International Master's Programmes 2014-2015

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES 2014-2015

CONTENTS IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER

A

27

ACCOUNTING AND CONTROL

2 3 INFORMATION SCIENCES

I

45 ARCHAEOLOGY

53 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW

19 ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

5 4 INTERNATIONAL CRIMES AND CRIMINOLOGY

47

ARTS & CULTURE

48

ARTS & CULTURE

B

20 BIOINFORMATICS AND SYSTEMS BIOLOGY 10

L

5 4 LAW AND POLITICS OF INTERNATIONAL SECURITY 52 LINGUISTICS 52 LITERARY STUDIES

BIOLOGY

M

10 BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES

11 BIOMOLECULAR SCIENCES

16 MANAGEMENT, POLICY ANALYSIS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

2 8 BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 20 BUSINESS ANALYTICS

C

IN HEALTH AND LIFE SCIENCES 34 MARKETING 24 MATHEMATICS 24 MEDICAL NATURAL SCIENCES

4 4 CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH

N

21 CHEMISTRY

49 CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

17 NEUROSCIENCES

50 CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

O

37 CLINICAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOPATHOLOGY

37 COGNITIVE NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

44 ONCOLOGY

51 COMMUNICATION & INFORMATION STUDIES

P

22 COMPUTER SCIENCE

38 CULTURE, ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT

25 PARALLEL AND DISTRIBUTED COMPUTER SYSTEMS

D

22 DRUG DISCOVERY AND SAFETY

E

56 PHILOSOPHY 57 PHILOSOPHY 26 PHYSICS 39 POLITICAL SCIENCE

S

11 EARTH SCIENCES

12 ECOLOGY

26 SCIENCE, BUSINESS AND INNOVATION (SBI)

30 ECONOMETRICS AND OPERATIONS RESEARCH

41 SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY

32 ECONOMICS

38 SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY: REGULATION OF SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

13 ENVIRONMENT AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

35 SPATIAL, TRANSPORTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL

F

ECONOMICS 27 STOCHASTICS AND FINANCIAL MATHEMATICS

3 3 FINANCE

G

T

42 THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES

13 GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SCIENCE

4 3 THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES

14 GLOBAL HEALTH

36 TINBERGEN INSTITUTE MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY

H

IN ECONOMICS

55 TRANSNATIONAL LEGAL STUDIES

15 HEALTH SCIENCES 18 HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT,

EXERCISE AND HEALTH

18 HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT,

EXERCISE AND HEALTH (RESEARCH)

16 HYDROLOGY

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

3

CONTENTS

HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES 18

HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH • Sport • Health

EARTH AND LIFE SCIENCES

18

HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH (RESEARCH)

10 BIOLOGY

• Ecology

• Green Life Sciences

• Brain and Behaviour

SCIENCES

ARE RESEARCH MASTER’S

10

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES • Infectious Diseases • Cardiovascular Diseases • International Public Health • Immunology • Psychophysiology • Medical and Behaviour Genomics

11

BIOMOLECULAR SCIENCES • Cell Biology • Biological Chemistry

11

EARTH SCIENCES • Solid Earth • Applied Environmental Geosciences • Paleoclimatology and Geo-ecosystems • Earth Sciences and Economics

12 ECOLOGY

• Ecology and Evolution

• Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology 13

ENVIRONMENT AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT • Energy Studies • Climate and Water Policy • Environmental Studies • Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity

13

GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SCIENCE • GIScience • GIS and Management • GIS and Environment

14

GLOBAL HEALTH

15

HEALTH SCIENCES • Policy and Organization of Healthcare • Prevention and Public Health • Infectious Diseases and Health • Nutrition and Health • International Public Health

16 HYDROLOGY 16

MANAGEMENT, POLICY ANALYSIS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN HEALTH AND LIFE SCIENCES • Health and Life Sciences-based Policy • Health and Life Sciences-based Management and Entrepreneurship • International Public Health • Science Communication

17

NEUROSCIENCES • Neurogenomics • Neurophysiology • A nimal Behaviour and Systems Neurosciences • Behavioural and Medical Genomics • Psychophysiology • Clinical Neurosciences

4

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

19

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE • Cognitive Science • Human Ambience • Intelligent Systems Design • Web Science

20

BIOINFORMATICS AND SYSTEMS BIOLOGY • Bioinformatics • Systems Biology

20

BUSINESS ANALYTICS • Business Process Optimization • Computational Intelligence • Financial Risk Management

21 CHEMISTRY

• Analytical Sciences

• Molecular Design, Synthesis and Catalysis

• Molecular Simulation and Photonics

• Science for Energy and Sustainability

• Sustainability - the Molecular Approach (excellence programme) 22

COMPUTER SCIENCE • Foundations of Computing and Concurrency • Internet and Web Technology • Computer Systems and Security • High-Performance Computing • Software Engineering

22

DRUG DISCOVERY AND SAFETY • Biomarkers and Clinical Chemical Analysis • Computational Medicinal Chemistry and Toxicology • Drug Design and Synthesis • Drug Discovery and Target Finding • Drug Disposition and Safety Assessment

23

INFORMATION SCIENCES • Business Variant • Web Variant

24 MATHEMATICS

• Stochastics

• Differential Equations and Dynamical Systems

• Topology and Geometry 24

MEDICAL NATURAL SCIENCES • Medical Physics • Medical Physiology • Molecular Clinical Diagnostics • Physics of Life

25

PARALLEL AND DISTRIBUTED COMPUTER SYSTEMS

26 PHYSICS

• Advanced Matter and Energy Physics

• Particle and Astroparticle Physics

• Physics of Life and Health

• Science for Energy and Sustainability

• Theoretical Physics

26

SCIENCE, BUSINESS AND INNOVATION (SBI) • Energy & Sustainability • Life & Health

27

STOCHASTICS AND FINANCIAL MATHEMATICS

ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 27

ACCOUNTING AND CONTROL • Accountancy • Controlling • Honours Programme in Business Research

28

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION • Entrepreneurship • Financial Management • Human Resource Management • Information and Knowledge Management • Management Consulting • Strategy and Organization • Transport and Supply Chain Management • Honours Programme in Business Research

30

ECONOMETRICS AND OPERATIONS RESEARCH • Econometrics and Mathematical Economics • Operations Research and Business Econometrics

32 ECONOMICS

• Development Economics

• Economic and Social Policy

• International and Macroeconomic Policy

• Spatial Economics 33 FINANCE

• Honours Track in Quantitative Finance 34 MARKETING

• Honours Programme in Business Research 35 SPATIAL, TRANSPORTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS

