What are UWC short courses?
Since 1987, UWC short courses have empowered young people worldwide to experience the transformative power of a UWC education. These intensive programmes, available in in-person, online, or hybrid formats, reflect UWC’s core mission: to unite people, nations, and cultures for peace and a sustainable future.
With more than 200 short courses and 7,000+ participants since 1987, UWC short courses are rooted in experiential learning and designed for people aged five to 99 years old. Each course offers participants the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of peers, explore pressing local and global challenges, develop transferable changemaking skills and build friendshipsthat last a lifetime.
Why choose a UWC short course?
UWC short courses distill the essence of a UWC education into one to five weeks of immersive learning. Without the constraints of an academic curriculum, participants focus on topics such as:
- Peace, power, and conflict resolution
- Environmental sustainability
- Leadership for global impact
- Identity, diversity, and inclusion
- Social entrepreneurship and innovation
Through tailored themes and creative methods like workshops, project-learning, outdoor learning, simulations, service opportunities and team-building, participants are empowered to explore their passions, develop practical solutions, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.
Who organises UWC short courses?
UWC short courses are organised by UWC national committees, UWC schools and colleges, former or current staff and students, as well as external partner organisations. Anyone with a brave, innovative idea aligned with the UWC mission and values can apply to receive UWC endorsement to organise an official UWC short course.
Courses are hosted locally, regionally or internationally, in up to 30 locations worldwide each year. Online formats ensure even greater accessibility, allowing UWC short courses to reach participants in regions where in-person opportunities are limited.
Each graduate of a UWC short course officially becomes part of the UWC network of 85,000+ changemakers, reinforcing their connection to a global community committed to building a better future.