Accessibility in Studies
General information
Accessibility is of relevance to every member of the student body and the University staff. It is of particular importance for those members of the University community who have an impairment of some kind or who are elderly or belong to a cultural or language minority. The desire to improve accessibility is based on the Non-Discrimination Act.
Efforts to improve accessibility support the removal of various obstacles to studying. In addition to the accessibility of facilities, attention is focused on removing what are called invisible obstacles. Such obstacles are, for instance, various special challenges in learning and barriers related to mental health issues. In order to support accessibility in studies, individual students are offered instruction and, in addition, training is provided for University staff members.
Accessibility in the University’s Facilities
From the perspective of general mobility, the Linnanmaa campus area at the University of Oulu functions very well. Furthermore, accessibility has been enhanced by various special arrangements (see: maps):
- The University of Oulu has marked invalid parking spaces in the parking areas at every one of its sites.
- Three main entrances (marked P, R and C5) provide unobstructed access to University facilities.
- The University reserves a wheelchair for visitors, who can borrow it from the University porters on request.
- Larger lecture halls are equipped with induction loops.
- There are several disabled toilets within the University’s facilities.
- A number of lifts around the University provide ease of access between floors.
Creating Accessible PDF Files
PDF files are made accessible by using a screen review utility, a Braille embosser, so that disabled, visually impaired or hearing impaired persons are able to use PDF documents. In addition, accessibility functions make a document easier to operate and read when using, for instance, a computer or a mobile device. Follow this link for further information.
For further information, contact IT Administration Services: neuvonta(at)oulu.fi.
Support for the Advancement of Studies and Alternative Learning
For more information on studies and how they are being advanced, please contact guidance and counselling services in degree programmes and university level services:
- Study guidance is provided by student advisors (Faculty study affairs), tutor teachers, student tutors and thesis instructors.
- In the need of the additional guidance you can turn to the university level counselling services: study and career counselling and study psychologist.
- Support for the mental health of students is provided in the first instance by FSHS’ mental health services.
Individual Arrangements for Entrance Examinations
Questions regarding individual arrangements in entrance exams should be directed to the faculty’s Lead Specialist. It is recommended that contact is made as early as possible in order to allow time to organize any individual arrangements. Typical arrangements could include, for instance, additional time to complete an entrance exam or a quiet working space. Arrangements are made on a case-by-case basis.
The application form for individual arrangements.
Individual study arrangements during studies
In certain circumstances a student may apply for individual arrangements for study attainments and evaluation. These circumstances may be, among others, hearing, visual or other sensory impairment, dyslexia, panic disorder, or ADHD.