The Estonian Academy of Arts, founded in 1914, is the only public university in Estonia offering higher education in architecture, design, arts and art culture. It is an active study and research institution and the leading national center of innovation in visual culture, shaping the regional cultural space and helping to create a more sustainable living environment. EKA is listed among Top 200 Architecture and Design Universities in the World by QS World University Rankings. Currently there are more than 1200 students enrolled in the Academy, with many participating in exchange programmes at international partner universities. In addition to active study and research activities, EKA also offers lifelong learning opportunities through the Open Academy. EKA collaborates with more than a hundred universities worldwide and belongs to several international higher education networks. The lecturers and instructors are professionals in their field — internationally recognised artists, architects, designers, historians, and scholars. Visiting lecturers from universities in Estonia and abroad are regular guests. While offering a wide selection of specialities, EKA also offers unique, individualised study and personal mentorship by members of the faculty. The departments are strong bodies of competence on their own, while at the same time facilitating synergy and interdisciplinary studies. Many faculties have been operating for close to a century. They have lengthy experience and historical continuity, and also pioneer change in their field. EKA welcomes motivated people who are visually and socially sensitive and want to develop their thinking abilities, opportunities, and potential as creative people. The goal of the Academy is for graduates to be able to function successfully in society and work as independent creators and thinkers. That is why the curricula are formed in such a way as to develop the analytical ability and critical thinking of students.