Study Guide

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to use project-related concepts consistently and justify their actions in accordance with the
knowledge base
- to find out the starting points, needs and criteria of the project activities
- to act purposefully, evaluate activities and make suggestions for improvement
- to apply a variety of suitable techniques, methods and working methods to the project
- to operate safely, ethically and in a customer-oriented manner

Assessment scale

1-5

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- factors influencing entrepreneurial attitude in personal, organizational and society levels
- idea and innovation development methods
- what kind of support services, tools and methods exist to develop business ideas
- what kind of circular business models exist and importance of innovation in business models
- how to make a project/business plan, start the business and plan business acceleration

Implementation and methods of teaching

The student
-have an understanding of the process of business idea development from scratch
- understands the Finnish and European entrepreneurial environment
- has sufficient and relevant tools for own career development

Timing and attendance

Course is taught online, however if there is sufficient amount of exchange student present, there teaching can be complete in blended way.

Learning material and recommended literature

E-learning environment (Moodle)

Alternative completion methods

No

Working life cooperation

StartHub Lahti and possible guest speakers from companies

Exam retakes

Separate agreement case-by-case

Learning environment

Moodle

Student time use and work load

The average workload per credit is 27 h.

Contents

Strategies and opportunities of Career Development
Basics of Entrepreneurship Theory
Starting your Business in Finland and EU: practicalities
Sustainable and Circular Entrepreneurship
Business Model Canvas and Sustainable Business Model Canvas
Basic business activities in the entrepreneurship: budgeting, marketing, outsourcing, logistics, venture capital

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No prior knowledge is required

Assessment criteria

Groupwork assignment and individual assignments

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Required assignments are not delivered or they are inadequate, or they are not submitted during the course implementation.
Assessment results are less than 50% of the total points.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of the entrepreneurship
- is familiar with the concepts of doing the business
- knows examples of own career development

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of the entrepreneurship and is able to discuss it
- can explain innovations and how they result from research findings
- understands the principles of business planning and its role in the environmental field, and is able to explain a case/cases
- can deliver the vision of their career development

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of the entrepreneurship and is able to discuss it and express opinions in an analytical way
- can explain innovations and how they result from research findings, as well as critically analyse business potential of innovative research results
- understands the principles of business planning and its role in the environmental field, and is able to explain a case/cases and propose their own business ideas

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- basic principles of the RDI -project and how to apply them into the real-life projects
- importance of networking, team building and management methods
- European Union’s research, development and innovation (RDI) funding
- project ideation and brainstorming, how to pitch project ideas, how to carry out project and project reporting

Implementation and methods of teaching

Circular Economy RDI-projects is a virtual course.
The course consists of virtual lectures via zoom and independent project work either in pairs/ small groups or individually.

Timing and attendance

This Course is held during Autumn semester 2025.
Lectures:
- 4 x 2h
- 1 x 4 h (presentations by students).

Learning material and recommended literature

Lecture material indicated by the lecturer.

Alternative completion methods

Can be discussed with the instructor. Students should inform the teacher ASAP to discuss.

Working life cooperation

Guest lecturers .
The course contains assignments connected with working life based projects and competences.

Exam retakes

N/A

Learning environment

Online learning platform Moodle, ZOOM and Teams.

Student time use and work load

The average work load for this course is estimated to be 135 hours (5 ECTS).
The main part of the study module´s work load consists of independent and group work.

Contents

The student will learn the basic principles of Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) projects and how to apply them to real-life projects.
The student will understand the importance of networking in RDI projects.
The student will understand the steps for carrying out RDI projects and learn best practices for project reporting and documentation.

Assessment criteria

Evaluation is based on course project assignments, reports and presentation.
Required assignments/report are delivered during the course implementation and are adequate.

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Required assignments are not delivered or they are inadequate, or they are not submitted during the course implementation.
Assessment results are less than 50% of the total points.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of circular economy in RDI projects
- is familiar with the concepts of RDI
- knows examples of circular economy projects

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
-- knows the principles of circular economy in RDI projects and is able to discuss it
- is familiar with the concepts of RDI and can apply them to working life
- understands the principles circular economy projects, and is able to analyse the RDI content involved

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
-- knows the principles of circular economy in RDI projects and is able to discuss it excelently
- is familiar with the concepts of RDI and can apply them to working life and justify well the choices involved
- understands the principles circular economy projects, and is able to analyse in depth the RDI content involved

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to understand the principles and objectives of the Circular Economy in the context of resource efficiency
- to know the benefits and solutions of zero waste approach
- to know recycling industry solutions
- to know safe energy recovery and waste management solutions

Implementation and methods of teaching

Learning outcomes of the course
The student is able to
- to understand the principles and objectives of the Circular Economy in the context of resource efficiency
- to know the benefits and solutions of zero waste approach
- to know recycling industry solutions
- to know basics of safe energy recovery and waste management solutions

Lectures, course assignments and exam.

