Design & Crafts

The Design & Crafts program at the Estonian Academy of Arts offers a comprehensive education in the fields of traditional and contemporary design disciplines, emphasizing the development of creative, technical, and conceptual skills. This program is designed to foster innovative thinking and craftsmanship, preparing students to excel in a dynamic and evolving creative industry. Throughout their studies, students engage in a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring they acquire a deep understanding of design principles, material properties, and production processes.

Students have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as visual communication, product design, interior architecture, glass and ceramic crafts, textiles, or jewelry design. The program encourages experimentation with materials and techniques, while also emphasizing the importance of sustainability, user-centered design, and cultural context. Collaboration with industry partners and participation in workshops, exhibitions, and competitions are integral parts of the educational experience, providing students with real-world insights and networking opportunities.

The faculty comprises experienced designers and artisans dedicated to mentoring students and fostering their individual artistic voice. The program emphasizes critical thinking, originality, and problem-solving skills, preparing graduates for successful careers in design studios, craft workshops, cultural institutions, or as independent artists and entrepreneurs. Graduates of the Design & Crafts program will be equipped to contribute meaningfully to contemporary design discourse and to shape the future of craft and design industries in Estonia and beyond. The educational environment encourages experimentation, interdisciplinarity, and innovation, ensuring that students graduate with a well-rounded skill set and a strong professional portfolio.

Who are the instructors?

Our MA instructors are top professionals of their fields. The curricula is study and case-based, introducing up to 40 professionals from different segments of the design arena – from package designers to photographers, from design managers to high-end craftsmen – during the two years of study. EAA is a very democratic and non-hierarchical institution, so you have access to all the human resources we have.

What skills will I acquire?

Besides professional training in the chosen crafts/design curricula, there are opportunities to learn about product development, environmental issues, economy, presentation skills, sustainability, cultural philosophy, etc.

What jobs will be available after I graduate?

Hopefully you be your own boss and create a design brand. In addition, there are several options to work as a designer, educator, technician, etc

Curriculum

Total required 120 credits:

• 24 ECTS specialist subjects
• 18 ECTS electives from the Faculty of Design
• 6 ECTS theory subjects from the Faculty of Design
• 15 ECTS general theory subjects
• 6 ECTS practice
• 6 ECTS optional subjects
• 15 ECTS MA projects and seminar
• 30 ECTS MA thesis

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• Application (submitted through Dream Apply between 01.02–01.03.2021)
• 50€ application fee (paid via bank transfer)
• Copy of your Bachelor’s degree certificate or equivalent and its translation into Estonian or English (both, copies and translations have to be attested by notary).
• Copy of your Transcript of Records (and translation into Estonian or English; both copy and translation must be attested by notary).
• Certificate of foreign language skills, see the requirements HERE
• Copy of the data page of your passport or ID-card
• CV
• Project of your Master’s thesis or vision in the form of essay
• Portfolio (as PDF, max 40MB)
  • Portfolio should include up to 10 projects with short descriptions. Works in video format should be added as working web links.
  • Please add portfolio to application
• Answers to following questions (add to application in PDF file):
  • What are your expectations for the Design & Crafts MA programme?
  • Please describe your previous experience in the field of Design & Crafts. What will be your main focus of interest in your research?
  • Do you want to focus on developing knowledge and skills in your chosen speciality or are you also interested in more general topics and practices related to Design & Crafts?
  • Where would you like to be professionally in 5 years? What topics and issues related to Design & Crafts do you see yourself dealing with in the future?
  • Why did you choose Estonian Academy of Arts? Where did you get your information about the programme?

Tuition fees for the Design & Crafts programme at the Estonian Academy of Arts vary depending on the student's nationality and the specific degree level. For international students, the annual tuition fee typically ranges from approximately €2,000 to €3,000, while for local students, the fees are significantly lower or may be covered by national scholarships or state funding. The university offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships based on academic excellence, artistic talent, or financial need. Students are encouraged to apply for these scholarships early, as competition is often high. Additionally, there are government-funded loan schemes available for eligible students to support their education costs. Students can also consider part-time work opportunities during their studies, both on and off-campus, to help cover living expenses and additional costs related to their coursework. The university provides detailed guidance and support in navigating the financial aid application process and offers workshops and informational sessions to help students understand the various funding options available to them. Furthermore, some students may be eligible for external funding sources such as European Union grants, private foundations, or industry sponsorship programs, depending on their circumstances and project proposals. Funding opportunities may also include research grants or project-based funding for students engaging in specific creative projects or collaborations with industry partners. International students should check bilateral agreements or specific scholarships offered by the Estonian government or their home country’s educational authorities to facilitate their study financing. It is advisable to plan financial resources in advance, factoring in tuition, accommodation, materials, studio fees, and living costs. The university’s administration and financial aid office are available to assist students throughout the application process and to provide up-to-date information on available funding, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Overall, while the cost of studying Design & Crafts at the Estonian Academy of Arts is manageable for many students due to available financial support mechanisms, careful planning and early application for financial aid are essential for securing necessary funding.

The Design & Crafts programme at the Estonian Academy of Arts is a comprehensive educational path that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills in the fields of design and craftsmanship. The programme is structured to develop students’ creativity, technical abilities, and understanding of materials, processes, and cultural contexts. Students are taught to conceptualize and realize innovative design solutions, emphasizing sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic value. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including product design, interior design, craft practices, visual communication, and design history. Throughout their studies, students engage in hands-on workshops, studio projects, and collaborative assignments, which foster a multidisciplinary approach and emphasize the importance of innovation and originality. The programme also encourages students to develop a strong sense of craftsmanship and attention to detail, ensuring that they can translate their ideas into tangible products or works of art. In addition to technical skills, students gain knowledge about the social and cultural impact of design and crafts, preparing them for the global market while maintaining a connection to Estonian traditions and identity. The Estonian Academy of Arts offers modern facilities equipped with the latest technology, providing an ideal environment for experimentation and learning. Graduates of the Design & Crafts programme are equipped to work in various sectors, including industrial design, interior architecture, traditional crafts, and artistic creation, or to continue their studies at postgraduate levels. The programme aims to nurture innovative designers and craftsmen who can contribute to the culture and economy locally and internationally. International exchange opportunities and collaborations with industry professionals are integral parts of the programme, enabling students to expand their professional networks and gain diverse perspectives. Overall, the Design & Crafts programme at the Estonian Academy of Arts provides a well-rounded education that combines artistic practice, technical expertise, and cultural awareness, preparing students to become leaders in the creative industries.