Laurea’s Degree-awarding Education Granted the EFQM Quality Label

In spring 2026, Laurea carried out an assessment of its degree-awarding education based on the EFQM model. As a result, Laurea was awarded the Recognized by EFQM quality label. EFQM (European Foundation for Quality Management) is an internationally respected framework for organisational development, used to identify strengths and support continuous improvement.

“The EFQM recognition demonstrates to us, our students, and our partners that our degree-awarding education meets internationally recognised quality and continuous improvement standards,” says Katri Ojasalo, Vice President of education at Laurea.

“Above all, this assessment provides us with valuable feedback for the ongoing development of our operations,” she adds.

Co-Creation and Working-Life Needs Guide Educational Development

The expert assessment panel identified several significant strengths in Laurea’s degree-awarding education.

Particular recognition was given to the culture of co-creation and continuous renewal, which are integral to Laurea’s organisational culture. The panel found that staff expertise is extensively utilised in the development of education and operating practices. This strengthens educational quality and supports continuous improvement.

The assessment also highlighted that Laurea’s close dialogue with employers and other stakeholders helps the university of applied sciences anticipate changes in society and develop education that responds effectively to the evolving needs of working life.

Internationality and Learning by Developing Are at the Core of Degree-awarding Education

The assessment panel recognised internationalisation as an integral part of both Laurea’s degree-awarding education and its core operations. According to the assessment, international collaboration with higher education institutions and companies strengthens the competences of both students and staff while supporting the development of professional skills. The PIONEER alliance was highlighted as a key example of this strength.

Laurea’s Learning by Developing (LbD) model also received praise during the assessment. According to the evaluators, the model integrates education, research, and development activities in a way that delivers tangible benefits to both students and working-life partners. The panel noted that the strengths of the model are recognised not only within Laurea but also among external partners.

Degree-awarding Education at Laurea Is Developed Systematically Over the Long Term

“We have developed Laurea’s degree-awarding education systematically over the long term, monitored the achievement of our goals, and accomplished many concrete results. This EFQM assessment is an important part of Laurea’s culture of continuous improvement,” says Ojasalo.

Future development efforts will focus on ensuring that the student learning experience, assessment practices, and guidance services are implemented as consistently as possible across campuses, fields of study, and modes of study. Particular attention will also be given to strengthening data-driven management and foresight capabilities.

“By focusing our development work on the areas identified in the assessment, we can ensure that we continue to enhance the quality of our education while anticipating future needs,” Ojasalo concludes.