Here below you can find all master courses the University Centre offers. All courses are taught in 1-3 week modules running from August through June. See how the courses are organised in the teaching schedule for both programs. Usually 2-3 courses are taught at the same time, but students may only enroll in one course at a time.
The master courses are available to you whether you plan to pursue a degree or just take a course or courses. Please review the options for guest studies to determine how you can apply.
For further information, contact the Administrative Director of Education and Teaching.
Indicators of Sustainability and Population Dynamics in Coastal Communities
- Spring 2026
About the course
This course provides a critical examination of indicators used to assess sustainability, quality of life, and ecosystem health in coastal communities. In addition, students will engage with demographic fundamentals—fertility, mortality, and migration—and explore how these shape population dynamics and community resilience. Using both historical and contemporary examples, the course investigates migration patterns and demographic trends, particularly their impact on local economies and social well-being. A central focus of the course is on developing and evaluating indicators. Students will critically assess the strengths and limitations of commonly used socioeconomic measures, analyzing why some indicators may not fully capture the nuances of local quality of life or ecosystem health. Through hands-on activities, students will create their own (holistic) indicators that incorporate environmental, social, and economic dimensions. They will explore how indicators influence planning, policy, and development but also discuss the risks of relying too heavily on numerical data without understanding its limitations. By the end of the course, students will have the tools to assess, adapt, and propose indicators that provide a more comprehensive, nuanced, and actionable understanding of sustainability and resilience in coastal regions to support both well-informed decision-making and responsible community development.