• Spatial Economics

• Transport Economics

• Environmental Economics 36

TINBERGEN INSTITUTE MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN ECONOMICS • Economics • Econometrics • Finance

PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATION 37

CLINICAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOPATHOLOGY

37

COGNITIVE NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

38

SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY: REGULATION OF SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR

41

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY

THEOLOGY 42

THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES • Exploring a Discipline • Leadership • Media • Teaching Religious Diversity

43 THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES

VUMC SCHOOL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 44 CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH 44 ONCOLOGY

ARTS 45 ARCHAEOLOGY

• Archaeology of North Western Europe

• Landscape and Heritage

• Mediterranean Archaeology 47

ARTS & CULTURE • Comparative Arts and Media Studies • Design Cultures

48 ARTS & CULTURE

• Visual Arts, Media and Architecture 49

CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS • Ancient History • Ancient Studies • Classics

50

CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

51

COMMUNICATION & INFORMATION STUDIES • Metaphor in Discourse

52

LINGUISTICS

52

LITERARY STUDIES • Literatures in English

LAW 53 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW

• Regulation of Business

• Business Relations 54 INTERNATIONAL CRIMES AND CRIMINOLOGY 54 LAW AND POLITICS OF INTERNATIONAL SECURITY 55

TRANSNATIONAL LEGAL STUDIES

SOCIAL SCIENCES

PHILOSOPHY

38

39

CULTURE, ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT • Identity and Diversity in Organizations • Cultural Change and Intervention

56 PHILOSOPHY

• Christian Studies of Science and Society

• Philosophy of Management and Organizations

POLITICAL SCIENCE • Comparative European Politics • Global Environmental Governance • International Relations and Transnational Governance • Policy and Politics

57 PHILOSOPHY

• Philosophy, Bioethics and Health

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

5

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

conducted in small tutorials, where interactivity is the norm rather than the exception. At every turn, students are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue with their professors.

VU University Amsterdam is an internationally renowned research university. Located in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, the

LIVING IN THE NETHERLANDS

Netherlands, we conduct cutting-edge research into problems of

Images of the Netherlands abound, from windmills and tulips

major societal and scientific importance. Ever since its foundation

to vibrant Amsterdam and an open and welcoming society.

in 1880, the university has been known for its distinctive approach

But these traditional perceptions of the country hide a much

to academic research and education, in which taking a broad

more interesting story: one of excellent universities and an

perspective is as important as acquiring in-depth knowledge. We

international reputation for research and development in many of

ask and expect our students, researchers, PhD candidates and

the most exciting fields of education, science and technology. The

employees to look further; to look beyond the boundaries of their

international outlook for which the Netherlands is famous is also

own field, culture, traditions and philosophy to become critical and

reflected in the range of degree programmes on offer. There are

socially engaged academics.

few non-English speaking countries where the range of Englishspeaking programmes is so wide and diverse.

With over 24,000 students and about 4,600 staff, we are a modern organization at the cutting edge of higher education. VU University

LIVING IN AMSTERDAM

Amsterdam offers a wide range of English-taught programmes

Amsterdam is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world,

at three levels: Bachelor’s (BA, BSc), Master’s (MA, MSc) and

boasting 179 different nationalities and where English is widely

doctoral (PhD). Twelve faculties share a single campus and cover a

spoken. At VU University Amsterdam some 78 nationalities work

wide spectrum of the arts, sciences and medicine.

and study closely together, creating a dynamic international academic community.

WHY LOOK FURTHER INTO VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

Did you know that: • Amsterdam has approximately 800,000 inhabitants?

• A msterdam has 165 canals and 1,281 bridges, more than even

VU University Amsterdam: • is consistently listed among the top universities in the world in various rankings; • is located in one of the most dynamic and fast-growing business districts in the Netherlands; • is a modern campus university with student housing just a fiveminute bike ride away; • helps you with housing, visas and the administrative side of

Venice?

• Amsterdam is the largest city in the Netherlands?

• according to Mercer’s 2012 Quality of Life Survey, Amsterdam is ranked 12th worldwide, ahead of London (38th) and New York (44th)?

• Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in the world?

• w ith almost 92,000 students, Amsterdam is a great and lively place to study?

studying in the Netherlands; • offers an international environment. A quarter of the students in our English-taught programmes come from abroad; • provides high-quality education in small and highly interactive classes; • is located in lively and multicultural Amsterdam, the city with

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM SERVICES The International Office of VU University Amsterdam can help you to find accommodation and to apply for a visa and residence permit (if applicable). We also offer orientation periods for international students in August, consisting of social events,

the largest concentration of students in the Netherlands and

sports activities and a cultural programme. The faculty will help

where English is the second language;

you with course information, course registration and transcripts.

RANKING AND EDUCATION

MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMMES IN ENGLISH

The overall quality of Dutch higher education is among the best in

VU University offers more than 70 Master’s programmes in

the world. According to the THES QS World University Rankings,

English. You can find information about these programmes in this

no other country in the world can claim that 90% of its universities

brochure. More information can be found online at

are ranked in the world’s top 200. VU University Amsterdam

WWW.VU.NL/INTERNATIONALMASTERS

is ranked 140th. Education at VU University Amsterdam is structured according to the Bologna system. After completing a

BACHELOR’S DEGREE PROGRAMMES IN ENGLISH

Bachelor’s programme, which usually takes three years, students

VU University Amsterdam offers three Bachelor’s degree

can embark on a one-year or two-year Master’s programme.

programmes in English. You can find information about these programmes and other important information in the brochure on

After graduating from the Master’s programme, some students

International Bachelor’s programmes or online at

find a PhD position. Generally speaking, the teaching style can be

WWW.VU.NL/INTERNATIONALBACHELORS

described as student centred: we encourage students to develop their own opinions through independent and creative thinking.

At VU University Amsterdam this means that teaching is mainly

6

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

To be continued at page 8 >

TESTIMONIALS

LUIZA ANDRADE/BRAZIL SOCIAL SCIENCES: SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY “The decision to study at VU University Amsterdam was not a difficult one. At first, I was attracted by university’s principle of being free from the influences of government and religious institutions. But when I actually started my programme at the university, I realized that this notion of freedom goes far beyond the scope of institutions.

VU University Amsterdam is a place that stimulates creativity and welcomes new ideas. It offers an excellent academic environment, not only by providing the students with access to the latest publications and the classics, but also by creating comfortable work spaces in the university buildings. The teachers are of the

VU UNIVERSITY STIMULATES CREATIVITY AND WELCOMES NEW IDEAS

highest quality, combining outstanding academic backgrounds with an on-going interest in current events. They are always open and available to the students, guiding us through the academic year. Furthermore, the financial aid provided by the VU Fellowship Programme for excellent students is more than welcome to foreign students looking to study in the Netherlands.

