Introduction to Life Cycle Assessment

Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, founded in 2008, is Finland’s largest university of applied sciences and serves about 17,000 students in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Known for its practical, multidisciplinary approach, Metropolia combines technical, creative and healthcare education with a strong emphasis on innovation. Its campuses are well connected to the city’s business and technology ecosystems, offering an environment that supports applied learning and professional development.

The university provides a wide selection of degree programs across Culture, Business, Health Care and Social Services, and Technology, with 272 distinct programs and numerous English-taught options. Metropolia’s research, development and innovation activities operate through five specialized innovation hubs that link students to industry partners and real-world projects. This structure allows learners to gain hands-on experience, develop problem-solving skills and work on solutions that address current societal challenges.

International students find a welcoming and inclusive community, with extensive support services for orientation, career guidance and integration into the Finnish job market. Modern facilities and strong collaboration with employers make Metropolia a practical choice for those seeking career-oriented higher education in Northern Europe. Its focus on applied research and industry ties helps graduates transition smoothly into professional roles.

The Introduction to Life Cycle Assessment course is a non-degree program for students who want to learn about Life Cycle Assessment methodology. It's a one-year online course taught in English at Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences. The main advantage of this course is that it provides a deep understanding of LCA and its applications in various fields.

The curriculum includes four sections, each culminating in an assignment that reinforces learning objectives. Students will analyze real-world LCA reports and apply their knowledge through practical exercises, developing skills in LCA study and report interpretation. The course covers topics such as environmental impacts of products and processes, helping students understand the significance of LCA in sustainability practices.

Graduates of this course can pursue careers as sustainability consultants, environmental managers, or product developers. They can work in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or construction. Other potential job titles include sustainability analyst, environmental specialist, or green technology consultant. The knowledge acquired in this course will open up various career opportunities in sustainability and environmental management.