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
- Design a realistic concept for an XR application that incorporates key XR design principles and practices.
- Assess effective uses of immersiveness as a concept and identify key AR/VR/MR problem spaces.
- Illustrate key design practices in XR application design and identify key technologies and systems necessary to develop XR applications.
- Apply learned skills and concepts in XR design to new application problem spaces and propose a concept solution, along with predicted barriers to adoption.
- Identify emerging use cases and environments that could benefit from an XR-enabled solution.
- Describe the near future state of XR technology and applications from a design, technology, and business perspective.
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.
July 24- August 8: Introduction to designing in VR, Introduction to Immersiveness, VR/AR Deployments and limitations
August 9 - August 22: Program Orientation in Finland, Introduction to 3D tools, Designing for XR, Company Visits, XR Design Sprint.
Enrollment in a University of Washington Study Abroad course in Summer B term 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
Not included in the above fees (participant responsibility):
- Travel to Helsinki (flights)
- UW mandatory travel insurance
- UW Study Abroad Fees
- Other meals and incidentals not covered above
Financial Aid and Scholarships may be applied to this program.
Scholarships
There are many scholarships designed to fund students studying abroad. UW Study Abroad administers a study abroad scholarship program and there are national awards available as well.
Scholarships vary widely in their parameters. Some are need-based, some are location-based, and some are merit-based.
To be considered for a UW Study Abroad Scholarship, fill out a short questionnaire on your UW Study Abroad program application. Visit the Scholarships page for more information about awarding timelines. Consult our Scholarships page to learn about UW-based and national scholarships. The Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships, and Awards can help you learn about additional opportunities.
Financial Aid
A large percentage of UW students utilize financial aid to study abroad. Most types of financial aid can be applied to study abroad fees.
You can submit a revision request to increase the amount of aid for the quarter you are studying abroad. These additional funds are usually awarded in the form of loans. To apply, fill out a revision request form, attach the program cost sheet (available below), and submit these documents to the Office of Student Financial Aid. For more information about this process, consult the Financial Aid section of our website.
Please consult the study abroad finance page for more information.
Attend a Virtual Info Session
Sign up for program updates and to register for a virtual online information session!