IHS, Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies of Erasmus University Rotterdam

The foundation of IHS is associated with the Bouwcentrum and the knowledge and experience that emerged from this institution. A new phase began in 1982, under Cor Dijkgraaf, appointed in 1976 when BIE changed its name to the Institute for Housing Studies (IHS). In January 2000, IHS moved premises to the Woudestein campus of the Erasmus University Rotterdam. At the time, IHS was undergoing a complex reorganisation process that resulted in an institutional adjustment of the way of work and programme offered.

We believe that a strong understanding of concepts and theoretical framework goes hand in hand with a rich practical experience. Theory reflects into practice with awareness and relevance to the context and at the same time, fieldwork and research feed into education, providing valuable inputs to support teaching. At IHS you will find the space and support to put your newly acquired knowledge into practice. In our programmes, you'll collaborate closely with your fellow classmates, who come from over 45 countries. Together, you will learn from highly skilled lecturers and guest lecturers from all over the world, through a unique methodology of real case study analyses, games, class debates and more.

IHS undertakes specialised international research in partnership with client organisations. This work is focused on advancing urban theories, which is essential for critical thinking development. This research has been instigated and developed for partners including Cities Alliance, the World Bank and UN-Habitat.

In addition to providing the necessary knowledge for advisory work and training activities, academic research also helps identify gaps in capacity within the urban context. IHS publishes this content within working paper series and books on various issues relating to urban studies. The effort also contributes to bridging the gap between research and practice among urban professionals.

As urban areas expand at an alarming rate, so is the demand for urban professionals who can come up with solutions and innovations that will make a difference in a city. Once you have completed the programme, you will be able to work in various sectors ranging from city/town planner to urban project manager or urban development specialist.

IHS has a strong reputation with donor agencies and training centres worldwide. Our lecturers work worldwide and have outstanding international experience, which creates the possibility to initiate links to programmes and projects in the countries and cities of the participants.