Aalto lifewide learning enhanced its impact in 2025

Aalto University's Lifewide learning offerings experienced strong growth in 2025, indicating a demand for high-quality, research-based education among individuals, organisations, and society at large.

Nearly 22,000 participants in courses

The visibility and reach of lifewide learning improved. Participant numbers grew by 25 percent compared to the previous year, with over 21,900 individuals participating in courses and trainings from Aalto University Executive Education and Professional Development (Aalto EE), Open University, Summer School, and Aalto's FITech offering. Participants also more often completed their courses, accumulating over 23,000 study credits, representing a 13 percent increase.

More learning content was available than before. Last year, Aalto offered more than 750 courses and trainings for lifewide learning, an increase of 25 percent from the previous year. Over 450 teachers from Aalto University's schools and departments were involved in delivering the content.

Lifewide learning generated revenue and external funding of 26.3 million euros for Aalto University and its subsidiary Aalto University Executive Education Oy. The financial returns and the amount of external funding decreased by about one percent from the previous year. This change was primarily due to the Ministry of Education and Culture's revision of the funding coefficient for continuous learning. The level of activity and customer demand remained strong.

Aiming for an even more diverse and flexible offering

Lifewide learning is a key part of Aalto University's strategy. The main goals for the coming years are:

• To bring research into use faster and broaden access to degree-oriented learning
• To respond to emerging competence needs with flexible pathways for learners at different stages of life
• To strengthen Aalto's position as a leading provider of lifewide learning in Finland and as an internationally recognised expert in its core fields.

The results of 2025 demonstrate trust in Aalto, says Tom Lindholm, Head of Lifewide Learning at Aalto University.

“It is great to see how many people turn to Aalto's learning portfolio during their working life when it’s necessary to build the skills needed for a changing world. The results also broadly highlight the possibility of combining learning, research, and practice in a way that supports the renewal across society.”