Centria University of Applied Sciences

Centria University of Applied Sciences is a multi-disciplinary, dynamic and international higher education institution. We pride ourselves with offering students and staff an environment that is innovative, caring and multicultural.

Centria International administers mobility programmes, supports internationalisation at home on our three campuses as well as supports the degree programmes in their international projects.

Centria has exchange agreements with over 100 partner institutions around the world. Every year we welcome about 100 exchange students to study for three months, a full semester or an entire academic year at one of our three campuses. Similarly, every year we send out over 100 students on study exchange or work placements to partners around the world.

If you are interested in coming to Centria as an exchange student, either for a study exchange or a work placement, you will find more information about what we can offer and how to apply under Exchange students.

Centria University has an extensive network of partner universities around the world; however, we are always interested in forming new partnerships that benefits our students and staff alike. If your institution is interested in a partnership please contact us. You will find our contact information under Contacts.

Centria University of Applied Sciences has operations in the three towns of Kokkola, Ylivieska and Pietarsaari. This region is not only characterized by the old towns, the sea with its archipelago, and vivid bilingualism, but also by the long river valleys, traditional country life and bustling local cultures. Kokkola, a pleasant town of 47,000 inhabitants, has ample opportunities for leisure and outdoor activities all year round.

The owner of Centria University of Applied Sciences is Centria University of Applied Sciences Ltd. Stakeholders are the Federation of Education in Central Ostrobothnia, the Federation of Education in Jokilaaksot, the city of Jakobstad, Raudaskylä Christian College, and Central Ostrobothnia Conservatory.

CEO of Centria University of Applied Sciences Ltd. is rector Kari Ristimäki. UAS's organisation is build on processes, and tha main processes are learning and research, development and innovation processes.

Studies at Centria University of Applied Sciences are very practically oriented: students work on real-life cases, visit companies and undertake work placements. Students are personally guided throughout their studies, both by a student counsellor as well as an allocated teacher tutor that advises them on all issues.

Upon your arrival at Centria, student tutors will welcome you; they will show the newcomers around their new town and explain to them how to get around. The student union COPSA organises events throughout the year to help students get to know each other, such as outdoor activities, games, parties, etc.

Kokkola is a human-sized town, which is extremely safe for all: the crime rate is extremely low, and it is safe to walk around at any time. The city is surrounded by nature and close to the sea; students can enjoy the pure fresh air and the outdoors at any time!

Studies at Centria University of Applied Sciences are very practically oriented: students work on real-life cases, visit companies and undertake work placements. Students are personally guided throughout their studies, both by a student counsellor as well as an allocated teacher tutor that advises them on all issues.

Upon your arrival at Centria, student tutors will welcome you; they will show the newcomers around their new town and explain to them how to get around. The student union COPSA organises events throughout the year to help students get to know each other, such as outdoor activities, games, parties, etc.

Kokkola is a human-sized town, which is extremely safe for all: the crime rate is extremely low, and it is safe to walk around at any time. The city is surrounded by nature and close to the sea; students can enjoy the pure fresh air and the outdoors at any time!