International Business part-time – Frequently Asked Questions

We know many of our applicants have questions about applying and studying. Especially the part-time programmes cause confusion sometimes. Therefore we decided to gather your most common questions in one place and give you answers! If you are interested in the International Business full-time programme, you can get more information about it in the IB full-time FAQ.  

You should also check out IB’s official webpage at www.hamk.fi/ib.

Applying to IB part-time studies

Where can I study International Business part-time?

The International Business part-time studies are conducted completely online.

International Business full-time programme is arranged at the Valkeakoski campus.  There is also a business programme in Finnish in our Hämeenlinna campus, Liiketalous, which offers part-time studies too. HAMK’s door is always open and welcoming new excited students!

How do I apply to HAMK to study part-time International Business?

First, you need to follow us in our website, where you can find information about our application periods.  When the application period is on, you can apply in www.Studyinfo.fi.

Studying in IB part-time programme

What are the teachers like?

Teachers come from many different countries and they are friendly and supporting. They do care about and pay special attention to each of the students.

What are the courses and assignments like?

There are different types of courses, but the main thing is that they are in modules. That means that you have a readymade pack of courses that go together and it is easier and more efficient to study.

Teaching method is close to flipped class room so that the student is able to combine his daily work into given assignments. The study method requires independence as well as the capability of working in teams. And as the studies are online, the student needs a well-working computer and internet connection.

Can I study IB part-time while working? Are there lots of contact lessons?

International Business part-time studies are perfect for you who are for example already in the working life. The studies are flexible and conducted completely online.

Teaching sessions are organized online on weekday evenings, and the lectures will be recorded which allows you to revisit them if needed. Flexible lunchtime guidance sessions are available.

What other things can I do in addition to the basic courses?

HAMK offers a variety of ways to complete your studies. Some modules offer you interesting chances to go on study trips both in Finland and abroad, and there are many interesting real life projects. We have innovative opportunities for studying, take a look at Amazing Business Train for example!

Read the story of Maksim who graduated from IB part-time. During his studies he made study trips to Germany and Brazil, and spent an exchange semester in China. Read his alumni story here.

Do I have to live in Finland to complete the degree?

Because the studies are conducted online, you don’t have to live in Finland to complete the degree.

How good should my English level be?

We require B2 level English: You need to be able to communicate easily and effectively in English and take the initiative to speak. You need to understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics. You also need to be able to produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options. If you can understand and speak basic English you will manage.

Do I need a lot of international experience or business skills to study in IB?

No, you don’t need any previous experience in business or internationality as long as you are interested in the subjects. B2 level of English and the capability to do some mathematical calculations is enough! We will teach you the rest.

Internationality

How international are the studies really?

There are students from several different nationalities and backgrounds in the IB part-time programme, so the classes are truly international!

Can I go on exchange in part-time studies?

If you have successfully passed your courses and can agree with your employer about taking a study leave, then off you go! We have about 100 partner schools around the world. You can choose the length of your exchange; the most common lengths are full academic year or half of an academic year. In addition, you can do two exchanges too, half a year in one country and half a year in another!

You can find more information about exchange studies here.

Check also Sini’s student story here >>>