Centria University of Applied Sciences

Centria University of Applied Sciences (UAS) is a multidisciplinary and international higher education institution in Western Finland. Centria operates on campuses in Kokkola, Ylivieska, and Pietarsaari, and offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes in technology, business, health care, social services, and culture. Centria has strong expertise in applied RDI, focusing on industry‑driven and solution‑oriented development. Its RDI activities cover key sectors such as technology and industrial development, digitalisation and ICT, business and entrepreneurship, culture and cultural heritage, sustainable production, energy and environmental solutions, health and wellbeing, and logistics and supply chains. The work emphasizes applied research, pilot and demonstration environments, and the practical implementation of new technologies and operating models. Centria conducts RDI activities in close collaboration with companies, public organizations, and regional and international partners. Through national and EU‑funded programmes, including Interreg and Horizon, Centria supports business renewal, regional competitiveness, and sustainable growth, while actively contributing to cross‑border cooperation and international innovation ecosystems.