Founded: 2013
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Type: Public university
Languages of Instruction: Finnish, Swedish, and English
Academy of Fine Arts: Focuses on visual arts, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, time and space arts, and site and situation-specific arts.
Sibelius Academy: One of the largest and most renowned music academies in Europe, covering classical music, jazz, folk music, and music education.
Theatre Academy: Specializes in theatre, dance, and other performing arts, offering programs in acting, directing, dramaturgy, dance, lighting and sound design, and choreography.
Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral Programs: Offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in artistic disciplines.
Specialized Training: Includes tailored programs for specific artistic and academic pursuits.
State-of-the-art Facilities: Includes well-equipped studios, rehearsal spaces, concert halls, and theaters.
Libraries and Archives: Extensive collections of books, scores, recordings, and other resources related to the arts.
Research and Development: Focus on artistic research and interdisciplinary projects.
Exchange Programs: Opportunities for students to study abroad and for international students to study at Uniarts Helsinki through programs like Erasmus.
Global Networks: Partnerships and collaborations with art institutions and universities worldwide.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Painting
Sculpture
Printmaking
Time and Space Arts (which includes moving image, photography, site and situation-specific art, and live art)
Bachelor of Music (BMus)
Master of Music (MMus)
Classical Music Performance
Conducting
Composition and Music Theory
Church Music
Jazz Music
Folk Music
Global Music
Music Education
Arts Management
Nordic Master in Folk Music (Nofo)
Nordic Master in Jazz (NOMAZZ)
Doctoral Programs
Artistic Doctorate in Music
Scientific Doctorate in Music
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre and Drama
Master of Arts (MA) in Theatre and Drama
Acting in Finnish
Acting in Swedish
Directing
Dramaturgy
Lighting Design
Sound Design
Dance (Choreography, Dance Performance)
Dance Pedagogy
Theatre Pedagogy
Live Art and Performance Studies (MA in English)
Doctoral Programs
Artistic Research in Performing Arts
Academy |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academy of Fine Arts |
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) |
4 years |
$5,500 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Bachelor of Music (BMus) |
3.5 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Theatre and Drama |
3 years |
$5,500 |
Academy |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academy of Fine Arts |
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Master of Music (MMus) |
2.5 years |
$5,500 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Arts Management |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Nordic Master in Folk Music (Nofo) |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Nordic Master in Jazz (NOMAZZ) |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Master of Arts (MA) in Theatre and Drama |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Acting (in Finnish) |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Acting (in Swedish) |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Directing |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Dramaturgy |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Lighting Design |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Sound Design |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Dance (Choreography, Dance Performance) |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Dance Pedagogy |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Theatre Pedagogy |
2 years |
$5,500 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Live Art and Performance Studies (MA in English) |
2 years |
$5,500 |
Academy |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academy of Fine Arts |
Doctoral Programme in Fine Arts |
4 years |
$0 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Artistic Doctorate in Music |
4 years |
$0 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Scientific Doctorate in Music |
4 years |
$0 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Artistic Research in Performing Arts |
4 years |
$0 |
Academy of Fine Arts: Offers Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral programs in fine arts.
Sibelius Academy: Provides Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral programs in music.
Theatre Academy: Offers Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral programs in theatre and dance.
Many programs at the Master's and Doctoral levels are offered in English, making them accessible to international students. Some Bachelor's programs may also have components in English.
Bachelor's Programs: Typically require a high school diploma, entrance exams, and/or a portfolio.
Master's Programs: Usually require a relevant Bachelor's degree, entrance exams, auditions, or a portfolio.
Doctoral Programs: Require a relevant Master's degree, research proposal, and interview.
Check Eligibility: Review specific program requirements.
Prepare Application Documents: These may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a portfolio, or a research proposal.
Apply Online: Through the Studyinfo.fi portal during the application period.
Entrance Exams/Auditions: May be required depending on the program.
Bachelor’s and Master’s Programs: Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students are approximately $5,500 USD per year.
Doctoral Programs: Generally, no tuition fees for doctoral studies.
Uniarts Scholarships: Available for international students to cover tuition fees and/or living expenses.
