Suomen Liikemiesten Kauppaopisto - 10 Vocational Qualification in Business and Administration

Dear Student,

Welcome and congratulations on your good decision to come and study at Helsinki Business College. The college is run by the limited company Helsinki Business College PLC, owned equally by the Foundation of Finnish Business College and the Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce. You study at a college with direct connections to business life and willingness to develop it. There are approximately 3000 students, of whom 1500 are young students.

We will support you in improving your professional competences and learning skills throughout your studies. Be active and take initiative, ask for help and give feedback whenever you think it is necessary. Read this study guide thoroughly. It holds valuable information for your studies.

After completing the Vocational Qualification in Business and Administration you have diverse possibilities to create an excellent career both in Finland and abroad. This is your chance. Good luck with your studies!

Antti Loukola
Principal

10.1 Welcome to Helsinki Business College

10.1.1 Private Vocational College

Two time-honoured colleges, Finnish Business College – the EDP Institute and Helsinki Business College, merged on 1 August 2009. We educate recognised professionals for rapidly changing needs of working life.

We educate and train experts in both business and administration and business information technology. The college has an active role in developing competence and learning on both business and administration and business information technology on international level. Our operations support the development and success of our students and partner organisations.

We highly value:
STUDENT INTEREST
We care for individuals and support learning to ensure graduation, employment opportunities and professionalism. Students have a possibility to make individual choices. Students get sufficient amount of teaching, guidance and support for their professional growth. Every member of our educational community has the right to a safe learning environment where we work according to clear and agreed rules.

CO-OPERATION
We work in an open atmosphere of trust and confidence. We value and listen to each other. We succeed by sharing our knowledge and co-operating intensively with working life and our partner organisations. Our operations are target-oriented and productive. All the staff members carry their responsibility in strengthening and supporting our community.

RESPONSIBILITY
We treat each other equally and fairly. We support, encourage, and give feedback. Everyone is ready to do his/her best to reach common goals. We keep our promises. We carry our social responsibility according to the expectations of our stakeholders.

10.1.2 College Management

The college management is formed by following key persons:

Principal/Managing Director Antti Loukola
Education Director (vocational upper secondary education and training and development services unit), Vice Principal Heli Huotari
Development Director (vocational upper secondary education and training and development services unit) Paula Hyytiäinen
Education Director (HBC Institute) Jouni Hytönen
Education Director (HBC Institute) Sirkka Nykänen
Services Director Petri Edelmann
Administration Director Hely Westerholm

10.1.3 SLK Instituutti

SLK Instituutti is in charge of carrying out adult education, offering basic, vocational and specialist qualifications in business and administration and business information technology, as well as providing preparatory training leading to graduation. We operate in Pasila, which can easily be reached by public transport.

10.1.4 Staff

Helsinki Business College has 173 employees, of wich 95 are teachers and the rest belong to other staff, including superiors and college management. The staff register is available in the portal.

10.1.5 Facilities and Support Services

10.1.5.1 Student Affairs Office

The student affairs offices are located in the 2nd floor at both educational units. Student affairs office service hours, student administration forms and current notices are available in the portal. Most of the forms can be returned as attachments by using the college e-mail address (further information on the forms).

Services offered to student are, e.g.:

' network passwords

' studying certificates and transcripts of study records

' signing certificates for discounts on public transport

' transmitting student financial aid and subsidised travel forms to Kela

' receiving applications for graduation

Student Financial Aid

Please leave your student financial aid application at the student affairs office where it will be completed with college information and sent to Kela (the Social Insurance Institution in Finland).

You need to complete 15 - 20 credit units in a term, approximately 3 - 4 credit units in a month. If yoy fail to complete 15 - 20 credit units in a term, Kela will be notified. Kela may interrupt student financial aid payments until you have cleared and explained your studying situation to them.

Student financial aid can be admitted for the directive duration of your qualification. Accredited / transferred earlier studies can shorten the duration of financial aid, e.g. 15 accredited credit units cut down the financial aid duration by one term.

School Transport Subsidy

You may apply for travel subsidy from Kela if the distance between your home and school is at least 10 kilometers (one-way trip) and your monthly travel expenses exceed 54 euros. However, costs for travelling over 100 km are not compensated. Please return your application to the student affairs office in person.

For more information on financial aid and school transport subsidy, please visit Kela student financial aid web pages, the student affairs office or Hanne-Riitta Korpi (Kela / student financial aid councellor).

Kela / Student Financial Aid Councellor

Hanne-Riitta Korpi

Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Phone 040 7643217

Counselling is available to all students at both Pasila and Vallila units. The appointment hours for Pasila unit can be found on the Student Affairs Office door. The counsellor is available at Vallila unit in accordance with the opening hours for Student Affairs Office.

