
MSc International Economics and Sustainable Development
DURATION
12 Months
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
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EARLIEST START DATE
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TUITION FEES
EUR 20,800 / per year *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* for non-EU/EEA| EU/EEA: EUR 2530
Introduction
Study International Economics and Sustainable Development in Groningen and learn about the societal and economic implications of international trade, finance, and sustainable development.
We are confronted with major challenges, such as rising inequality, populism, the erosion of democracy, tackling climate change and promoting fairer, and more inclusive growth. How can you make a real impact to address these challenges? In this MSc programme, we teach you about the necessary tools and economic theories to make an impact. You also develop an analytical mindset to work on societally relevant issues. Our graduates move on to influential jobs at (international) companies, government, or international organizations.
In the MSc International Economics and Sustainable Development, you are taught societally relevant topics and how they are related to the world of economics, and we help you develop valuable skills in international trade, international finance and banking, policy analysis, and more. Also, you learn to analyze economic data, assess policy options, make economic development strategies, and provide recommendations to policymakers. We are proud of the recent very positive evaluation by the EQUIS peer review team about the outstanding quality of the students and management of the programme.
Did you know that the courses taught are closely related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? To address the complex challenges facing the world, we believe it is essential for students to learn about the environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Companies all over the world increasingly recognize the importance of socially responsible practices that contribute to sustainable development. In this master’s programme, you work on real-world assignments in a diverse team to come up with solutions using empirical methods. Furthermore, you will explore the various dimensions of globalization, including the movement of goods and capital. You will cover issues such as inequality, trade, investment, environmental sustainability, and economic policy in developing countries.
Why study this programme in Groningen?
- This MSc in Groningen is unique because of its international perspective, reflected both in its content and student community. You delve into a wide range of topics, all highly relevant to our society, you study linkages between industries across borders and you will work in project teams with students from different countries.
- Our graduates pursue various career paths. You may work in the private sector, government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, or consulting firms, focusing on international trade, climate change, international finance, policy analysis, and more.
- Explore the ethical dilemmas and consequences associated with international economics and sustainable development, including issues related to sustainability, social justice, and human rights. You will address global challenges and topics that are related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and work towards solutions to make a positive change.
- We take an interdisciplinary approach, integrating economics, environmental research, policy analysis, and technological developments. This broad perspective prepares you to tackle complex and real-world problems.
- Our academic staff have strong relationships with international research and consultancy institutes, as well as policy advice centres. We invite industry experts regularly to give guest lectures and show you how what you study can make an impact.
- The programme has been internationally accredited by the AACSB and EQUIS, ensuring a high-quality education, which only 1% of universities reach worldwide.
- Our alumni have the opportunity to engage in high-level research activities of international organizations (such as the OECD in Paris, the Conference Board in New York, and the ILO in Geneva) and national organizations (such as the Dutch Central Bank and The Netherlands' Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis).
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available, please visit the university website for more information.
Curriculum
Year 1
You start by learning about topics like international trade, growth, and development economics and apply these theories to real-world problems. Using data and research findings, you can understand the role of globalization on sustainable business practices, why governments come up with certain policies, and how they can benefit one country but disadvantage another.
Depending on your interests, you can choose to specialize in various topics by selecting elective courses in global finance, economic geography, inclusive and sustainable finance, international banking, and monetary policy. You can also decide to participate in the focus area of Energy Transition and Climate Change and specialize in energy transition and innovation.
You finish the master's programme by writing and defending a thesis. Here are some examples of topics students researched:
- The relation between job polarization and the rise of populism
- The environmental Kuznets curve
- The impact of migration on technological change
- The inflation rate and central bank independence
- The determinants of global value chain participation by developing countries
- The effects of the US-China trade war on manufacturing workers in European countries
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
In the MSc International Economics and Sustainable Development, you will acquire a diverse set of skills that will prepare you for a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. As an economist, you will be able to analyze economic data, conduct research, and use economic models to understand and evaluate economic trends, policies, and development strategies. What's more, you will have an understanding of international economic dynamics and how they affect inequality but also environmental economics and sustainability. This knowledge and skills are needed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our society today.
Graduates of this MSc programme take up positions in internationally oriented firms (such as banks, consultancy firms, and multinationals), international organizations (such as World Bank, IMF, European Union, UN, and OECD), and internationally oriented departments of government agencies and policy advisors.
Job examples
- Market/policy analyst
- (Development) economist
- Sustainability consultant
- Trade expert
- Global strategy and policy advisor
Program Admission Requirements
Show your commitment and readiness for Grad school by taking the GRE - the most broadly accepted exam for graduate programs internationally.