Timing and attendance

Autumn 2025
October - December

Learning material and recommended literature

Teacher collect and disseminate the materials in the Moodle course platform

Alternative completion methods

To be agreed with teacher(s)

Working life cooperation

Visiting lecturers from the companies/RDI projects

Learning environment

Moodle platform, supported by digital learning tools
On-line and recorded lectures

Contents

Circular economy
Circular and efficient material use - EU waste hierarchy, principles of upcycling, recycling and downcycling
Retention of material value in the cycles through recycling
Waste prevention and recycling in various industries, examples of best practices
Recognition of their interlinkages and actions at different levels

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No prior learning requirements

Assessment criteria

Assignments and an exam

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

During the course period undone assignments/exam or they are not passed by the minimum grade 1. .

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

A student

is able to understand the basics of the systematic change towards the circular economy and technical possibilities of industrial, service, community, and primary production processes

has gained some information about applying theories to enable the shift from a linear model to a circular economy

has progressed in knowledge of operational models and readiness to innovate new technical and organisational solutions

is progressing in skills to work in multidisciplinary environments having also the professional attitude to work and communicate in the international teams

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

A student

is able to show the understanding of the requirements of a systematic change towards the circular economy and technical possibilities of industrial, service, community, and primary production processes

has gained more information about applying theories to enable the shift from a linear model to a circular economy

is able to discuss about new operational models and readiness to innovate new technical and organisational solutions

is progressing in skills to work in multidisciplinary environments having also the professional attitude to work and communicate in the international teams

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

A student

is able to show the understanding of the requirements of a systematic change towards the circular economy and technical possibilities of industrial, service, community, and primary production processes

has gained a good basic competence in applying theories to enable the shift from a linear model to a circular economy

has proved to be able to introduce new operational models and readiness to innovate new technical and organisational solutions

has gained skills to work in multidisciplinary environments having also the professional attitude to work and communicate in the international teams

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to know the most important international environmental agreements (e.g. IPCC, Green Deal, UN SDGs, EU’s Circular Economy) and their consequence in operational level actions
- to understand the principles of EU’s environmental regulation and legislation system
- to understand the Finnish environmental regulation and legislation system as well as their implementation as a part of the EU regulation system.

Implementation and methods of teaching

This course is a self-study course. The studying method was chosen, because understanding legislation requires thinking and searching for information. There are various different forms of studying in this course: you are supposed to write essays, participate in discussions, write term explanations and write a learning diary.

You will also listen to lecture videos, also, but giving ready answers will not help you in working life.

Timing and attendance

The course is supposed to be taken between 1.9.2025-31.12.2025.

Learning material and recommended literature

Available in the course platform.

Learning environment

LUT/LAB-Moodle

Student time use and work load

5 ects equals with 135 working hours.

Contents

The course deals with the the most important international environmental agreements (e.g. IPCC, Green Deal, UN SDGs, EU’s Circular Economy) and their consequence in operational level actions and will understand the principles of EU’s environmental regulation and legislation system and the Finnish environmental regulation and legislation system as well as their implementation as a part of the EU regulation system.

Assessment criteria

Scoring is divided between the following assignments.
Essay
Case study
Group discussions based on podcasts/videos
Learning diary

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Non-appearance
Missing assignments within the course schedule.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

50% of the points achieved.

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

70% of the points achieved.

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

90% of the points achieved.

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to identify different textile fibers and plastics
- sort and treat different recyclable materials by various methods
- estimate the energy content of selected materials

Implementation and methods of teaching

The course involves different laboratory exercises to be carried out working in pairs. Reports of the results and observations from these laboratory exercises then need to be written according to the instructions given.

Timing and attendance

It is compulsory to be present on site for the course laboratory work.