Please be prepared for a certain time of delivery (usually one working day at least). Inform the student affairs office of all the changes of information, such as personal data address changes, temporary suspension of studies and so on. You are responsible of submitting your contact information (address, phone number, e-mail) to the college and updating this information when necessary. You can update your personal contact information in the WinhaWille.

Contact information of the Student Affairs Offices

Educational Unit in Pasila

Rautatieläisenkatu 5

00520 Helsinki

Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Educational Unit in Vallila

Hattulantie 2

00550 Helsinki

Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

10.1.5.2 Student Counsellors

The whole staff participates in student counselling, however the student counsellors carry the main responsibility for its planning, development and implementation. Student counsellors are Raija Malmivaara, Sari Tuovila and Pertti Kivimäki. Student counsellors' reception hours are available on our website, at their office doors and in the portal.

Student counsellors help, support, and guide you in planning your studies, choosing the right options, organising your situation in life and studies, and setting your individual goals. Towards the end of your studies the student counsellors can guide you in matters concerning graduation, further studies, and working life.

Student Counsellors' Contact Information

Educational Unit in Pasila:

Raija Malmivaara room 220a, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen
Sari Tuovila room 220, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Educational Unit in Vallila:

Pertti Kivimäki room 431, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

10.1.5.3 Tutor Teachers and Student Tutors

As a part of student counselling every new student group has an own tutor teacher (group counsellor). They work in cooperation with student counsellors, student welfare counsellors and special education teacher. The tutor teacher is your primary support person at the college, to whom you can turn to for advice, direction and support in all matters relating to your studies.

Student tutors assist student counselling by receiving, guiding and supporting new students.

10.1.5.4 Student Welfare Counsellors

The student welfare counsellors help you to prevent possible problems by supporting your mental and social development in different situations in your life. The counsellors also help you to maintain and improve your working ability. With the student welfare counsellors you can discuss confidentially matters such as studying progress, study motivation, learning difficulties, living conditions and housing.

Student welfare counsellors' contact information
Educational Unit in Pasila:
Malla Willberg
room 218a, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Educational Unit in Vallila:
Marja-Liisa Hiltunen
room 427, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

The student welfare counsellors cooperate with the college's student welfare committee and when necessary, with social and health care authorities, other authorities and parents. The counsellors participate in pedagogical and educational planning as a representative of her own expertise.

10.1.5.5 Special Education

You can turn to special education teacher when you need special learning arrangements due to e.g. learning difficulties, insufficient language skills, illness, or disabilities. If you need long-term learning support or welfare services, you can get a special learner status. Special education is mainly organised in the same teaching groups with other students.
Students in need of special education get a personal plan on organising their studies, HOJKS (Decree on vocational education 811/98 § 8). HOJKS includes the changes that have been made to the common curriculum, the reason for organising special education, personal support, and adaptation of the learning objectives. HOJKS is formed by the special education coordinator, student counsellor, and the student or his/her guardian, if he/she is underaged.

Special education teachers' contact information
Educational Unit in Pasila:
Ritva Pakkanen
room 218, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Educational Unit in Vallila:
Vesa Löytynoja
room 431b, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

10.1.5.6 Student Health Care

Student health care is organised by the school and college health care unit of the city of Helsinki. Student health care is available for all EU citizens and to those of other nationalities, whose domicile registers are in Helsinki municipality. An EU citizen should always have European Health Insurance Card with them when using public health services. If you are not eligible for public health services, we strongly advise you to get a health insurance from an insurance company.

All new students will be invited to a health interview during their first study year. Students may seek the assistance of the public health nurses also later on in their studies.

Students should use the health care services of their own studying unit. A consultation with a public health nurse is free of charge.

Public health nurses in Pasila: reception at YK floor, room P27. The reception hours are usually Monday through Thursday between 8 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. and on Fridays between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reception without appointment Mon-Fri between 11.30 a.m. and 12.30 p.m. Please note that changes in the reception hours are possible!
Public health nurse Riitta Koskelainen 050 323 4347, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen
Public health nurse Merja Pallonen 050 310 5591, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Public health nurse in Vallila: reception hours are usually Monday through Thursday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. and on Fridays between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Reception without appointment Mon-Fri between 12 p.m. and 1.30 p.m. Please note that changes in the reception hours are possible!
Public health nurse Anneli Kahilainen - Niskanen 050 310 5586, 044 775 6002,
Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

In acute cases of illness please contact the public health centre of your area of residence. Every time you need medical advice or information on health care services call the Telephone Health Services 09-10023. It provides answers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

A consultation with a doctor is made with the public health nurse. The health centre fee is 13.70 € and it is collected from all citizens of Helsinki over 18 of age for three medical care visits per year. From citizens of other municipalities the consultation fee, 13.70 €, is collected for every medical care visit. Appointments related to health care are free of charge. A penalty fee of 33.80 € is collected for each uncancelled appointment.

