Program Overview

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International Design Business Management, Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

The International Design Business Management (IDBM) programme is a pioneering and renowned study programme that integrates design and technology with global business development. Through transdisciplinary teamwork and real-life business challenges provided by prominent industry partners, the programme prepares students as the next generation of creative professionals.

Degree

Master of Science (Economics and Business Administration)

Application Period

1 December 2025 – 2 January 2026

Language of Instruction

English

Duration

2 years, full-time

Eligibility

Relevant Bachelor's degree

Field of Study

Business and Economics

Credits

120 ECTS

Organising School

School of Business

Tuition Fees

For non-EU/EEA citizens, €17,000 per academic year

Description

IDBM students tackle complex, real-life challenges in multidisciplinary teams and develop holistic perspectives of tomorrow's challenges. The programme embraces design more broadly as a method, mindset, and competitive advantage, focusing on product, service, and business design, technology, and innovation management. IDBM graduates have the ability to work in and lead diverse teams, a forward-looking view of the world, not only business sense but also design and tech-savviness, and competence to manage, develop, and lead design-driven strategies.

Language of Instruction

The language of instruction is English.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

The tuition fee for this programme is €17,000 per academic year. Citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland do not pay tuition fees. Aalto University offers a small number of scholarships in the form of tuition fee waivers to fee-paying students.

Structure of Studies

IDBM is organised by the School of Business and comprises a total of 120 ECTS credits. The two-year programme consists of:

• IDBM Major (40 ECTS)
• Minor studies (24 ECTS)
• Electives (24 ECTS)
• Master's thesis (30 ECTS)
• Thesis seminar (2 ECTS)

Specialisations

As an IDBM student, you complete courses together with an international, tight, and diverse community of students. Compulsory IDBM core studies are linked to an extensive industry project and related teamwork, which enables students to learn how to utilize and apply different knowledge, tools, and methods in practice.

Internationalisation

Study with an ambitious and diverse group of students from around the world. Complete an intense industry project for a global organisation in multidisciplinary teams and participate in trips to destinations related to the challenges presented in the project.

Further Study Opportunities

The degree grants eligibility for doctoral studies.

Career Opportunities

The IDBM master's programme prepares you for a career in creative industries and in organisations that draw on creativity, design, and technology as key components of their competitive positioning.

Research Focus

More information about the research can be found in the management studies area.

Co-operation with Other Parties

IDBM is a truly multidisciplinary programme that embodies the vision of Aalto: a community of bold thinkers, where science and art meet technology and business. You have the entirely unique opportunity to study and work together with ambitious students from the schools of ARTS, Business, Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Science.

Evaluation Criteria 2026

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

Admission Group 1: Bachelor's Degree from a University in Finland

Phase 1

• Relevance of previous studies
• Academic performance
• Suitability
• Other areas of competence

Phase 2

• Suitability

Admission Group 2: Bachelor's Degree from a University of Applied Science in Finland or from a Higher Education Institution Abroad

Phase 1

• Relevance of previous studies
• Standardized tests
• Suitability
• Other areas of competence

Phase 2

• Suitability

Study-Option-Specific Documents Requested

• Motivation letter
• CV

Contact Information

For programme-specific questions and inquiries, please contact the School of Business. For questions regarding the application process, application documents, or language tests, please contact Aalto University Admission Services.