Sport and Studies

In the University of Applied Sciences, studies are conducted flexibly and student-centered. Additionally, there are various forms of support for top-level and competitive athlete students to optimize their study pace during training and camp periods as well as the competition season.

Advance planning of studies facilitates the combination of sports and studies. In the personal study plan (HOPS), the timing of camps and competition trips can be taken into account so that the courses requiring attendance can be completed before or after the camp or competition trip. The student is responsible for updating the HOPS according to their needs.

For example, injuries, (value) competition selections, and changes in the training/season plan may require rescheduling exam dates, changes in the timing of the training period, or temporarily increasing distance learning.

Flexible study arrangements:

Distance learning, which allows studying regardless of time and place.
Remote exams, which offer flexibility in methods and schedules.
Recognition of prior learning from previous or other studies.
Cross-study offerings from other higher education institutions.
Recognition of skills acquired through sports.
Additional time for completing assignments or the degree based on top-level sports.
Additional time for completing the degree.
Study right period:

In the University of Applied Sciences, the timing of the curriculum is designed according to the target study time of each degree program. According to the degree regulations, a student can, if necessary, utilize two semesters of absence, allowing sufficient time and space for goal-oriented sports. A sports career can also serve as a basis for applying for discretionary additional time.

Each Jamk student is assigned a teacher tutor who assists in planning and monitoring their studies. A personal study plan (HOPS) is created for the student, taking into account the combination of studies and top-level sports as much as possible. The plan is updated as needed as studies and the sports career progress.

Study counselors provide additional information on combining studies and a sports career. Student-athletes can discuss individual study arrangements with study counselors. Jyväskylä Sports Academy also has a dual career guidance contact person for higher education students.

Jamk offers a 15-credit EduJyväskylä Athlete Studies program as online courses for athletes from all sports academies. These studies can be included as part of a degree.

The Athlete Studies program is designed to support the training and studies of student-athletes, focusing on athlete well-being (5 credits), collaborative relationships (5 credits), and career planning (5 credits).

Studies at Jamk are work-life oriented and practically applicable. A student-athlete can often utilize the skills gained from their studies in their sports career. Additionally, the demands and routines of goal-oriented and committed training provide a good foundation for completing higher education studies.

For example, the studies in the Wellbeing Unit and the Sport Business orientations in the Business Unit offer a variety of courses and study modules that student-athletes can use to maintain their health or develop a business around their sports career.

Internships and Thesis

Student-athletes can utilize the skills and networks gained from their sports career in their courses and strengthen cooperation with their sports club or partners. Internships and thesis work related to studies also offer the opportunity for longer-term cooperation with their stakeholders.

Planning internships and combining a sports career require cooperation between the student, coach, internship supervisor, study counselor, and internship place. Individual solutions can be made in internships.

If necessary, Jyväskylä Sports Academy can also assist in organizing internships, as the academy's own activities offer internship and thesis opportunities. The internship and thesis opportunities through the academy are located in various sports academies, educational institutions, and sports federations.

Recognition of Prior Learning

A sports career and studies completed during or before it can bring various skills and knowledge to a student-athlete. At Jamk, a student can apply for the recognition of prior learning (RPL) according to the degree regulations, to be included as part of a course, internship, study module, or degree.

uMove, a collaboration between Jamk and the University of Jyväskylä, offers sports and wellness services to students and staff of higher education institutions in Jyväskylä. uMove also provides job opportunities related to sports and wellness.

Through Jamk's e-sports hub, GamePit, e-athletes can be provided with conditions for training and coaching sessions as well as for other activities supporting team operations. Jamk invests in player and expert development and in producing research data that supports top-level e-athletes in the GamePit laboratory environment.

E-sports is also reflected in the study offerings, including elective e-sports studies. Finland's most successful e-sports organization, ENCE, collaborates with Jamk.

The Student Health Service (YTHS) supports student well-being and health. Student health care provides general and mental health services as well as dental care, and promotes the well-being of the student community.

Additionally, student-athletes are supported by Jamk's student well-being services and the services of Jyväskylä Sports Academy.

Jamk University of Applied Sciences recognizes and rewards its successful student-athletes in collaboration with the Sports Academy and, when possible, grants scholarships and financial aid to athletes.

Jyväskylä Sports Academy awards study scholarships to students in upper secondary school, secondary education, and higher education. Applications for all study scholarships are made annually at a separately announced time.

Jamk has its own network for athletes. More information coming soon.