The International Summer School "Metropolitan Studies" is a program jointly organized by the International Office at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and the Georg Simmel Center for Metropolitan Studies.

At the beginning of the 21st century, Berlin is one of the most interesting and fascination metropolises in Europe. Since its reunification in 1990 the city has faced a rapid development as German capital and one of the most outstanding metropolises in the globalized world. The eventful late history of the town - such as the separation for almost three decades - has led to certain urban development paths which make the city unique and particularly interesting to scientific research in the field of metropolitan studies.

The course is designed for international participants who want to gather profound knowledge about current urban challenges and changes in the German capital as a model for fundamental  questions of modern urban development. The Summer School will cover topics from a wide range of sociological, cultural as well as economic and environmental issues. In a comparative analysis the course will not only focus on the city of Berlin but also on other European and global metropolises.  All topics will be provided by experienced researchers in their area of interest. The schedule will include meetings with local actors in politics and economy as well as excursions to sites of relevant urban developments.

Participation in this Summer School will enable the student to understand the political, economic and environmental context of current urban changes.