Step into the role of an urban designer and explore how cities shape the way we live. Through hands-on fieldwork, creative exercises, and real-world case studies, you'll uncover what makes a city thrive. Helsinki is your playground — are you ready to reimagine urban life?
Image: Jussi Hellsten / Helsinki Partners
How does urban design shape the way we live? In this immersive summer course, you’ll explore the fundamentals of urban design and planning through hands-on methods in the vibrant city of Helsinki. Combining fieldwork, creative exercises, and Nordic urban studies, this experience will deepen your understanding of what makes cities livable and how public spaces contribute to a "good life." The city itself becomes your classroom!
During this course, you will explore:
After this course, you will:
Throughout this course, you will gain knowledge through:
YOU AND THE CITY
Before beginning our journey into urban design and how city environments shape our lives, we want to learn more about you - your experiences, interests, and relationship with the city!
Take a moment to reflect on your personal connection to the city or urban environments. You can think about a city where you are from, your current place of residence, or cities more generally. Then, create a short piece to share your thoughts. This can be a written story (200–300 words, can be longer if you want) or a simple slideshow (up to 5 slides).
Tell us about:
You can include pictures, sketches, or key moments—whatever helps you express your perspective. There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to approach this task; just be honest and creative!
Submit your pre-task to the course mentor, Jalmari Sarla at jalmari.sarla [at] metropolia.fi (jalmari[dot]sarla[at]metropolia[dot]fi) by July 31, 2026
Isoisänsiltä - Kalasatama
Image: Beatrice Bucht / Helsinki Partners
Oodi Library
Image: Tuomas Uusheimo/ Helsinki Partners
Löyly Sauna
Image: Pekka Keranen / Helsinki Partners
Central Railway Station
Image: Beatrice Bucht/ Helsinki Partners
| Week 1 | Morning | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| Mon 10 Aug | Lecture - Introduction to Urban Design and Planning | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Tue 11 Aug | Lecture - The Social Life of Public Spaces | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Wed 12 Aug | Lecture - Space, Place, and Identity | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Thu 13 Aug | Lecture - Creative Methods for Urban Research | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Fri 14 Aug | Field Trip & Exercises | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Week 2 | Morning | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| Mon 17 Aug | Lecture - Urban Design and The Environment | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Tue 18 Aug | Lecture - Designing for Inclusivity and Accessibility | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Wed 19 Aug | Lecture - Nordic Urbanism: A Helsinki Perspective | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Thu 20 Aug | Lecture - Designing for the Good Life | Field Trip & Exercises |
| Fri 21 Aug | Final Discussions & Feedback | Final Discussion & Feedback |
Limited Spots Available – Maximum number of participants is 25!
🔗 Apply Now – Don't Miss Out! - Apply now in Eventilla
Important: The minimum number of participants is 15. Metropolia Summer School reserves the right to cancel the course if an insufficient number of students register. In this case, participants will be notified immediately after the registration period closes.
1. Choose Your Course & Register: Visit the course page and click the specific registration link for your chosen course. Fill out the registration form carefully.
2. Complete Pre-Assignment: Submit a personal reflection on "You and the City".
3. Await Final Confirmation: You will receive an acceptance email no later than April 6, 2026, and the final confirmation April 30, 2026.
4. Secure Your Spot: Pay the course fee within the deadline mentioned in your acceptance email.
5. Plan Your Trip: Arrange visa & travel (see Travel Tips below).
Need Help? Contact us for any questions regarding the process.
Course Fee: 1 550 € (incl. VAT 25,5%)
Jalmari Sarla is an urban designer and doctoral researcher in anthropology exploring the everyday life of cities and the social, spatial, and political processes that shape them. Drawing on a multidisciplinary background in design, urban studies, and European and Nordic Studies, he brings together placemaking, urban planning, and ethnographic research to engage critically with contemporary urban challenges, particularly in Northern and Eastern Europe. His teaching combines conceptual depth with hands-on methods, encouraging critical reflection, experimentation, and collaborative learning.
Join his course to explore how thoughtful urban design can shape more just, livable, and engaging cities!
Metropolia does not provide dorms, but here are some options:
Check accommodation options:
From Helsinki Airport (HEL) to Metropolia Campus or City Center:
Train (Recommended)
Bus
Taxi / Ride-hailing
Plan your route with HSL Journey Planner.
Public Transport (HSL)
1. Book flights early for lower prices.
2. Arrange travel insurance before departure.
3. Check currency exchange & payment options (credit cards are widely accepted).
4. Download key apps:
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is Finland’s largest and most international university of applied sciences, offering world-class education, modern learning environments, and strong industry connections. With a focus on innovation and hands-on learning, Metropolia prepares students for the future.
Arabia Culture Campus is located in Arabiaranta, Helsinki.
Welcome to Helsinki – Europe’s Hidden Gem! This vibrant capital blends bold innovation with breathtaking nature, making it the perfect playground for curious minds. Here, you’ll experience world-class education in a city known for its tech startups, sustainability, and student-friendly vibe. Whether you're soaking in the midnight sun by the Baltic Sea, exploring cutting-edge design and technology, or enjoying the world’s best work-life balance, Helsinki is where your learning adventure begins!
Why You Should Come To Helsinki
Image: Aleksi Poutanen / Helsinki Partners
This summer school course focuses on future-oriented approaches to ageing, emphasizing participation, inclusion, and agency. Through interdisciplinary discussions, workshops, and study visits, you'll explore innovative ways to enhance older adults' well-being.
Read more and register for Summer School on Future-Oriented Approaches to Ageing
Image: Svante Gullichsen / Helsinki Partners
In this immersive summer course, you'll craft compelling narratives, explore diverse perspectives, and use storytelling to bridge cultural divides. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, discover how your words can inspire change.
Read more and register for Summer School for Writing stories that connect
Image: Svante Gullichsen / Helsinki Partners
