Discover the Future of Sustainability at Corvinus University’s Summer University
Join us at Corvinus University of Budapest for an exciting and transformative learning experience at our Summer University, focused on the theme Sustainable Society in the Age of AI. This unique opportunity is more than just an academic programme – it offers a journey for participants to become creators of their own future (vision), where we seek answers to how today’s young adults can contribute to the future. We collaboratively explore how you (participants) may connect with nature, technology, responsibility, artificial intelligence, and each other to build a more sustainable world. All of this takes place in Budapest, a vibrant and dynamic city that blends rich history with modern innovation, it provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable summer experience.
Topic
Sustainable Society in the Age of AI
Location
Budapest
& Gellért Campus
Duration*
7-11 July 2025
Credits
6 ECTS
Participants
Bachelor Students
& Recent Graduates
Tuition Fees
Standard
& Premium Package
*Please note that the program starts with a get together on 6 July and ends with a farewell dinner on 11 July. Those who require accommodation can move into the dormitory on 6 July. Check-out is possible on 12 July or optionally on 13 July.
Programme
In the context of this Summer University your task is to shape the future by designing sustainable social constructs that consider the presence of artificial intelligence as a major technological force of our time.
Learning Journey
The unique programme invites students to explore their role in building a responsible, sustainable future. Participants will collaborate on innovative solutions, tackling key challenges related to sustainability, culture, and AI. Throughout the journey, you’ll reflect on:
- What can young adults do to shape their future?
- How can we balance connections with nature and technology?
- How can AI be used to enhance mindfulness and human relationships?
As part of the overall programme, alongside the activities, it includes interactive workshops, 2030 SDGs Game, CarbonClass and meetings with local and civil society organisations. These activities will deepen your understanding of global sustainability challenges and foster meaningful connections with like-minded individuals and organisations.
By the end of the week, participants will have co-created a future vision, bringing it to life through visual representations, linocut designs, and wearable badges or T-shirts as reminders of their collective achievements.
Social Programmes
In addition to the exciting collaborative activities, the Corvinus Summer University offers a variety of social events aimed at fostering connections and exploring Hungarian culture. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in:
- A get-together, where you can meet and bond with fellow participants from around the world.
- A guided sightseeing tour of Budapest, discovering the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks.
- A visit to a community garden, offering a hands-on experience in sustainable urban gardening.
- Sports activities to encourage physical well-being and teamwork.
- Meetings with student organisations and local students, allowing for an exchange of ideas and experiences.
These social events are designed to enrich your overall experience, connect you with others, and provide a deeper understanding of the local culture and community.
Why Corvinus?
#350 in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 - Social Sciences & Management
Corvinus University of Budapest has secured a remarkable position in the QS World University Rankings by Subject in the field of Social Sciences and Management, and maintains its status as Hungary’s leading university in social sciences and management.
2 International Accreditations
Corvinus University of Budapest is the only university in the field of economic sciences in Hungary that has two international institutional accreditations (AMBA, AACSB). This places us among the top 2% of business schools worldwide.
CEMS Membership
CEMS is an elite organisation of 33 of the world's leading business schools that we are proud to be part of.
Living Costs in Budapest
Budapest is one of the most affordable university cities in Europe. It scored 92 out of 100 in the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2024 ranking, making it the 32nd most liveable city in the world. Typically, the monthly cost of a university dormitory room in Budapest is between €100-200 per month, while renting a flat costs €250-750 per month. Food and other expenses amount to approximately €250-350 per month, so the total monthly cost of living is around €500-1100. You can get an overview of detailed living costs here.
Lecturers and Speakers
Teaching Team
Dóra Horváth
Dóra Horváth is an associate professor, Head of the Department of Marketing and Design Communications at the Institute of Marketing and Communication Sciences. Her current research areas include designcommunication and educational development, creativity and user participation (co-creation), researcher introspection and birdwatching.
Attila Cosovan
Attila Róbert Cosovan is a full professor at Corvinus University of Budapest and Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design, as well as the co-founder of the COANDCO.CC design studio, established 25 years ago. As a teacher and researcher, he publishes academic work, while as a designer, he creates and develops brands, products, and services using his own methodology called designcommunication (creating connection as designing).
Zita Komár
Zita Komár PhD is an assistant professor of Marketing and Design Communications Department at the Institute of Marketing and Communication Sciences at Corvinus University of Budapest. Her current research areas include leadership styles; university citizenship and educational development, creativity and persuasion in business and marketing communication.
Máté Bollók
Máté Bence Bollók is an assistant lecturer of the Department of Marketing and Design Communication at Corvinus University of Budapest. His research focuses on quality data processing methodologies and the methods of visual information dissemination with previous research in Artificial Intelligence-aided data processing. His research aims to improve visual literacy and data-based decision-making mechanisms.
