Humanities Courses
The Utrecht Summer School offers a variety of academic courses in the humanities. Topics include European studies; cultural diversity; posthuman theory; reviewing internationalisation; and Old Catholic theology.
25 course(s) found
The Atlantic Wall Digital Heritage Approaches to Twentieth Century Conflict
Eighty years after the liberation of the Netherlands began in Zeeland, many sections of the Atlantic Wall are yet to be fully recorded and understood. Participants in this project will digitally record and recreate a coastal battery using the latest digital heritage technologies. Team members will come from diverse backgrounds including active and veteran military personnel bringing a range of perspectives and insights to this part of the story…
Waterloo Uncovered Battlefield Excavation
A unique chance to access one of history's greatest battlefields at Waterloo and to work with a world-leading team of archaeologists and historians. Experience first-hand what it's like to uncover the past and to interpret those finds with the guidance of leading experts.
This entry-level course requires no previous archaeological experience and is open to a very limited number of registered university students and to serving and former…
Old Catholic Theology: Communion as Calling and Challenge
This track consists of two connected courses that offer in the first week an introduction to Old Catholic theology in its ecumenical context and in the second week the possibility to deepen your understanding of Old Catholic Theology by in-depth classes related to the subject of Communion. Old Catholic theology is understood as the main theological currents as they exist in the Union of Utrecht of Old Catholic Churches. The courses in the first…
Old Catholic Theology in its Ecumenical Context
This course offers an introduction to Old Catholic theology in an ecumenical context. Old Catholic theology is understood as the main theological currents as reflected in the Union of Utrecht of Old Catholic Churches. The topics covered by the course include the following aspects of Old Catholic theology and tradition: The History of Old Catholicism, Spirituality, Ecumenism, Canon Law and Ecclesiology, Liturgy, and Systematic Theology.
European Cultures and Identities
Have you ever wondered what makes Europeans ‘European’? During this course you will uncover the answers while staying in the beautiful medieval city of Utrecht. You will explore Europe’s cultural pluralism and examine its varied identities that still exist today. Even though the majority of European countries are progressively collaborating on an economic and political level, each of Europe’s countries and peoples still have their own…
European Studies
This special track offers you the opportunity to explore the history and culture of Europe. Studying in the beautiful medieval city of Utrecht, you will not only look into the various European cultures and identities, but also study the key issues related to ‘the rise of modern Europe’ from the Middle Ages to the end of the 19th century. You will examine the three major wars that shaped the 20th century in Europe: WW I and II, and the Cold War.
Dutch Culture in a European Context
This special track offers you the opportunity to study European and Dutch culture in one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the Netherlands: the city of Utrecht. During the first two weeks you will analyse Europe’s cultural pluralism and its varied identities that still exist today. The topics you will study will help you to understand the complicated structure of Europe. We will shed some light on the motives for integration as well as…
Rhetoric Recrafted: Unleashing Your Superpower for the Modern Age
Online course
Are you surprised by your neighbour Karen's political support for the corrupted politician? Do you think Chad, your childhood friend, would really be happier if we all stuck to two genders, had no vaccines for children and only consumed cow milk?
In this rapidly evolving landscape, individuals equipped with critical thinking, empathetic insight, public speaking skills and flexibility will distinguish themselves, safeguarding democratic…
The Science of Fulfillment
Online course
Explore the psychology of happiness and engage in self-discovery to uncover your true purpose to enrich your life’s journey. Craft a mission statement and create a personal blueprint for lasting fulfillment. This unique experience combines scientific knowledge with introspection and fosters a deep connection with nature, enabling you to align your passions not only with your academic pursuits but also with other aspects of your life. It's the…
The Making of Europe: Rise of Civilization
This two-week course will bring you to the heart of Rome, where you will learn about the political, social and religious history behind the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages and the birth of the Renaissance and Baroque. You will study the astonishing Italian accomplishments of the ancient to the early modern era. You will also visit a variety of beautiful ancient sites in the city such as the Pantheon, Colosseum and many more.
Founding Europe: From Antiquity to the 19th Century
Come and study in two of the most exciting cities of Europe: Rome and Utrecht! You will dive into the exhilarating history of Europe, from the rise of civilization in Antiquity to the modern era of the 19th century. Together, these courses will provide you with a thorough knowledge of the history of these cities and nations, as well as an exciting overview of the history and workings of Europe.
European Politics and Economy
The European Union (EU) is a political partnership between 27 democratic European countries. With a population of about 450 million, it has become a major player in global politics. In this course, the European Union is the main object of study. You will be introduced to the Union's history, institutional structures, current aims and future challenges. Lecturers will elaborate on the historical background and the various stages of integration.