The scholarship has allowed me to focus on my studies full-time, giving me the opportunity to experience an outstanding Master’s year.”

ARZ STEPHAN/LEBANON RESEARCH MASTER’S IN CLINICAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOPATHOLOGY This Research Master’s programme has provided me with the opportunity to be trained by top researchers in the field of clinical and developmental psychopathology. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all the challenges inherent to the programme, I’ve had the opportunity to acquire a diversity of research skills, and I’ve learned to apply them under expert supervision.

In addition, the programme has allowed me to develop my analytical skills in finding the best ways to prevent and to treat mental health problems, and at the same time to investigate the reasons behind such problems.

AS I APPROACH GRADUATION, I REALIZE I MADE AN EXCELLENT CHOICE IN MY ACADEMIC JOURNEY BY JOINING THIS RESEARCH MASTER’S

I’ve also enjoyed the international aspects of the programme.

It has introduced me to the international research networks in psychopathology and both the teaching staff and the students form a melting pot of cultural diversity while sharing a common passion for research.

Last but not least, this programme has contributed to my personal as well as my professional development, making me ready for the job market!

Starr Brown’s testimonial can be found at page 58.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

7

BACHELOR’S AND MASTER’S PROGRAMMES IN DUTCH

Please consult the website to see what the specific tuition fees

VU University Amsterdam also offers Bachelor’s and Master’s

are: WWW .VU.NL/TUITIONFEE

programmes in Dutch. If you are interested in taking one of these programmes as a non-Dutch speaker, you can take advantage of

SCHOLARSHIPS

the special language-learning facilities offered by VU University

As an international student planning to study at VU University

Amsterdam. Further information can be found on our website

Amsterdam, you can apply for a variety of grants and bursaries.

WWW.VUAMSTERDAM.COM VU FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME RESEARCH MASTER’S

With our own scholarship, the VU Fellowship Programme

Most students who intend to study for a PhD after their Master’s,

(VUFP), VU University Amsterdam offers talented prospective

opt for a Research Master’s. Although all our Master’s

international students the unique opportunity to pursue a degree

programmes have a focus on research and writing skills, this

in a selection of Master’s programmes at the university. We are

is even more strongly so for Research Master’s. Admission is

committed to investing approximately one million euros per year

both highly selective and competitive. You will receive two years

in attracting excellent, highly motivated students. The VUFP

of research training supervised by professors and have the

scholarship covers tuition fees and provides an allowance towards

opportunity to produce your own PhD research grant proposal.

study and living expenses. The deadline for this scholarship is 1

The Research Master’s programmes in this brochure are marked

March. For further details see WWW.VU.NL/VUFP

with this icon:

OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS Detailed information about scholarships and deadlines can be

PHD PROGRAMMES

found on WWW.VU.NL/SCHOLARSHIPS or

For people with a recognized Master’s degree, VU University

WWW.GRANTFINDER.NL

Amsterdam offers the possibility of obtaining a doctorate or PhD. The process of earning a doctorate normally takes four years or more and consists of conducting independent research and writing a doctoral thesis. PhD candidates in the Netherlands

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND DEADLINES

are not regarded as students but have the status of professional researchers with a contract of employment. You can apply for a

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

PhD position if you meet the requirements of the PhD programme.

All programmes have specific admission requirements. In general

Positions are advertised at WWW.WORKINGATVU.NL

you will need a university Bachelor’s degree closely related to

More information can be found at WWW.VU.NL/PHD

the Master’s programme you intend to pursue at VU University Amsterdam. To enter a Bachelor’s programme, you will need an

SEMESTER AND SUMMER PROGRAMMES

equivalent of a Dutch pre-university school diploma (VWO). All

Are you interested to study at VU University Amsterdam for

programmes start in September.

a semester or summer? For more information, please visit WWW.STUDYABROADINAMSTERDAM.NL

LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS For all international study programmes, students need to be

PRACTICAL MATTERS

proficient in English. International applicants are requested to submit the results of an English proficiency test with their application. The minimum English language requirements at VU

FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES

University are IELTS 6.5 and TOEFl ibt 92. Some programmes

As a student at VU University Amsterdam, you will have a wide

have higher requirements, so please check the website of the

range of facilities at your disposal. You will have access to

programme of your choice. For general information about the

an extensive library, a university-wide wireless network and

exact requirements see WWW.VU.NL/APPLICATION

numerous computer rooms and reading rooms. The university’s sports centre offers at least 35 different sports and the Griffioen

APPLICATION DEADLINES

cultural centre organizes a variety of courses in arts and other

The general application deadlines are 1 April for non-EU students

cultural activities.

and 1 June for EU students. For EU students who need housing, the application deadline is 1 April. Some programmes may have

FINANCES

other deadlines, so make sure you check the programme website.

Students from the European Union (EU) or the European

The application procedure can also be found online at

Economic Area (EEA) pay the same tuition fees as Dutch

WWW.VU.NL/APPLICATION

students. The tuition fees for most programmes are set by the Dutch government on a annual basis and vary per programme.

Experience shows that it costs between €900 and €1,000 a month to live and study in the Netherlands, excluding tuition fees and other non-recurring expenses. Some students manage to spend less, but of course that depends on your individual lifestyle.

8

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMMES

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

9

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Bioinformatics and Systems Biology - Biomedical Sciences -Biomolecular Sciences -Ecology - Management, Policy Analysis and Entrepreneurship in the Health and Life Sciences Neurosciences.

BIOLOGY 2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • ECOLOGY • GREEN LIFE SCIENCES • BRAIN AND BEHAVIOUR WWW.VU.NL/BIOLOGY

WHY STUDY BIOLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Biology is the study of life in all its fascinating manifestations, from plants to human beings. The field of study ranges from the latest developments in DNA and genomics to interrelations between flora and fauna in complex ecosystems. While pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology at VU University Amsterdam, you can opt to study a combination of different specializations and career profiles.

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES 2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • • • • • •

INFECTIOUS DISEASES CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH IMMUNOLOGY PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGY MEDICAL AND BEHAVIOUR GENOMICS

WWW .VU.NL/BIOMEDICALSCIENCES

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The Master’s in Biology offers three compulsory courses each year, six optional courses, two research projects and a literature

WHY STUDY BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY

survey. You can combine two specializations or a specialization

AMSTERDAM?

with a career profile in communication, management or education.

Depth, variety and practical applicability. The Master’s programme offers no fewer than six different specializations.

