Over the years, more than 80 students have participated and had the unique opportunity to study and reside three weeks in Amsterdam -- a city that represents the perfect context in which to study Planning & Living Cities.

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 neighborhood design, housing finance and policy, city planning and sustainability, and the impact of household and demographic change on urban lives and spaces.

In this program students will explore housing, planning and policy issues in European cities as well as consider how these apply in other regions of the world. With a focus on real urban contexts, the course will examine subjects such as architecture and neighbourhood design, housing finance and policy, urban planning and sustainability, and the impact of household and demographic change. Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most vibrant and attractive cities, providing a fascinating laboratory for the exploration and examination of urban issues. 

 Including lectures on the following topics:

  • Dutch architecture and urban design
  • City spaces and urban places
  • Homes, housing and household issues
  • Neighbourhoods
  • Housing and Finance
  • City living and social segregation
  • Non Profit Housing Associations
  • Housing/urban planning/Issues in other countries
  • Urban development and redevelopment in a European context

Student profile:

  • Applicants for this summer course must be at least undergraduate (Bachelor) students entering their 3rd or 4th year. A minimum of a 2.75 GPA is required. 
  • Students from any major are welcome to apply but at least one class in the social sciences is required.  A general interest in the social sciences and an open mind are necessary. 
  • Graduate students and professionals are also encouraged to apply.

Tuition fee  € 1675 includes:

  • Trip to Belgium, including cost of overnight hotel stay
  • All excursions (transportation, entrance fees, etc.)
  • Access to all course materials on blackboard
  • public transportation card
  • All site visits
  • Lunch on class days
  • Welcome drinks and Farewell lunch
  • Transcript from the UvA

The tuition fee does not include travel to and from Amsterdam nor housing.

Online application and more information and scholarship possibilities.1

  • 1. http://gsss.uva.nl/summer-winter/summer/summer-programmes/summer-programmes/content/folder/urban-studies-planning-and-living-in-cities/tuition-costs-scholarships/tuition-costs--scholarships.html