Urban studies in Morocco: Cities in Transition

Urban Studies in Morocco: Cities in Transformation is an interdisciplinary joint LDE minor that explores how Moroccan cities are reshaped by infrastructure development, governance reforms, demographic growth, environmental challenges, and global positioning strategies. Using Morocco as a case study, the programme connects urban heritage, renewal, and future-oriented planning through lectures, excursions, and applied research. Students work in interdisciplinary teams and engage directly with real urban contexts in Rabat–Salé and beyond. The minor combines theoretical reflection with field-based and challenge-oriented learning, encouraging students to bridge policy frameworks and lived urban realities. It offers both a 15 EC track (Part A) and a 30 EC track (Part A + Part B).

Maximum number of students: 35 Prospectus number: tba Language: English Registration: via [EduXchange]( https://eduxchange\.nl/\) see More Info 19 May (13:00hrs) until 30 June 2026

By the end of the minor, students will be able to: ·         Analyse urban transformations and mayor environmental challenges in Morocco through historical, spatial, and socio-political perspectives. ·         Apply interdisciplinary methods (technical, social-scientific, and humanistic) to real urban contexts. ·         Conduct independent and team-based research combining theory, fieldwork, and policy analysis. ·         Engage with local communities and institutions, integrating top-down and bottom-up perspectives, with specific attention for sustainable development goals. ·         Produce concrete outputs such as reports, maps, and policy briefs demonstrating societal relevance. ·         Reflect critically on biases and assumptions, diverse academic traditions, ethics, positionality, and the role of research in sustainable and inclusive urban futures.

Enrollment takes place via EduXchange according to the official LDE deadlines. Students from all over the Netherlands are welcome, though Leiden University, TU Delft, and Erasmus University Rotterdam have priority. The minor includes intensive teaching weeks and field-based components in Morocco. Active participation in lectures, excursions, and group work is essential. Students should be prepared for collaborative, interdisciplinary teamwork and an applied research component. The 15 EC option consists of the foundational courses (Part A). Students opting for 30 EC continue with research design and a supervised field project (Part B). Assessment includes written assignments, group work, presentations, and a final applied research output.

The minor is intended for BA-2 and BA-3 students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, including but not limited to humanities, social sciences, architecture, planning, and related fields. No specific prior knowledge of Morocco is required. However, students should demonstrate an interest in urban studies, societal challenges, and interdisciplinary collaboration. A willingness to engage in field-based research and participatory learning is essential.