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This year’s admissions at TTK University of Applied Sciences demonstrate that an increasing number of young people, as well as adults planning a career change or investing in their professional development, are choosing degree programmes that prepare graduates to design, develop and lead solutions in construction, industry, energy and logistics. This year, Estonia’s largest university of applied sciences received 4,916 applications, averaging 6.15 applications per study place—an increase of 40.8% compared to the previous year.
Applications increased across all degree programmes, with growth coming equally from recent school graduates and professionals already in the labour market. Interest in technology and engineering programmes grew particularly strongly. The largest increases in applicant numbers were recorded in Robotics (+136%), Electrical Engineering (+68%), Accounting (+63.8%), Production Management and Digitalisation (+50.3%), and Mechanical Engineering (+42.8%). The sharp rise in interest in Robotics was supported by the introduction of a part-time study option alongside the existing full-time programme.
“When Estonia speaks about smart industry, energy security or a sustainably built environment, achieving these goals begins with people who know how to design and implement these solutions. This year’s application figures show that more and more young people are willing to take on that responsibility. It is a clear sign of confidence in engineering education and an important investment in Estonia’s future,” said Martti Kiisa, Rector of TTK University of Applied Sciences.
Admissions data also show that engineering is becoming increasingly attractive to younger applicants. Among candidates aged 20 and under, four of the five most popular programmes are engineering degrees: Building Construction, Automotive Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. Transport and Logistics also ranks among the most popular choices in this age group.
Among applicants aged over 25, programme choices reflect the growing importance of lifelong learning. The most popular programmes are those offered in part-time study mode, including Social Work, Accounting, and Business Development and Management. Among engineering programmes, Building Construction is the most popular in this age group, indicating that technical higher education is increasingly seen as an opportunity to expand professional expertise and advance careers.
According to Kiisa, one of the most significant trends is the growing number of students progressing from vocational education to higher professional education. The highest shares of applicants with a vocational education background are found in Robotics (33.6%), Electrical Engineering (26.6%), Mechanical Engineering (24.3%), and Automotive Engineering (22.9%). “This shows that an increasing number of young people see vocational education not as the end of their educational journey, but as the next step towards higher education. Creating these seamless learning pathways has been an important objective of Estonia’s education policy—to ensure that vocational education provides a strong foundation for continuing studies in higher professional education and for becoming an engineer or a highly qualified specialist,” Kiisa added.
TTK University of Applied Sciences is Estonia’s largest state university of applied sciences, comprising six institutes, 18 degree programmes and nearly 3,000 students. Teaching takes place in Tallinn and Mõdriku in Lääne-Viru County. With a strong emphasis on practical education, the university is a valued partner for businesses and public sector organisations.
