AALTO UNIVERSITY · FINLAND
New Media, Master of Arts (Art and Design)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€20k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Master of Arts (Art and Design)Degree
- 2 years full-timeDuration
- EnglishLanguage of Instruction
- 120 ECTSCredits
- School of Arts, Design and ArchitectureOrganising School
- Project-oriented learningTeaching Approach
The New Media Master's program at Aalto University offers a unique opportunity to explore the profound impact of technology on individuals, organizations, and society. This program attracts a diverse group of international students who are passionate about understanding the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging digital technologies like artificial intelligence and extended reality in communication, art, and design. You will delve into various aspects of new media, including media art, interaction design, creative computing, and interactive narratives, preparing you for dynamic roles in the evolving digital media industry. The program fosters a supportive and experimental environment where learning from both successes and failures is encouraged. Students gain hands-on experience with a variety of tools and skills, developing a deep understanding of digital media characteristics. The curriculum combines practical projects with theoretical knowledge, with a strong emphasis on emerging fields and practices in creative production and distribution.
Curriculum
The New Media major emphasizes emerging fields and practices, as well as related tools and technologies for communication, creative production, and distribution. Studies address contemporary issues such as the impact of artificial intelligence on creative industries and society. The program is project-oriented, blending theory with practical application. The first semester introduces key topics and essential tools, while the second semester delves into specialized areas through advanced seminars and studios, culminating in a capstone project. The second year focuses on elective studies, research skills, and the Master's Thesis. Students also create a Personal Study Plan (PSP) to guide their academic path.
- Year 1
- Introduction to key topics and essential tools for new media art and design
- Advanced seminars and studios in specialisation areas
- First-year capstone project
- New Media Art and Culture (exploring media culture, media art, sustainability, representation, interactivity, immersion)
- New Media Design (theories, methodologies, and pragmatic considerations for human-system interaction design)
- Creative Computation (code as a creative medium, programming at various levels)
- Physical Computing and Digital Fabrication (connection between digital media and the physical world, tangible/embodied interaction, digital fabrication workflows)
- Year 2
- Elective studies (30 ECTS, can include a minor subject)
- Research skills courses
- Master’s Thesis
Careers
Graduates of the New Media Master's programme are well-prepared for international careers in the dynamic new media industry. The field is constantly evolving, and graduates are often at the forefront of defining new roles and responsibilities within organizations.
- User Experience Designer
- Interaction Designer
- Information Designer
- Interactive Storyteller
- New Media Artist
- Software Developer
- Digital Animator
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the New Media Master's program?
- Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are exempt from tuition fees. For non-EU/EEA citizens, the tuition fee is €20,000 per academic year.
- What is the duration of the New Media Master's program?
- The New Media Master's program is a full-time, two-year program, equivalent to 120 ECTS credits.
- What are the language requirements for this program?
- All courses in the New Media Master's program are taught in English. Applicants will need to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
- What kind of career opportunities can I expect after graduating from this program?
- Graduates are prepared for international careers in the new media industry, with potential roles including User Experience Designer, Interaction Designer, Information Designer, New Media Artist, and Software Developer.
- How do I apply for the New Media Master's program?
- Applications are submitted online during a specific application period, typically from December 1st to January 2nd for studies starting the following year. You will need to prepare documents like transcripts, a CV, a letter of motivation, and potentially a portfolio.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, the Aalto University Scholarship Programme offers merit-based tuition fee waivers, which can be partial or full, awarded to the highest-achieving applicants.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA relevant Bachelor's degree is required.
Applicants are evaluated based on programme-specific criteria. While programming knowledge is not mandatory for application, students will explore code as a creative medium.
Fees
Tuition (international)The tuition fee for non-EU/EEA citizens is €20,000 per academic year for Master's studies.
Tuition (home)Citizens of European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) member states, or Switzerland are exempt from tuition fees.
LivingIn addition to tuition fees, students need to cover their living expenses in Finland. An estimated annual living cost is around €12,000.
The tuition fee covers educational expenses, academic supervision, exams, counselling, and university support services (library, IT). It does not cover personal study materials, other university-charged costs, or mandatory annual fees for Student Union membership and FSHS healthcare services.
How to apply
1. Check Eligibility and Program CriteriaEnsure you meet the general admission requirements for Master's studies and the specific evaluation criteria for the New Media program, including holding a relevant Bachelor's degree.
2. Prepare Your Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which typically include academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, a letter of motivation, and proof of English language proficiency. A portfolio might also be required for arts and design programs.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit your application through the official Aalto University online application system during the designated application period.
4. Await Admission ResultsAfter the application period closes, the university will process applications and announce admission results according to the published timeline.
5. Accept Offer and Pay Tuition Fees (if applicable)If admitted, accept your study offer and, if you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, prepare to pay the first installment of your tuition fee to secure your place. Apply for any available scholarships.
6. Apply for Residence PermitInternational students from outside the EU/EEA will need to apply for a student residence permit for Finland after receiving their admission letter.
Scholarships
Aalto University Scholarship ProgrammeTuition fee waivers (partial or full)
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the New Media Master's program?
+
Citizens of EU/EEA countries and Switzerland are exempt from tuition fees. For non-EU/EEA citizens, the tuition fee is €20,000 per academic year.
What is the duration of the New Media Master's program?
+
The New Media Master's program is a full-time, two-year program, equivalent to 120 ECTS credits.
What are the language requirements for this program?
+
All courses in the New Media Master's program are taught in English. Applicants will need to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL scores.
What kind of career opportunities can I expect after graduating from this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for international careers in the new media industry, with potential roles including User Experience Designer, Interaction Designer, Information Designer, New Media Artist, and Software Developer.
How do I apply for the New Media Master's program?
+
Applications are submitted online during a specific application period, typically from December 1st to January 2nd for studies starting the following year. You will need to prepare documents like transcripts, a CV, a letter of motivation, and potentially a portfolio.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, the Aalto University Scholarship Programme offers merit-based tuition fee waivers, which can be partial or full, awarded to the highest-achieving applicants.