Urban Changemakers
Cities such as Amsterdam are commonly densely populated and heterogeneous. The melting pot of cultures and varied backgrounds of city residents create the vibrant urban spaces that we know. Cities with universities are typically more diverse, bringing creative minds together that facilitate change, innovate and question the norm. In this programme, students will explore differences and similarities between their home university city and Amsterdam, to identify commonly found urban issues. Students will ultimately learn how to tackle these problems in order to make change for the better.
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Programme at a glance
Mode of instruction: On-campus (4 weeks) Academic dates: Sunday 20 July - Thursday 7 August Housing dates: Friday 18 July - Friday 8 August Academic fees:
Student Fee:
€1750. Read more about what's included in the fees.
Professional Fee:
€2000. Read more about what's included in the fees.
Housing fees: €825 for a private room with shared facilities. Housing is optional. Read more about university-organised accomodation.
Credits: 6 European Credits. Read more about credits and credit transfer. Early admission deadline: Saturday 1 February 2025
Students who require a Schengen Visa to study in the Netherlands are strongly advised to apply before the early deadline to ensure there is enough time to secure a visa appointment before the programme begins.
Final admission deadline: Saturday 15 March 2025 Who is this programme for? Level: Bachelors students.
Background: Students should have a background in the social sciences or humanities. Students should have an interest in changemaking, have an open-mind and are passionate about exploring today's societal issues from various perspectives.
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Programme description
In this four-week programme, we will dive into several areas relevant to urban life. In week one, we will explore the various societal challenges Amsterdam has faced in its long history. Students will be challenged to identify how these challenges resonate within their home cities, whilst also looking to the future. In week two, we'll delve into empowerment and leadership. Week three is pride week in Amsterdam: the perfect time to discuss sexuality, gender and identity. Finally, in week four we'll address urban mental health, diving into problems but also into possible solutions (such as mindfulness).
By the end of this programme, students will possess a deeper understanding of the dynamics and complexities of urban life. They'll be equipped with the tools and knowledge to become a real changemaker, both in their own lives and their home cities.
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Programme director
Amber Howard is currently completing her joint PhD between the department of Health Policy at the University of Melbourne, and the department of Geography, Planning, and Int. Development Studies at the University of Amsterdam. Her research explores young adult’s changing housing arrangements over the 2000s in high-income countries, with a focus on socio-economic inequalities. Prior to commencing her PhD, Amber completed a master degree in Urban Planning at UvA and began her career in research for an architectural firm specialising in sustainable community development. Amber has taught in and co-coordinated master’s programmes in Urban Planning and Public Health at University of Melbourne.
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Explore our community
Want to get to know more about studying in Amsterdam? Follow us on social media and join our summer community. Get a feel for our summer school vibe and our academic and social community, and learn about studying with us through the eyes of past summer school students.
- Mode
- Short-term
- Credits
- 8 ECTS, 4 weeks
- Language of instruction
- English
- Starts in
- July