Doctor consultations are available in Pasila twice a month.
Doctor consultations in Vallila take place on three Tuesdays a month.

Services for mental health are available through a public health nurse in different kinds of life crisis, anxiety, depression and tension.

For dental care, contact the public dental care facilities in your own area of residence.

10.1.5.7 Student Welfare Committee

Student welfare services aim to create a safe and healthy studying environment and to promote well-being and contentment of our college community. The goal is to support both student and community in situations threatening physical or mental safety or well-being. Student welfare work promotes early recognition and interference with problems such as learning difficulties and by doing so prevents dropping out.

There are student welfare committees in both educational units and a so-called extended student welfare committee.

10.1.5.8 On-the-job Learning Office

The on-the-job learning office coordinates all on-the-job learning activities in Helsinki Business College. The office cooperates with and gives service to students, employers and supervising teachers in both on-the-job learning and vocational skills demonstration issues. Furthermore the on-the-job-learning office maintains the TOP-Rekry system (a recruitment system).

In issues related to on-the-job learning and vocational skills demonstration please contact
On-the-job learning coordinators
Markita Hallbäck-Tuomas, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen , phone 044 7756310
Susanna Svartsjö, susanna.svartsjö@businesscollege.fi, phone 044 7756328 and the Head of vocational education division (responsible for on-the-job learning and vocational skills demonstration), Riitta-Leena Voittis, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen , phone 050 43283 58.

During the school year we are available:
Educational unit in Pasila
On-the-job learning office, 2nd floor, room 258a
Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and as agreed.

Educational unit in Vallila
On-the-job learning office, 4th floor, room 428
Mondays and Wednesdays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and as agreed.

In matters related to on-the-job learning and vocational skills demonstration you can also contact us by email: Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen . Further information is also available in the portal. Travel and meals expenses can partly be refunded by the college during on-the-job learning.

Further information is available in the portal and on our webpage.

Recruitment services

The college receives weekly notices of new vacancies for on-the-job learning opportunities or for permanent or temporary jobs. When looking for a job, you should look at the vacancies in TOP-Rekry (http://www.businesscollege.fi/rekry) and the notice boards in the college. To use the TOP-Rekry database, you need to log in with your user ID. For more information please contact the on-the-job learning office.

10.1.5.9 IT Services

IT services develops and maintains the information systems in Helsinki Business College and guides students and staff in using the hard and software available.
IT services are located in the 4th floor of the educational unit in Pasila and in 3rd floor of the educational unit in Vallila. You will be helped by

Educational unit in Pasila:
Tuomas Myllylä, PC Specialist, room 433
Pekka Urpilainen, System Specialist, room 433
Toni Taiveaho, AV Specialist, room 433
Timo Aitta-aho, Software Designer, room 433
Johann Walder, Software Designer, room 433
Gianni Vaccaro, Technology Manager, room 431
Jouni Virtanen, Information System Manager, room 431

Educational unit in Vallila:
Hannu Melander, System Specialist, room 328
Anne Päiväkumpu, System Specialist, room 328
Toni Taiveaho, AV Specialist, room 328

Service hours, user manuals and further information are available in the portal and the IT Service's webpage www.businesscollege.fi/tietohallinto/. Please inform possible failures, breakdowns or any other problems to IT service’s HelpDesk: Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen .

If you doubt that, for example, equipment or your username are misused, please contact either Technology Manager Gianni Vaccaro or Information System Manager Jouni Virtanen. In matters related to WinhaWille, college registers or information security, please contact Project Manager Taina Hosseini in Pasila (room 486).

10.1.5.10 Library

The library of HAAGA-HELIA also serves the students and staff of Helsinki Business College. The library’s printed and electronic collections, at both Pasila and Vallila unit, contain a broad selection of materials in the field of business, information technology, communications and pedagogy. In the library database, HALTIA, the students can for example search books, journals and final projects, renew loans, etc. The library offers premises for reading, research, studies and group work. The premises include a newspaper reading room, a silent reading room, multipurpose room (equipped with computers, etc.) and group work rooms.

Library card and borrowing privileges
You can receive the right to borrow materials and a library card by presenting an identity card (with photo) and by stating your personal contact information to the library. Also a Helmet-library card (Helsinki city library card) can be registered as your library card at Helsinki Business College. Materials from other HAAGA-HELIA libraries can be borrowed with the same card. You can also order books from any HAAGA-HELIA campus library and they will be delivered to your own library by internal mail. In the Helsinki area material is shipped daily, between Helsinki and Porvoo once a week.

Overdue charges
0,20 €/regular loans/day
1 €/short loans and handbooks/day
Maximum overdue charge is 15 €/loan. Persons lose their borrowing privileges once their overdue reach a minimum of 15 €. Borrowing privileges are returned, however, once the overdue loan is returned and the overdue charges paid.

