Program Overview

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International Design Business Management, Master of Science (Technology)

Program Description

The International Design Business Management (IDBM) program is a groundbreaking program that truly embodies Aalto's vision of integrating design and technology with global business development. Through multidisciplinary teamwork and real-life business challenges provided by our prominent industry partners, the program prepares students for a career as the next generation of creative professionals.

Degree

Master of Science (Technology)

Application Period

December 1, 2025 - January 2, 2026

Language of Instruction

English

Duration

2 years, full-time studies

Eligibility

Relevant bachelor's degree

Field of Study

Technology

Credits

120 credits

School

School of Chemical Engineering

Tuition Fees

17,000 euros per year (master's studies) for students from countries outside the EU/EEA

Program Structure

The program consists of:

• 40 credits of IDBM major studies
• 25 credits of specializing studies in technology/minor studies
• 25 credits of elective studies
• 30 credits of master's thesis

Specializations

Students can choose from various specializations, including:

• Bioproducts Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering
• Chemistry and Materials Science
• Acoustics and Audio Technology
• Biosensing and Bioelectronics
• Communications Engineering
• Control, Robotics and Autonomous Systems
• Electrical Power and Energy Engineering
• Electronic and Digital Systems
• Microelectronic Circuit Design
• Microwave Engineering
• Photonics and Nanotechnology
• Speech and Language Technology
• Signal Processing and Data Science
• Space Science and Technology
• Advanced Energy Solutions
• Building Technology
• Engineering Materials
• Geoengineering and Mineral Based Materials
• Geoinformatics
• Human-Centered Living Environment
• Interdisciplinary Product Development
• Marine Technology
• Mechatronics
• Production Technology
• Real Estate Economics
• Solid Mechanics

International Activities

Aalto University offers various opportunities to develop global competence, including:

• Taking courses with an international perspective
• Learning foreign languages
• Studying abroad as an exchange student
• Completing an internship or master's thesis abroad
• Participating in international summer courses

Career Opportunities

The program provides skills for a career in creative industries and organizations whose competitiveness is based on creativity, design, and technology. Graduates can work in various roles, from service design to design and strategy, and can leverage design to create new products and services that often rely on cutting-edge technology.

Research Focus

Collaboration with Other Actors

IDBM is a multidisciplinary program that embodies Aalto's vision: a community of bold thinkers where science and art meet technology and business. Students have a unique opportunity to study and work together with goal-oriented students from the School of Arts, Design and Architecture, School of Business, and the technical schools (engineering, chemical technology, electrical engineering, and engineering physics).

Next IDBM Information Session

The next IDBM information session will be held on:

• Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 4:00 PM (UTC+2 Helsinki time) in lecture hall U006 (ground floor), Ekonominaukio 1, 02150 Espoo.
• Monday, December 8, 2025, at 4:00 PM (UTC+2 Helsinki time) via Zoom.

Admission Criteria

The admission process consists of two stages for applicants who meet the general eligibility criteria.

Stage 1

In Stage I, applications are evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Relevance of previous studies
• Academic performance
• Motivation letter
• Other competence areas

Only the top-ranked applicants in Stage I are invited to Stage II.

Stage 2

In Stage II, applications are evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Suitability/interview

A limited number of applicants are invited to Stage II. The invitation to Stage II is sent to applicants at least 7 days in advance. Stage II consists of an interview, which can be conducted remotely if necessary.

Required Documents

In addition to the documents required by all applicants, applicants to this program must submit:

• A motivation letter
• A CV

The motivation letter should demonstrate the applicant's motivation for the program and answer at least one of the following questions:

• Why am I applying to this master's program?
• What do I expect to learn or gain by studying in IDBM?
• Which specialization would I choose and why?
• What can I contribute to IDBM that would benefit my fellow students and the program's continued success?

The applicant should clearly indicate in the motivation letter which specialization they are interested in. The previous studies' relevance and suitability are evaluated in relation to the desired technology specialization stated in the motivation letter.

Contact Information

For more information, please contact: Johanna Rametta IDBM Programme Manager Learning Services of Aalto School of Chemical Engineering

Updated

December 1, 2025

Published

September 20, 2018