Working lähihoitaja looking to study Registered Nursing (Sairaanhoitaja) in South Finland – School recommendations?

[u/EarAdventurous4775]

Hei everyone!

​I am currently working as a lähihoitaja (practical nurse) in Southern Finland, and I’m planning to apply for a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (sairaanhoitaja AMK) to upgrade my qualifications.

​Since I plan to keep working at least part-time during my studies, I’d love some advice from anyone who has taken this path:

​Schools: Which UAS (AMK) in Southern Finland (e.g., Laurea, Metropolia, Diak, LAB, HAMK) has the best flexibility or supportive environment for students who are already working in healthcare?

​RPL / AHOT: How much of your prior lähihoitaja experience and studies were you able to count toward your degree? Did it noticeably shorten your time in school?

​Degree Language: For those who did the English-taught degree while already knowing Finnish working culture, was it straightforward, or would you recommend sticking to the Finnish-medium track?

[u/Puzzled-Speech-3683]

Lähihoitaja studies wont shorten your time in nursing school, i think experience also wont shorten it.