Finnish Government Scholarships: Available through programs for eligible students.
Accommodation: Approximately $400-800 USD per month.
Food: Approximately $200-400 USD per month.
Public Transportation: Approximately $50-70 USD per month.
Health Insurance: Required for non-EU/EEA students.
Orientation Programs: Help international students settle into university life.
Language Courses: Finnish and Swedish language courses are available.
Counseling Services: Academic and personal counseling.
Career Services: Support for finding internships and job placements.
State-of-the-art Facilities: Studios, performance venues, practice rooms, and libraries.
Student Unions: Active student unions providing activities and support.
Cultural Hub: Helsinki is known for its rich cultural scene, including museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues.
Safe and Clean City: Helsinki is known for its high quality of life, safety, and clean environment.
Public Transport: Efficient and reliable public transport system.
Review the programs offered by the Academy of Fine Arts, Sibelius Academy, and Theatre Academy.
Ensure the chosen program aligns with your academic background and career goals.
Bachelor's Programs: Require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Master's Programs: Require a relevant Bachelor's degree.
Doctoral Programs: Require a relevant Master's degree and a research proposal.
Common requirements include academic transcripts, CV, letters of recommendation, a motivation letter, a portfolio (for arts programs), and proof of language proficiency (if applicable).
Applications are submitted through the Studyinfo.fi portal.
Application periods typically open once a year; check the specific dates on the Uniarts Helsinki website.
Many programs require entrance exams, auditions, or portfolio reviews.
Details and requirements for these assessments are provided by each academy and program.
Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process.
Successful candidates are notified of their admission status and provided with further instructions for enrollment.
Application Period: Typically, the application period for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs is in January each year.
Entrance Exams/Auditions: These usually take place between February and April.
Results Announcement: Admission results are generally announced by early June.
Study Start: The academic year begins in late August or early September.
Application Period: The application period for Doctoral programs can vary by academy, but it often takes place in the spring or autumn.
Application Deadlines: Specific deadlines are set by each academy and can be found on the Uniarts Helsinki website.
Interviews/Assessments: These typically follow soon after the application period.
Educational Background: Completion of upper secondary education or equivalent qualification that qualifies for higher education in the applicant’s home country.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (Finnish, Swedish, or English) is required.
Portfolio: Submission of an art portfolio showcasing the applicant’s work.
Entrance Exam: Includes assignments and an interview.
Musical Proficiency: Demonstrated through performance auditions.
Entrance Exam: Includes music theory tests and interviews.
Audition: Practical performance tasks, group exercises, and interviews.
Additional Materials: May include a motivation letter or specific assignments.
Educational Background: A relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (Finnish, Swedish, or English) is required.
Portfolio: Submission of an art portfolio.
Project Proposal: A detailed plan of the intended study or research project.
Interview: Discussion of the portfolio and project proposal.
Musical Proficiency: Demonstrated through performance auditions.
Entrance Exam: Includes music theory tests and interviews.
Audition/Portfolio: Depending on the program, practical performance tasks or a portfolio may be required.
Project Proposal: A detailed plan of the intended study or research project.
Interview: Discussion of the project proposal and previous experience.
Educational Background: A relevant Master’s degree or equivalent.
Research Proposal: A detailed research plan outlining the doctoral research project.
Supervisor: Identification of a potential supervisor from the faculty.
Interview: Discussion of the research proposal and previous academic work.
Artistic Portfolio: Examples of previous artistic work.
Research Proposal: Outlining the intended artistic research.
Artistic or Scientific Research Proposal: Depending on the focus of the doctoral studies.
Interview: Discussion of the research proposal and previous academic work.
Artistic Research Proposal: Outlining the intended research in performing arts.
Interview: Discussion of the research proposal and previous academic work.
Finnish/Swedish: Required for programs conducted in Finnish or Swedish. Common tests include YKI, National Certificate of Language Proficiency, or equivalent.
