Overview
The course provides an overview of Estonia’s social, educational, and youth policy framework, introducing the professionalisation of youth and community work and practical approaches to promoting inclusion, diversity, and civic participation.
Participants explore key national strategies, such as the Youth Sector Development Plan 2021–2035, alongside European initiatives including Erasmus+ and the European Youth Strategy. The course examines youth work as a profession, covering competence models, qualifications, ethical standards, and its links to community education and lifelong learning.
Special attention is given to inclusion and diversity, with a focus on working with vulnerable and minority groups, ensuring equal opportunities, and supporting intercultural dialogue. Civic competences and participatory democracy are addressed through topics such as youth involvement in decision-making, volunteering, community initiatives, and digital participation platforms. The course also looks ahead to future developments in youth and community work, considering demographic change, digitalisation, and emerging opportunities for innovation and cooperation up to 2035.
Programme Structure
Day 1: Monday, 3 August
Info session in Tartu
Foundations of Youth and Community Work in Estonia
Day 2: Tuesday, 4 August
Professionalisation of Youth and Community Work
Day 3: Wednesday, 5 August
Civic Competences and Participatory Democracy
Day 4: Thursday, 6 August
Democracy, Inclusion and Diversity in Practice
Day 5: Friday, 7 August
Future Scenarios and Innovation
Audience
bachelor's, master's, lifelong learners
Lecturers
Course lecturers
Piret Talur
Programme Director of Community Education and Hobby Activity, UT Viljandi Culture Academy
Lii Araste
Junior Lecturer, UT Viljandi Culture Academy
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 5 days
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before
-
Register by March 26 2026 to get the early bird discount!
Language
Credits
Delivered
Campus Location
- Tartu, Estonia
Disciplines
Education Childhood StudiesWhat 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
Only fully completed applications, including all required annexes, received by the deadline (20 April) will be considered for selection. Applicants must submit the following:
- Online application form(application period: 20 March–20 April 2026)
- Motivation letter (maximum 1 page), explaining:
- your motivation to participate;
- your expectations for the programme;
- how the summer course relates to your studies and interests;
- how you plan to use the knowledge and experience gained in the future.
- Transcript of academic records
- Copy of your passport
- Proof of payment of the application fee (25 EUR)
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-residents500 EUR / year≈ 500 EUR / year -
Domestic Applies to you
Applies to youCitizens or residents500 EUR / year≈ 500 EUR / year
Living costs
Tartu
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.