May in Bohemian- A Week of Intensive Study Visits

We are Senior Nursing Lecturers from Tampere University of Applied and we visited in University of West Bohemian in Plzen, Czech Republic in May 2026 for an intensive staff exchange week by Erasmus+. In University of West Bohemian students can pursue several bachelor’s degree programs, such as general nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, paramedical science, radiologist assistant, orthotics and prosthetics.

We had the opportunity to visit the university’s teaching facilities and simulation center. Although the university buildings are historically significant, the learning environments are modern and well equipped. The University of West Bohemian does not offer nursing education in English; however, international students can complete clinical placements in local hospitals.

During the exchange week, we met with the International Coordinator and the Head of the Nursing Department at the University of West Bohemian. We had the opportunity to discuss potential opportunities for collaboration between our universities. They were particularly interested in ethical research in nursing, which is also one of the key research areas of the PRECISE research group.

During the week, we also had the opportunity to explore the university campus, which consists of nine faculties and over 130 study programmes, for example faculty of economics, faculty of education, faculty of law and faculty of design and arts. In University of West Bohemian studies over 12000 students and the university employs more than 2,000 staff members.

Of course, we also enjoyed good food and were impressed by the many beautiful buildings. Plzen is famous for local brewery and we participated in a guided tour there. The exchange week was both interesting and educational. If you ever have the opportunity, we warmly recommend taking part in an exchange week in Plzeň, Czech Republic. It was a great experience, offering valuable learning opportunities, international networking, and cultural experiences.

Picures: Piia Jokiranta ja Katja Varamäki

Authors:

Katja Varamäki, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Social Services and Health Care

Piia Jokiranta, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Social Services and Health Care