MSc in Technology of Wood, Plastics and Textiles

Teaching is organised into modules combining lectures, seminars and laboratory work in the recently renovated laboratory of Polymer Physics and Technology, which is equipped with state-of-the-art devices. The programme also emphasises the basic practical knowledge of CAD-engineering programmes and CAM-manufacturing technologies as they are extremely important in every industrial sector all over the world. The curriculum gives students the unique opportunity to implement their individual research projects in collaboration with various companies.

Why this programme?

• All courses are taught by using blended learning solutions (face-to-face + e-learning) which makes the learning process more flexible.
• Students have the opportunity to visit different wood-, plastic, and furniture products manufacturing companies, so they are getting familiar with the production.
• Three hands-on scientific research or industrial projects develop students’ skills and provide a smooth transition from university studies to a professional career

Regarding the forest resource in Estonia, we are among the five richest countries in Europe. Extensive forest, which covers 51% of Estonian landscape, has resulted in perfect conditions for high-tech timber and timber products industry. 25% of Estonian export sales are made up of wood, timber, wood-based products, furniture and plastic products, and that is why our department has a strong connection with the industry. Therefore, our professors not only teach but also have practical experience thanks to their continuous cooperation with companies.

Jaan Kers
Professor of Woodworking
Head of the M.Eng. Programme

Future career

The programme gives students vocational and professional preparation for working in the international engineering industry as a designer/constructor, specialist, industrial engineer or middle manager. This curriculum gives valuable knowledge and the practical experience necessary to work with customised furniture projects (hotels, restaurants, public sector buildings, cruise ships) or material selection and technology development for plastic products manufacturing. Skills in CAD/CAM engineering work in connection with knowledge about the technological properties of wood-, laminates, plywood, chipboard, medium-density fibreboard, plastics, metals, leather, textiles and composite materials that might come in handy for different professions.

Students say

Specialising in wood technology can lead to work in many careers like design, project management, laboratories, production or even entrepreneurial. Introducing artistic multifunctional furniture to the market-place is just one example of an appealing professional job in this industry. These are the challenges that led to the development of the U-CAT robot in TalTech. This region has a long history of wood innovation and the Nordic model is noticeable in the lifestyle and education system as well.

Alaa AlBarazi, Syria
Student of Technology of Wood, Plastics and Textiles

Admission

Students for TalTech international study programmes are admitted based on the admission threshold. Online interview will be conducted only to candidates who have passed the preliminary evaluation. The maximum score for all parts of the examination is 10 points. An applicant who receives a minimum of 5 points is admitted.

Programme specific requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in natural sciences or technical fields.

In order to qualify for the studies at Tallinn University of Technology, an applicant has to have at least 60% of the highest possible CGPA.

Motivation letter

Please include the following:

• The interest of specialisation (Wood Technology or Technology of Plastics and Textiles), highlight why you would like to attend the chosen programme and why you chose this specialisation;
• Previous working and studying experiences;
• Ideas for master's thesis, your future academic and career goals;
• Knowledge about the curriculum.

NB! It is important to properly cite and reference any sources used in your motivation letter (quotations, publications, ideas etc. that are not your own). Neglecting the rules of referencing and citation is considered plagiarism and will result in the disqualification of your application.

Online interview and test

During the online interview, a candidate must also complete a short test that is related to the chosen specialisation. The whole interview takes approximately 30 minutes.

Aspects evaluated during the interview:

• How do you plan to finance your stay/study in Estonia?
• Have you been studying or working abroad in your home country? Work experience.
• What is your motivation to study Wood Technology or Technology of Plastics and Textiles?
• Future plans? Do you plan to continue in science or industry?
• What do you know about our programme?
• Have you studied CAD/CAM Technologies?
• Language evaluation based on communication.