Location:

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Undergraduate Certificate

Specialty:

Sociology

Program Overview

Program Description:

The Summer Institute on Sexuality, Culture and Society at the Graduate School of Social Sciences , Universiteit van Amsterdam, is an intensive four-week summer course, which focuses on the study of sexuality across cultures and is taught by an international faculty team. The Scientific Directors for 2011 are: Dr. Diane di Mauro Dr. Niko Besnier Some scholarships are available. Objectives The aim of the course is to explore and study the social and cultural dimensions of human sexuality and gain training in areas of sexuality research - both theory and method - not commonly available in other institutions. The participation of an international multidisciplinary faculty and students from different educational and cultural backgrounds provides a fruitful and challenging atmosphere enjoyed by students and faculty alike. During seminars, lunches, and weekly "get-togethers," conversations, and activities, informal contacts between the faculty, students, and guest lecturers flourish. The sharing of varied experiences, research, plans of work, and perspectives provide a unique networking opportunity, thereby increasing participants' knowledge within an international context. Additionally, Amsterdam is an ideal location for the Summer Institute. The open atmosphere and small scale of the city is experienced by both western and non-western students as a refreshing stimulant for active discussion of sexuality and culture. Background The Summer Institute on Sexuality, Culture and Society was founded in 1995. The idea for the Summer Institute was sparked by a collaboration between Dutch and American scholars, during the conference Culture, Sexual Behavior, and AIDS in 1992 (see: ten Brummelhuis and Herdt, Culture and Sexual Risk, New York: Gordon & Breach 1995). In 1995, the programme was offered for the first time through a cooperative effort between Han ten Brummelhuis of the Universiteit van Amsterdam, Bill Leap of the American University in Washington and Gilbert Herdt from the University of Chicago. In 1997, the Summer Institute became part of the International School for Humanities and Social Sciences, Universiteit van Amsterdam. "The Summer Institute of Culture, Sexuality and Society July 2009 was a life changing experience." Nancy Onyango, Nairobi, Kenya - Attended Summer 2009 "The Summer Institute has become an annual high spot for all those engaged in the serious discussion of sexuality in a broad social context. The relaxed but engaged atmosphere, the commitment of faculty and students, the informal discussions and well thought out programme - all these make the Institute a model for the development of a critical involvement with issues of sexuality. I warmly recommend it." Professor Jeffrey Weeks, South Bank University London

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Commission on Technical and Career Institutions