For Oluchi Ann Ogudu-Okor, studying in the Educational Sciences (EDUMA) Master’s Degree Programme at JYU has been a journey of unlocking knowledge and purpose. Coming from a background in geology, she wanted to build a new foundation in education and found her place in the Global and Sustainable Education specialisation. Through the research-driven and supportive environment of the EDUMA programme, Oluchi is shaping her path towards becoming an educational activist. She says the programme has helped her discover new ideas and perspectives every day, and describes it as the key that has unlocked her personal journey of learning and growth.
The feeling that there is a full treasure of knowledge about education waiting to be unlocked made me realise that I needed the right keys and environment to access it. This made me very intentional when choosing my programme.
When moving from one field to another, finding a university that will guide you and provide comprehensive knowledge, from the basics to an advanced level, becomes a priority. Choosing my programme in Educational Sciences was driven by my goal to become a renowned educational activist. As someone with a bachelor’s degree in geology, I was searching for a degree that would give me deep insights into education, especially on a global scale.
EDUMA: The perfect blend of research, impact, and global perspective of education
When I began my research, I started by looking for countries with the best education systems, and Finland’s strong reputation immediately caught my attention. But my search didn’t stop there. I explored different universities and their programmes, comparing curricula to find one that aligned with my goals. Most didn’t, until I came across the University of Jyväskylä’s Master’s Programme in Educational Sciences (EDUMA).
What’s even more interesting is that the degree is highly research based, and the department has really good connections to some educational institutions.
A eureka moment? That is exactly what it felt like when I went through the EDUMA webpage and saw the curriculum and specialisations it offered. What’s even more interesting is that the degree is highly research based, and the department has really good connections to some educational institutions. For someone like me, aspiring to be an activist, a research-oriented environment was exactly what I needed.
Master’s programme that empowers educators to make a difference
Some unique things about the EDUMA programme are the compulsory courses such as Finnish Education in Practice, where we learn what makes Finnish education stand out; Intercultural Competence and Collaboration, which highlights the importance of understanding cultures and improving communication in an increasingly diverse classrooms; and International Education Policies and Practices, where we explore education from a broader, global perspective. Together with courses like Educational Research, Seminars, Thesis, Scientific Writing, and Communication and Language Studies, they form the core of the programme.
The EDUMA programme also has six specialisations which include; Early childhood education, Special education, Language and education, Global and Sustainable Education, Study and Career Guidance and Educational leadership. Out of these specialisations the one that connected with me most are Global and Sustainable Education and Study and Career Guidance. What is even more amazing is that I still have the opportunity to take courses from other specialisations. I decided to take an elective in Educational Leadership.
I really enjoy so many things about my programme and it's no doubt that, everyday I am unlocking new levels of knowledge in education and all these is thanks to JYU's EDUMA programme that has served as the key to my treasure box.
My expectations have truly been exceeded at JYU
To be honest, I have been really impressed by my programme. From the interesting courses and class discussions, to the welcoming classrooms, approachable and engaging lecturers, and even to the events organised in the faculty like Career Day and SDG Seminar. This is not to forget the mini social events like coffee discussions and hiking activities we do in the department just to bond with our coursemates and lecturers. I must say, my expectations have truly been exceeded.
I really enjoy so many things about my programme and it's no doubt that, everyday I am unlocking new levels of knowledge in education and all these is thanks to JYU's EDUMA programme that has served as the key to my treasure box.
Read more: Master's Degree Programme in Educational Sciences
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