Towards internationally recognised quality : the accreditation process of the Degree Programme in Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

The Degree Programme in Mechanical Engineering at Oulu University of Applied Sciences achieved international EUR-ACE accreditation as a part of long-term quality development. The process began with a comprehensive self-evaluation and culminated in an international assessment. The evaluation highlighted the curriculum’s strong relevance to working life, close cooperation with industry, the teaching staff’s strong industrial background, and modern learning environments. Following the conditional decision, the implemented development measures led to a full six-year accreditation period, valid until autumn 2031. Accreditation strengthens the degree programme’s international comparability and supports the continuous improvement of education in the coming years, while increasing the programme’s attractiveness to both prospective students and working life.