Electronic collections
There are plenty of other material than books, newspapers and other printed material in the library. In addition to printed collections the library offers electronic collections (databases and other digital material).

The library's operating hours are displayed on the library doors and on the library webpage (www.businesscollege.fi/kirjasto/ ). Service links are also available on the library website.

10.1.5.11 Meals

As a full-time student you are entitled to a free meal on school days (holidays not included). You can choose from three free meal options. If you wish to choose one of the more expensive meals you will have to pay the exceeding price. If you wish to have a second meal during a day you will be charged for the price of an apprenticeship student.

If you are on a special diet, you can receive meals made for you by showing a doctor's statement. Special meals are prepared separately, so please inform the cafeteria of your absence by 9 a.m.

10.1.5.12 Student Body

Student Body organises both happenings for the whole college community and other student activities. The Student Board keeps up the cooperation between students, teachers and other members of the staff. For more information please visit our website.

10.2 Communications

Helsinki Business College informs about happenings and changes actively and in several ways. The college encourages the students to stay informed.

10.2.1 Student Bulletin, Webpage, Info-tv

The best way to stay informed about current matters (happenings, changes, etc.) related to your studies is through:

an electronic student bulletin, BC News, which is published on our webpage six times a year
on our webpage: www.businesscollege.fi
the portal https://portal.businesscollege.fi
on the WinhaWille notice board
information gatherings (e.g. graduation and on-the-job learning)
info-TV
notice boards
messages left on notice boards next to every classroom (e.g. cancellations and changes in rooms)
central radio (urgent and important announcements)

10.2.2 The Best Way to Contact Is by E-mail

During the first lesson students are informed in which way they can contact the teacher in each study entity. Otherwise there are several ways to contact the staff and fellow students.

E-mailing the staff, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Emailing the students, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Please remember to replace the å, ä and ö letters with a and o letter.

The reception hours of the teachers are available in the portal. The schedule of both teachers and groups are available at the webpage and in the portal. Post and mail to teachers and other staff in Pasila unit can be left in mailboxes situated on the 2nd floor. Post and mail to teachers in Vallila unit can be left in the mailbox situated on the 4th floor. Post and mail to other personnel in Vallila unit can be left in the information desk (1st floor).

You can return your assignments electronically by copying and saving them to the server (to a folder agreed in beforehand with the teacher).
Teachers can return assignments and other post to students in open mail boxes situated on the 2nd floor in Pasila unit. In Vallila unit students get assignments and other post from the information desk situated on the 1st floor. The uncollected assignments and posts are kept one year and then shredded.

10.3 Important Schedules

10.3.1 The Academic Year 2010-2011

10.3.1.1 Enrollment for the Academic Year

The academic year 2010 - 2011 begins on Thursday 19 August 2010. Students begining their studies in autumn 2010 have a separete timetable for week 33. Contact teaching for academic year 2010 - 2011 begins on Monday 23 August 2010. The spring term 2011 begins n Monday 3 January 2011.

10.3.1.2 Six Study Periods

The academic year is divided into six periods

period 1: 23.8.2010-1.10.2010
period 2: 4.10.2010-19.11.2010
period 3: 22.11.2010-14.1.2011
period 4: 17.1.2011-4.3.2011
period 5: 7.3.2011-15.4.2011
period 6: 18.4.2011-31.5.2011

10.3.1.3 Holidays

Autumn break 18.10.2010-22.10.2010
Christmas holiday 20.12.2010-31.12.2010
Winter holiday 21.2.2011-25.2.2011
Easter holiday 22.4.2011-25.4.2011

10.3.1.4 Graduation

The graduation ceremony for students graduating during the academic year will be held on 28 January 2011. The graduation ceremony for students graduating in the end of the academic year will be held on Tuesday 31 May 2011. Friends and families of the graduating students are also very welcome to the ceremony.

An information session about the graduation will be held in November 2010. Further information will be available in the portal.

10.3.1.5 Daily Timetable

Daytime teaching is on Monday-Friday from 8.15 a.m. to 3.45 p.m. (lessons 1-8).
The duration of a lesson is 45 minutes. Subjects are taught using double lessons (2x45minutes) according to the following schedule:

Lessons Time

1 08.15 - 9.00
2 09.00 - 09.45
3 10.00 - 10.45 (On Fridays 10.15)
4 10.45 - 11.30 (lunch)
4/5 11.30 - 12.15
5 12.30 - 13.15
6 13.15 - 14.00
7 14.15 - 15.00
8 15.00 - 15.45
9 16.00 - 16.40
10 16.40 - 17.20

10.3.1.6 Information Sessions

During the academic year 2010-2011 student information sessions are held:

Tuesday 12 October 2010, Welfare day at Pasila unit
Thursday 14 October 2010, Welfare day at Vallila unit
Tuesday 1 February 2011, Information plaza at Pasila unit
Thursday 3 February 2011, Information plaza at Vallila Unit

10.3.1.7 Remember to Participate In On-the-job Learning Information Sessions

Participate in both on-the-job learning and vocational skills demonstration information sessions, in which issues regarding on-the-job learning, how to find an on-the-job learning workplace and vocational skills demonstrations are discussed.