In the specialization in Ecology, you focus on how the Earth,

But you are not restricted to those: you can design your own

plants, animals and micro-organisms function and interact. Your

programme. This means you can tailor your degree to your own

approach to these processes will range from the molecular and

particular interests and background. The programme offers

genetic to the regional.

opportunities to study abroad and you will gain plenty of research

In Green Life Sciences, you examine growth and how plants

experience. Two 20-week work placements hone your practical

develop and adapt to their environment. The topics you study

skills and help you to discover what job will suit you in the future.

include plant/microbe interactions, structure and systematics, molecular biology, genetics, evolution: ecology and physiology.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

In Brain and Behaviour, you focus on the various aspects of all

The Master’s in Biomedical Sciences is a two-year, full-time

kinds of behavioural functioning and how they are influenced by

programme. There are three compulsory courses and you are

genes, the environment and developmental factors.

free to select the rest from the six specialization packages. You go on two research placements and write a literature-based thesis.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

Lectures play a comparatively modest part in this Biomedical

This Master’s programme offers you excellent opportunities in the

Sciences programme. For the most part, you are encouraged to

field of scientific research: 60% of our graduates go on to conduct

conduct your own research and to pass on what you learn from

PhD research at a university or a research institute. But there are

your research activities to your fellow students. There is plenty of

plenty of other career paths open to you, including teaching, public

scope for practical work, giving you the opportunity to use the very

relations, policy work and consultancy.

latest research methods and equipment.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

You must have a Bachelor’s degree in Biology in order to join the

Next to a specialization, you can choose a profile: research, social,

programme. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in another subject,

communication or education. Your job prospects are excellent:

the examination board will decide whether you can be admitted.

60% of our graduates go on to do scientific research at a university or research institute. Depending on your profile, you could enter

10

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

the field of policy-making, choose a career in teaching or discover

In the Biological Chemistry specialization, you learn how cells,

your opportunities as a scientific journalist, press officer or

cellular structures and individual proteins interact with their

education officer.

chemical environment, with a special focus on characterizing new drug targets and tools to find small molecules as a starting point

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

for developing new medicines.

Students who hold a Bachelor’s degree from an institution outside of the Netherlands may be admitted to the Master’s programme in

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

Biomedical Sciences based on a decision by the examination board.

With a Master’s degree in Biomolecular Sciences, there is a whole range of job opportunities open to you. You could work for

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

a medical product manufacturer or a pharmaceutical company.

Biology - Biomolecular Sciences - Drug Discovery and Safety -

A PhD in Molecular Biology or Biochemistry can lead to a post

Environment and Resource Management - Management, Policy

as a university lecturer or a career in industry (e.g. with DSM,

Analysis and Entrepreneurship in the Health and Life Sciences -

Unilever).

Neurosciences - Oncology.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS To join this Master’s, you must have a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Health and Life Sciences, Biology, Natural Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Life Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related subject. If you have another type of Bachelor’s degree, it will be up to the examination board to assess your eligibility for admission.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Biology - Biomedical Sciences - Chemistry - Drug Discovery and

BIOMOLECULAR SCIENCES

Safety - Management, Policy Analysis and Entrepreneurship in the Health and Life Sciences - Neurosciences - Oncology.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • CELL BIOLOGY • BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY WWW.VU.NL/BIOMOLECULARSCIENCES

WHY STUDY BIOMOLECULAR SCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The field of Biomolecular Sciences is a core research area at

EARTH SCIENCES

VU University Amsterdam. Much of the faculty’s research in this field has been brought together in a single, leading research organization: the Institute of Molecular Cell Biology (IMC). You will learn to work with state-of-the-art techniques and carry out essential research in this vital field of study.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME On this Master’s programme, you can choose between two

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • • • •

SOLID EARTH APPLIED ENVIRONMENTAL GEOSCIENCES PALEOCLIMATOLOGY AND GEO-ECOSYSTEMS EARTH SCIENCES AND ECONOMICS

WWW.VU.NL/EARTHSCIENCES

specializations or combine the two: Cell Biology and Biological Chemistry. You take compulsory courses that equip you with the essential knowledge you need to pursue your specialization and

WHY STUDY EARTH SCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

study optional courses. You write a literature survey and complete

Understanding how planet Earth works is important for everyone.

two work placements, combining theory with practice and

This is what Earth Sciences is all about. VU University Amsterdam

developing your research skills.

offers you a wide range of specializations that will help you become a geoscientist who is keenly aware of the crucial and

In the Cell Biology specialization, you learn about the regulation

intriguing interrelations of System Earth. The programme is a

of gene expression. For example, you will discover how a single

varied mix of lectures, tutorials, and practicals. There is also a

fertilized egg cell develops into a complex organism and how the

strong emphasis on fieldwork and lab work aimed at developing

development of undifferentiated stem cells can be directed.

practical skills.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

11

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The two-year Master’s involves a company traineeship, an orientation phase at a science journal, or participation in a research project, complete with fieldwork, lab work and/or computer modelling. The Master’s gives you the opportunity to choose a specialization, but selecting one does not mean that you are restricted to a single area. The specializations are: Solid Earth: obtain a broad background that combines knowledge of lithosphere tectonics, sedimentary and structural geology, petrology, isotope geochemistry and basin analysis.

ECOLOGY

Applied Environmental Geosciences: take a broad and applied programme focusing on the Earth’s surface.

Paleoclimatology and Geo-ecosystems: learn how to account for the interaction between climate and marine/terrestrial ecosystems by studying the geological past.

Earth Sciences and Economics: learn how to keep our economies healthy using scientific knowledge about the Earth.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION • ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY & TOXICOLOGY WWW.VU.NL/ECOLOGY

YOUR FUTURE CAREER The world of today is in great need of people who understand

WHY STUDY ECOLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

System Earth, whether in industry, business, policy or research.

At VU University Amsterdam you will develop the tools to predict

Where your career will take you depends to a great extent on

and combat problems caused by pollution, biodiversity loss

the specialization you opt for. Typical Earth Science subjects –

and climate change. You will study Ecology from a plant, animal

energy, climate, resources, geo-hazards – will become even more

and systems perspective, investigating ecological processes

pressing in the near future.

from molecular level to regional and global level, using field observations and experiments to identify ecosystem patterns

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

and functions. This Master’s combines lectures with plenty of

The Master’s programme is open to motivated candidates

fieldwork, giving you as broad a programme as possible.

with an appropriate qualification in Earth Sciences or related natural sciences. If your Bachelor’s degree does not fully meet

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

the requirements of a specific Master’s specialization, the

At the start of your Master’s, you can choose between two

Examination Board may still decide to admit you. In such cases,

specializations: Ecology & Evolution and Environmental Chemistry

additional requirements may be set.