English: Required for programs conducted in English. Common tests include TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent. Minimum scores typically required:
TOEFL: 92 (internet-based)
IELTS: 6.5 (overall band score)
PTE Academic: 62
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Coverage |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Uniarts Helsinki Tuition Fee Scholarship |
Non-EU/EEA students in Bachelor's and Master's programs |
Covers 50% or 100% of the tuition fee |
Apply during program application through Studyinfo.fi |
|
Finnish Government Scholarship Pool |
Doctoral students from certain countries |
Monthly allowance (varies by year) |
Apply through CIMO (Centre for International Mobility) |
|
Erasmus+ Scholarships |
Students enrolled in Erasmus+ eligible programs |
Varies (travel grants, monthly stipend) |
Apply through Uniarts Helsinki's International Office |
|
Fulbright-University of the Arts Helsinki Graduate Award |
U.S. students pursuing a Master's degree |
Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend |
Apply through the Fulbright Program website |
|
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs) |
Students enrolled in specific joint master's programs |
Full tuition, travel costs, living allowance |
Apply through the Erasmus Mundus program website |
|
Arts Promotion Centre Finland Grants |
International students with residence in Finland, enrolled in arts programs |
Project grants, working grants |
Apply through the Arts Promotion Centre Finland (Taike) |
Campus Facility |
Description |
Accommodation Facility |
Cost of Accommodation (USD per Month) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academy of Fine Arts |
Located in the Sörnäinen district; offers state-of-the-art studios, galleries, and exhibition spaces. |
Uniarts Student Housing |
$400 - $800 |
|
Sibelius Academy |
Located in the Töölö district; features concert halls, practice rooms, and recording studios. |
HOAS (Helsinki Student Housing) |
$400 - $700 |
|
Theatre Academy |
Located in the Sörnäinen district; includes performance spaces, rehearsal rooms, and technical facilities. |
Uniarts Student Housing |
$400 - $800 |
|
Shared Facilities |
Libraries, cafes, study lounges, and computer labs available across all academies. |
Private Rentals (apartments) |
$600 - $1,200 |
|
Student Services |
Includes counseling, career services, health services, and language courses. |
Shared Student Apartments |
$350 - $600 |
Collaborative Environment: Students from different disciplines often collaborate on projects, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to the arts.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to top-notch studios, practice rooms, performance spaces, and libraries across the academies.
Expert Faculty: Instruction and mentorship from leading artists, musicians, and scholars in their fields.
Student Unions and Organizations: Active student unions such as the Student Union of the University of the Arts Helsinki (TaiYo) offer events, clubs, and activities. They provide support, advocacy, and social opportunities for students.
Cultural Events: Regular exhibitions, performances, concerts, and theatre productions are held on campus, providing students with opportunities to showcase their work and engage with the broader community.
Workshops and Masterclasses: Frequent workshops, guest lectures, and masterclasses by renowned international artists and scholars.
Student Housing: Options include Uniarts student housing, HOAS (Helsinki Student Housing Foundation), and private rentals. Costs range from $350 to $1,200 USD per month, depending on the type and location of the accommodation.
Cost of Living: Helsinki is known for its high standard of living. Monthly expenses (including rent, food, transportation, and leisure) can range from $800 to $1,500 USD.
Health Services: Access to comprehensive health services, including medical care, mental health counseling, and wellness programs.
Career Services: Guidance and resources for internships, job placements, and career planning. Opportunities to connect with industry professionals through networking events and career fairs.
Language Courses: Finnish and Swedish language courses are available for international students to help them integrate into Finnish society.
Sports and Recreation: Access to sports facilities, including gyms and swimming pools. sports clubs and activities are organized through the student unions.
Outdoor Activities: Helsinki offers numerous outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and exploring the nearby archipelago. Students can enjoy Finland's natural beauty, including parks and forests.
Public Transport: Helsinki has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro services. Students can get discounted transportation passes.
Cycling: Helsinki is bike-friendly, with extensive cycling paths and bike-sharing services.
Career Counseling: Personalized career counseling services help students identify their strengths, explore career options, and develop job search strategies.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and seminars on topics such as CV writing, job interviews, portfolio development, and networking skills.