Learning material and recommended literature

The instructions and theory related to the laboratory activities will be made available on the Moodle pages.

Assessment criteria

The grade for the course will be made up from reported laboratory work descriptions.

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

The student does not fulfill the requirements set for the course.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
-is able to observe the instructions and rules given for the laboratory exercises
.is able to work in a safe manner in the laboratory

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- is able to apply the main professional concepts consistently
- is able to report on laboratory exercises according to the instructions given
- is able to abide by the safety instructions required

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- - is able to apply the main professional concepts expertly
- is able to search for information appropriate to the work stage information gathering requirements, to justify the choices and use of information sources, and to evaluate different information sources
- is able to report on laboratory exercises according to the instructions given
- is able to abide by the safety instructions required

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to understand material flow cost accounting
- to know how material efficiency auditing works in practice
- to understand how industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies

Implementation and methods of teaching

The Material Efficiency and Sustainable Materials course consists of:
- A virtual course part with lectures
- The GoLAB MOOC, which is completed independently
- Assignments, reports and presentations by students

A more detailed description of the teaching material and an introduction to the course will be provided during the lectures.

Timing and attendance

This Course is held during Autumn semester 2025.
Lectures: 4 x 3h & 1 x 4h.
The deadlines for assignments/reports will be informed in the beginning of the study module.

Learning material and recommended literature

Available in Moodle.

Alternative completion methods

No alternative performances.

Working life cooperation

Several Guest lecturers .
The course contains assignments connected with working life based projects and competences.

Learning environment

Online learning platform Moodle, ZOOM (and Teams).
GoLAB course is included.

Student time use and work load

The time and load of the course is 5 x 27 hours of which about 90% is independent work.

Contents

The course includes topics on sustainable raw materials.
The course introduces material flow cost accounting (MFCA) and principles of material efficiency auditing in companies.
Recycled and renewable materials circulation will be looked with the concept of industrial symbiosis.

Competences

The Student will learn:
• to enhance understanding of new innovative materials
• to understand material flow cost accounting
• to know how material efficiency auditing works in practice
• to understand how industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies

Assessment criteria

To pass the course, all assignments must be submitted, and the required assignments/reports must be delivered during the course implementation and be adequate.

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Assignments do not fulfill the criteria of the course if the required assignments/reports are not delivered, are inadequate, or are not submitted during the course implementation.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

Student
- is able to present examples of new innovative and sustainable materials
- identifies the principles related to the MFCA
- is able to present a supervised evaluation how material efficiency auditing and industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies
- is able to use professional source material

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

Student
- is able to identify and present examples of new innovative and sustainable materials
- is able to identify and present the principles related to the MFCA
- is able to prepare a feasible evaluation how material efficiency auditing and industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies
- is able to use scientific and professional source material

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

Student
- is able to critically identify and present examples of new innovative and sustainable materials
- is able to critically identify and present the principles related to the MFCA
- is able to draw up an independent feasible evaluation how material efficiency auditing and industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies
- is able to successfully use international and scientific as well as professional source materials

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to know different sustainability evaluation frame works and models
- to know the basics and applications of life cycle analyses (LCA)
- to evaluate carbon and material footprints
- to know how to manage life cycle, sustainability elements and the foot prints of products and services

Implementation and methods of teaching

Objectives:
The student is able to
- to know different sustainability evaluation frame works and models
- to know the basics and applications of life cycle analyses (LCA)
- to evaluate carbon and material footprints
- to know how to manage life cycle, sustainability elements and the foot prints of products and services

Online course including lectures, assignments and an exam.

Timing and attendance

29.10.2025 - 31.12.2025
Lectures
29.10.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
05.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
12.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
19.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
26.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
03.12.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
10.12.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
17.12.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product

Learning material and recommended literature

Learning materials will be defined and collected into Moodle course platform.

Alternative completion methods

Must be agreed with the teacher.

Working life cooperation

Testing OneClickLCA program.

Exam retakes

Re-exam can be arranged in January-February 2026

Learning environment

Online moodle course.

Assessment criteria

Evaluation is based on assignments 60% and the exam 40%.

Two assignments: material and carbon footprint assignment.

Assessment scale

1-5

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- appreciate the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- understand the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies well being
- know the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- know the factors that effects on the selection of the purification method and plant design of the wastewater treatment

Implementation and methods of teaching

This is an On-line course including exercises done individually. One online lectures/workshop (optional) is arranged in week 40.

