Research and education to support the integration of healthcare and social welfare

SHS Education and Research Centre, hosted by the University of Turku, assembles multidisciplinary scientific expertise and social welfare, healthcare and education authorities working towards more accessible health and social services. We are committed to create a collaborative operational culture where evidence-based information is effectively translated into practical solutions.

SHS Education and Research Centre brings together all eight faculties and their stakeholders to close co-operation around the multiform questions of integrative service system. We promote and produce interdisciplinary higher education, research and societal interaction.

Current activities

Education

SHS Education and Research Centre is coordinating SOHE education for university students as well as for Open University. At present, our study offerings contain 55 study points and the courses are provided by all faculties of the University. This ensures that our studies provide not only social, health and education sectors’ viewpoints, but also e.g. legal, economic and cultural aspects to the developing of the client-oriented service system.

We also invest in open and continuous learning possibilities, thus some of our courses and course materials are open to public (MOOCs, podcasts, videos).

Research

SHS Education and Research Centre organizes open interdisciplinary forums and seminars for researchers and experts from working life. These forums focus especially on services for children and families and evaluative research supporting the national health and social services reform.

In 2021, we participate in three ministry-funded network and research projects: LASTU, LANUPS and TEKOS.

Societal interaction

SHS Education and Research Centre has reached the status of an influential interdisciplinary academic operator by determinedly building societal interaction. Our experts are widely involved in the health and social services reform and the developing of higher education on both regional and national levels.