Christmas Experience Academy

“Christmas Experience Academy” Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) 1-30 September 2025 (5 ECTS) is designed for students who are interested in the production and consumption of tourism experiences. The BIP is hosted by the University of Lapland in collaboration with the University of the Balearic Islands, University of Maribor, and University of Lisbon. 

The Christmas Experience Academy offers a unique opportunity to explore the production and consumption of tourism experiences. Learning takes place with real companies under the supervision of a team of lecturers from four different European universities. Our lecturers are actively involved in academic research and many of them act as advisers and consultants to private and public organizations.

Rovaniemi is one of the most exciting and magical places in the world. For no other reason, Santa Claus has made it his official residence. Being part of the Christmas Experience Academy will give you the opportunity to study and live in one of the world’s leading tourism destinations. Furthermore, you will have access to the backstage of some of the companies responsible for the production of tourism experiences in Rovaniemi. While the Santa Claus brand is central to the tourism experiences in Rovaniemi, this course also focuses on businesses that offer experiences not directly related to this Santa Claus brand to offer a broader understanding of tourism in this region of Lapland.

In addition to your studies in the Christmas Experience Academy, you will also have the chance to relax and enjoy free time with your fellow students. The social programme will give you a chance to see some of the main sights in Rovaniemi and, of course, meet our most famous inhabitant “Santa Claus”.

Student Experiences from previous implementations

I would recommend attending an academy like this to every student, to brighten one’s academic horizons!

German student

The way the course was organized, the combination of theory and practice on a daily basis, what a fabulous idea!

Belgian student

For me, the course was great and beyond my expectations. I was in a constant flow.

Dutch student
Last updated: 3.9.2025