Finnish | English
Experience the North – Build Your Future
Young adult facing something new!
A year at a folk high school could offer you the opportunity to study subjects that interest you, in a supportive and communal environment, while also giving you time to reflect on your future direction.
The Tourism and Entrepreneurship Path is a place where courage to try and the skills to turn ideas into action grow. The path is intended for adult students from Finland, North America, and Sweden. The main language of instruction is English, making the path suitable also for those who want to strengthen their English skills. Together, students cross cultural boundaries and language barriers. Studies are practical and project-based, so language skills develop naturally through real-life situations. At the beginning, it is enough that you can manage everyday situations in English.
During the studies, students plan and carry out small-scale events and projects at the opisto together with other study paths and in cooperation with local businesses. The path may also include planning and organizing a study trip within Finland or abroad. The nature and scope of the projects evolve according to the group’s interests and strengths.
Northern cultural tourism and nature are an integral part of the studies. Autumn and winter excursions offer a glimpse into the possibilities of northern nature tourism. In nature, students learn to act responsibly and safely, while also taking responsibility for the group.
An opisto year can help clarify your future direction. The path provides readiness for further studies, entrepreneurship, and working life. You will learn to take responsibility, plan, implement, and complete projects from start to finish. An entrepreneurial mindset and way of working will support you in many future situations.
Who is this for?
For you, an adult student, who wants to strengthen your English-language skills, discover your strengths, and clarify your future direction. The path is well suited as a transition phase after upper secondary school, vocational studies, or military service, before moving on to further studies or working life.
“Here I’m treated as just as valuable as anyone else. It’s easy to talk things through and agree on matters, I’m understood, and I don’t have to explain myself. Faith is constantly visible, and it doesn’t need to be hidden.”
— Siiri, adult opisto student 2022–2023
“The opisto year has strengthened my sense of what I want to study after opisto. Before, I didn’t know which profession I wanted to pursue, but now it’s becoming quite clear.”
— Pihla, adult opisto student 2022–2023
“The opisto year has helped me grow tremendously. I feel like I’ve gained more self-confidence. Doors to the future have opened that I didn’t see before. I’ve also realized that I’m not in a hurry. I move forward into work and life with gratitude.”
— Maunu, adult opisto student 2022–2023
Being Part of the College Community
At the college, students are engaged in real life. Learning takes place communally and experientially across different study paths. The northern nature provides a rich and diverse learning environment where daily life and studies are naturally intertwined.
Content and Structure of the Studies
In the autumn semester, students are introduced to the fundamentals of international tourism and cultural knowledge, as well as the basic principles of domestic and international tourism. The studies focus on the special characteristics of northern culture and how they can be applied in tourism. Topics also include multiculturalism, tourism, and entrepreneurship.
Teaching is hands-on and project-based, including collaboration with local entrepreneurs. Students practice hiking and outdoor skills in autumn conditions, emphasizing safe and responsible behavior in nature. English is actively used in studies, and students develop teamwork skills through projects and event organization.
In the spring semester, students deepen their knowledge of international tourism and cultural competence, as well as project-based entrepreneurial skills. Students plan, productize, market, and implement tourism-related services for their path group or external clients.
The studies may include a trip within Finland or abroad, and students practice fundraising for projects. In spring, collaboration with local entrepreneurs continues, and students practice hiking and outdoor skills in winter conditions. The studies combine practical work, planning, and creative activities, with active use of English throughout the learning process.
Core Courses:
- Fundamentals of International Tourism and Culture
- Tourism Product Development and Project Skills
- Communication Skills
- Religion
- Finnish Language (for international students)
All students also participate in college-wide classes covering current topics and well-being themes. The program includes weekend theme days, active student council participation, and committee work.
Students can also choose elective courses that support their personal skills and interests, such as sports, music, visual arts, outdoor activities, or handicrafts.
Structure of the Program and Personal Study Plan
Each student receives a personal study plan (HOPS) at the beginning of their studies. The plan records individual goals, areas of focus for development, and planned guidance and support measures. The plan is updated throughout the studies in collaboration with the student and their path instructor.