European Encounters: Diversity and Integration from West to East
This track is a joint programme on European integration offered by the summer schools of Utrecht University and the University of Latvia. The aim of the track is to introduce the diversity and unity of European identities, the European Union, (shared) foreign policy, security dilemmas and new challenges. The track delves into the different and diverse political and economic perspectives that can be found in Europe, and provides an insight into…
Old Catholic Theology beyond the Basics: In search of being Church in Communion
'Old Catholic Theology beyond the Basics: In Search of Being Church in Communion' focuses on a key topic in Old Catholic theology: communion. In Old Catholic theology, communion with God, with other Christians and with the whole of creation are of paramount importance. Participants in this course will immerse themselves into different aspects of communion. Classes will explore sacramental and liturgical theology, ecumenical theology, eco-…
Unlock Your Dream Career
Online course
Drawing inspiration from the renowned Japanese Ikigai philosophy, you'll learn how to harmonize your passions with purposeful academic pursuits to craft a profoundly satisfying career trajectory. Through dynamic self-exploration, you'll translate newfound awareness into actionable steps, unlocking the door to a career that resonates with your true self and brings lasting fulfillment. This journey promises to set you on the path to a purpose-…
Global Health Ethics & Equity
This summer course focuses on urgent topics in global health ethics and equity. With an enthusiastic team of experts from all over the world, the current major challenges to health equity in the world as well as potential solutions are discussed.
Anglicanism in European Perspective
With the Anglican Centre in Rome as principal organizer, and in partnership with the Virginia Theological Seminary (Alexandria VA, USA), the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe, Trinity Church Wall Street (New York), and the Utrecht Summer School, “Anglicanism in European Perspective” is intended for any student of Christian traditions, whether living or simply visiting in Europe, interested in seeing this historic Christian tradition…
Thrive in a Shifting World: Mastering Self-Leadership
Online course
Authentic self-leadership is indispensable in today's rapidly evolving world, where personal integrity and effective decision-making are paramount. In this course, you will delve into personal agency and self-awareness, crafting your unique ethos and honing your ethical leadership skills. You will cultivate resilience and conquer self-imposed obstacles, equipping you with essential life skills to thrive in our complex, interconnected world while…
The Making of Europe: From Middle Ages to Modernity
Taking the alluring city of Utrecht as a starting point, this course offers students the opportunity to step into history. This historical journey, which illuminates Europe from the Middle Ages to the end of the 19th century, will help course participants understand the many social, historical, religious and cultural factors that came to shape modern Europe.
Discovering the Dutch: Dutch Culture and Society
This special track explores the question of Dutch identity by placing the history of the Netherlands and Dutch art in a wider European and transatlantic perspective. You will be introduced to the rich cultural traditions which the Netherlands has developed from the Dutch Golden Age to the present day in artistic fields such as painting, literature, poetry and filmmaking. You will also analyse internationally debated issues in Dutch society, past…
Dutch Culture: History and Art
During this course you will be introduced to the rich cultural traditions developed in the Netherlands from the 17th century to the present day in artistic fields such as painting, literature, poetry and film-making. The question of Dutch identity will be explored by placing the history of the Netherlands and Dutch art in a wider European perspective.
Navigating Security in the Baltic States: The West's Stance on Its Borderlands
The summer school invites students to delve into the intricate security landscape of the Baltic States. This programme goes beyond traditional boundaries, offering a comprehensive analysis of security, ranging from the robust realms of hard security to the nuanced aspects of soft security. It empowers to explore security dilemmas, policy nuances, and the ever-evolving relationships that shape the Baltic States' strategic position on the…
Dutch Culture: Society and Current Issues
Dutch Culture: Society and Current Issues is an intensive two-week programme in which you will be introduced to Dutch culture and identity by Utrecht University scholars and guest lecturers. We aim to lay a solid foundation of knowledge of present-day Dutch society and its recent history, in a way that we hope will be both informative and enjoyable.
The 20th Century: Europe in Three Wars
When asked about 20th century Europe, most people's first associations are either Adolf Hitler or the Second World War. In the 20th century, however, Europe experienced not just one, but three horrific wars: the First World War, the Second World War and the Cold War that followed in the wake of the two World Wars. The first half of the 20th century is therefore often labelled as 'The Era of Violence', and perhaps rightly so. Still, this century…
Battlefields Uncovered: Introduction to Archaeological and Historical Investigations of Conflict 2024
Online course
This course brings together former and serving military personnel and university students to explore the archaeology of Waterloo and other iconic battlefields together. Students join from around the globe.
Sharing interests and insights, no matter what people’s background, age or experience, is at the heart of Waterloo Uncovered.