University of the Arts Helsinki Summary
The University of the Arts Helsinki is the major university of arts education in Finland and one of the most important Nordic institutions in the fields of music, fine arts, theatre, dance, performance, writing, directing, scenography, arts research and artistic practice. The university is in Helsinki and consists of three academies: Academy of Fine Arts, Sibelius Academy and Theatre Academy. Uniarts Helsinki’s structure is particularly suitable for students seeking advanced artistic education in a professional, research-informed and internationally connected creative environment. University of the Arts Helsinki is committed to artistic education, artistic development and research based on the arts, not to broad-based universities covering many academic disciplines. Students work in a practice-based environment where practice, technique, experimentation, performance, portfolio development, artistic identity and critical reflection are central. Students are able to participate in studio practice, performances, exhibitions, composition, rehearsals, seminars, workshops, individual supervision, artistic projects and public facing creative work. At Uniarts Helsinki you can study fine arts, music, theatre, dance, choreography, acting, directing, dramaturgy, lighting design, sound design, scenography, music education, composition, conducting, performance, folk music, jazz, church music and other artistic disciplines at the bachelor’s and master’s levels depending on academy and program. The language of instruction depends on the programme and international students should check if the route is offered in English, Finnish, Swedish or in a multilingual format. The academies offer artistic and research-based doctoral education at doctoral level in Uniarts Helsinki. We invite applications from doctoral candidates wishing to conduct fine arts, music, theatre, dance, performance, pedagogy, artistic practice and artistic research and interdisciplinary arts research. Doctoral study is especially suited to artists, performers, researchers and creative practitioners wishing to develop original artistic research or advanced creative expertise. Tuition fee for non-EU/EEA students in English-taught bachelor's or master's degrees is €28,000 per academic year for students starting in August 2026 or later, Uniarts Helsinki says. The university also notes that it does not provide any scholarships for this tuition fee for students commencing in August 2026 or beyond. Separate application and funding process for PhD students. The University of the Arts Helsinki is usually the best choice for dedicated creative students who are looking for intensive artistic education in the capital of Finland.
