Creating positive impact through connecting science and society
Tesla is a 30EC minor program for MSc students (UvA or other universities) who want to apply their academic and creative skills to real-world problems. During this intensive five-month program, you will join an interdisciplinary team of students and work with various partners and stakeholders from different sectors, such as government, NGOs, non-profits and social businesses. Using co-creation, consulting and systems thinking methods, you will create innovative approaches for positive social impact.
Besides working on a project, you also participate in – and co-organize – trainings, lectures, coaching and a sports program. These activities will help you develop your personal and professional skills and prepare you for a fulfilling career as a changemaker.
Our projects
Every year, Tesla works on multiple projects with different partners. The projects involve a complex challenge in which you typically work on a sustainability, health or justice transition.
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House framing. Original public domain image from Flickr
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What students say
“In Tesla I had the chance to work in a very ambitious team. The Tesla program also assisted a lot in the team process. It is important to be open to each other in the beginning, to share your preferences and be aware of how you induce negative feelings in others. As my team consisted of three very different personalities conflicts are inevitable when working together for five months. However, we learned to accept each others needs and found ways that allowed everyone to express his/her strengths, because we were open to each other and everybody worked hard.” – Maurice
Apply now for Tesla 2024
Interested in doing a project with us?
Do you have a question that has been bugging you for ages? Or an innovative idea that needs some thorough research and a fresh perspective?
Become a Tesla partner! A team of 2-3 top-level and highly motivated MSc students, guided by experienced consultants, coaches and academic supervisors, will take a deep dive into your problem. By working on your assignment, the students gain valuable experience and professional skills, and you receive a creative and scientifically sound solution.
Some organizations that we’ve worked with
