Extended Reality Design

Helsinki, Finland

24 July-22 August 2025

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Explore extended reality design in Helsinki’s vibrant XR technology ecosystem.

Through our partnership with Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, you will experience the latest XR hardware systems, learn key design concepts and strategies for developing successful XR applications, and meet industry experts from the world’s leading XR companies in Helsinki, Finland.

No prior AR/VR experience is necessary. The program is designed to give participants an interdisciplinary view and understanding of technology, business, and design basics and trends in XR applications.

Program Elements: Online preparation work combined with intensive two-week program including classroom work, workshops, and visits to companies in Helsinki, Finland.

Location: Metropolia University of Applied Sciences campus in Helsinki, Finland with visits around the Helsinki area.

Dates: Online coursework: July 24 to August 8 - Helsinki, Finland: August 9 to August 22

• Explore the possibilities and limitations of current and near-future XR technologies and ecosystems
• Understand designing high-quality content for XR technologies
• Learn how to develop XR applications and technologies with the support of various design tools

Participants in this program will gain the skills they need design a product using leading XR technologies, with a focus on current and future XR technologies. This course will be held in the Helsinki XR Center at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences where students and industry experts collaborate on the latest trends in AR/VR development. Participants will have the opportunity to learn alongside students and expert faculty from Metropolia in a program created exclusively by the University of Washington's Global Innovation Exchange.

Week 1: Orientation, lectures and lab work

Week 2: XR design sprint and industry visits/tours

Industry Visits may include: Microsoft Finland, Varjo, Zoan, Glue, Arilyn, and others TBD

Sample schedule available here (2023 program).

Enrollment in a University of Washington Global Innovation Exchange graduate course is required for participation.

Included in the course fees:

  • Instruction Costs
  • Accommodation (all participants must stay in designated housing in Helsinki)
  • 2 meals/day on weekdays (breakfast only on weekends)
  • Local transportation passes in Helsinki
  • Administrative Fees
  • UW Study Tour enrollment fees

Not included in the above fees (participant responsibility):

  • Travel to Helsinki (flights)
  • UW mandatory travel insurance ($1.74/day)
  • Other meals and incidentals not covered above

Full or partial scholarships may be available to participants through the Global Tech Experiences application process. Please enquire with your application.

Scholarships

Full or partial scholarships may be made available to participants through the Global Tech Experiences scholarship application process.

More information to come.

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