Introduction of the Department of History and Ethnology

The Department of History and Ethnology is a multidisciplinary community of work and study, conducting socially relevant and scientifically high quality research and training experts in the fields of ethnology, anthropology and history. Our education is always based on research and all our teachers are also researchers. We also contribute to social dialogue with arguments that are strongly based on research.

The Department of History and Ethnology is a multidisciplinary community of study and work

It is possible to study for a Bachelor's, Master's and Doctoral degree in History, Ethnology and Anthropology. The institution offers a versatile education that emphasises analytical and critical evaluation of knowledge, which enables students to enter a wide range of professions.

History and ethnology are among the oldest disciplines at the University

History and ethnology are among the oldest disciplines at the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥, along with most languages and literature.
Mauno Jokipii ja Jussi Lappalainen paketoimassa kirjoja postitukseen mustavalkoisessa kuvassa
Professor Mauno Jokipii and assistant Jussi Lappalainen mailing the Saarijärvi book in 1963. Source: Open Data Centre/Museum of Science photographer Olavi Nöjd

The professorship of History was filled in 1960, when a young, recently graduated Doctor Mauno Jokipii took up the post. Four years later, a Professorship in Finnish and Comparative Ethnology was established at the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥, with Asko Vilkuna as its first holder.

Our mission

We conduct research that matters in a world of increasing diversity, and train a diverse and flexible workforce. Increase societal understanding of the importance of culture and history. We strengthen the impact and internationalisation of research and produce quality education that responds to societal needs and encounters cultural diversity.