Academic recognition enhancing flexibility in a European University

Abstract

Higher education institutions meet increasing expectations towards flexibility of study pathways across the European Higher Education Area. Although definitions of “flexibility” are not clear-cut and they also depend on the viewpoints of stakeholders, it is undeniable that functional academic recognition is a core element of flexible study processes. Finnish universities of applied sciences (UAS) have a lot to give in this evolution. The article provides insights into the first steps of the development work on academic recognition in a European University Alliance, from the standing point of its Finnish partner institution Haaga-Helia UAS.