Program Overview

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Contemporary Design, Master of Arts (Art and Design)

The Contemporary Design (CoDe) major foregrounds material encounters and studio practice in the context of real-world needs. From hands-on making to biodesign and digital fabrication, students research and critically reflect on human-matter relationships. They expand their thinking beyond conventional limitations, adopting a design mindset that is both experimental and professional.

Degree:

Master of Arts (Art and Design)

Application Period:

1 Dec 2025 – 2 Jan 2026

Language of Instruction:

English

Duration:

2 years, full-time

Eligibility:

Relevant Bachelor's degree

Field of Study:

Art and Design

Credits:

120 ECTS

Organising School:

School of Arts, Design and Architecture

Tuition Fees:

For non-EU/EEA citizens, €20,000/year (Master's studies)

Description

The Contemporary Design major educates sensitive and visionary students who have the skills to propose radical solutions and responsible innovations for the future. The teaching supports process-led inquiry and studio practice, while integrating research and writing into the course structure. We believe that the most creative solutions arise from an in-depth immersion in the chosen topic and a freedom of expression in processes and outcomes. The outcomes may range from concepts to material innovations, functional objects, and future scenarios.

Language of Instruction

In the Contemporary Design major, the language of instruction is English.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

The tuition fee for this programme is €20,000 per academic year. Citizens of European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland do not pay tuition fees. Citizens of other countries must pay tuition fees.

Aalto University offers a small number of scholarships in the form of tuition fee waivers to fee-paying students. Scholarships can be awarded to the highest-achieving applicants based on the programme's evaluation criteria.

Structure of Studies

The Master's Programme in Design – Contemporary Design major comprises a total of 120 ECTS credits. Main compulsory studies are selected from the major's study offering. Students participate in joint studies of the Department and produce a master's thesis (30 ECTS). In addition, students choose elective studies according to their Personal Study Plan.

Specialisations

The Contemporary Design major has a small annual intake of students, assuring that each student receives individual guidance and attention. The academic advisors assist in defining the scope and content of alternative and elective studies, including a possible minor or internship.

Internationalisation

Upon joining Aalto University, students are joining an international community of competent, creative, and responsible individuals. 15% of the students and 40% of the faculty in the University come from across the world, bridging students with the global design network.

Further Study Opportunities

Contemporary Design graduates are eligible to apply for doctoral studies at Aalto University or at another university in Finland or abroad.

Career Opportunities

Master's studies in CoDe prepare graduates to pursue careers as creative entrepreneurs creating new practices and/or contributing to collectives, start-ups or academic research. Graduates are prepared to work in teams and projects in collaboration with companies, organisations and the public sector.

Research Focus

Design research at the School of Arts, Design and Architecture is at the international forefront of sustainable design, practice-based design research, human-centered design, and co-design. Our research environment and culture enable goal-oriented research, imaginative experiments, critical discussion, and transdisciplinary collaboration.

Co-operation with Other Parties

Multidisciplinary collaboration between the six Aalto University schools is extensive. The School of Arts, Design and Architecture has a long tradition of successfully collaborating with external partners on projects and courses and nurturing close relationships with several external stakeholders.

Study-Option-Specific Evaluation Criteria in Master's Admissions 2026

Applicants meeting Aalto's general eligibility criteria for master's studies will be evaluated and ranked according to the evaluation criteria that has been decided in advance for each study option.

Evaluation Criteria

• Artistic and/or design practice
• Relevance of previous studies
• Other areas of competence
• Suitability/Motivation letter

Evaluation Process

The applicants will be first evaluated based on Aalto's general eligibility requirements. Applicants meeting the general eligibility criteria for master's studies will be evaluated and ranked according to the evaluation criteria that has been decided in advance for each study option.

Contact Information

For enquiries regarding programme-specific application documents or studies in the programme, please contact Aalto ARTS Learning Services.

For enquiries regarding the application process, obligatory application documents or English language proficiency, please contact Admissions Services.