Opiskelija katsoo kameraan.

Pathway Diploma

Business and Entrepreneurship (January 2026 Intake) 

Start your journey towards global business!

Degree programme: Pathway Diploma in Business and Entrepreneurship
Duration: 12 months
ECTS Credits: 40
Study mode: Full-time studies, on Campus
Study place: Microkatu campus, Kuopio, Finland
Language: English
Annual intake: 30-35
Intakes: January 2026 

About the Programme

This 12-month programme offers students in-depth exposure to key business and entrepreneurship topics, while preparing them for further undergraduate studies in Finland. It is suitable for students seeking a more gradual study pace and academic development.

Highlights

  • 30 ECTS credits transferable to Finnish degree programmes
  • Emphasis on business fundamentals, innovation, and communication
  • Ideal for students new to international education
  • Project-based and team-oriented learning model
  • Extensive support for academic and personal growth

Admission Requirements

  • Completed high school / higher secondary school certificate
  • English proficiency: Evaluated through interview or language certificates
  • Background in any stream accepted, but business background is prioritised

Ready to start your journey with Savonia?

For application guidance and detailed information, reach out to our official local partners:

RG International FZC (UAE)
Email: inquiry@rginternational.org
Website: www.rginternational.org
Call: +9175758 66622

Meet your teachers:

Abdelazim Hannoura
Senior Lecturer, Business & Finance
abdelazim.hannoura@savonia.fi

Veronika Mysheva
Senior Lecturer, Finnish Language
veronika.mysheva@savonia.fi

Mies, jolla on tummat kiharat hiukset ja parta ja jolla on musta villapaita vaaleansinisen kauluspaidan päällä, seisoo vaaleanpunaisen taustan edessä.

Özerk Göker
Senior Lecturer, Sales & Marketing
ozerk.goker@savonia.fi

Nainen, jolla on pitkät suorat hiukset, päällään raidallinen mustavalkoinen toppi ja helminauha, hymyilee kameralle beigeä taustaa vasten.

Jade Jimenez
Expert, Digital Marketing
jade.jimenezsalgado@savonia.fi

Keski-ikäinen mies, jolla on silmälasit ja lyhyet ruskeat hiukset, sinivalkoinen ruutupaita, seisoo valkoista taustaa vasten, katsoo kameraan ja hymyilee hieman.

Leo Suomela
Senior Lecturer, IT
leo.suomela@savonia.fi

Mustavalkoinen muotokuva naisesta, jolla on aaltoilevat hiukset, korvakorut ja tumma toppi, jossa on kuvioitu kaula-aukko, ja joka hymyilee pehmeästi tummaa taustaa vasten.

Bailey Lähdesmäki
RDI Expert, Sustainability
bailey.lahdesmaki@savonia.fi

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for a Pathway Diploma?

Anyone who has completed their higher secondary / high school education (Class 12 or equivalent) is eligible to apply. Specific subject requirements apply to some diplomas (e.g., math and science for IoT). Please check with our recruiting partners.

2. Is English language proficiency required?

Yes. You can provide an English language certificate (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
If you do not have an English certificate, you must attend and pass an online interview to assess your language skills.

3. Are these programmes conducted in English?

Yes. All our Pathway Diploma Programmes are fully taught in English by qualified faculty.

4. What happens after completing the Pathway Diploma?

Upon successful completion of the Pathway Diploma programme, with a minimum GPA and individual courses of 3.5, students become eligible to apply for relevant bachelor’s degree programmes at Savonia UAS.

Of the 40 ECTS credits completed, up to 30 ECTS will be transferable towards the bachelor’s degree. Admission to the degree programme, however, requires that applicants meet the specific eligibility criteria of the chosen programme and pay the applicable tuition fees.

5. Do I apply directly to Savonia?

No. You must apply through one of our authorized recruiting partners listed under each programme. They will assist you throughout the process — from application to visa and arrival.

6. Where will I study during the diploma programme?

All diplomas are delivered on-campus in Kuopio, giving you early exposure to Finnish life, student culture, and academic practices. In case of a delayed visa, a hybrid study option will be available to ensure students don’t miss the start of their studies.

Map and addresses

Post address: P.O.Box 6, 70201 Kuopio, Finland
Visiting address: Microkatu 1, Kuopio

3D campus map
Video campus tour
Printable campus map

7. Is accommodation or visa support provided?

Your authorized agent will guide you through visa application and accommodation arrangements. Finland offers safe and student-friendly living options for international students.

For more information on student accommodation in Kuopio, please contact Kuopas.

8. How much does the programme cost?

The education fees for Pathway Diploma Programmes may vary depending on the diploma and intake. Your agent will provide you with the exact fee, details of what is included, and the payment schedule. In general, the programme fee covers teaching, study materials provided by the university, academic support services, and access to campus facilities. Also, the agent’s service fee is included in the total amount.

Please note that living expenses, accommodation, and personal costs in Finland are separate from the Diploma Programme fee.

9. What is the application process?

  1. Contact one of our listed partners
  2. Submit your documents (transcripts, passport, English certificate)
  3. Attend screening and interview, if required
  4. Receive conditional acceptance letter
  5. Make payment and receive an offer letter
  6. Begin the visa process
  7. Travel to Finland and start your studies!

10. What is it like to live and study in Finland as an international student?

Finland offers high-quality education, a safe environment, and a welcoming student culture. You will benefit from modern teaching methods, practical learning, and strong support services. Outside studies, Finland provides a high standard of living, excellent public services, and plenty of opportunities to experience its culture and nature.

Please note that some information and benefits apply only to degree students, while general information is valid for all students regardless of their status. In case of any confusion, you can always contact <strong data-start=”567″ data-end=”600″><a class=”decorated-link cursor-pointer” rel=”noopener” data-start=”569″ data-end=”598″>sudipta.chatterjee@savonia.fi</a></strong> for clarification.

<strong>Find more information below:</strong>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/savonia-uas/campuses/visit-us/”>Arrival to Finland</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/new-degree-students/residence-permits-visas/”>Residence permits and student visas</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/new-degree-students/housing/”>Housing</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/new-degree-students/byod/”>Bring your own computer and learn about our IT services</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/library/”>Library</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/new-degree-students/dining/”>Dining on campus</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/new-degree-students/municipality-of-residence/”>Registering at DVV</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/new-degree-students/insurances/”>Insurances and finances</a>
<a href=”https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-with-us/for-students/life-in-finland/”>Life in Finland</a>