Information sessions are held for students, participating in both the first and second period on-the-job learning. Present at these information sessions are head of on-the-job learning and vocational skills demonstration division, coordinators and supervising teachers. During contact lessons the supervising teachers inform and give students training about how to find a workplace, the content of both on-the-job learning and vocational skills demonstration and the assessment of both of them.

An email invitation will be send by the on-the-job learning office to those whom the matter concerns, to both teachers and students. Additionally there will be a notification about the information sessions, well in advance, in the BC News, the info-TV and the portal.

10.3.1.8 Staff Development Days

During staff development days no classes are held, however teachers can give students assignments.

Friday 15 October 2010, whole day
Wednesday 3 November 2010, afternoon
Wednesday 9 February 2011, whole day
Friday 15 April 2011, whole day

10.3.1.9 Qualification Certificate Application

Please remember to apply for a qualification certificate in the end of your studies. The application is returned to the student affairs office. Further information will be given during the information gathering in November 2010. Those graduating in January 2011 will have to apply for the certificate by 19th November 2010 and those graduating in May 2011 will have to apply for the certificate by 15th April 2011.
During your studies the student affairs office provides you with official transcripts of study records.

10.4 Structure of The Studies/QBA Curriculum

10.4.1 Vocational Qualification in Business and Administration

The education is regulated by the act on vocational education and training (L630/1998) and by the decree on vocational education and training (A 811/1998). The curriculum defines the studies in the qualification. The Board of the College has approved the curriculum.

Customer Services: 20 credits
Specialised Vocational Studies: 60 credits in Customer Services and Selling

The Structure of the Vocational Qualification in Business and Administration
Matriculation Exam 40 credits
Common Vocational Studies
Customer services 20 credits
- On-the-Job Learning (2 credits)
Specialized Vocational Studies in Customer Services and Selling 60 credits
- Customer relationship management and selling 20 credits
- International trade support services 20 credits
- Planning and execution of marketing campaigns 10 credits
- Entrepreneurship 10 credits
- On-the-Job Learning (18 credits)

You can find the detailed descriptions www.businesscollege.fi.

10.4.2 The Objectives of The Vocational Qualification in Business and Administration

The purpose of the Vocational Qualification in Business and Administration is to provide students with broad skills to function in various kinds of businesses and as experts in the public sector as well as independent entrepreneurs. Students will be prepared to work flexibly in cooperation with others as well as on their own. Students will also be prepared to learn new subjects both at work and in continuing education.

Graduates of the Vocational Qualification in Business and Administration are employed in the fields of office and sales work and as supervisors and private entrepreneurs. The work requires fluent skills in business administration, customer-oriented service and business oriented thinking. Basic requirements of a professional are public speaking and writing skills. Work nowadays requires the ability to independently search for and interpret information. In most jobs the clients are served both by means of writing and speaking, which requires fluent skills in language.

10.4.3 The Length and Structure of the Qualification

The length of a qualification is given in credit units (cu). One credit unit is based on an average of 40 hours of work. One academic year consists of 40 credit units.

The length of a vocational qualification is 120 credits (about 2 years of study). The vocational qualification (120 credits) for the students having matriculated the Finnish high school exam requires 80 credits of vocational studies since he/she will be credited 40 credits for the matriculation exam.

If a student has completed high school studies which are equivalent to the Finnish high school studies he /she will be credited 30-40 credits depending on the subjects he /she has studied. The school requires binding and clear evidence of the studies done in schools which are not located in Finland.

10.4.4 Recognition and Accreditation of Prior Learning

Recognition and accreditation of prior learning means approving studies completed elsewhere. A student at Helsinki Business College can receive credits for studies completed elsewhere provided that the other institution is of an equivalent level to Helsinki Business College and that the prior courses have objectives and essential contents corresponding to some courses in the current curriculum. To get recognition and accreditation of prior learning you have to fill in an application. Original study certificates and/or other documents must be presented. It is recommended that any learning acquired prior to commencement of studies be validated in view of credit transfer at the earliest possible stage, preferably in the beginning of the studies together with the student counsellor. If the assessment scale used in prior studies is not the same in Helsinki Business College, an assessment scale of 1-3 is used.

10.4.5 Assessment

The students’ knowledge and skills are assessed and the students are given feedback on their progress at sufficiently regular intervals both during and after the studies. In the qualification certificate the assessment scale used for study modules is: S1 (satisfactory), G2 (good) and E3 (excellent). The modules are mainly assessed in vocational skills demonstrations (during your on-the-job learning you will perform vocational skills demonstrations in real life working environments). However if required, vocational skills can also be demonstrated and fulfilled through other forms of assessments, as for example, discussions, assignments and/or other reliable methods.