Timing and attendance

The course will be open from 15.9.2025 until 31.12.2025. During that period student can do the exercises by his/her one schedule. All obligatory tasks must be returned before deadline.

Learning material and recommended literature

All of the materials needed in the course is found from Course´s Moodle-page or in electronic form.

Alternative completion methods

Discuss with the teacher in charge

Learning environment

Moodle Online Course

Student time use and work load

This is 5 ECTS course. The estimated time allocated for this course´s assignments and exams is 135 hours. More detailed schedule will be presented in the beginning of the course.

Contents

Sustainable water management is also an important part of the Sustainable Development Goals and Circular Economy, which will be the integrated and holistic approaches of this course. This course introduces the importance of the hydrological systems in a local and global levels. During the course also human impacts (including climate change) of hydrological cycles are discussed as well as the methods and technologies to minimize detrimental effects especially concentrated to wastewater and sludge treatment.

The Student will learn:
- to appreciate the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- to understand the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies wellbeing
- to know the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- to know the factors that effect on the selection of the purification method and plant design of the wastewater treatment

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No prerequisites

Assessment criteria

0 - 5

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

The student has not achieved competences aimed

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The Student will
- know the principles of sustainable water management
- have an understanding of the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental wellbeing
- recognize the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- know the main factors that effect on the selection of the purification methods

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The Student will
- know the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- have an understanding of the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies wellbeing
- recognize the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- know the factors that effect on the selection of the purification methods
- know the principles of Nexus (food-energy-water) perspective

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The Student will
- understand the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- have an understanding of the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies wellbeing
- knows and have capability to apply different unit processes and technologies related to wastewater and sludge management to prevent contamination of environment
- understand the factors that effect on the selection of the purification methods
- can apply the principles of Nexus (food-energy-water) perspective

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to identify different textile fibers and plastics
- sort and treat different recyclable materials by various methods
- estimate the energy content of selected materials

Implementation and methods of teaching

The course involves different laboratory exercises to be carried out working in pairs. Reports of the results and observations from these laboratory exercises then need to be written according to the instructions given.

Timing and attendance

It is compulsory to be present on site for the course laboratory work.

Learning material and recommended literature

The instructions and theory related to the laboratory activities will be made available on the Moodle pages.

Assessment criteria

The grade for the course will be made up from reported laboratory work descriptions.

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

The student does not fulfill the requirements set for the course.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
-is able to observe the instructions and rules given for the laboratory exercises
.is able to work in a safe manner in the laboratory

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- is able to apply the main professional concepts consistently
- is able to report on laboratory exercises according to the instructions given
- is able to abide by the safety instructions required

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- - is able to apply the main professional concepts expertly
- is able to search for information appropriate to the work stage information gathering requirements, to justify the choices and use of information sources, and to evaluate different information sources
- is able to report on laboratory exercises according to the instructions given
- is able to abide by the safety instructions required

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to know different sustainability evaluation frame works and models
- to know the basics and applications of life cycle analyses (LCA)
- to evaluate carbon and material footprints
- to know how to manage life cycle, sustainability elements and the foot prints of products and services

Implementation and methods of teaching

Objectives:
The student is able to
- to know different sustainability evaluation frame works and models
- to know the basics and applications of life cycle analyses (LCA)
- to evaluate carbon and material footprints
- to know how to manage life cycle, sustainability elements and the foot prints of products and services

Online course including lectures, assignments and an exam.

Timing and attendance

29.10.2025 - 31.12.2025
Lectures
29.10.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
05.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
12.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
19.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
26.11.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
03.12.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
10.12.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product
17.12.2025 12:00:00 - 14:00:00 - AT00CK13-3005 Sustainable Life Cycle of Product

Learning material and recommended literature

Learning materials will be defined and collected into Moodle course platform.

Alternative completion methods

Must be agreed with the teacher.

Working life cooperation

Testing OneClickLCA program.

Exam retakes

Re-exam can be arranged in January-February 2026

Learning environment

Online moodle course.

Assessment criteria

Evaluation is based on assignments 60% and the exam 40%.

Two assignments: material and carbon footprint assignment.

