Diaconia University of Applied Sciences

The Diaconia University of Applied Sciences, in operation for 16 years now, has historical roots of almost 140 years. One of the institutions behind Diak, the Helsinki Deaconess Institute, started deaconess education as early as 1867. In fact, we can consider education in the social sector in Finland to have begun at that point of time.

Diaconia University of Applied Sciences (Diak) offers high quality, innovative degree programmes of education and training in diaconia, nursing, sign language interpretation, community interpreting, social services and youth work. Diak emphasises a close relationship to practise and working life. It has five campuses located in different regions of Finland.Diak also offers postgraduate studies in diaconia, health promotion and social services, and carries out research and development work. All Diak units are actively engaged in the specific social and health issues of their own regions.

In the field of international affairs, Diak works in close cooperation with numerous long-term partners in Europe, Asia and Africa. In addition to student and staff exchange and practical placements for students, Diak is actively involved in international research and development projects and in curriculum development cooperation at European level.