The study modules consist of studies/course units. The teachers give the students, regularly, constructive feedback. The assessment scale used for studies/course units is S (completed), or on a scale of S1, G2, E3. The assessment can also include a mark L (present), which means that the student participated in the course, but did not complete all parts of it (e.g. an uncompleted assignment). In case you have been given an L mark, please contact the teacher to find out how the course can be completed. A mark E (not present) means that the student did not participate in the teaching. A mark T means that the study is completed with remedial and/or additional teaching.

According to the 2006 curriculum the assessment scale can also include a grade 0 (failed).

If the student is dissatisfied with the assessment of his/her studies he/she has the right to appeal to the teacher who gave the assessment or to the principal by submitting a written request for correction within 14 days from the announcement of the results. If the student is dissatisfied with the reassessment or the solution given, the student can request for another assessment from the district government education office within 14 days from the announcement of the reassessment or the solution given.

10.4.6 Additional Teaching to Students

The college provides additional teaching to students according to their needs. “Oppitupa” learning centre is a part of additional teaching. Oppitupa learning centre is meant for those students who have participated in the studies/courses, but received a grade L, T or 0. In Oppitupa the student receives support in accordance with the teaching plan. In Oppitupa learning centre the student can attempt to improve the grade given (to a S1 or S). The student takes the primary initiative regarding additional teaching, i.e. contacts the teacher him-/herself.

Teaching in small groups can also be organised. Other support measures can be discussed with the tutor teacher or the student counsellor.

10.4.7 Assessment of International Students

International students are assessed under the same criteria as the all the other students. The assessment is carried out in such a manner that possible incomplete language skills do not affect the assessment.

10.4.8 List of Study Descriptions

Part of Qualification: Customer Services 20 cu

Part of Qualification: Customer Relationship Management and Selling 20 cu

Part of Qualification: International Trade Support Services 20 cu

Part of Qualification: Planning and Executing Marketing Communication 10 cu

Part of Qualification: Entrepreneurship 10 cu

10.5 Open Learning Environments

10.5.1 On-the-job Learning and Vocational Skills Demonstration

The qualification includes a period of on-the-job learning, during which the student familiarises him-/herself in practical assignments required in the occupation and achieve the core objectives of the occupation as laid down in the curriculum. All 120 credit upper secondary vocational qualifications include a period of on-the-job learning with a scope of 20 credits. One of the aims of on-the-job learning is to enhance young people’s employment opportunities.

This training period takes place on the job. It is goal-oriented and guided by teachers and specially trained counsellors at the workplace. The first on-the-job learning period takes place in the end of the first academic year. The second on-the-job learning period takes place in the last three periods of the second academic year. As mentioned above, the on-the-job learning office and the supervising teachers will provide you with further information, for instance during information sessions and classes. Students should primarily, on their own, find a job for the on-the-job learning period. On-the-job learning workplaces can, for example, be found in the TOP-Rekry database.

Vocational skills demonstrations are a way of assessment and they mostly take place during the periods of on-the-job learning. Vocational skills demonstrations are part of student assessment. In the demonstration students show how well they have achieved the vocational proficiency required for working life, as required in the curriculum. Vocational skills demonstrations measure practical skills and extensive activity in authentic, real life, work situations according to an individual plan. The on the-job-learning period can also be completed abroad.

On-the-job learning abroad

The on-the-job learning period can be completed abroad. You may apply if:

· you are at least 18 years of age
· you have progressed in your studies as planned
· you know the language of the country of destination and/or good English

Available on-the-job learning workplaces abroad can be found in TOP-Rekry database. If you have a suggestion of an on-the-job learning workplace, please discuss the idea with your on-the-job learning supervising teacher. Additionally contact the on-the-job learning office and the international services office well in advance to acquire information about practical issues, as for example, housing, travel, etc.

You can also visit the International Services office at your educational unit:

Pasila Unit

International services coordinator Marja Saarela

Room 230, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

Vallila Unit

International services coordinator Orsolya Simon

Room 431b, Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen

The coordinators are available on Mondays and Wednesdays between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. and on Tuesdays between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. You can also make an appointment by email.

10.6 Studying at Helsinki Business College

10.6.1 We Support Students' Independent Initiative

You are completing a vocational upper secondary qualification, which gives you general eligibility for higher education in both polytechnics and universities. After graduation you can continue your studies at a polytechnic or a university.

10.6.2 Code of Conduct

A student has a right to a safe studying environment. The code of conduct is a basis of a comfortable and safe learning and working environment.
The code of conduct is applied at Helsinki Business College premises in Pasila and Vallila, in happenings organised by the college and when representing the college. However, during on-the-job learning and in actual working situations the primary guidelines are the rules of the working place.

