Advanced Professional Degree in Health and Social Welfare Development and Leadership
A master’s programme preparing professionals to lead innovation and strategic development in health and social welfare sectors.
Best for:Best for professionals seeking to advance into leadership roles in health and social welfare, with a focus on strategic management, policy, and evidence-based innovation.
Overview
This advanced professional degree programme at South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk) equips graduates with expertise to navigate and drive change in the dynamic health and social welfare environments. Students gain deep insights into policy connections, strategic leadership, and cross-sectoral collaboration, enabling them to lead development projects, manage teams, and implement evidence-based improvements. The curriculum integrates practical skills in research-driven development, financial management, and integrated service leadership. Graduates are well-prepared for senior roles in public sector organizations, where they can contribute to policy formulation, workforce development, and service innovation. The programme emphasizes hands-on learning, aligning academic theory with real-world challenges in health and social welfare.
What you'll do
- Develop and implement strategic plans for health and social welfare organizations to enhance service quality and efficiency.
- Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary development projects aimed at improving public services and addressing societal challenges.
- Apply research-driven methodologies to evaluate and innovate healthcare and social welfare services.
- Manage financial resources and budgets for public sector projects, ensuring cost-effective and sustainable solutions.
- Foster collaboration across sectors to integrate services and improve outcomes for diverse populations.
- Provide leadership in workforce development, including talent management and organizational change initiatives.
- Develop and promote evidence-based practices to guide policy and service delivery in health and social welfare.
- Engage with stakeholders to align organizational goals with broader policy objectives and community needs.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Health Care, Social Services, or a related field from a recognized university or university of applied sciences
Degree offered: Master of Health Care or Master of Social Services (Advanced Professional Degree)
Language: Finnish proficiency (required for instruction and work in Finnish-speaking environments)
Instruction: Finnish
- Proven ability to work in multidisciplinary teams and collaborate across sectors
- Experience in project management or leadership roles in health or social welfare settings
- Strong analytical skills to evaluate and implement evidence-based practices
- Familiarity with Finnish public sector policies and organizational structures
- Basic proficiency in research methodologies and data analysis
- No specific nationality restrictions, but eligibility for studies in Finland applies
- Prior degree must be recognized by Finnish authorities
- No age restrictions, but professional experience may be considered in admissions
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-31
Applicants must submit their application through the official Opintopolku portal. Required documents include a completed application form, a copy of the bachelor’s degree certificate, transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and a personal statement outlining professional goals and relevance to the programme. Additional documents such as a CV or letters of recommendation may be requested depending on the application.
- Completed application form
- Copy of bachelor’s degree certificate
- Transcripts of academic records
- Proof of Finnish language proficiency
- Personal statement on professional goals
- CV (if required)
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