Is this the programme you're looking for?
Are you curious about how cities can lead the way in tackling urgent challenges like inequality, housing and climate change—while ensuring inclusive and just outcomes? Then the master track Urban Governance of Inclusive Sustainable Cities is the perfect choice for you.
Practical information
- Type
- Master
- Degree
- MSc
- Mode of study
- Full-time
- Instruction language
- English
- Duration
- 1 year
- Study points (EC)
- 60
- Location
- Campus Woudestein
- Application Deadline (EEA)
- 1 June
The study programme in a nutshell
Shape the Cities of Tomorrow
Are you passionate about making cities more inclusive and sustainable? Cities are dynamic centres of cultural, social and political innovation, but they also face complex governance challenges. Our master's track in Urban Governance of Inclusive Sustainable Cities gives you the knowledge and skills to become a changemaker in this field. Offered jointly by the Department of Public Administration & Sociology and the Institute of Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS), this unique programme blends expertise in urban policy, politics and governance with cutting-edge insights from urban planning and management. Prepare to lead the way in designing and implementing solutions for the cities of the future.
Watch the study programme video

What you will learn
This master track offers a dynamic blend of courses (both core and elective), skills training, and interactive working group sessions. You’ll learn directly from internationally renowned scholars and experienced urban practitioners. A highlight of the programme is the Urban Governance Lab, where theory meets practice: here, you’ll sharpen your skills by analysing real urban challenges, designing governance strategies, and advising professionals in the field. You’ll also conduct your own research project (thesis), applying cutting-edge theories and research methods to explore the urban governance issues that matter most to you.
Is this the right programme for you?
- Earn your MSc from a top 100 university and benefit from the expertise of two leading partners. The Department of Public Administration ranks #1 worldwide in the 2024 Shanghai Academic Ranking for Public Administration.
- Learn from renowned scholars and experienced urban policy professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom.
- Put your knowledge into action in our interactive Urban Governance Labs, where you’ll tackle real-life urban governance challenges and design practical solutions.
- Build your professional network and prepare for your future career through project work and field visits to key local stakeholders like the Municipality of Rotterdam.
- Gain in-depth knowledge of current trends and innovative approaches in urban governance, including circular economy, placemaking, co-creation, and community-led urban development.
- Broaden your perspective with international case studies, a diverse student body, and teaching staff from around the globe.
- Explore the world further with exchange opportunities at top partner universities across Europe.
Want to know more? Meet us here

Career opportunities after graduation
As a graduate, you’ll be ready to tackle complex urban challenges and design strategies for inclusive, sustainable cities. Our alumni build careers as:
- Project managers in urban development and regeneration
- Policy advisors at local, regional, national and international levels
- Consultants and analysts for public institutions, NGOs, and private firms
You might work on themes like sustainability, mobility, co-creation, city planning and infrastructure - helping shape tomorrow’s cities at organisations such as municipalities, housing associations, international agencies, consultancies, or research institutes. With your expertise, you’ll be prepared to make a real difference in urban governance worldwide.