& Toxicology. Ecology & Evolution approaches ecology from a molecular perspective or by taking a field-scale approach, or

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

preferably by combining the two. Courses include Spatial Ecology,

Hydrology - Environment and Resource Management - Ecology.

Biodiversity & Global Change and Environmental Genomics & Adaptation. The specialization in Environmental Chemistry & Toxicology looks at how chemicals develop in the environment and influence it. Courses include Ecotoxicology & Environmental Quality and Assessment of Natural & Chemical Hazards.

Compulsory courses equip you with the vital knowledge you need as an ecologist, while optional courses enable you to combine the knowledge of your specialization with various aspects of the discipline. You will complete your Master’s by writing a literature survey and conducting two research projects, integrating theory and practice, and training your research skills.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER As a graduate of the Master’s in Ecology, you have a wide range of career options. The demand for ecologists is considerable these days. Over half of our graduates continue their studies, pursuing a PhD project. Other graduates find jobs in the applied environmental sciences or in policy preparation for government bodies, water boards or NGOs. SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS If you hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from a Dutch university, you will be granted automatic admission to the Master’s

12

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

programme. If you have a university Bachelor’s degree in another

your own focus in your Master’s specialization and your own niche

subject or a Bachelor’s degree from an institute of applied

through your Master’s thesis.

sciences in the Netherlands or abroad, the Examination Board will assess your eligibility for admission.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER The Environment and Resource Management programme offers

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

excellent career prospects in the field of environment, policy

Biology - Earth Sciences - Environment and Resource

and management. You might find a job as a researcher, pursue a

Management - Hydrology.

PhD or go beyond the field of academic research and become a consultant, policymaker or activist at an NGO in the Netherlands or abroad.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS New applicants must at least hold a Bachelor’s degree from a university. All applications will be assessed by the examination board.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Earth Sciences - Ecology – Hydrology – Spatial, Transport and

ENVIRONMENT AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Environmental Economics.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • • • •

ENERGY STUDIES CLIMATE AND WATER POLICY ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES ECOSYSTEM SERVICES AND BIODIVERSITY

WWW.VU.NL/ERM

GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SCIENCE

WHY STUDY ENVIRONMENT AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The Master’s programme focuses on environmental change and resource depletion. We regard environmental problems as societal problems. The programme will train you to take a multidisciplinary approach towards analysing and solving environmental problems in a variety of contexts.

ERM offers you a broad theoretical basis, analytical tools

3 YEARS (PART-TIME/60 CREDITS) • GISCIENCE • GIS AND MANAGEMENT • GIS AND ENVIRONMENT WWW.UNIGIS.NL

and opportunities to explore a number of areas in greater depth. The programme helps you understand and analyse the different aspects of the socio-economic consequences of human

WHY STUDY GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SCIENCE AT VU

intervention on our planet.

UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Geographical Information Science (GIS) is one of the fastest

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

expanding areas in information technology. Offered under the

This one-year Master’s programme takes a multidisciplinary

auspices of UNIGIS, a network of universities cooperating in

approach to environment and resource management. You will

the design and delivery of distance learning in GIS, the Master’s

be part of a very international student body. You will learn how

programme at VU University Amsterdam enables professionals

environmental change and resource depletion occur, and how they

and recent graduates to acquire new knowledge and skills in the

are experienced and addressed in different parts of the world.

field. Combining academic rigour with flexibility and personalized learning, the programme provides an excellent foundation for your

You will combine a number of different theories and discover how

GIS career in science, business or public administration.

a diversity of approaches helps to better understand, analyse and deal with environmental problems. You will link theory to

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

practice and grasp the practical challenges involved in tackling

GIS is offered as a three-year distance-learning programme on

environmental problems. You will have the opportunity to define

a part-time basis. You will study approximately 8 to 10 hours per INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

13

week via online modules. Once a year, in June, you will participate in a one-week workshop on campus, attending lectures and

2 GIS AND MANAGEMENT

completing group assignments with your fellow students. GIS is a flexible, modular programme. It is divided into an academic core,

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

comprising modules in spatial analysis, spatial data management

This specialization comprises two compulsory modules in

and GIS research skills; a specialization track of your choice,

project management and two electives of your choice. If you

designed to meet your career objectives; and an in-depth research

wish to pursue a career as a GIS specialist in public admin-

project on your chosen GI topic, which completes your training as

istration or business, this is the specialization track for you.

a GIS scientist and professional. Through its connection to UNIGIS International, the programme grants access to summer and

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

winter schools organized together with other UNIGIS sites, and

You must have completed the academic core of the GIS

elective modules offered by our UNIGIS partners.

programme at VU University Amsterdam.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

WWW.UNIGIS.NL

The job market for GIS graduates is very healthy. Our graduates work in the private sector (48%) and with government bodies (47%). Many take a step up the career ladder during or soon after their studies. If you wish to pursue a career in science, the

3 GIS AND ENVIRONMENT

programme’s SPINlab (Spatial Information Laboratory) research group is always keen to consider good PhD proposals.

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? This specialization track comprises two compulsory modules

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

on environmental impact assessment and related geospatial

To obtain a place on the programme, you need a Bachelor’s

technologies and two electives of your choice. If you wish to

degree or equivalent. Each application is considered individually

pursue a career as a GIS analyst or consultant in the field of

on the basis of qualifications and experience. If your educational

environmental governance, this is the specialization track for

background does not grant you direct entry, you may be advised to

you.

take additional courses. The programme is taught and assessed in English, so you must possess the necessary language skills.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must have completed the academic core of the GIS

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

programme at VU University Amsterdam.

Landscape and Heritage - Earth Sciences - Ecology - Business Administration: specialization Transport and Supply Chain

WWW.UNIGIS.NL

Management - Spatial, Transport and Environmental Economics Environment and Resource Management - Geosciences of Basins and Litosphere - Global Health - Hydrology

3 SPECIALIZATIONS: 1 GISCIENCE WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? This specialization comprises two compulsory modules in modelling and advanced spatial analysis and two electives of your choice. If you wish to pursue a career as an expert

GLOBAL HEALTH

analyst, whether in science, business or administration, this is the specialization track for you.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS)

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

WWW.VU.NL/GLOBALHEALTH

You must have completed the academic core of the GIS programme at VU University Amsterdam.

