Aalto University

SUMMARY

Aalto University is a public research institution in Finland, recognised for its focus on science, technology, design, business, and interdisciplinary innovation. Established in 2010 through the merger of three Finnish universities, The university is acclaimed for its strong industry collaboration, global approach to learning, and commitment to solving real-world challenges through multidisciplinary thinking.

HISTORY

Aalto University was formed in 2010 by merging the Helsinki University of Technology, the University of Art and Design Helsinki, and the Helsinki School of Economics. The decision to unite these three institutions was taken to support Finland’s need for collaborative innovation across design, business, and technology. The merger was seen as a national strategy to strengthen Finland’s position in global education and future industries.

The Helsinki University of Technology (founded in 1849) had long been Finland’s primary centre for engineering and scientific research. Its legacy in applied sciences and technical education contributed significantly to Finland’s industrialisation and modern engineering workforce. The University of Art and Design Helsinki (established in 1871) brought a rich creative heritage to Aalto University. It had a strong international reputation for design education, fashion, visual communication, and digital arts. Many well-known Finnish designers and creative professionals graduated from this institution, influencing both national culture and global design. The Helsinki School of Economics (founded in 1904) provided expertise in business, economics, and management studies. It played an important role in shaping leadership and economic policy across Finland. This school added strategic business to Aalto University’s interdisciplinary approach.

After the merger, Aalto University introduced new research platforms, innovation networks, and campus developments. The Otaniemi campus became the physical centre for the university, bringing students and faculty from various disciplines together. This collaborative environment encouraged project-based learning and start-up creation. Over the years, the university has strengthened its relationship with industry, government, and international partners. Aalto University has become known as a driver of entrepreneurship in the Nordic region, particularly through its start-up ecosystem including the globally known Slush conference.

Today, Aalto University continues to grow as a modern research institution that balances academic quality with practical problem-solving. It maintains a commitment to sustainability, artistic exploration, and societal impact, reflecting Finland’s broader values of innovation and equality in education.

VISION

The founding vision behind Aalto University was to create an institution that breaks traditional academic boundaries. The goal was to enable collaboration among engineers, designers, artists, economists, and entrepreneurs, forming new solutions for emerging global challenges. The founders imagined a university where creativity and scientific knowledge work together. Rather than producing graduates who focus on one field, the university encourages interdisciplinary talent able to innovate across sectors. This idea aligns with Finland’s emphasis on education as a central driver of national development.

TOP DESIGN COURSES

Aalto University offers internationally recognised design programmes that combine practical studio learning with theoretical knowledge and research. The Bachelor’s Programme in Design and Media fosters a multidisciplinary approach, encouraging students to explore intersections of art, media, and technology while building their identity as upcoming creative professionals and providing a comprehensive foundation. Through hands-on, collaborative and process-oriented course work, students gain practical experience and develop a comprehensive understanding of art, media, and design fundamentals. Graduates emerge with the ability to conceptualize and execute impactful Art, Media and Design projects that respond to the contemporary challenges of society.

The Contemporary Design (CoDe) major foregrounds material encounters and studio practice in the context of real-world needs. From hands-on making to biodesign and digital fabrication, students research and critically reflect on human-matter relationships. They expand their thinking beyond conventional limitations, adopting a design mindset that is both experimental and professional. The teaching supports process-led inquiry and studio practice, while integrating research and writing into the course structure. The institute believes that the most creative solutions arise from an in-depth immersion in the chosen topic and a freedom of expression in processes and outcomes.

The Master’s Programme in Creative Sustainability (CS) provides an interdisciplinary learning platform in the fields of design, business, and materials and chemical engineering. Sustainability is an increasingly relevant design perspective as designers are expected to contribute to innovative solutions and to critically examine different framings of sustainability concerns. Studies in the Creative Sustainability Master’s Programme prepare students to make an active contribution in sustainability through creative design practice.  Creativity in the programme denotes a focus on fresh, holistic, and emerging innovations and far-reaching alternative and regenerative futures. The studies include state-of-the-art knowledge about the interlinked environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects of sustainability coupled with learning in practical projects conducted together with partner organizations.

KEY TEAM

• President: Ilkka Niemelä

• Provost: Kristiina Mäkelä

• Dean, School of Arts, Design and Architecture: Tuomas Auvinen

• Dean, School of Business: Timo Korkeamäki

• Dean, School of Engineering: Gary Marquis

• Dean, School of Chemical Engineering: Kristiina Kruus

• Dean, School of Electrical Engineering: Jyri Hämäläinen

• Dean, School of Science: Jouko Lampinen

JOB INTEGRATION SERVICES

Aalto University has a strong focus on career development and professional integration. The university offers career counselling, job search guidance, and mentoring programmes to help students prepare for employment in Finland and abroad. Workshops and seminars are held regularly to strengthen interview skills, portfolio presentation, and workplace communication. The university collaborates closely with companies through internships, research placements, and project-based industry courses. Many degree programmes include compulsory practical components, allowing students to gain experience in industrial environments before graduation. Aalto University also supports entrepreneurship through its well-developed start-up ecosystem. Student-driven initiatives, business incubators, and innovation labs help new entrepreneurs develop business ideas, secure funding, and connect with global investors. This ecosystem has produced several successful start-ups operating internationally.

REFERENCES

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2. “Key Figures from 2023 and Annual Reports”. Aalto University. 
3. “Results of the doctoral student yearly follow-up 2023”. Aalto University. 
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14. “Finnish universities excel in global ranking of subjects”. www.goodnewsfinland.com. 
15. “Valmennusta, kehittämispalveluja ja koulutusta – Aalto EE”. aaltoee.com. 
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17. “TKK Nanomicroscopy Center”. 
18. “Planck-luotain laittoi käsityksen kosmoksesta uusiksi”. 
19. “Aims | Academy of Finland”. 
20. “GIM – Finnish Centre of Excellence in Generic Intelligent Machines(2008–2013)”. gim.aalto.fi.