Hard facts - AEMS in short

Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems is an intensive, interdisciplinary summer university focusing on alternatives to the economic status quo: International participants deal with limits of growth, as well as the instabilities of our financial system. They learn why a drastic system change is necessary to reach the target of stabilizing the world climate at 1.5°C - and most importantly: they are presented with an array of innovative approaches!

The AEMS is an academic summer university and held in English.
In 2023, it takes place for the 10th time from July 17th to August 4th.

Target group

The AEMS summer university is open to students and professionals from all fields who strive to create a more just and green future. Are you looking for a unique educational program with a holistic approach to the topic? Then look no further!

-> Apply here!

Course aim and credits

The aim is to raise awareness for the urgently necessary shift in our economic system and for the many alternatives available. Participants learn about the interconnections between economy, finance, society and the environment and gain knowledge of an array of reform proposals that consider natural boundaries and the human factor to be equal parts of the equation. The alternatives discussed are generally applicable worldwide. However, please note that the program focuses on perspectives for the Global North, as this is where the expertise of most speakers lies.

After successful participation, students receive a certificate of the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU University) for 5 ECTS. Continuous attendance during the full-time program is mandatory!

Scholarships

Our academic partners are offering scholarships for highly qualified students in need of financial support to participate in the AEMS for a reduced fee - have a look at the full list of our partners here. Eligibility is checked based on application documents.

If you are a student or member of one of our partners please mention the partner institution at “scholarship reference” in the application form. Also, you will be asked to fill in a short Motivation Statement for the scholarship.

After application, scholarships are awarded based on the below criteria:
- Financial need
- Motivation letter
- Very good command of English
- Minimum academic level: pre-university (A-level)

Scholarship-holders need to hand in a follow-up report about their experience and learnings in AEMS after participation. Detailed information will be forwarded after acceptance.

Full scholarships

Our partners at Danube Rectors' Conference (DRC) and the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM) are offering 2 full scholarships to participate in the AEMS Summer University 2023. Students currently studying at one of their member universities are eligible and can apply by filling in the scholarship reference "IDM" in the application form for AEMS. IDM and DRC will distribute the scholarships based on the applications received until Mid-May. The application deadline is April 30th, 2023.

Fee

Regular participation fee: EUR 1.390, -
Reduced participation fee for scholarship holders: EUR 490, -

The fee includes all program components, accommodation in Vienna in a student guesthouse until August 11th, 2023 and much more. Find more information on what’s included here: Included services

Application deadline

The application deadline for general participation ends June 30th, 2023.
We strongly recommend applying as early as possible.