Sustainability and AI Experts of Corvinus University
Katalin Ásványi
Katalin Ásványi is an associate professor and programme director of the ESG programmes. She is the Dean for Sustainability and the Head of Department of Sustainability Management and Environmental Economics at Corvinus University of Budapest. Her primary research area is sustainability education.
Csaba Csáki
Dr. Csaba Csáki PhD is the Dean of Artificial Intelligence and the Head of the Artificial Intelligence Integration Centre at Corvinus University of Budapest. His research interest covers Artificial Intelligence and its applications including its role in Higher Education, Metaverse spaces and their applications, software development, and the history of technology.
Application
Latest application deadline: 15 May 2025
Places are limited – register now before it’s too late!
- Applications can only be submitted via the online form.
- Our Summer University programme operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that the earlier you register, the more likely you are to secure your chances. Don’t wait – apply now and guarantee your place!
- The maximum number of participants is 35.
How to apply?
STEP 1: Sign up on DreamApply
STEP 2: Fill out the online application form below.**
Please note: To be eligible to submit the form, you need to fulfill the following criterias:
- Bachelor students (mainly 3+ semesters) and recent graduates
- Documents proving your qualifications
- Copy of passport/ID
- English Proficiency
- Motivation letter (max. 1000 characters, no separate document required)
Packages and Tuition Fees***
Standard – “Smart Growth”
€ 710
What is included?
- Courses
- Social activities (Get-together, Budapest sightseeing, Sport activities, Farewell dinner)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, coffee breaks)
- Corvinus Merch package
Premium – “Future Fusion”
€ 950 – € 990
What is included?
- Courses
- Social activities (Get-together, Budapest sightseeing, Sport activities, Farewell dinner)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, coffee breaks)
- Corvinus Merch package
- Accommodation (Gellért Campus Dormitory
in 2-bed-rooms)****
**Guidelines and Data Protection: By completing this form, the applicant accepts the Privacy Policy.
***The participation fee is due upon acceptance of the application. Please note that the participation fee does not include the following: travel costs, transportation cost in Budapest, airport pick-up, visa support.
****We can offer accommodation for 6 or 7 nights (different prices for more nights).
Accommodation
About the Gellért Campus Dormitory:
- The University can provide accommodation for participants in double rooms for 40 €/night/person
- The dormitory offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and a stunning panoramic view of both the Buda and Pest sides of the city.
- Each floor features a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances and furniture, a communal dining area, and a shared lounge.
- The building also has a collaboration and data space, a reading room, a rooftop terrace and a sports center.
Check-in is available from 12:00 noon on 6 July, with the programme starting that day and ending on 11 July after the farewell dinner; check-out is possible on 12 or 13 July.
Frequently Asked Questions
Applications
Our Summer University programme operates on a first-come, first-served basis. This means that the earlier you register, the more likely you are to secure your chances. Application deadline is May 31, 2025.
After your registration, we will review your documents and get back to you shortly to let you know whether you can participate in the summer university. To finalise your participation, you will need to pay the tuition fee by the billing deadline. Once the payment is received, we can proceed with your enrolment and complete the registration process.
Applications can only be submitted via the online form Dreamapply.
A further admission requirement for pursuing English language studies at another higher education institution, supplementary studies shall be intermediate complex English language proficiency which may be proven if the applicant has graduated from an English-language bachelor-level or master-level study programme or if he/she completed all the subjects included in the secondary school leaving certificate in English or if the applicant can provide a certificate issued and certified by the higher education institution issuing the diploma that he/she has English language proficiency certified by one the following language examinations:
Name of language examination |
| Intermediate level (minimum) |
CEFR |
| B2 |
Cambridge |
| FCE |
IELTS |
| 6.0 |
TOEFL |
| 65 |
TOEFL iBT |
| 72 |
TOEIC |
| 785 |
Duo-lingo |
| min. 100 points |
At present, we do not offer scholarships. However, participants can choose from a standard and premium package to suit their needs and preferences.
Your passport information is needed to register you in our university system and for administrative purposes, such as verifying your identity and facilitating any necessary travel arrangements or visa processing. Rest assured, your personal details will be handled securely and in compliance with data protection regulations.
Accommodation
Yes, you can stay for 6 or 7 nights, starting July 6th.
If you choose a package that includes accommodation, you will be housed at the Gellért Campus. However, please note that participants may be accommodated in double rooms, so you may be sharing with another student. The dormitory offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and several communal spaces, including a reading room, rooftop terrace, and a sports centre.
The accommodation is on the Gellért Campus of Corvinus University. The address: Budapest, Ménesi út 5, 1118. The Campus is a 5-minute walk from Gárdonyi Square and a 7-minute walk from Móricz Zsigmond Square, where several public transportation options are available (from Fővám Square, trams 47/49, and metro line 4).
