What to Expect in Your First Semester at Social Entrepreneurship Master’s Programme?
Unlike traditional university courses where students spend most of their time in auditoriums, SEMA is designed to be dynamic, hands-on, and highly engaging from day one. But what exactly does a typical semester look like for SEMA students? Let’s break it down.
Starting a master’s programme can be both exciting and overwhelming, and for students joining Tallinn University’s Social Entrepreneurship Master’s Programme (SEMA), the experience is anything but conventional.
A Hands-On Learning Experience from Day One
New students often start with the expectation of long hours spent in auditoriums attending lectures. However, SEMA is structured quite differently. From the very beginning of their studies, students find themselves in a fast-paced environment that combines academic learning with practical experience.
As Tallinn University professor, Dr Audrone Urmanaviciene puts it, "This is what we mean when we are talking about social entrepreneurship—that you are not just sitting in a class, but you’re also actively involved in many events and competitions."
The curriculum provides a strong foundation in social entrepreneurship, innovation, ethics and management - all of which are crucial for developing a successful social enterprise. But one of the key features of SEMA is its strong connection to the real world. Students have the opportunity to meet and learn from international professors and industry practitioners from diverse fields.
SEMA also integrates field visits to social enterprises and NGOs into each semester. These visits help students witness first-hand the challenges and opportunities within the sector, providing them with a deeper understanding of societal and environmental issues. Such experiences broaden their perspectives and inspire innovative solutions to pressing social problems.
Prototype, Test, and Iterate!
Rather than waiting until the final stages of the programme, students are encouraged to start building and testing their ideas as soon as possible. This hands-on approach ensures they gain practical experience early on, learning through experimentation and feedback.
Not every student enters the programme with a fully formed business idea, and that’s completely okay. SEMA is designed to be a space for exploration and growth. If a student’s initial project doesn’t work out, they have the flexibility to pivot, join another team, or explore different areas of social entrepreneurship. This adaptability is an essential skill in the field, allowing students to find the best role and contribution that aligns with their passions and strengths.
Students often begin by developing small-scale versions of their projects, gathering feedback, and refining their concepts. This iterative process is crucial in shaping viable social enterprises that can create meaningful impact. Additionally, the programme fosters collaboration, allowing students to join existing projects or form teams with like-minded peers to bring innovative ideas to life.
As Dr Audrone Urmanaviciene explains, "We are not waiting a lot actually. We really expect that students will try to build and test—maybe not on a very large scale, but on small-scale versions. And, of course, they would start to gather feedback about their activities and their programmes."
Through participation in hackathons, startup competitions and public events, students refine their pitching skills, gain confidence, and receive constructive feedback from experts. This real-world experience is invaluable in preparing them for the challenges of running a social enterprise.
Support from Experienced Mentors
A strong support system is integral to student success, and SEMA offers just that. Each student has access to highly qualified mentors, including experienced social entrepreneurs, business leaders, and academics. Regular mentorship meetings are built into the semester schedule, ensuring that students receive the necessary support to develop their ventures effectively.
Tallinn University Social Entrepreneurship Master’s programme is an immersive and transformative experience that goes beyond traditional education. Through a blend of theoretical learning, practical application, mentorship, and real-world exposure, students develop the skills and mindset needed to create meaningful social change.
For those looking to embark on a journey in social entrepreneurship Apply here
In case of questions regarding the content of the program, please contact Katri-Liis Lepik kllepik@tlu.ee
In case of questions regarding the technical admission process, please contact: admissions@tlu.ee
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An article based on the interview with Tallinn University professor, Dr Audrone Urmanaviciene.