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Human geography & Social Sciences

Urban Changemakers

When:

18 July - 08 August 2025

School:

University of Amsterdam Summer School

Institution:

University of Amsterdam

City:

Amsterdam

Country:

Netherlands

Language:

English

Credits:

6 EC

Fee:

6 EUR

Interested?
Urban Changemakers

About

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.

Course leader

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.

Target group

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.

Course aim

Housing and urban issues have come to the forefront of social, economic and environmental debates in recent years as metropolitan modes of living have become even more widespread and globally pervasive.

In this three-week programme, students will explore the fundamental issues that are shaping the development and evolution of cities in the 21st century. With a focus on real urban places, set in both contemporary and historical contexts, the course will examine subjects such as architecture and neighbourhood design, housing finance and policy, city planning and sustainability, and the impact of household and demographic change on urban lives and spaces.

Fee info

Fee

6 EUR

Interested?

When:

18 July - 08 August 2025

School:

University of Amsterdam Summer School

Institution:

University of Amsterdam

Language:

English

Credits:

6 EC

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