Assessment scale

1-5

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- appreciate the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- understand the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies well being
- know the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- know the factors that effects on the selection of the purification method and plant design of the wastewater treatment

Implementation and methods of teaching

This is an On-line course including exercises done individually. One online lectures/workshop (optional) is arranged in week 40.

Timing and attendance

The course will be open from 15.9.2025 until 31.12.2025. During that period student can do the exercises by his/her one schedule. All obligatory tasks must be returned before deadline.

Learning material and recommended literature

All of the materials needed in the course is found from Course´s Moodle-page or in electronic form.

Alternative completion methods

Discuss with the teacher in charge

Learning environment

Moodle Online Course

Student time use and work load

This is 5 ECTS course. The estimated time allocated for this course´s assignments and exams is 135 hours. More detailed schedule will be presented in the beginning of the course.

Contents

Sustainable water management is also an important part of the Sustainable Development Goals and Circular Economy, which will be the integrated and holistic approaches of this course. This course introduces the importance of the hydrological systems in a local and global levels. During the course also human impacts (including climate change) of hydrological cycles are discussed as well as the methods and technologies to minimize detrimental effects especially concentrated to wastewater and sludge treatment.

The Student will learn:
- to appreciate the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- to understand the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies wellbeing
- to know the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- to know the factors that effect on the selection of the purification method and plant design of the wastewater treatment

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No prerequisites

Assessment criteria

0 - 5

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

The student has not achieved competences aimed

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The Student will
- know the principles of sustainable water management
- have an understanding of the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental wellbeing
- recognize the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- know the main factors that effect on the selection of the purification methods

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The Student will
- know the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- have an understanding of the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies wellbeing
- recognize the main unit processes and technologies to prevent contamination of environment due to the inefficient wastewater and sludge management
- know the factors that effect on the selection of the purification methods
- know the principles of Nexus (food-energy-water) perspective

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The Student will
- understand the principles of sustainable water management in a context of circular economy and sustainable development goals
- have an understanding of the importance of hydrological cycles for maintaining environmental and societies wellbeing
- knows and have capability to apply different unit processes and technologies related to wastewater and sludge management to prevent contamination of environment
- understand the factors that effect on the selection of the purification methods
- can apply the principles of Nexus (food-energy-water) perspective

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- factors influencing entrepreneurial attitude in personal, organizational and society levels
- idea and innovation development methods
- what kind of support services, tools and methods exist to develop business ideas
- what kind of circular business models exist and importance of innovation in business models
- how to make a project/business plan, start the business and plan business acceleration

Implementation and methods of teaching

The student
-have an understanding of the process of business idea development from scratch
- understands the Finnish and European entrepreneurial environment
- has sufficient and relevant tools for own career development

Timing and attendance

Course is taught online, however if there is sufficient amount of exchange student present, there teaching can be complete in blended way.

Learning material and recommended literature

E-learning environment (Moodle)

Alternative completion methods

No

Working life cooperation

StartHub Lahti and possible guest speakers from companies

Exam retakes

Separate agreement case-by-case

Learning environment

Moodle

Student time use and work load

The average workload per credit is 27 h.

Contents

Strategies and opportunities of Career Development
Basics of Entrepreneurship Theory
Starting your Business in Finland and EU: practicalities
Sustainable and Circular Entrepreneurship
Business Model Canvas and Sustainable Business Model Canvas
Basic business activities in the entrepreneurship: budgeting, marketing, outsourcing, logistics, venture capital

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No prior knowledge is required

Assessment criteria

Groupwork assignment and individual assignments

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Required assignments are not delivered or they are inadequate, or they are not submitted during the course implementation.
Assessment results are less than 50% of the total points.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of the entrepreneurship
- is familiar with the concepts of doing the business
- knows examples of own career development

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of the entrepreneurship and is able to discuss it
- can explain innovations and how they result from research findings
- understands the principles of business planning and its role in the environmental field, and is able to explain a case/cases
- can deliver the vision of their career development

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of the entrepreneurship and is able to discuss it and express opinions in an analytical way
- can explain innovations and how they result from research findings, as well as critically analyse business potential of innovative research results
- understands the principles of business planning and its role in the environmental field, and is able to explain a case/cases and propose their own business ideas

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- basic principles of the RDI -project and how to apply them into the real-life projects
- importance of networking, team building and management methods
- European Union’s research, development and innovation (RDI) funding
- project ideation and brainstorming, how to pitch project ideas, how to carry out project and project reporting

Implementation and methods of teaching

Circular Economy RDI-projects is a virtual course.
The course consists of virtual lectures via zoom and independent project work either in pairs/ small groups or individually.