WWW.UNIGIS.NL

WHY STUDY GLOBAL HEALTH AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? New and emerging infectious diseases, changing disease patterns, rising healthcare costs – just some of the factors that add complexity to the health challenges the world is facing. Many diseases do not stop at borders and most health problems have

14

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

a social, political and economic impact. These issues require extensive analysis from different points of view to develop innovative health interventions. In the Research Master’s programme in Global Health you will get to grips with the wider context of health challenges.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME This innovative Research Master’s offers you a research-based approach to global health that spans a range of disciplines and encompasses a systems-based perspective. You will receive two

HEALTH SCIENCES

years of research training supervised by professors and have the opportunity to produce your own PhD research grant proposal. As a Master’s student in Global Health, you acquire the knowledge, skills and attitude to analyse complex national and international health challenges, and to design, implement and evaluate integral intervention strategies to meet complex global health challenges. You will learn to build on systems thinking, as well as research that combines and transcends individual disciplines. The programme has four components: compulsory courses, elective

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • • • • •

POLICY AND ORGANIZATION OF HEALTHCARE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC HEALTH INFECTIOUS DISEASES AND HEALTH NUTRITION AND HEALTH INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH

WWW.VU.NL/HEALTHSCIENCES

courses, and two research internships of five months each.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

WHY STUDY HEALTH SCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

As a Research Master’s graduate in Global Health, you will be

Since 1900, life expectancy in Western Europe has increased by

ideally equipped to pursue a PhD on global health issues. If this

30 years. Only five of those years can be attributed to curative

is not your primary objective, the Master’s programme will also

medicine; the remaining 25 years are due to improvements in

prepare you effectively for other research positions. Worldwide

public health, hygiene and prevention. In the Master’s in Health

there is an urgent need for more research on health problems,

Sciences, you will explore and analyse the various complex factors

health interventions, health systems and health policy.

that contribute to health and disease. Your excellent analytical ability, comprehensive overview of the healthcare system and

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

specialized knowledge and skills will make you a valuable asset to

You should have a Bachelor’s degree in one of the basic disciplines

healthcare employers.

of global health, with basic knowledge of epidemiology (e.g. medical biology, health sciences, medical anthropology, medicine,

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

health economics, pharmacy). Every year 25 students are

In this one-year programme you will choose one or two

admitted to the Research Master’s programme. Admission is both

specializations, complete a five-month internship and write

highly selective and competitive.

a Master’s thesis. Each specialization comprises five onemonth courses: two are compulsory and two are elective. The

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

specialization in Policy and Organization of Healthcare focuses

Health Sciences– Management, Policy Analysis and

on health technology assessment and health economics. If you

Entrepreneurship in the Health and Life Sciences.

choose to specialize in Prevention and Public Health, you will study human behaviour in the living and working environment. Infectious Diseases and Health examines pathogenic micro-organisms and parasites from the perspective of disease prevention and treatment. If you take the Nutrition and Health specialization, you will explore the role of diet in maintaining good health and in disease treatment and recovery. Opting for International Public Health gives you a strong interdisciplinary focus and insight into international developments in health intervention strategies and the impact of globalization.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Health Sciences touches on many aspects of society, resulting in a broad range of career options. These include positions as a researcher at a university or specialist institute, health insurance policy officer, sickness prevention policy officer for municipal health services, communication advisor on health issues, manager of a healthcare institution, epidemiologist and health advisor for an NGO. INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

15

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

(e.g. hydrological modelling, laboratory studies) or a study

You can be admitted to the programme on the basis of a foreign

incorporating field measurements.

diploma which is at least equivalent to a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences. Your curriculum will be examined to decide if

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

you can be admitted to the programme directly or if you need to

Our graduates are experts in the interaction between hydrology

take additional subjects to bring you up to entry level.

and geology and are ideally suited for positions in the professional water sector as hydrological consultants, or in government and

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

international organizations dealing with water resources. Many

Global Health - Management, Policy Analysis and

also opt to continue their academic studies by pursuing a PhD.

Entrepreneurship in the Health and Life Sciences.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You can gain direct admission to the Master’s programme in Hydrology with a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Sciences, Geology or Physical Geography. The same applies if you have a three-year BSc in other natural sciences and technology, although additional requirements in terms of background knowledge apply to certain specializations.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Earth Sciences - Ecology - Environment and Resource Management - Geographical Information Sciences - Geosciences

HYDROLOGY

of Basins and Lithosphere.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/HYDROLOGY

WHY STUDY HYDROLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The Master’s programme in Hydrology offers a strong, internationally oriented curriculum. You will receive expert guidance as you gain knowledge and skills before proceeding to your specialization. The programme features a finely tuned mix of lectures, computer modelling workshops, lab experiments and hydrological field training in the Netherlands, Portugal and elsewhere. All courses contribute effectively to the overall curriculum, and are closely linked to hydrological research.

MANAGEMENT, POLICY ANALYSIS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN HEALTH AND LIFE SCIENCES

The programme is one of the top-five Master’s at VU University Amsterdam.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The first year of the Master’s programme in Hydrology consists of a combination of lectures, computer workshops, laboratory and field courses. This period teaches you the basics of theoretical and experimental hydrology in courses such as catchment rainfall-runoff analysis and surface water modelling, hydrological

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • HEALTH AND LIFE SCIENCES-BASED POLICY • H EALTH AND LIFE SCIENCES-BASED MANAGEMENT AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP • INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC HEALTH • SCIENCE COMMUNICATION WWW.VU.NL/MPA

systems and water management, groundwater hydraulics, ecohydrology and micro-meteorology, unsaturated zone hydrology and near-surface hydrological processes and hydrochemistry.

An instrumentation field course in the Netherlands followed by a

WHY STUDY POLICY ANALYSIS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN

six-week integrated hydrological field study in Portugal complete

HEALTH AND LIFE SCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

the first year.

Management, Policy Analysis & Entrepreneurship in Health

The second year is devoted to a specialization based on your

and Life Sciences (MPA) is unique in its focus. Innovations and

individual interests, and is concluded by a 4-6 month research

developments in the fields of Health and Life Sciences give rise

project at the university, or at an international research institute

to complex social issues. The programme concentrates on the

or company. Your thesis may be based on desk research

scientific aspects of integrating different areas of knowledge and

16

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

on developing effective policies. MPA is all about making the right decisions, and motivating and managing the professionals who work in this sector.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME On the two-year Master’s programme in MPA, you will take compulsory courses, optional courses, complete two internships and write a thesis on a topic of your choice. Internships are a vital part of the programme. You might complete yours at the Ministry of Health, a pharmaceutical company or a research institute, or

NEUROSCIENCES

even do an internship abroad.

In Health and Life Sciences-based Policy, you focus on government policy and how it can solve complex social issues.

