.

The studies emphasize reflection and professional growth, encouraging students to apply theoretical and research-based knowledge in practical settings. Close cooperation with working life partners ensures relevant, up-to-date learning experiences and strong preparation for future careers in social services.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Social Services programme at Turku University of Applied Sciences have excellent employment prospects in Finland, with most finding work soon after graduation. Proficiency in Finnish further enhances job opportunities.

Under the Act on Social Welfare Professionals (817/2015), the Bachelor of Social Services is a protected and licensed professional title in Finland.

Students completing early childhood education studies may work as social pedagogues in early childhood education and care. After graduation, they must apply separately for their degree certificate and qualification as a social pedagogue.

Those who have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Social Services in Finland may apply for the right to practice a social service profession as a licensed professional from the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Valvira).

The admission requirements for the program can be found on the university page.

Further information about the tuition fee and available scholarships for the program can be found on the university page.

TUAS video thumbnail