Master of Science in Economics: Global Challenges
Explore pressing global economic challenges through policy-focused research and analysis.
Best for:Best for students with a strong interest in policy economics, global development, and applied research who seek careers in international organizations, government agencies, or consultancies.
Overview
This Master of Science specialization at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam focuses on economic aspects of global challenges, including climate change, poverty, migration, and international political economy. Students engage in coursework that applies theoretical and empirical tools to real-world issues, such as environmental policy, global inequality, and innovation diffusion. The program is jointly supported by faculty from the Departments of Economics and Spatial Economics, offering interdisciplinary insights from internationally recognized researchers. Graduates are prepared for careers in policy analysis, government agencies, international organizations, consultancies, or NGOs, with a strong emphasis on formulating evidence-based policy recommendations.
What you'll do
- Engage in coursework that applies theoretical and empirical economic tools to solve real-world global challenges.
- Conduct research on topics such as climate change, global inequality, migration, and innovation diffusion.
- Develop policy recommendations based on evidence and analysis.
- Collaborate with faculty from multiple departments to gain interdisciplinary insights.
- Complete a thesis project that delves into a specific aspect of global economic challenges.
- Participate in policy debates and discussions with internationally renowned economists.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor of Science in Economics or a related field (e.g., Social Sciences, Political Science, or related disciplines)
Degree offered: Master of Science in Economics
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic study and research
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and quantitative skills
- Ability to apply economic theory to real-world policy issues
- Proficiency in using modern tools of economic analysis
- Research and writing skills for thesis development
- Familiarity with empirical research methods
- Open to international applicants
- No specific nationality restrictions
- No age restrictions
- No prior work experience required
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
- Not confirmed by the source
- Teaching language
- Not confirmed by the source
- Taught / research mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Study mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Campus
- Not confirmed by the source
- Prerequisites
- Not confirmed by the source
- Application instructions
- Not confirmed by the source
- Tuition
- Not confirmed by the source
- Funding
- Not confirmed by the source
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through the official Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam portal. Required documents typically include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal or thesis outline. Additional requirements may vary, so it is important to check the university’s application guidelines.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Research proposal or thesis outline (if applicable)
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.