After graduation

Opportunities after graduating

Upon completing this master track, you will be able to analyse complex urban governance challenges and design inclusive, sustainable strategies to address them. You’ll also learn how to manage governance processes effectively and act as a broker or advisor in diverse urban development projects. This combination of analytical, strategic and practical skills prepares you to make a real impact on the cities of tomorrow.

Where can this master's take you?

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for roles such as:

• Project or programme manager leading large urban development initiatives, such as city centre revitalisation, sustainable port transformation, or neighbourhood regeneration.
• Policy officer or urban planner in local, regional, national or international governments, working on issues like sustainability transitions, citizen participation, mobility and urban renewal.
• Professional in public-private partnerships focused on increasing urban sustainability.
• Advisor or manager in non-profit organisations, such as housing associations, healthcare providers, or social enterprises engaged in neighbourhood and community development.
• Policy advisor, researcher or consultant at a think tank, knowledge institute or consultancy firm, designing and guiding co-creation processes between citizens and urban service providers.

Labour market prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Urban Governance of Inclusive Sustainable Cities are highly sought after on the labour market. A survey among 167 alumni of Public Administration master specialisations at Erasmus University Rotterdam shows that nearly all found employment immediately after graduation. About 11% secured a permanent position right away, while 34% started roles with a clear pathway to a permanent contract. Around 40% began with temporary positions, and 17% entered traineeships to develop their expertise further.
Roughly half of these alumni work for the central government or municipalities, contributing to public policy and urban development. An additional 13% found roles in education and healthcare, sectors closely linked to the public domain. Around 20% work in the private sector, including consultancy firms and organisations involved in urban development and governance projects.
The career outlook for graduates of the Urban Governance track is similar, given the growing demand for professionals who can design and manage inclusive, sustainable urban policies and work effectively across sectors and disciplines.