Person working on a laptop in a modern tech workspace at Hive Helsinki

BECOME A
SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Full-time, on-site, tuition-free. 18 months of building real software with the people next to you.

What is Hive

Hive is an 18-month, full-time, on-site program where you become a software engineer by working like one. There are no teachers or lectures. You build real software in teams, review each other’s work, and figure things out together.

The skills you build go beyond writing code: problem-solving, communication, ownership, and the ability to keep learning as the tools change.

Who is it for

Hive is for people who want to solve problems with technology, build things, and work alongside others. You don’t need a degree, a tech background, or to know exactly where you want to specialise.

Most Hivers come in with no programming experience. Many are changing careers from completely different fields. What they have in common is the drive to commit full-time and learn by doing.

Real transformations

Many Hive students start with no programming experience. Through Hive, they build the skills, confidence, and experience to work in tech companies across Finland or go on to start their own startups.

The journey at Hive

From applying to starting a career in tech, this is the journey at Hive. It’s an 18-month, full-time, on-site program designed to prepare you for real work in the tech industry.

Illustrated treasure map with stops on the way, indicating the gamified experience in Hive Helsinki

1. apply

Apply through our application portal.
Start with an online game and join a Check-in event to get a feel for Hive and ask any questions you might have.

An illustration depicting a diverse group of ten individuals in various poses and attire, suggesting an open and interactive community. Some are walking, others are conversing, and one person is holding a tablet. The group includes people with different hairstyles and clothing styles, creating a sense of dynamic interaction.

2. selection sprint

Take part in the Selection Sprint.
A three-week, on-site period where you experience how learning at Hive works and earn your place in the program.

Illustration of two people discussing and a thought bubble with a light bulb in it, indicating peer-to-peer learning

3. STUDIES

Study full-time on site.
Work on real projects with others as part of the Hive community for 18 months. Learning is self-directed and collaborative, with a strong focus on problem-solving and ownership.

Illustration showing steps leading to a final goal, representing the learning journey at Hive

new career

Venture into tech. Graduate with the skills and experience to apply for junior roles or start building your own products, and continue growing in the field

What you learn at Hive

Modern software development requires more than technical knowledge. Hive focuses on the skills that matter in real work.

technical skills

You build a strong foundation in programming and software development.
By focusing on how code works, not just specific tools, you gain skills that transfer across languages and technologies.

This makes it easier to adapt as tech changes and new stacks come along.

soft skills

Learning at Hive is collaborative and self-directed.
By working closely with others on real projects, you develop communication, teamwork, and ownership from start to finish.

These skills grow naturally through the way you work and learn.

THE outcome

Real tech work happens in teams, under change, and with shared responsibility.

The combination of technical and soft skills at Hive prepares you to contribute from day one, adapt as technologies evolve, and build a sustainable career in tech.

What happens after Hive

Hive graduates work in tech roles across Finland. More than 150 companies, from startups to established organisations, have hired Hive alumni. Some also go on to found their own startups.

Life at Hive

Life at Hive is about learning together, supporting each other, and showing up every day to build something real.

A place to do real work

Hive feels more like a workplace than a classroom. You spend your time building, testing, and solving real problems in a professional environment.

Learn side by side

Most of your learning happens with others. You solve problems together, give feedback, and learn how to work as part of a team.

A supportive community

You’re surrounded by people who are also changing direction. When things feel hard, the community is there to support you.

Space to focus

You manage your own time and take ownership of your learning, with support when you need it.

Part of something bigger

Life at Hive includes events, shared moments, and experiences beyond coding. You grow not just as a developer, but as part of a community.

Key Partners

Hive is made possible by the long-term support of Supercell and OP Pohjola, who fund the core operations of the program.

Is Hive right for you?

Hive is not a casual course or a side project. It’s a full-time, on-site program built for people ready to commit and learn by doing. Here’s what that looks like in practice.

The commitment

Full-time, on-site studies (on average 18 months)
No teachers, lectures, or workbooks
Peer-to-peer, project-based learning

Who can apply

No previous education or coding experience required
You must be at least 18 years old
EU citizen or a valid Finnish residence permit

Cost & support

The studies are free of charge
Hive students are eligible to apply for Kela student financial aid and student loan

Outcomes

A strong combination of technical and collaborative skills
Readiness to work in teams or build your own startup
Access to a wide alumni network and industry connections in Finland

If this sounds like the kind of challenge you’re looking for, the next step is simple.

Apply to Hive

BECOME A SOFTWARE ENGINEER