Tallinn church skyline sunset
Tallinn, Estonia

Semester in Tallinn

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

19 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

17 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

-

17 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

-

41 weeks

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Spend your semester living and learning in the Gem of the Baltic! Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, the Semester in Tallinn program is the perfect chance to earn credits toward your degree while immersing yourself in Estonian culture.  

When class is in session, you'll choose from a unique mix of flexible and diverse courses at CIEE Tallinn and one of CIEE's renowned partner institutions, Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) or The University of Tallinn (TLU). TalTech offers courses in English, while TLU provides courses in English as well as options for learning Russian. You may also enroll in courses with a local flavor, like language, politics, sustainability initiatives, programming, or cybersecurity and digital learning games.

Outside the classroom, you'll have every opportunity to participate actively in the Estonian community. Immerse yourself in the local culture with optional credit-bearing internships, volunteering opportunities, or language programs. Don’t stop there; round out your study abroad adventure by participating in co-curricular and extracurricular activities and off-the-beaten-path trips organized by CIEE to appreciate Tallinn’s impressive cultural attractions and landmarks. 

Unique Experiences

Visit Tallinn’s Old Town

one of the best-preserved medieval cities

Explore Tallinn’s Natural Beauty

by canoeing or kayaking in thousands of rivers and lakes

Take a Moment To Relax

at one of Estonia’s saunas

50% +

Of Estonian Land Is Covered by Forest

318 M

Height of Suur Munamägi (Big Egg Hill)

450 K

Population of Tallinn

Experience
  • downtown tallinn estonia aerial view
  • Tallinn girl overlooking city skyline
  • Tallinn Old Town at night

Your Destination

Situated on the border of Russia and only a short ferry ride away from Finland, Estonia is an incredible Baltic nation known for being a member of the European Union, Eurozone, and NATO. The country boasts a thriving democracy and is highly developed, with exceptionally advanced digital infrastructure in place.  

Estonia’s cultural hub, Tallinn, will be your backdrop while studying abroad in northeastern Europe. Historic gates, defensive towers, cobblestone streets, hilltop castles, and beautiful cathedrals all contribute to Tallinn – also known as the “Gem of the Baltic” – being recognized as one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Today, Tallinn is not only famed for being Estonia’s capital and largest city; it’s also renowned for being the “Silicon Valley of Europe,” as the city is nearly 100% digital.  

From Estonia’s 18 exceptional universities, CIEE established partnership with the Tallinn University of Technology (a highly ranked institution known worldwide for its Science & Technology faculty) and Tallinn University (a relatively new, but also highly ranked institution with a focus on innovation, academic excellence, and societal impact). Therefore, you’ll have ample opportunities to study emerging academic topics including cyber and energy security, environmental science, entrepreneurship, as well Baltic languages and culture, Russian language, and international public diplomacy.

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Tallinn.

The Culture

Tallinn Tartu cathedral

Excursions & Activities

  • Visit famous landmarks including Toompea Hill, Tallinn Town Wall, and the Kohtuotsa viewing platform  
  • Take day trips to nearby Estonian cities including Tartu, Pärnu, and Narva  
  • Enjoy a ferry ride to Estonia’s largest islands, Saaremaa and Hiiumaa 
  • Try canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and cycling tours 
Tallinn girls with tv camera

Projects

Internship: For-credit, English-speaking internships at businesses in a variety of industry sectors allow students to gain practical real-world work experience. In addition to on-site business experience, students participating in an internship program have a weekly classroom component, which provides academic support to supplement their practical experience.  

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Reflecting on My Experience with CIEE in Tallinn - Peace & Diplomacy Program

By CIEE Tallinn at CIEE

Meet Vara: An Alumnus of the Diplomacy and Peace Program in Tallinn Vara, an alumnus of the Diplomacy and Peace program in Tallinn, Estonia, has an inspiring journey to share... keep reading

From CIEE

A Journey of Peace and Diplomacy Program in Tallinn

By CIEE Tallinn at CIEE

A Journey of Peace and Diplomacy in Tallinn: Reflecting on an Unforgettable Experience Greetings from Tallinn, Estonia! As the first session of our Peace and Diplomacy program for high school... keep reading

From CIEE

CIEE Tallinn's First Overnight Trip to Helsinki

By CIEE Tallinn at CIEE

Greetings from CIEE Tallinn! This weekend we had our first overnight trip to the beautiful city of Helsinki, Finland. Packed with cultural discoveries, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences, our journey... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

The Semester in Tallinn program offers students the opportunity to combine CIEE classes with classes taught at one of two universities in Tallinn: TalTech or TLU. Each university offers a range of courses with an interdisciplinary approach. Students are encouraged to actively participate in activities, seminars, and projects.   

