The target group for the national Career Monitoring Survey consisted of nearly all 29,800 alumni who graduated from Finnish universities of applied sciences five years ago. Of these, 44% responded to the survey.
Haaga-Helia respondents still consider the degree to be an important foundation for working life. Of the respondents, 78 % felt that employers value the degree, and 81 % considered the degree to be a sufficient foundation for working life. In addition, 78 % agreed that the degree is well known in their field.
The employment situation is good. 78 % of respondents work in permanent full-time jobs, 6 % are entrepreneurs or freelancers, and 4 % are unemployed. The average gross salary of respondents is €4,460 and the median is €4,160. Degrees are seen as promoting career development and raising salary levels.
How many would recommend a degree from Haaga-Helia?
19% were very satisfied with the degree, 46% were satisfied, and 22% were fairly satisfied. 3% were very dissatisfied. The overall NPS score was 23. Respondents assessed how likely they would be to recommend the program to others:
- Critics (18%): criticism focuses on difficulties in finding employment, the prestige of the degree, the quality of teaching, and opportunities for further study.
- Passive (42%): appreciate practical skills and networks, but some may feel that the studies are superficial.
- Advocates (40%): praise the career opportunities, practicality, and professional growth offered by the degree.
Artificial intelligence skills, interpersonal skills, and adaptability were highlighted in the open responses
The open responses emphasized the need for both postgraduate studies leading to a degree (UAS Master's, academical Master's and even doctoral studies) and for specific training courses. The following issues were particularly highlighted:
- Management and supervisory work
- Information technology and digital skills – artificial intelligence training was mentioned repeatedly
- Marketing and communications
- Project management and certifications
- Economics, accounting, and law
- HR, well-being at work, sales, and entrepreneurship
- Sector-specific skills
Digitalization and artificial intelligence skills were highlighted, but human skills and adaptability play a crucial role. According to alumni, success in the working life of the future requires broad-based skills that combine:
- Technological skills and artificial intelligence expertise
- Interaction skills and problem solving
- Continuous learning and business expertise
- Entrepreneurship, responsibility, and language skills
Respondents' future career plans varied. However, the following goals were mentioned: career advancement, management positions, entrepreneurship, further education, and work-life balance. Many keep their plans open and respond flexibly to changes in their working life.
The research results are carefully analyzed and the information is forwarded to those responsible for planning education. More results can be also viewed from education administration's reporting portal, Vipunen. Further information on research targeting alumni is available on the Haaga-Helia website.
The largest industries among Haagahelian respondents:
