Significance
The term literally means "school of higher vocational education". Although the Finnish Ministry of Education recommends the English term "polytechnic", the Rectors' Conference of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences has decided to use the term "university of applied sciences".
Unlike universities, AMKs focus on R&D by applying previous knowledge, rather than producing new research. They have a very clearly legislated objective in regional development. As there is mandatory five-month practical training for all students, AMKs may be a good platform for dispersing applied knowledge throughout higher education. AMKs provide professionals for locally important purposes and are governed by the city, although they receive most of the funding from the state. No tuition fees are asked from the students.
Read more about this topic: University Of Applied Sciences (Finland)
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