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) is the only technological university in Estonia. It is a research-based university offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in technology, applied science, information technology, business, and maritime studies.  

Tallinn University (TLU) is a public university located in Tallinn and is the third-largest university in Estonia. The university has six institutes and Haapsalu College. Their main focus is on the humanities. Tallinn University is a compact campus with state-of-the-art laboratories, a modern library, a business center, an active student house, a sports hall, several cafes, and numerous student organizations. There is always a way to put what you study into practice. 

Fall classes at the University of Tallinn end in December and official exams can take place in January. Spring classes end in May and official exams can take place in early June. Early exams may be possible but must be confirmed on an individual basis with the professor of each course. Students may be able to take their exams early, though only if they request so at the start of the semester. Housing will be covered until all exams are completed. However, as it is impossible to confirm exam schedules prior to arrival, we advise students who wish to take their exams early to book an airline ticket with a low change fee or a flexible departure date. 

Arizona State University: Enhance your international academic coursework with optional online courses that best align with your degree requirements and interests. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar, so you can study abroad with CIEE while continuing to meet all your academic goals.

GPA

2.5

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

To obtain a visa, students are required to take a minimum of 12 U.S. credits (equivalent to 24 ECTS credits) from one host university. (This represents approximately four to six courses.) Students can take one to two additional courses from CIEE, bringing their total credits to 15-18 credits. Or they can take one additional course at the host institution for a maximum total of 15 credits with that host institution.   

Online Course Options: substitute up to 6 credits online though ASU (after required minimum 12 credits in-person courses)

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-18 semester/18-27 quarter credits 

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours  
  • CIEE Internship: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 15 seminar hours, 100-120 internship placement hours  
  • Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) Courses: Typically 3-4.5 U.S. semester/4.5-6.75 quarter credits; maximum 32 contact hours per 3 U.S. credits   
  • Tallinn University Courses: Typically 3-4.5 U.S. semester/4.5-6.75 quarter credits; maximum 32 contact hours per 3 U.S. credits 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

Courses include lectures, discussions, critical analysis of readings, case studies, audio-visual documents, and field trips. Some courses prioritize work by tasks and group collaboration. Active participation of students is required given the communicative approach of these courses.

Class Format

University classes are typically scheduled Monday through Friday. CIEE classes are scheduled Monday through Thursday. Students should expect to have daily homework assignments and weekly quizzes.   

Grading

Grades in the content courses are based on class participation, a mid-term exam, research papers, oral presentations, and a final exam. Each instructor determines the exact breakdown of grades. Attendance may be mandatory, and absences can affect final grades. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English and/or Russian 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

For students who want to take Russian language courses, previous coursework or placement testing appropriate to the level of course selected is required. 

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Communication, Journalism, and Media

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Languages and Cultural Studies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech)

At TalTech, students may take courses from the School of Business and Governance, School of Information Technologies, School of Engineering, and the School of Science. There is an extensive list of courses available in English. The list is updated regularly. Currently, the list for 2023 Spring semester and 2024 Fall semester is available. 

Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are taught in English and are mostly 3 U.S. credits.  

Some examples of English language courses at TalTech:  

School of Business and Governance  

  • Personal Finance  
  • Microeconomics  
  • Macroeconomics  
  • Statistics  
  • Money, Financial Institutions and Markets  
  • Financial Modelling  
  • International Humanitarian Law and Cyber Conflicts  
  • Industrial Property  

School of Information Technologies  

  • Programming   
  • Discrete Mathematics   
  • Social, Professional and Ethical Aspects of IT  
  • Algorithms and Data Structures   

School of Engineering  

  • Industrial Design Basics   
  • Machine Engineering   
  • Machine Engineering-Project  
  • Digital Manufacturing   
  • Basics of Mechatronics   
  • Statics and Dynamics   
  • Supply Converters and Control of Machines  

School of Science  

  • Fundamentals of Life  
  • Probability Theory and Mathematical Statistics  
  • Scientific Computing   
  • Physics II   

University of Tallinn (TLU)

At TLU, students can take courses from the Baltic Film, Media and Arts School, School of Digital Technologies, School of Educational Sciences, School of Governance, Law and Society, School of Humanities, School of Natural Sciences and Health. The list of courses available in English is available online.

