Studying at Aalto University BA programme in Design – How is it like?

Aalto University…

School of Arts, Design, and Architecture (Aalto ARTS) is where creativity is born. A place where science, technology, business, and art come together, offering a multidisciplinary education and research. Its primary goal is to foster innovation in its students by giving them the freedom to express themselves and encouraging them to be curious. But how is it like to study there? Keep reading and find out!

My experience

Hey, my name is Elina, and I am studying at Aalto University – Bachelor’s programme in Design. In the school of ARTS, degree programs are organized under five departments. I want to introduce you to my department, the department of design, and tell you a little more about my study program. The time has gone by so quickly, and I am about to start my final year. For already two years, I have been studying at the Bachelor’s programme in Design.

The Department of Design

Studying at the department of design has been an entire journey starting with moving abroad, meeting new people, studying during the pandemic and discovering an entirely new side of design. Now I can say that even I see myself as a completely different person. Aalto has wholly transformed my thoughts on design and opinions regarding the role of design in the future. Design at Aalto is not only about physical products but also about digital and abstract experiences. The design here evolves around society and sustainability.

The BA program in Design will cover topics like:

• sustainability & environment,
• strategic design,
• business & branding,
• digital & service design,
• product design.

First year

The first study year for me was more about discovering and practising. During it, I came across new design directions, which changed my work routines and showed me another side of design that can be pretty private and thought-provoking.

Besides, I got the chance to create my design project in the Aalto University workshops, which are impressive. Working there surrounded by all the machines and high-quality specialists can make you feel that everything you want is possible. The workshop masters are always ready to help and support throughout the work process.

Second year

The second year is quite intensive but the most fruitful, I would say. After the first year, which I would describe now as a warmup, this is the time when you can discover your role in design. By working with clients on real cases and getting the chance to experience designers’ work from all sides.

We worked in groups on most of the projects during the second year. At first, it was pretty struggling because we all are designers with our style and views on how things should work.With time, patience, respect, and working side by side, we learned from each other and created a lot of unique and thought-provoking projects. I’m proud that I had the chance to work with such incredible people from all around the world.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Hellen Keller

My plan for the next study year.

Regarding my journey at Aalto, I let myself be curious and fearless to get the maximum out of my studies. I got the chance to explore different fields and processes, which helped me define my interests and role in design. My plan for the next study year is to support my learning with more in-depth practice and new subjects, write my Bachelor’s thesis, and graduate!

At the BA programme, you will be able to test the limits of your imagination and break the borders of design. If you want to know more and challenge yourself, this programme should be on your university list!