In Health and Life Sciences-based Management and Entrepreneurship, you look at how scientific knowledge evolves and contributes to interesting and relevant innovations for society.

In International Public Health, you explore health issues in a global context. In Science Communication, you work towards becoming an expert communicator on scientific matters.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • NEUROGENOMICS • NEUROPHYSIOLOGY • A NIMAL BEHAVIOUR AND SYSTEMS NEUROSCIENCES • BEHAVIOURAL AND MEDICAL GENOMICS • PSYCHOPHYSIOLOGY • CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES WWW .VU.NL/NEUROSCIENCES

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Your career prospects on completing the Master’s programme

WHY STUDY NEUROSCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

in MPA will be very promising. Opportunities include policy

The professional environment we provide is strengthened by

preparation with a government agency or public health

bringing all areas of expertise together in the Neuroscience

organization, a post as a university researcher, or a career with

Campus Amsterdam. You will study facets of neurosciences

a pharmaceutical company, for example as a clinical research

ranging from genes to behaviour, from both fundamental and

assistant or an advisor.

clinical perspectives. In addition to the mainstream Master’s, there is also a top-level Master’s exchange programme, which is

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

open to outstanding and highly motivated students. Our Master’s

You qualify for admission if you hold a Bachelor’s degree in:

programme is a partner in the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s

Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Health Sciences, Medical Natural

programme, which includes Bordeaux, Göttingen, Berlin, Coimbra

Sciences, Medical Informatics, Bioinformatics, Biochemistry

and Quebec.

of Pharmaceutical Sciences. The examination board admits international students on the basis of a degree which is at least

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

equivalent to a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

The Master’s in Neurosciences is a two-year, full-time programme. In addition to attending lectures and research

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

seminars, you will participate in demonstrations, lab visits and

Biology - Biomedical Sciences - Biomolecular Sciences - Global

practicals.

Health - Health Sciences.

The first year consists of compulsory courses, to give you a thorough grounding in relevant disciplines, followed by a fivemonth work placement. You will have a wide range of placement opportunities to choose from at VU University Amsterdam and affiliated institutes.

The second year consists of optional courses to expand your knowledge of key areas. In addition to six possible tracks, you are free to put together your own set of four optional courses. During the last six months of the programme, you will complete your second work placement. You are encouraged to do so outside VU University Amsterdam, if possible at an institute abroad.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Around three quarters of our graduates go on to join a PhD programme. The world of neuroscience is particularly keen to welcome students with a multidisciplinary education as offered by our Master’s programme. A PhD will prepare you for a top position at a university, in the corporate sector or with a research institute, such as the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

17

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

function within the context of rehabilitation, and normal and

The examination board admits international students on the basis

abnormal motor development. Besides lectures and seminars, the

of a degree which is at least equivalent to a Dutch Bachelor’s

programme involves several practicals and a substantial research

degree. This can be in a wide range of scientific disciplines,

internship on a topic of your own choice. Successful completion of

but Biology, Biomedical Sciences or Biological Psychology are

the programme results in an internationally recognized Master of

particularly relevant. Admission is both highly selective and

Science degree (MSc).

competitive.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

With a Master’s degree in Human Movement Sciences, you will

Biomedical Sciences - Chemistry - Drug Discovery and Safety

be a qualified specialist with wide-ranging career opportunities.

-Oncology - Physics.

Depending on your individual profile, you can for instance opt for a career in movement-related technology, scientific research, higher education or policy making in sport or (mental) healthcare, or become an exercise physiologist or embedded scientist in the fields of healthcare and sport.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS To gain admission to the Master’s programme in Human Movement Sciences you need a Bachelor’s degree that includes coursework on anatomy, physiology and psychology at introductory textbook level, along with sufficient research skills, knowledge of mathematics and physics, and a good command of

HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH

English (TOEFL 580 or IELTS 6.5).The final decision lies with the departmental Admissions Board.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Human Movement Sciences: Sport, Exercise and Health (research).

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • SPORT • HEALTH WWW.VU.NL/HMS

WHY STUDY HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? From the latest developments in sports training to new approaches to rehabilitation, this Master’s programme in Human Movement Sciences gives you state-of-the-art insights into the various ways in which motor performance can be enhanced. You will learn to translate multidisciplinary scientific knowledge to applications in sport and healthcare practice. The Faculty of Human Movement Sciences provides a stimulating study

HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH (RESEARCH)

environment, as it is internationally renowned for its highly qualified and dedicated researchers and lecturers and its excellent lab facilities.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/HMS-MPHIL

You can only take this one-year Master’s programme on a fulltime basis. It spans the broad multidisciplinary spectrum of human movement sciences and comprises two main tracks:

WHY STUDY HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT, EXERCISE &

Sport and Health. These tracks are not mutually exclusive and

HEALTH (RESEARCH) AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

you are free to customize your own profile by taking a variety

This Research Master’s is a multidisciplinary programme that

of elective courses. The Sport track ranges from exercise and

covers the whole spectrum of human movement sciences, from

muscle physiology to biomechanics and sport psychology. The

molecular biology to cognitive neuroscience and human motor

Health track addresses movement disorders, restoration of motor

behaviour. Admitting a maximum of thirty students per year, the

18

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

programme guarantees plenty of scope for in-depth discussions and personal attention. Our highly qualified researchers and lecturers and excellent lab facilities provide a stimulating setting that will prepare you for a career in top-level scientific research in sport, healthcare or more fundamental aspects of human movement.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME You can only take this two-year Research Master’s programme on a full-time basis. The first year is dedicated to preparing you

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

for scientific research, providing a thorough background in sport, rehabilitation and regenerative medicine, alongside training in state-of-the-art research methods and advanced statistics.

You can customize your own profile, with a focus on sport, health, fundamental aspects of human movement or research methods. Since extensive experience in high-quality research is indispensable for a scientific career, the entire second year is reserved for your research internship. We aim to produce

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • • • •

COGNITIVE SCIENCE HUMAN AMBIENCE INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS DESIGN WEB SCIENCE

WWW.VU.NL/ARTIFICIALINTELLIGENCE

first-class projects that result in scientific publications and we will help you find a project that suits your interests, either at our department or with another leading institute in the Netherlands or abroad. Successful completion of the programme results in an

WHY STUDY ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AT VU UNIVERSITY

internationally recognized Master of Science degree (MSc).

AMSTERDAM? Artificial Intelligence is all about smart and intelligent

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

environments that support humans. Its goals are highly diverse,

After completing the Research Master’s, you will be all set to

and range from optimizing internet searches to supporting

pursue a scientific career, typically starting with a position as a

elderly people in their struggle with dementia. You will study the

PhD researcher. Approximately 80% of our graduates pursue a

application of knowledge engineering, multi-agent technology

career in scientific research. However, you will also be well

or evolutionary methods. Intelligence is about more than just

equipped for other research-related positions.

logical thinking and computation, which is why you will also draw on knowledge from other disciplines: philosophy, psychology,

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

information science and linguistics.

