Course description
In this course, you will learn about the economic forces that underpin urbanisation and shape cities. Along the way, you will be equipped with knowledge and skills that help answer questions such as: Why are firms and people moving to cities? How do we measure the performance of cities? What factors explain why some cities thrive, while others struggle? What can policy makers do to improve the economic, social, and environmental performance of cities? To gain insight into these questions, students will participate in lectures, self-directed work, and field visits.
Amsterdam provides a unique base to learn about cities. From humble beginnings as a bridge over the river Amstel, Amsterdam rose to prominence during the 17th century as a centre of international trade. Today, Amsterdam forms part of a large, prosperous, and inter-connected metropolitan region that sits at the heart of Europe. The course is delivered by the Department of Spatial Economics at Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, whose 60 staff members are actively engaged in multi-disciplinary academic research and policy development. Publications by the Department’s staff are internationally recognised and rank in the top 5% of institutions worldwide in relevant economic disciplines. Many staff also have prominent advisory roles for government and media institutions, linking research to practice.
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