Spaces in Transformation

Spaces in Transformation: Social-Ecological Concepts for a Sustainable Future Society

Shaping the future – sustainably, creatively, concretely!

Are you interested in what we can do to combat climate change, biodiversity loss and social division in a lasting and sustainable way? How ecological, social and economic aspects can interact meaningfully in this context? Then join us on a journey through Thuringia – from Weimar to the Thuringian Forest. Let's explore these questions together, not just theoretically, but in a very practical way and with lots of creative and participatory methods!

In the first week, we will visit exciting ‘projects of change’ in Thuringia – people and initiatives that are already breaking new ground today. We will discuss, analyse and be inspired.

In the second week, we'll head out to the Thuringian Forest! For three days, we'll immerse ourselves in the relationship between people, nature and landscape – in the heart of the UNESCO Thuringian Forest Biosphere Reserve. Through creative activities, a pop-up exhibition, a dinner with locals and hands-on activities on the typical mountain meadows, we'll become part of the change ourselves.

Finally, we will open our open.atelier in Weimar – here, all impressions will come together and become visible.


Where:
Weimar & Thuringian Forest

When:
Monday to Sunday, 17–23 August in Weimar
Sunday to Wednesday, 23–26 August in the Thuringian Forest
Thursday & Friday, 27–28 August back in Weimar


Join in and play an active role in shaping the future!

Advanced bachelor's students, master's students.
Besides interest in current discourse and thrist for adventure, no special skils are required.
During our stay in Thuringian Forest, we will cook all our meals together, as there are no other catering options. We will organise this during the first week.

You will need:

  • sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing
  • sleeping bag and bed sheets
  • towel
  • slippers
  • tablet or notebook

 

During the course, we will work together to create an exhibition and a small brochure.

The course fee is 990 EURO.

790 EURO for students & alumni
450 EURO for BUW students as well as for Bauhaus4EU students (4 discounted places are available for Bauhaus4EU students)

The course fee includes:

  • Orientation & Support
  • Programme according to description
  • Teaching materials
  • Daily Lunch at the University Cafeteria (Monday - Friday)
  • Certificate
  • Internet access at the Bauhaus-Universität Weimar
  • Free use of library
  • Accompanying programme including excursions
  • Free entrance to museums belonging to Klassik Stiftung Weimar
  • Accommodation in Thuringian Forest

Please note our terms and conditions (admission conditions, cancellation conditions etc.)
 

The course fee does not include:

  • Travel costs
  • Accommodation in Weimar
  • Insurance
  • Additional excursions

1. Online Registration

Please register first in our system.
Please follow the instructions on the page.
 

2. Documents

Please submit until 01.05.26 the following documents:.

  • CV

  • Letter of motivation

ONLY COMPLETE AND CORRECTLY LABELED APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED!

 

3. Selection Process

All applicants will receive notification about the outcome of the selection process as soon as possible via e-mail. In case of a positive answer you will receive the invoice simultaneously which you will have to pay within 10 days. If applicants fail to do this, places will be given to others on the waiting list.

If you need a VISA, we recommend you to get informed now about the requirements and to make an appointment with the German embassy in your home country.

A maximum of 20 applicants will be selected to participate in this course.

Accommodation in the Thuringian Forest is in the Erfurt Ski Club's lodge in two shared rooms. It is simple but typical group accommodation for the region.

For your stay in Weimar, we recommend accommodation at the Labyrinth Hostel. A room allotment has already been reserved for you. Please use the keyword “Summer School” when making your booking. Reservations are possible until 10 June 2026.

Learn about approaches, explore actors and create an impact in Thuringian Forest!

3 ECTS

Apply

from January 2026 on

Language

The course language is English.