Timing and attendance

This Course is held during Autumn semester 2025.
Lectures:
- 4 x 2h
- 1 x 4 h (presentations by students).

Learning material and recommended literature

Lecture material indicated by the lecturer.

Alternative completion methods

Can be discussed with the instructor. Students should inform the teacher ASAP to discuss.

Working life cooperation

Guest lecturers .
The course contains assignments connected with working life based projects and competences.

Exam retakes

N/A

Learning environment

Online learning platform Moodle, ZOOM and Teams.

Student time use and work load

The average work load for this course is estimated to be 135 hours (5 ECTS).
The main part of the study module´s work load consists of independent and group work.

Contents

The student will learn the basic principles of Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) projects and how to apply them to real-life projects.
The student will understand the importance of networking in RDI projects.
The student will understand the steps for carrying out RDI projects and learn best practices for project reporting and documentation.

Assessment criteria

Evaluation is based on course project assignments, reports and presentation.
Required assignments/report are delivered during the course implementation and are adequate.

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Required assignments are not delivered or they are inadequate, or they are not submitted during the course implementation.
Assessment results are less than 50% of the total points.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
- knows the principles of circular economy in RDI projects
- is familiar with the concepts of RDI
- knows examples of circular economy projects

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
-- knows the principles of circular economy in RDI projects and is able to discuss it
- is familiar with the concepts of RDI and can apply them to working life
- understands the principles circular economy projects, and is able to analyse the RDI content involved

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

The student
-- knows the principles of circular economy in RDI projects and is able to discuss it excelently
- is familiar with the concepts of RDI and can apply them to working life and justify well the choices involved
- understands the principles circular economy projects, and is able to analyse in depth the RDI content involved

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to know the most important international environmental agreements (e.g. IPCC, Green Deal, UN SDGs, EU’s Circular Economy) and their consequence in operational level actions
- to understand the principles of EU’s environmental regulation and legislation system
- to understand the Finnish environmental regulation and legislation system as well as their implementation as a part of the EU regulation system.

Implementation and methods of teaching

This course is a self-study course. The studying method was chosen, because understanding legislation requires thinking and searching for information. There are various different forms of studying in this course: you are supposed to write essays, participate in discussions, write term explanations and write a learning diary.

You will also listen to lecture videos, also, but giving ready answers will not help you in working life.

Timing and attendance

The course is supposed to be taken between 1.9.2025-31.12.2025.

Learning material and recommended literature

Available in the course platform.

Learning environment

LUT/LAB-Moodle

Student time use and work load

5 ects equals with 135 working hours.

Contents

The course deals with the the most important international environmental agreements (e.g. IPCC, Green Deal, UN SDGs, EU’s Circular Economy) and their consequence in operational level actions and will understand the principles of EU’s environmental regulation and legislation system and the Finnish environmental regulation and legislation system as well as their implementation as a part of the EU regulation system.

Assessment criteria

Scoring is divided between the following assignments.
Essay
Case study
Group discussions based on podcasts/videos
Learning diary

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Non-appearance
Missing assignments within the course schedule.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

50% of the points achieved.

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

70% of the points achieved.

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

90% of the points achieved.

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to understand material flow cost accounting
- to know how material efficiency auditing works in practice
- to understand how industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies

Implementation and methods of teaching

The Material Efficiency and Sustainable Materials course consists of:
- A virtual course part with lectures
- The GoLAB MOOC, which is completed independently
- Assignments, reports and presentations by students

A more detailed description of the teaching material and an introduction to the course will be provided during the lectures.

Timing and attendance

This Course is held during Autumn semester 2025.
Lectures: 4 x 3h & 1 x 4h.
The deadlines for assignments/reports will be informed in the beginning of the study module.

Learning material and recommended literature

Available in Moodle.

Alternative completion methods

No alternative performances.

Working life cooperation

Several Guest lecturers .
The course contains assignments connected with working life based projects and competences.

Learning environment

Online learning platform Moodle, ZOOM (and Teams).
GoLAB course is included.

Student time use and work load

The time and load of the course is 5 x 27 hours of which about 90% is independent work.

