As the computer science field of study became increasingly prevalent, many had their doubts that this field of study would continue. It was not until the 1950s that computer science began to be observed as a legitimate science among academics. It is thanks to the IBM brand that this became part of the main-stream culture.

The formal higher education system of Finland is the 7-3-2-2 pattern. The university takes two years in vocational or technical education and finally two-year pre-tertiary education. Finland also has several public as well as private universities that have enabled accessibility of higher education to students.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.