Students, teachers and other members of the college community are required to work so that the objectives of both national and college-specific curricula can be reached. Regular attendance is student's primary duty. Student has to conduct him/herself well in all study-related situations and respect fellow students, teachers, and other members of the community.

At Helsinki Business College each student

1. Works according to the schedule and while learning on-the-job, according to the schedules of the working place
2. Participates regularly and actively in teaching and classroom work
3. Informs tutor teacher and other teachers of his/her absence
4. Is punctual, completes and submits given assignments by deadline
5. Does not act deceitfully
6. Allows everyone to work peacefully
7. Is properly dressed
8. For his/her part looks after tidiness at the college
9. Handles college property carefully and economically.

Possession, use, selling and offering of drugs, snuff, and alcohol to others as well as appearing intoxicated in college events or in the college area are strictly prohibited.
Smoking is prohibited, except in the designated smoking area.

Everyone sees to his/her private property. One should not leave it in coat pockets, bags, or coat racks. Helsinki Business College does not take any responsibility for the private property of students, nor are they liable for any loss of money or valuables. Everyone is responsible for one's good behaviour and acting as a role model. Every staff member has the right and the duty to intervene in violation of the rules of conduct

Should the code of conduct be violated:
1. Reprimand by a teacher or tutor teacher and, if necessary, contacting guardians.
2. Reprimand by a student welfare committee member and contacting guardians.
3. Reprimand by an education director and contacting guardians.
4. Written warning by the principal or an education director. The student will be summoned prior to a written warning.
5. Suspension for a certain period, one year being the maximum, by a decision by the principal or an education director. Should the student be a minor, his/her guardian will also be heard prior to the suspension.
All cases of violation will be noted in the student register.

The members of the staff have the right to remove students from college area and events in case they act in a disturbing manner, do not leave when instructed, or have been suspended. Removal will be recorded in the student data in WinhaWille.

If the student in question resists efforts to remove him/her, the members of the staff shall have the right to remove the student using force which can be deemed justifiable in view of the student's age and the imminence of threat or the severity of the resistance and which is based on an overall assessment of the situation. No implements of force may be used to remove a student.

10.6.3 Attendance and Full-Time Studies

As a daytime student you have to attend the lessons. It is of equal importance to complete the attended courses. By Deviating the study plan of your study group will set challenges to the continuation of your studies as the schedules are planned for groups, not individuals.

You need to complete 40 credit units a year. Your studies are considered full-time when you complete 15 - 20 credit units in a term. After two years of studies you should have completed approximately 80 credit units (at minimum 60 credit units).

10.6.4 Informing Your Absence

If you will not be able to attend a class due to sudden illness or other reason inform you teachers by email. Please mention your full name and the code of the course in your email. Staff email addresses are all in the formula Sähköpostiosoite on suojattu roskapostiohjelmia vastaan, Javascript-tuen tulee olla päällä nähdäksesi osoitteen (remember to replace å, ä, and ö with a and o). You cannot inform them by phone because teachers are out of reach during the lessons.

If you know about an absence, e.g. hospitalisation or a trip, in beforehand, make arrangements with the teachers how to cover the lessons you will miss. If you will not be able to attend at all during a study period, apply for temporary suspension of studies.

Mainly, teacher will mark your attendance in the register during the lesson or latest, in the end of the week. Tutor teachers and student counsellors follow the absences and, if necessary, contact the student.

We also provide information on attendance to minors' guardians by request. The information will also be printed on the transcripts that will be sent home. Kela will be informed as well, if a receiver of student financial aid or travel subsidies has a significant amount of absences.

You can check your absences in WinhaWille. If you have any questions concerning the records please contact the teacher who has entered them.

The college does not allow unauthorised absence, i.e. you cannot be absent without permission. Long term unauthorised absence and/or long continual absence can lead to the loss of study right.

10.6.5 Suspending Studies Temporarily

Studies can be suspended temporarily. If you need to suspend your studies temporarily for one or more study period please consult a student counsellor, tutor teacher, or special education teacher without further delay.

You may be admitted a temporary suspension of studies for a fixed period (minimum one study period, maximum one year). During the temporary suspension your study time is not running. Please make your application for a temporary suspension well in advance as it cannot be granted retrospectively or for a study period that has already begun. All study-related forms are available on our website www.businesscollege.fi.

The information on continuation of your studies has always to come in writing to the student affairs office. Additionally, you need to visit the student affairs office personally on your first study day after the temporary suspension.

10.6.6 Privacy Policy According to the Personal Data Act

The privacy policy can be found on our webpage and the portal. The privacy policy is a personal data act, which objectives are, among others, to implement, in the processing of personal data, the protection of private life and other basic rights which safeguard the right to privacy.