The description for language levels: 

  • A1 - Beginning  
  • A2 - Elementary  
  • B1 - Intermediate 
  • B2 - Upper-intermediate  
  • C1 - Advanced  
  • C2 – Proficiency 

Baltic Film School 

  • Intercultural Communication  
  • Introduction to Crossmedia Environments 
  • Introduction to Estonian Culture  
  • Film History I   
  • Introduction to Digital Media and Crossmedia Environments  

Humanities Department 

  • British Literature from the Renaissance to the Present Day  
  • Estonian B1.2  
  • Estonian B2.2  
  • Academic Estonian C1.2  
  • Practical Estonian A1  
  • Practical Estonian A2  
  • Finnish B2.2  
  • Finnish C1.2  
  • Introduction to Academic French II  
  • German B2.2  
  • German C1.2  
  • Portuguese A1  
  • Spanish B2.2  
  • Spanish C1.2  
  • Russian A2  
  • Russian B1.2  
  • Russian B2.2  
  • Russian C1.2  
  • Chinese Language A2  
  • Chinese Language B1.2  
  • Chinese Language B2.2  
  • Chinese Language C1.1  
  • Turkish A2  
  • Turkish B1.2  

Governance, Law and Society 

  • Social Enterprises and Vocational Rehabilitation  
  • International Commercial Law  
  • European Union Law  
  • International Courts  
  • International Political Economy  

School of Educational Sciences 

  • Supporting Trauma Children  
  • Multicultural Learning Environment  
  • Multimedia Production and Media Education in Learning Process  
  • Educational Technology in Learning Process  
  • Lifelong Education and Social Changes  

School of Digital Technologies 

  • Information Seeking: Sources and Methods  
  • Computer Games  
  • Computer Graphics  

Nature Science and Sports Department 

  • Basic Course of Skiing   
  • Improvement of physical fitness II   
  • Basic Course in Volleyball II  
  • Outdoor Activities II   
  • Sport and Exercise Psychology  

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 

Search ASU Online Courses >

 

Program Options
Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

Tallinn's work scene thrives on tech innovation, e-governance, and diverse industries like finance, engineering, and international relations. Known for the highest startups per capita in Europe, the city emphasizes sustainability, with growing sectors in manufacturing and renewable energy, fostering a forward-looking ecosystem. 

A female intern sits in front of a studio A/V board while recording

Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications

Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.

An intern watches a clothing designer work on a garmet

Consumer Goods and Retail

Explore consumer behaviors, business strategies, international retail trends, and more in the global commerce marketplace.

student interns standing in Spanish Parliament

Government and Public Administration

Gain insight into global policy-making, diplomatic relations, and governance practices in agencies, nonprofits, and firms.

A female intern works on a computer server

Information Technology

Explore diverse tech environments, cutting-edge innovation, and emerging technologies in South Korea, Spain, and more.

A lawyer and an intern reviewing documents in an office

Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security

Experience international legal systems, global justice issues, and law enforcement challenges in courts, firms, and agencies.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Spring 2025 19 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2025 17 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $19,950
Program Fall 2024 17 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $19,850
Program Academic year 2024-2025 41 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $15,206**

Housing = $4,250***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $565

International Airfare = $1,500

Local Transportation = $75††

Books & Supplies = $75

Visa Fees = $100

Personal expenses = $250†††

Total Costs = $2,565

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††Student Transportation Card 30€/month.

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $15,206**

Housing = $4,250***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,950

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $476

International Airfare = $1,500

Local Transportation = $75††

Books & Supplies = $75

Visa Fees = $100

Personal expenses = $220†††

Total Costs = $2,446

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††Student Transportationn Card (13€/month). If nt a student, then 30€/month

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300*

Educational Costs = $15,606**

Housing = $3,750***

Insurance = $194

Total Fees = $19,850

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $476

International Airfare = $1,500

Local Transportation = $75††

Books & Supplies = $75

Visa Fees = $100

Personal expenses = $220†††

Total Costs = $2,446

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††Student Transportationn Card (13€/month). If nt a student, then 30€/month

†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Evelyn Müürsepp

Center Director

Evelyn has 15 years of experience in Estonian Government and two years of experience at CIEE, where she supported the launch of the new CIEE Tallinn Center. Tallinn is Evelyn's...

Mari Prok

Student Life Manager

Mari holds a Master's degree in Social Sciences, blending a multicultural background with over four years of hands-on experience in marketing & IT project management, event planning, and client relations.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing internship abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad. 

3

Contact CIEE

We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

4

Interested in an optional internship?

After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!

Request Info