The study programme in a nutshell

This master track offers an inspiring and practice-oriented learning experience. You’ll follow a dynamic mix of core and elective courses, skills training, and interactive working groups, all designed to help you develop both academic insight and practical expertise. You’ll learn directly from internationally renowned scholars and experienced urban practitioners who bring real-world challenges into the classroom.

A unique highlight is the Urban Governance Lab, where theory meets practice. In the Lab, you’ll work on real-life urban issues, design governance strategies, and advise professionals from the field—bridging the gap between academic knowledge and professional application. You’ll also complete your own research project (thesis), applying cutting-edge theories and social scientific research methods to explore urban governance topics you’re passionate about.

Mode of education

The programme combines academic rigour with practical learning in real-world settings. You'll engage in a variety of teaching methods designed to encourage interaction between students and teachers, students and practitioners, and among your peers. Alongside leading scholars' lectures, you'll participate in pedagogical games, action planning exercises, fieldwork and excursions.
Courses offer the latest theoretical and empirical insights in urban governance, while the Urban Governance Labs and working group sessions help you translate these insights into practical solutions. You'll also develop professional skills through group work and seminars - such as stakeholder analysis, strategy design and advising. Guest lectures from urban professionals bring fresh perspectives and real-world experience into the classroom. Finally, the Urban Governance Lab also helps foster a strong group identity and collaborative spirit among students, preparing you for the teamwork that urban governance demands.

The curriculum is subject to alteration. No rights may be derived from this information (including the information via the links).