Overview
On-site in Tartu 27 July – 7 August 2026
From hybrid warfare tactics to AI-generated content, the flood of information in today’s attention economy polarises societies and strains civil discourse. This summer school offers a clear, structured look at these issues through the lens of media and communication. Over two weeks, participants will explore why public discussion spaces falter, how disinformation spreads, and what practical steps can strengthen resilience. Drawing on media studies, scientific literacy, and critical analysis, the course blends conceptual understanding with applied exercises, helping participants navigate the complexities of information disorder in both academic and professional contexts.
Across thirteen days, participants will engage with key questions: What makes disinformation a “wicked problem”? How do public discussion spaces become vulnerable? Sessions combine conceptual introductions with practical exercises, including case studies, media literacy approaches, and hands-on OSINT practice. Topics range from research quality and scientific literacy to AI-driven challenges, hybrid warfare tactics, and resilience strategies at individual, institutional, and policy levels.
The course is designed for critical engagement rather than technical mastery, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the dynamics of information disorder and practical insights into countering its effects. This is a great preparatory course for anyone considering a master’s or doctoral degree and wanting to try out research methods in the context of information disorder.
Accreditation
Every seven years, all Estonian higher education institutions must undergo external evaluation – institutional accreditation. The latest assessment took place in 2022. The assessment council of the Estonian Quality Agency for Education decided to accredit the University of Tartu for the next seven years (2023-2029).
Programme Structure
Learning outcomes
Audience
bachelor's, master's, lifelong learners
Lecturers
- Lecturers
Maria Murumaa-Mengel• Ragne Kõuts-Klemm• Andra Siibak• Marju Himma• Ebe Pilt• Maia Klaassen• Inger Klesment• Anna Danielyan• Gretel Juhansoo
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 13 days
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
-
Apply by 26 March 2026 to get the Early Bird discount of!
Language
Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- Tartu, Estonia
Disciplines
Environmental Economics & Policy Political Science Digital MediaWhat students do after studying
Academic requirements
We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.
English requirements
We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.
Other requirements
General requirements
Entry requirements:
- Online application form (application period March20 - April 20 2026)
- Motivation letter (up to 1 page) that demonstrates the applicant’s motivation to participate, his/her expectations about the programme, how participation in the summer programme relates to his/her studies and interests, and how the applicant plans to use the gained experience and knowledge in the future.
- Transcript of academic records
- Copy of passport
- Application fee of 25 EUR
PS: Only complete applications including all annexes submitted by the deadline will be considered for selection.
Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner
Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.
Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.
Get your student insurance nowStarting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.
Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Tartu and/or in Estonia, please visit Student Insurance Portal.
Tuition Fees
-
International Applies to you
Applies to youNon-residents700 EUR / full≈ 700 EUR / full -
EU/EEA Applies to you
Applies to youEU/EEA Nationals700 EUR / full≈ 700 EUR / full
Living costs
Tartu
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
1. Estonian National Scholarships at StudyinEstonia.ee.
You can read more about the scholarships on the homepage of StudyinEstonia.ee.
2. ENLIGHT scholarship
More information and the application form are on the ENLIGHT scholarship page: https://ut.ee/en/content/enlight-scholarship
3. Full tuition fee scholarship. The University of Tartu offers one scholarship for the course "Acute and Chronic Kidney Disease: Contemporary Diagnostic Techniques and Procedures": https://ut.ee/en/content/ut-full-tuition-fee-coverage