Micro-degree programmes and micro-credential programmes

From the autumn semester of 2026/2027, the University of Tartu offers micro-degree programmes and micro-credential programmes.

It is a right choice if you:

  • need to refresh your professional knowledge because you completed your previous studies a while ago;
  • need specialised competencies in a narrow field;
  • want to improve your employability;
  • are planning a career change;
  • want to broaden your professional network.

A micro-degree programme is a longer, comprehensive continuing education programme based on degree-study courses. It gives adult learners a flexible opportunity to acquire an additional specialisation or professional competence in a narrow field. The volume of a UT micro-degree programme is 12–30 ECTS, which means 312–780 hours of studies. The workload and pace are adjusted to suit adult learners, so the programmes can generally be completed within one or two semesters. Participants in a micro-degree programme study usually alongside students, in a block-mode or online format suitable for working individuals. The programmes are provided for a fee. Micro-degree programmes are designed to enable participants to continue their studies in a degree programme at the university, if they wish, and acquire higher education or a degree. Upon completion of the programme, participants receive a continuing education certificate from the University of Tartu.

A micro-credential programme is a comprehensive continuing education programme that corresponds to the needs of the labour market and society and gives a flexible opportunity to acquire an additional specialisation or professional competence in a narrow field. The volume is 5–30 ECTS. While micro-degree programmes consist of degree-study courses and the participants study alongside students, micro-credential programmes are organised in a separate group in a block-mode or online format suitable for working individuals. Micro-credential programmes generally take place within one semester. Learning is fee-based. Upon completion, participants receive a continuing education certificate from the University of Tartu.

Choose a micro-degree programme if you
  • want to take some new courses but do not wish to complete the whole curriculum;
  • want to be sure that your continuing education studies would support your future degree studies and that you have a flexible opportunity to continue studies towards a degree;
Choose a micro-credential programme if you
  • are preparing to apply for a qualification;

Open registration

English-taught micro-degree programmes in 2026/2027

Pharmacist Clinical Skills (20 ECTS), 2300 euros, a higher education required, online. Registration is opened until 1 December.

A micro-credential programme offers a bite-sized opportunity to study at the university

"I was pleasantly surprised when I first saw an ad for the service design micro-credential programme on the university's Facebook page. I felt the university could indeed offer me something as a customer! I had thought about doing a master's in this field before, but it seemed like too big a project to take on besides my other activities," says Lisett Heil, who completed the micro-credential programme at the University of Tartu.

continuing education