10.7 Educational Units in Pasila and Vallila

10.7.1 Work Premises for Students

Pasila educational unit offers both independent and group work premises for students. Independent work rooms are situated on the 3rd floor room 319, and on the 4th floor room 484. Rooms for group work are rooms: 463 and 247 (however notice that these rooms can be used for teaching). At Vallila educational unit rooms premises for independent work are situated on the 3rd floor (lobby and hallway). Additionally, a couple of computers are available in the library. Please remember

leave the doors unlocked in all work premises
college computers are used for studying and school work
installing programs or scripts to any device at Helsinki Business College as well as changing computer settings is prohibited.

You can also log in with your own laptop. The wireless network at Helsinki Business College is called bc-student. Further instructions are available in the portal.

Students have the possibility to use a printer in all work premises at the college. Be reasonable and print only school work. Please check that the printer has paper also for the next user. More paper for printing is available in Pasila unit on the 4th floor, in front of room 476 and in Vallila unit at the information desk. Remember that there might be a print queue: press the print button only once. Use the photocopier to duplicate documents (not the printer to print several copies of the same sheet). Notice that the staff at IT Services monitors the use of printers.

The fitness centres, at both educational units, offer a variety of workout equipment for students. The fitness centres are available for use by all current enrolled students at Helsinki Business College.
At Pasila educational unit there is healing and meditation room available for students on the 4th floor, room 485.

College opening hours during teaching days
· Monday-Thursday: Pasila unit 7.45 a.m.-5 p.m., Vallila unit 7.30 a.m.-5 p.m.
· Friday: Pasila and Vallila unit 7.30 a.m.-4 p.m.

10.7.2 Other Important Issues

Notice that an access control systems is used in the college buildings and in addition a video surveillance system is used round-the-clock.
Please report all defects, technical problems and cleaning feedback (lamps, toilettes, radiators, etc.) to the information desk. The information desk also holds lost and found items.

Please contact and inform the staff at IT Services of possible malfunctions or breakdowns of devices.

If you or your group has something to inform, please use the notice boards. It is prohibited to use the doors and/or walls as notice boards.

Use the stairs; the elevators are only for physically challenged.Skateboarding and roller-skating are strictly prohibited at the college premises both in- and outdoors. Please leave your skateboard or roller blades either at home or in your locker while at college.

The college security and safety plan and the waste management sorting instructions are available in every room (on the notice board) and in the portal. Please acquaint yourself with the security and safety plan.

WWF’s Green Office is an environmental service for offices. With its help, workplaces are able to reduce their burden on the environment, achieve savings and slow down climate change. WWF has awarded the Green Office designation to Helsinki Business College Vallila educational unit for fulfilling the criteria of the Green Office programme. Our aim is to try to achieve the right to use the Green Office logo in our other units as well.

Waste sorting and recycling is important. There is a separate bin, in every classroom, work room and in all common spaces, for both garbage and paper. In the cafeteria there is a separate bin for bio-waste. Please remember to act in an environmentally friendly way with regard to everyday tasks!

10.8 Data Network and Planning of Studies

10.8.1 Data Network

In the beginning of your studies you will get a user ID and a password to the data network. The holder of the username is committed to comply with the rules of data network when accessing college unit’s computer, networks and Internet services. The password has to be changed every 6 months, otherwise you cannot log in. The password has to be changed at the computers available at Helsinki Business College, i.e. you cannot change the password at home. The student affairs office provides you with a new password. Note however, that a new password cannot be given through email or in a phone discussion. You have to visit the student affairs office personally and prove your identity.

It is easy to change the password! Log in to the network and press Ctrl+Alt+Del. Choose “change password” and fill in the required fields: old password, new password, confirm new password. You can use your new password immediately.

Please remember to redirect your email to another address, if you do not actively use to the college email address. All the email sent to students is directly sent to the college email.
It is also in your responsibility to backup your own work and any data you store.

10.8.2 WinhaWille - Student Interface

Students enrolled in the qualification studies have access to information in the student grade register through their own Internet connection. The programme allows students to register for courses and to check course grades at their convenience. Furthermore the student can change his/her personal contact information in WinhaWille. Access to the WinhaWille system requires a user code and password, the user code and the password is the same as when logging in to the network.

10.8.3 WinhaWilho - Parent Interface

In the WinhaWilho web service parents and guardians can monitor the student’s progress. The parent’s or the guardian’s right to use the service ends when the student reaches the age of majority. After this, the student may grant the parent or guardian permission to continue using the service. The instructions for WinhaWille can be found on our web page.

10.8.4 Moodle Learning Environment

When logging in to Moodle for the first time you have to fill in the required information (an own profile page will open and all the * marked fields have to be filled in). You can also add a photograph of yourself and a short description. Other optional information can be filled in later. Moodle learning environment can be found on our webpage: www.businesscollege.fi