This free MOOC on urban research was developed by IHS in partnership with Erasmus University Rotterdam, focusing on social science methods applied to urban and local development.
Course description
Learn how to conduct scientific research in urban and local contexts with Studying Cities: Social Science Methods for Urban Research. This online course guides you through the essential steps of the research cycle and provides the foundational knowledge needed for any Master-level programme. With its strong focus on urban development and applied urban research, the course is ideal for current and future professionals aiming to work in urban planning, governance, and development.
Throughout the course, you will explore how to define a research problem, formulate objectives and questions, develop a theoretical framework, select research strategies, and collect and analyze both quantitative and qualitative data. All content is tailored to the realities of urban contexts and local development research.
Who is this course for?
This MOOC is designed for professionals, students, and researchers interested in urban development, local governance, and social science research methods. It is particularly suitable for anyone preparing for a Master-level programme in urban studies, social sciences, or related fields.
What will you achieve?
By completing this course, you will gain practical skills to conduct urban research using rigorous social science methods. You will understand the full research cycle, from problem definition to data collection and analysis, and be able to apply these methods to real-world urban challenges.
Lecturers
- Dr. Jan Fransen, Lead Specialist in Urban Economic Development and Resilience, Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS) of Erasmus University Rotterdam
- Laura Neijenhuis, Task Manager, Municipality of Gorinchem
- Dorcas Nthoki, Specialist Sustainable Mobility, Spatial Justice and Urban Growth, TU Dortmund University
- Rick Wolff, Senior Researcher, Inholland University of Applied Sciences
- Maria Zwanenburg, Former staff, Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS) of Erasmus University Rotterdam
How to join this course
The course is available on Coursera. Registration is free, and you will need to create a Coursera account to participate. Enroll today and start developing your skills in urban research and social science methods.