In autumn 2004, Joensuu started the mechanical engineering Master’s programme ”Modernit suunnittelu- ja valmistusmenetelmät” (Modern design and production methods) for engineers with a degree from a vocational institute or a university of applied sciences. All in all 30 applicants out of 80 were admitted into the programme.
The contact teaching part of the training has now been concluded, and the results in terms of both completed courses and student satisfaction have been outstanding. Eight of the students have obtained their Master’s degree, and fourteen are currently preparing their Master’s thesis. In spring 2008, 29 graduates will have obtained their Master’s degree. Two of them have already decided to pursue doctoral studies, and also a few others have expressed an interest in postgraduate studies. This project has been coordinated by Lappeenranta University of Technology and organised in cooperation with the University of Joensuu.