Program structure

The Master’s Programme in Lighting Design at Uniarts Helsinki is a two-year, full-time course designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the art and technology of lighting for performance and creative projects. The program encompasses theoretical studies, hands-on projects, and interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering both artistic and technical expertise.

Key Components of the Program

1. Core Studies (Compulsory Courses)

   • Advanced lighting techniques and design methods.
   • The role of light in narrative building and atmosphere creation.
   • Conceptual and artistic exploration of lighting in various mediums such as theater, dance, and film.

2. Collaborative Projects

   • Interdisciplinary work with students from related programs such as scenography, sound design, and directing.
   • Participation in actual productions and cultural events, providing hands-on experience in professional environments.

3. Optional/Elective Studies

   • Students can choose courses that align with their personal interests or career aspirations.
   • Opportunities to take courses from other programs within Uniarts Helsinki, expanding their skillset and artistic vision.

4. Research and Methodology

   • Emphasis on artistic research and critical analysis of lighting design practices.
   • Courses on visual thinking, conceptual development, and ethical considerations in design.

5. Master’s Thesis

   • A final project combining practical and theoretical components.
   • The thesis demonstrates the student’s ability to integrate artistic vision, technical expertise, and research skills into a cohesive project.

Learning Outcomes

• Develop an advanced artistic vision and the ability to communicate effectively through lighting design.
• Gain expertise in applying lighting techniques to diverse performance and production contexts.
• Build collaborative and leadership skills for teamwork in multidisciplinary environments.
• Critically evaluate personal work and contribute constructively to peer projects.

Language of Instruction

• Courses are primarily taught in Finnish, but students may use Swedish in communication and examinations. Some modules may also be available in English.

Further Information

• Master’s Programme in Lighting Design - Uniarts Helsinki

This program structure ensures students are well-prepared for careers in lighting design across the performing arts, film, and creative industries.

Fees and Funding

The Master’s Programme in Lighting Design at Uniarts Helsinki has specific tuition fees and funding opportunities for students.

Tuition Fees:

• EU/EEA and Swiss Citizens: No tuition fees are charged.

• Non-EU/EEA Citizens: An annual tuition fee of €12,000 applies.

Scholarships and Funding:

• Uniarts Helsinki Scholarships: The university offers scholarships to cover tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students. These are awarded based on academic merit and financial need.

• Finnish Government Scholarships: Available for students from certain countries, these scholarships can assist with living expenses.

• External Funding: Students are encouraged to seek scholarships from foundations and organizations in their home countries or international bodies.

Application Process:

• Scholarship Application: Submit the scholarship application simultaneously with the program application through the Studyinfo Portal.

• Required Documents: Include academic transcripts, a motivation letter, and proof of financial need (if applicable).

• Deadlines: Scholarship applications align with program application deadlines, typically in January for programs starting in the following academic year.

For detailed information on fees and funding, visit the Master’s Programme in Lighting Design page.

Scholarship Guidance

Uniarts Helsinki provides scholarships and financial aid to support talented international students pursuing the Master’s Programme in Lighting Design. These scholarships aim to alleviate financial burdens and enable students to focus on their studies and artistic development.

Scholarship Opportunities

1. Tuition Fee Waivers

• Available to non-EU/EEA students who are liable to pay tuition fees.
• Scholarships can cover:
  • 100% of the tuition fee (full waiver).
  • 50% of the tuition fee (partial waiver).

2. Helsinki Scholarship

• Offered to top-performing students.
• Includes:
  • A full tuition fee waiver.
  • A grant of €5,000 to support living expenses during the first year of studies.

3. External Funding

• Students are encouraged to apply for additional funding through:
  • Finnish Government Scholarships for eligible international students.
  • Scholarships provided by private organizations or cultural foundations.

Eligibility

• Open to non-EU/EEA students admitted to the Master’s Programme in Lighting Design.
• Applicants must demonstrate:
  • Academic and artistic excellence.
  • Financial need (for certain scholarships).

How to Apply

Step 1: Indicate Interest

• During your program application on the Studyinfo Portal, specify your interest in applying for a scholarship.

Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents

• Include the following with your scholarship application:
  • Academic transcripts.
  • A motivation letter explaining why you require financial support and how it will benefit your studies.
  • A portfolio showcasing your artistic work.

Step 3: Await Results

• Scholarship decisions are announced alongside admission results.

Important Deadlines

• Scholarship applications are submitted during the program application period (typically November to January).
• Decisions are communicated in April with admission results.

Further Information

• Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Uniarts Helsinki
• Finnish Government Scholarships

These scholarships ensure that talented students from diverse backgrounds can access world-class education in lighting design at Uniarts Helsinki.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Master’s Programme in Lighting Design at Uniarts Helsinki is selective, focusing on artistic and academic potential, technical proficiency, and a clear commitment to the field of lighting design.

General Admission Requirements

1. Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree:
  • A degree in lighting design, scenography, performing arts, or a related field.
  • Equivalent professional experience in lighting design or the arts may be considered in exceptional cases.

2. Language Proficiency

• Proficiency in English is required for applicants whose first language is not Finnish or Swedish:
  • IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5.
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 92.
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 62.
• Proficiency in Finnish or Swedish may also be required depending on specific program components.

Application Procedure

Application Process

1. Online Application

• Submit your application through the Studyinfo Portal.
• Ensure all required sections are completed and documents uploaded before the deadline.

2. Required Documents

• Degree Certificates and Transcripts:
  • Certified copies of your academic qualifications and transcripts.
• Portfolio:
  • Showcase previous work in lighting design (e.g., images, videos, sketches, and project descriptions).
• CV/Resume:
  • Highlight academic background, work experience, and artistic projects.
• Motivation Letter:
  • A 1–2 page statement explaining your interest in the program, career goals, and artistic vision.
• Proof of Language Proficiency:
  • Upload test scores for English language proficiency or documentation of prior education in English.

3. Artistic Task and Audition

• Complete a specific artistic task assigned by the admissions team.
• Shortlisted candidates are invited for a live audition, which may include:
  • Presenting a lighting design concept.
  • Technical and creative problem-solving tasks.
  • Collaboration exercises with peers.

4. Interview

• Finalists participate in an interview to discuss their portfolio, artistic vision, and suitability for the program.

Key Deadlines

• Application Period: Typically from November to January for programs starting the following autumn.
• Auditions and Interviews: Conducted in February or March.
• Results Announcement: Admissions decisions are communicated by April.

Further Information

• Admissions Guide - Uniarts Helsinki
• Studyinfo Portal

This admissions process ensures that students admitted to the program demonstrate exceptional creativity, technical expertise, and a passion for lighting design in the performing arts.