Today’s complex challenges call us to work together and integrate many fields and perspectives.
The question is… how?
Collective Futures bridges your academic studies to a meaningful career. Join an open learning environment where you collaborate with impactful organizations and researchers, discover your talents and apply them directly to today’s pressing issues.
Apply now for our 2026 cohort (Feb 9 - Jul 3).
Join us at
Collective Futures: Meet the Minor
May 15th, 11:30 - 15:00 | Main Hall, Amsterdam Science Park
Current projects
-
![]()
Strengthening Democracies in Europe - The School for Moral Ambition
Researching and creating interventions for reinforcing democratic stability and mitigating democratic backsliding in countries in the European Union.
-
![]()
Reducing Urban Heat Stress - GasTerug, Gemeente Amsterdam
Piloting energy-efficient, sustainable cooling techniques to reduce heat stress in Amsterdam's community buildings, in line with the city's climate adaptation goals.
Why Collective Futures?
Many people and organizations are struggling with today’s complex challenges. To make a difference, we need to integrate many fields and perspectives. And, to sustainably feel and do good, we need connection with others.
We need futures that are more collective. This means there is a growing need for people with the ability to shape and navigate those futures. People who can work across boundaries, with creativity, compassion and scientific rigor.
This is what Collective Futures is about. We offer a learning environment where you gain real-world professional experience, while also getting space and guidance to develop your unique qualities and passions. Together, we combine holistic understanding with scientific rigor, personal development with social connection, and imagination with practical action.
How does it work?
Collective Futures is a five 30EC minor program at University of Amsterdam, open to students from any Dutch university enrolled in a two-year MSc program. It runs each year in the second semester (Feb-Jul).
In this full-time program, you will join an interdisciplinary team of students and work on a project with collaborators from different fields, such as researchers, public organizations and social enterprises. You will work on a societal challenge, combining methods from science, systems thinking, social innovation and consulting.
Additionally, you will participate in other learning activities, such as workshops, lectures, coaching, theater and sports, and you will join a committee with budget to co-organize parts of the program. These activities support your personal and professional development, and prepare you for a career that matters.
What is included in the program?
-
![]()
Project work
-
![]()
Workshops & lectures
What will you learn?
-
![]()
Making Systemic Change
• Form a holistic understanding of societal challenges using methods from science, systems thinking and social design
• Learn to identify opportunities for making long-term meaningful change
• Link global perspectives with local action -
![]()
Collaborating Across Boundaries
• Develop an empathetic and inclusive approach to working with diverse groups of people, including those from different cultures, backgrounds, and disciplines
• Build networks and relationships across sectors to help address societal challenges
Is Collective Futures for me?
You:
Are enrolled in a two-year MSc program at UvA or any other Dutch university
Seek opportunities to apply your academic background and make a tangible difference
Are excited to collaborate with a partner organization on a real-world societal challenge
Want to embrace the opportunity to go beyond your comfort zone and learn from both successes and failures
Are motivated to collaborate in a strong community and make the program a memorable, educative and impactful experience
Are prepared to commit to a full-time 5-month program and have a relevant track record in both your academic and extracurricular experiences
