Location:

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Graduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

Randomized controlled trials are the gold standard for causal inference. Using an experimental and a control group, double-blind and with a placebo, the effect of an intervention can be neatly determined. But this ideal scenario is not always practicable, or even ethically desirable. What if we want to know how effective sex-offender treatments are? Or whether employment makes people happier? In such cases, special methods have to be used to be able to make causal statements.

This course details five such methods: propensity score matching, instrumental variables, regression discontinuity design, fixed effects methods and trajectory analysis. After a brief refresher on regression models, you analyse a real-life dataset to assess whether various “remedies” (therapy, employment, marriage, punitive sanctions) are effective in reducing criminal recidivism. The techniques are explained in a conceptual manner, and the course provides you with numerous hands-on exercises using SPSS and Stata. You also practise reporting on the findings from such analyses, in scientific article format, as well as in conference-type presentation.

This course is taught by experienced lecturers from the Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR) and VU Amsterdam.

Setting Description:

With over 180 unique nationalities, Amsterdam is a melting pot of cultures and embraces different cultures, religions, and lifestyles. 165 canals criss-cross the entire city, giving it its nickname ‘Venice of the North.’ The city also features more bikes than inhabitants! With a bustling creative industry, Amsterdam offers plenty of cultural activities and events throughout the year. In Amsterdam you can benefit from the advantages of a big city with enough quiet spots to kick back and relax.

Cost:

1000 EUR. The tuition fee includes: • Airport pick-up service • Welcome goodie bag • Orientation programme • Course excursions • On-site support • Emergency assistance • Transcript of records after completion of the course

Additional Program Information

Scholarships:

Yes

Scholarships Description:

The VU Amsterdam Summer School offers ten scholarships that cover the full tuition and housing fees of one course. Information about how to apply for the scholarship will be posted on the VU Amsterdam Summer School website.