If you are accepted to the summer university and you know your exact arrival time, we will confirm where and from whom you can pick up your key. The dormitory has a 24-hour reception desk.
The program ends with a farewell dinner on 11 July. Check-out is possible on 12 July or optionally on 13 July.
The program starts with a get-together on 6 July. The earliest possible move-in date at the Campus is on the 6th of July with check-in available from 12:00 noon.
Corvinus University does not provide other accommodation options, than the Gellért Campus dormitory, but you are welcome to arrange your own housing in Budapest. You may consider alternatives such as hostels, Airbnb, or hotels.
Yes, please let us know if you have such a request, and we will take it into account when assigning rooms.
Yes, internet access is available throughout the campus
If you choose the premium package, accommodation is included for the whole stay. If you choose the standard package, you will have to find a place to stay on your own.
If you do not need accommodation, just choose the standard package.
The dormitory offers 2- and 3-person air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, providing students with a beautiful panoramic view due to the building’s location. The Campus also includes several communal areas, gardens. The floors have a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances and furniture, a common dining area, a communal area, and a laundry room (with industrial washing and drying machines). The building also has a collaboration and data space, and a reading room. There is a Fresh Corner buffet on the ground floor of the J wing and a community space called Rooftop Café on the 7th floor of the K wing with an open terrace.
Yes, both packages include breakfast, lunch, and the get-together and farewell dinners.
Payment
Yes, depending on the information you provide during registration, we can issue the invoice either to an individual or to an institution.
During registration, you will need to provide your billing details. If you are accepted to the summer university, we will send you an invoice with the necessary information.
You can cancel your registration up to 4 weeks before the event. In this case, a non-refundable fee of 50 EUR will apply.
Yes, you will receive an invoice from us.
Credits
You can receive 6 ECTS credits for completing the Summer University.
The Summer University is organized as part of a short-term academic program, which means you will receive an official credit certificate upon completion.
About Budapest and Hungary
The Hungarian education system is structured into several distinct stages. Preschool education is compulsory for children aged 3 to 6, this stage focuses on early childhood development and preparation for primary education, that is spanning eight years, primary education is divided into two cycles , lower primary aimed at children aged 6 to 10 and upper primary, catering to students aged 10 to 14. After completing primary education, students can choose from various types of secondary schools, like gymnasiums, that prepares students for university studies, vocational schools, that offer specialized training in various trades and technical schools, that provide technical education and prepare students for specific careers. Hungary’s higher education system includes universities and colleges that offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. The curriculum is based on the Bologna Process, ensuring compatibility with European standards.
Hungary is located in the centre of Europe, its roughly 10 million inhabitants speak Hungarian.
Hungary has a temperate climate, with temperatures rising over 30 °C during the hottest days of summer and dropping just below the freezing point during winter.
The currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF)
In Hungary, the standard voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. The power plugs used are typically Type C and Type F (two round pins). If you’re traveling from a country with a different plug type or voltage, you may need an adapter or voltage converter.
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary, its political, economic and cultural centre, owing to its unique natural and architectural factors it is one of the most popular European tourist destinations.
As opposed to many big cities in the world, it is not an issue to get from one venue to another. Within the inner districts of the city, any point can be reached in a matter of 15 minutes on foot, by bike or scooter. Public transport secures fast connections to the outer districts, it is easy to find a bus even at 3 am owing to night services.
Social Programme
We have several activities planned for the participants: there will be a get-together and farewell dinner, a sightseeing tour, a visit to a community garden, and a sports session. In addition, we will organise optional evening programmes with the involvement of the students.
Before You Arrive
You can check in to the dormitory from July 6. If you are accepted, we will contact you to confirm your exact arrival time and provide details on how to collect your room key.
Please bring weather-appropriate clothing. As we will also have a sports activity, make sure to bring sportswear as well. Bed linen will be provided at the dormitory.
Most airlines operate direct flights to Budapest, therefore it can be reached easily and without a stopover from most parts of the world.
There will be no pick-up service from the airport, but if you have any questions, we are happy to assist you and help ensure you get to the campus without any issues.
If you arrive at Liszt Ferenc International Airport, you can reach the Gellért Campus by public transport as follows: From the city centre you can take bus 100E or bus 200E to the city centre. From Kálvin tér you can take the tram 47/49 to Gárdonyi tér. From there, you can walk up to the Campus (you will need to climb a few steps to get there).
Courses
Most of the classes will take place at the Gellért Campus, but there will also be company visits, a community garden tour, and other activities.
You can find the detailed programme under the ‘Programme’ section. We will update it regularly.
There will be no traditional exam, but there will be a task to complete both before and after your arrival.
We will send you recommended reading materials.