Career Events: Job fairs, networking events, and employer presentations are organized to connect students with potential employers and industry professionals.
Internship Opportunities: Many programs incorporate internships or practical training components, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in their field.
Industry Connections: The university has strong connections with cultural institutions, theatres, art galleries, music companies, and other organizations in the arts sector, providing students with valuable internship opportunities.
Professional Practice: Programs often include professional practice modules where students work on real-life projects in collaboration with industry partners.
Alumni Relations: Uniarts Helsinki maintains an active alumni network that provides ongoing support, networking opportunities, and career guidance to graduates.
Mentorship Programs: Alumni often participate in mentorship programs, offering advice and insights to current students.
Graduate Employability: Graduates of Uniarts Helsinki are known for their strong artistic and professional skills, making them highly sought after in the arts and culture sectors.
Diverse Career Paths: Graduates find employment in a variety of roles such as artists, musicians, performers, directors, composers, educators, arts managers, and researchers.
Entrepreneurial Support: The university encourages entrepreneurial activities and offers support for students who wish to start their own projects or businesses in the arts.
Academy of Fine Arts: Graduates may become visual artists, curators, art educators, or work in galleries and museums.
Sibelius Academy: Graduates often pursue careers as professional musicians, composers, conductors, music teachers, or work in music production and management.
Theatre Academy: Graduates can become actors, directors, playwrights, choreographers, theatre educators, or work in roles within the performing arts industry.
Visa and Work Permits: The university provides guidance on visa regulations and work permits for international students seeking to work in Finland after graduation.
Language Skills: Language courses are offered to improve Finnish or Swedish proficiency, which can enhance employability in Finland.
Overall Selectivity: Uniarts Helsinki has a reputation for being highly selective due to the specialized nature of its programs and the high level of talent required. The acceptance rate is typically low, reflecting the competitive admissions process.
Program Specific Rates: Acceptance rates can vary significantly depending on the specific academy and program. For instance:
Academy of Fine Arts: Programs in fine arts often have rigorous portfolio reviews and entrance exams, contributing to lower acceptance rates.
Sibelius Academy: Music programs, particularly those in performance, composition, and conducting, require auditions and may have more stringent selection criteria.
Theatre Academy: Acting, directing, and other performing arts programs often involve intensive auditions and interviews, leading to lower acceptance rates.
Entrance Exams and Auditions: Many programs require applicants to pass demanding entrance exams, auditions, or portfolio reviews.
Quality of Work: Applicants must demonstrate exceptional talent and potential in their field through their submitted work, whether it be a portfolio, audition piece, or other creative submissions.
Limited Seats: Programs often have a limited number of seats available each year, increasing competition among applicants.
Comprehensive Evaluation: The selection process usually involves multiple stages, including initial application reviews, practical exams or auditions, and interviews.
Location: Sörnäinen Campus, Helsinki
Address: Lintulahdenkuja 4, 00500 Helsinki, Finland
Description: The Sörnäinen Campus is known for its modern facilities, including spacious studios, galleries, and workshops designed to support fine arts disciplines such as painting, sculpture, printmaking, and time and space arts.
Location: Töölö Campus, Helsinki
Address: Töölönkatu 28, 00260 Helsinki, Finland
Description: The Töölö Campus houses the Sibelius Academy, offering state-of-the-art concert halls, rehearsal spaces, recording studios, and classrooms. This campus is central to Helsinki's vibrant music scene and provides excellent facilities for music education and performance.
Location: Kookos Building, Sörnäinen, Helsinki
Address: Haapaniemenkatu 6, 00530 Helsinki, Finland
Description: The Theatre Academy is also situated in the Sörnäinen district but in a different building from the Academy of Fine Arts. The Kookos Building includes performance spaces, rehearsal rooms, and technical facilities for theatre, dance, and performance studies.
Libraries: Each campus has its own specialized library, but students can access resources across all libraries within Uniarts Helsinki.
Student Services: Comprehensive student services, including counseling, career services, and health services, are available on all campuses.
Cafeterias and Lounges: Each campus has cafeterias and student lounges providing spaces for relaxation and socializing.
