Cologne Summer School on Migration in August 2023
This summer, 33 students from countries all over the world attended the Cologne Summer School 2023: Argentina, Belgium, Greece, India, Italy, Cameroon, Colombia, Mexico, Namibia, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Thailand, Ukraine and the USA. A special feature of the CSS is its hybrid concept, which gave 12 students the opportunity to follow the seminars online via Zoom from their home countries. In this way, those who were not able to travel to Cologne were also given an opportunity to participate. We are very proud of the successful implementation of the hybrid concept and are excited to share with you the highlights of the Summer School which took place from August 13-31, 2023.
The subject of the Cologne Summer School 2023 was "Migration. Human Mobility in a Global Perspective". Human mobility across the globe has become an essential aspect of modern societies: We tackled the topic of migration in its multifaceted aspects and effects with diverse disciplinary approaches from a global point of view. In Economics, Legal and Social Sciences, History, Arts, and Humanities, we explored the causes and conditions for different forms of migration. The sessions included questions about migration policies, nation-states, ethnic diversity, and social cohesion. Moreover, we examined the relationship between colonial history and (forced) migration of the 21st century. We asked what an international perspective – beyond the regional and national – contributes to the research on migration.
Lecturers from UoC and partner universities presented and discussed concepts and case studies from different disciplinary fields during the first part of the academic program: The morning seminars took place only onsite and the afternoon sessions were in a hybrid setting for onsite and online students. The second part of the academic program consisted of presentations followed by a Q&A with guest speakers from NGOs, study trips, and site visits to local institutions situated in Cologne. A student project with a group presentation at the end of the Summer School reflected on and deepened the insights into human mobility from a global perspective. The diverse onsite and online social and cultural program provided many opportunities for the participants to get to know each other and the city of Cologne. Explore our website and read more about this year's program highlights and first hand impressions of our participants!
I can confidently say that the summer school was a transformative and enriching experience. It equipped me with not only knowledge but also the skills and perspective needed to make a meaningful contribution in the field of migration. As someone deeply interested in the field of migration, this program exceeded my expectations in every way.
The lectures, discussions, interactions, fun tasks, and the buddy program never made me feel that I had been sitting before the computer for 4 hours. It was the first time I was studying with students from all over the world. They offered me some entirely new perspectives of seeing things which I could never have received otherwise.
My experience in the summer school was nothing short of enlightening. This program not only expanded my knowledge but also opened doors to a world of exposure and intercultural enrichment. One of the most remarkable aspects of the program was the diverse international cohort it brought together. I had the opportunity to connect with fellow students from various countries and ethnic backgrounds, each contributing unique perspectives and experiences. This intercultural exchange knew no bounds, allowing me to gain profound insights into migration-related issues that transcended geographical boundaries.
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Copyright: Cologne Summer Schools
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Copyright: Cologne Summer Schools
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Copyright: Cologne Summer Schools
The hybrid summer school program has been a game-changer because it has bridged the gap between traditional classroom learning and online education in the most remarkable way. The program allowed online students like me to benefit from a more immersive and interactive learning environment and also demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. It accommodated students and instructors from various geographical locations, ensuring that no one was left behind due to physical distance.
This online program was a remarkable experience. The activities were thoroughly planned, and the logistics behind it were impressive. The topics and the lectures offered a wide array of perspectives and introduced innovative and thought provoking researchers to us. It was a truly smooth, enriching, and well put together couple of weeks that have definitely left a positive impact in my academic life. Hopefully, I will get to be part of the program in the future again.
The summer school was a great experience. I got to learn so many things, not only about migration but also about Germany and other countries.
Lecturers and classes
Participants
Digital Gallery
Timetable
What are Cologne Summer Schools?
The project Cologne Summer Schools is situated at Division International Affairs of the University of Cologne and coordinates Winter, Spring and Summer Schools taking place at the Unviersity of Cologne and abroad. Additionally, we organize one annual project on a relevant topic approached interdisciplinarily and invite international students from all over the world to Cologne to study and research together.
What does a Cologne Summer Schools project consist of?
Cologne Winter, Sping and Summer Schools combine academic program and cultural activities in a balanced way. Usually during the day you will have lectures, workshops or group work and in the evenings and on the weekend there will be cultural events such as city tours, museum visits, field trips and anything else that your creative organizers had thought of.
Who can apply?
It depends on the school you would like to apply for. If the project is a collaboration between the UoC and another partner university, you should be a student either of the UoC or of this respective university. However, there are projects that are open to a broader number of universities. Take a closer look at the project description to make sure whether you are eligible. Furthermore, an above average university performance and a very good command of English (or German depending on the program) are required.
Are Summer Schools designed only for international students?
Definitely not. The projects are open for students of the University of Cologne as well and are a great oppotunity to create new international contacts and practice your English skills. In fact, it is sometimes possible to receive course credits for your participation. Please inform yourself on the project's page or ask the organizational team.
Which projects can I apply for?
Since Winter, Spring and Summer Schools are organized by the different faculties and institutes of the University of Cologne, there is a wide variety of topics and research areas in which you can gain summer school experience. We offer a versatile program every program which means that the offered Winter, Spring or Summer School might not repeat. Here you can take a look at projects taking place in Cologne and abroad.
What are the application requirements?
The requirements such as study major, language certificates, resume, cover letter etc. are listed on the respective page of the project organizers. Please consider potential differences in the organizational procedures for different projects.
How much does the participation in a Cologne Summer Schools project cost?
We do our best to provide you with highest quality of teaching and cultural experiences without tuition fees and in the best case scenario, without you having to cover your transportation fees. Be aware of projects' specifics and inform yourself on the respective pages about what costs are covered by Cologne Summer Schools and what you should cover yourself.
Do you have other questions?
Contact us via email. We are happy to help!
Memories of our Alumni
