Master in Art Based Learning Nature Based Learning

The deadline to apply for the Sep 2026 intake is Aug 31, 2026. Tuition costs 3,795 USD per year.

Engaging with a work of art or a natural element as a catalyst for inquiry allows professionals to step outside linear problem-solving, fostering a state of 'slow learning' that prioritizes deep reflection over immediate answers. By utilizing a structured four-step methodology developed by Dr. Jeroen Lutters, participants learn to treat art and nature as legitimate sources of knowledge, unlocking non-linear, associative thinking patterns that reveal perspectives often overlooked in conventional academic or professional environments.

Methodological Framework

The core of this programme centers on the dialogue between the observer and the object. Whether through the aesthetic inquiry of Art Based Learning or the natural immersion of Nature Based Learning, the approach encourages a deliberate 'detour' in the thinking process. This creates a fertile 'inter-space'—a space between habitual thought and creative insight—enabling educators, leaders, and academic staff to navigate complex systemic questions with renewed clarity and imaginative freedom.

• For educators: Learn to facilitate these reflective tools within your own lectures to stimulate student creativity.
• For academic teams: Engage in a collaborative dialogue to address faculty-specific challenges or cultural themes.
• For leadership: Create a dedicated space for individual or small-group contemplation on intricate professional inquiries.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is a research-led university situated in the heart of Amsterdam, founded in 1880 and welcoming more than 31,700 students including a large international cohort. Its long history combines academic tradition with modern interdisciplinary teaching across social sciences, humanities, law, business, and sciences. English-taught bachelor and master programs make it accessible to international applicants seeking a high-quality European education in a dynamic urban setting.

The university emphasizes research excellence and societal impact, with numerous institutes and centers that connect students to real-world challenges. Small-group teaching, problem-based learning options, and close supervision at graduate level support academic growth. International students can take advantage of dedicated services for visa advice, housing support, language courses, and career guidance that ease transition and enhance employability in the Netherlands and beyond.

Student life blends campus facilities with Amsterdam cultural vitality, including museums, startups, and multinational companies that offer internships and networking. Affordable public transport and a bicycle-friendly environment make daily life straightforward while campus clubs and student associations help newcomers build a community. Prospective international students should research program entry requirements early, prepare application documents and funding plans, and reach out to the international office to plan arrival and accommodation.