Contents

The course includes topics on sustainable raw materials.
The course introduces material flow cost accounting (MFCA) and principles of material efficiency auditing in companies.
Recycled and renewable materials circulation will be looked with the concept of industrial symbiosis.

Competences

The Student will learn:
• to enhance understanding of new innovative materials
• to understand material flow cost accounting
• to know how material efficiency auditing works in practice
• to understand how industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies

Assessment criteria

To pass the course, all assignments must be submitted, and the required assignments/reports must be delivered during the course implementation and be adequate.

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

Assignments do not fulfill the criteria of the course if the required assignments/reports are not delivered, are inadequate, or are not submitted during the course implementation.

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

Student
- is able to present examples of new innovative and sustainable materials
- identifies the principles related to the MFCA
- is able to present a supervised evaluation how material efficiency auditing and industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies
- is able to use professional source material

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

Student
- is able to identify and present examples of new innovative and sustainable materials
- is able to identify and present the principles related to the MFCA
- is able to prepare a feasible evaluation how material efficiency auditing and industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies
- is able to use scientific and professional source material

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

Student
- is able to critically identify and present examples of new innovative and sustainable materials
- is able to critically identify and present the principles related to the MFCA
- is able to draw up an independent feasible evaluation how material efficiency auditing and industrial symbioses can bring added value to companies
- is able to successfully use international and scientific as well as professional source materials

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to use project-related concepts consistently and justify their actions in accordance with the
knowledge base
- to find out the starting points, needs and criteria of the project activities
- to act purposefully, evaluate activities and make suggestions for improvement
- to apply a variety of suitable techniques, methods and working methods to the project
- to operate safely, ethically and in a customer-oriented manner

Assessment scale

1-5

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- to understand the principles and objectives of the Circular Economy in the context of resource efficiency
- to know the benefits and solutions of zero waste approach
- to know recycling industry solutions
- to know safe energy recovery and waste management solutions

Implementation and methods of teaching

Learning outcomes of the course
The student is able to
- to understand the principles and objectives of the Circular Economy in the context of resource efficiency
- to know the benefits and solutions of zero waste approach
- to know recycling industry solutions
- to know basics of safe energy recovery and waste management solutions

Lectures, course assignments and exam.

Timing and attendance

Autumn 2025
October - December

Learning material and recommended literature

Teacher collect and disseminate the materials in the Moodle course platform

Alternative completion methods

To be agreed with teacher(s)

Working life cooperation

Visiting lecturers from the companies/RDI projects

Learning environment

Moodle platform, supported by digital learning tools
On-line and recorded lectures

Contents

Circular economy
Circular and efficient material use - EU waste hierarchy, principles of upcycling, recycling and downcycling
Retention of material value in the cycles through recycling
Waste prevention and recycling in various industries, examples of best practices
Recognition of their interlinkages and actions at different levels

Additional information for students: previous knowledge etc.

No prior learning requirements

Assessment criteria

Assignments and an exam

Assessment scale

1-5

Failed (0)

During the course period undone assignments/exam or they are not passed by the minimum grade 1. .

Assessment criteria: level 1 (assessment scale 1–5)

A student

is able to understand the basics of the systematic change towards the circular economy and technical possibilities of industrial, service, community, and primary production processes

has gained some information about applying theories to enable the shift from a linear model to a circular economy

has progressed in knowledge of operational models and readiness to innovate new technical and organisational solutions

is progressing in skills to work in multidisciplinary environments having also the professional attitude to work and communicate in the international teams

Assessment criteria: level 3 (assessment scale 1–5)

A student

is able to show the understanding of the requirements of a systematic change towards the circular economy and technical possibilities of industrial, service, community, and primary production processes

has gained more information about applying theories to enable the shift from a linear model to a circular economy

is able to discuss about new operational models and readiness to innovate new technical and organisational solutions

is progressing in skills to work in multidisciplinary environments having also the professional attitude to work and communicate in the international teams

Assessment criteria: level 5 (assessment scale 1–5)

A student

is able to show the understanding of the requirements of a systematic change towards the circular economy and technical possibilities of industrial, service, community, and primary production processes

has gained a good basic competence in applying theories to enable the shift from a linear model to a circular economy

has proved to be able to introduce new operational models and readiness to innovate new technical and organisational solutions

has gained skills to work in multidisciplinary environments having also the professional attitude to work and communicate in the international teams