The master's programme also places great emphasis on fieldwork and real-world issues, which meant I often found myself exploring the neighbourhoods we were studying and engaging with actual policymakers.
Anne Lammers
Alumna Urban Governance of Inclusive Sustainable Cities, current position stakeholder manager at Rainbow Management
After completing my Bachelor's in Public Administration at Erasmus University Rotterdam, I pursued a Master's in Urban Governance. During my undergraduate studies, I realized just how much policy decisions shape our lives, including the physical environments we live in. Given the profound impact our surroundings have on our happiness and well-being, I was drawn to making a difference in this area. The master's programme was a perfect fit for my aspirations.
The programme provides multiple perspectives on urban management and encourages students to develop their own viewpoints. I learned to examine urban issues through various lenses—social, economic, and sustainability—allowing me to deliver more comprehensive and realistic recommendations. This approach is strengthened by the collaboration between the Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences and the Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies. The master's programme also places great emphasis on fieldwork and real-world issues, which meant I often found myself exploring the neighbourhoods we were studying and engaging with actual policymakers. In the Urban Governance Labs, we even provided advice on a live project. Although it was challenging, this hands-on experience prepared me for my career in ways that a traditional classroom setting could not.
Another aspect of the programme I valued was its focus on personal development. During the Urban Governance Lab, instructors worked with us to set personal development goals, helping me identify my strengths and areas for growth. This experience not only boosted my skills but also prepared me to meet the expectations of future employers.
Today, I work at Rainbow Management, a consultancy firm in the construction and infrastructure sector. In my role, I’ve advised on public participation processes for a car-free city center project, managed stakeholders during maintenance on several tunnels, and explored the use of AI in our field. The Master’s in Urban Governance provided me with the practical skills and insights that have been crucial in my professional journey, and it was an important stepping stone toward a fulfilling career.