Thirty students a year can be admitted to this selective Research Master’s programme. You must possess a Bachelor’s degree in

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

Human Movement Sciences or related life sciences. You should

This Master’s is a pioneering programme in the development of

be highly motivated and have a demonstrable interest in research

intelligent systems. You will work on advanced information

as well as an aptitude for research activities. Admission also

systems at a wide range of companies and institutions and

depends on your Bachelor’s or pre-Master’s grade average and

conduct your own research. You will work in study groups and

your proficiency in English.

attend supporting lectures. How your programme is structured depends on which of our four specializations you choose: Cognitive

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

Science, Human Ambience, Intelligent Systems Design or Web

Human Movement Sciences: Sport, Exercise and Health.

Science. Each consists of both compulsory and elective subjects.

You studies will culminate in a thesis based on a five-month internship or graduation project.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER AI specialists are in great demand in business, research and the public sector. All of our recent graduates have found jobs relevant to their degree within a few months of graduating, entering fields such as organizational consultancy, human factor design and applied human-computer interaction. A Master’s degree also provides a solid foundation for continuing research as a PhD student.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS A Bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence or Computer Science is required. Exceptional applicants may also be admitted on other grounds.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

19

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

field, with over half continuing scientific research to PhD level.

Computer Science - Information Science - Parallel Distributed

Technological advances such as next generation sequencing and

Computer Systems.

the development of personalized medicine mean career prospects will only improve.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS The Master’s programme is open to motivated candidates with an appropriate scientific qualification. This may be a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Pharmaceutical Sciences.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Biology - Computer Science - Mathematics - Medical Natural

BIOINFORMATICS AND SYSTEMS BIOLOGY

Sciences - Ecology.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • BIOINFORMATICS • SYSTEMS BIOLOGY WWW.VU.NL/BIOINFORMATICS

WHY STUDY BIOINFORMATICS AND SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AT VU

BUSINESS ANALYTICS

UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Vast amounts of data have been generated by genomics research over the years, enabling us to gain a deeper understanding of life. By understanding life’s complex molecular networks, we can improve our quality of life and conquer major diseases. The Master’s in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology at VU University Amsterdam provides the ideal gateway to this fascinating and challenging field.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • BUSINESS PROCESS OPTIMIZATION • COMPUTATIONAL INTELLIGENCE • FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT WWW.VU.NL/BAM

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME Bioinformatics and Systems Biology are highly interdisciplinary

WHY STUDY BUSINESS ANALYTICS AT VU UNIVERSITY

fields. The programme combines molecular and cell biology,

AMSTERDAM?

computer science and mathematical modelling to produce

The Master’s programme in Business Analytics is a

fundamental knowledge by integrating vast amounts of biological

multidisciplinary programme aimed at improving business

data. Bioinformatics is more data-oriented, while Systems Biology

processes by applying a combination of methods that draw from

focuses more on the mechanism of molecular interactions.

mathematics, computer science and business management.

You will develop a strong feel for scientific research and

Based on an understanding of the theoretical applications of the

high levels of abstraction, and learn to combine the rapid

field, you will be trained to recognize and solve company problems

developments in these fields. After an in-depth introduction to

and will use your knowledge in the different areas of expertise to

both disciplines, you can specialize in either Systems Biology or

improve business practices.

Bioinformatics. This high-quality Master of Science programme is a collaboration between VU University Amsterdam and the

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

University of Amsterdam. The Bioinformatics programme has

Business Analytics is a two-year programme. The first six months

an excellent international reputation and is led by research

are devoted to compulsory courses. Over the next twelve months,

groups with extensive experience in a broad range of practical

you will focus on one of three specializations. In the final six

applications and theoretical research.

months you will go on to complete an internship with a company.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

You can choose one of the following three specializations:

Our graduates are in great demand: so far all of our students

Business Process Optimization: you will tackle quantitative

have found employment in industry or the academic world

business problems with the aid of mathematical algorithms which

immediately after graduation. The vast majority stay within the

are then implemented in decision support systems.

20

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

Computational Intelligence: you will simulate the human brain in a

breaking analytical methods to determine low levels of bioactive

computer program to make decisions using optimization and data

proteins in complex biological samples? Perhaps your focus lies

mining techniques.

in finding solutions to the current global problems with regard to

Financial Risk Management: you will learn to price derivatives,

energy, climate and sustainability? A Master’s in Chemistry from

such as share options, and master strategies for risk

VU University Amsterdam can lead to an exciting, well-paid career

management.

with extensive opportunities for pursuing your ambitions.

Employment and academic endeavour can be also be combined by following the dual Master’s programme. During this programme

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

you are employed part time and study part time.

The Master’s in Chemistry is a two-year programme in collaboration with the University of Amsterdam, containing five

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

specializations. Each specialization consists of introductory and

With a Master’s degree in Business Analytics, you will always be

advanced courses, optional courses, a research project, a thesis

in demand on the labour market. Companies need academics who

and a colloquium. You can choose a specialization that suits your

have learned to analyse quantitative problems, devise effective

own particular ambitions and interests.

solutions and implement them. The Master’s programme in

If you opt for Analytical Sciences, your courses might include (bio)

Business Analytics will prepare you for a career as a business

molecular spectroscopy or high throughput screening.

analyst, one of the most sought-after positions in the world.

Opting for Molecular Design, Synthesis and Catalysis, enables you to take courses like coordination and organometallic chemistry,

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

and synthetic organic chemistry.

Students who have a Bachelor’s degree in Business Mathematics,

Molecular Simulation and Photonics involves courses such as

Mathematics or Econometrics from a university or another

applied theoretical chemistry, molecular photonics and quantum

institute of higher education will be admitted with some

chemistry.

additional requirements. A minimum of 45 credits in Mathematics

Specializing in Science for Energy and Sustainability allows you

and 90 credits in Business Mathematics, Computer Science

to study catalysis for sustainable energy and management of

or Econometrics is required for admission to the Master’s

sustainable innovation, among other subjects.

programme. Applications will be assessed individually.

Sustainability - The molecular approach’ is a so-called excellence programme and focuses on all three areas of sustainable

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

molecular chemistry.

Computer Science - Econometrics and Operations Research Mathematics.

Students can conduct an internship abroad or follow the Erasmus Mundus master Atomic Scale Modelling of Physical, Chemical and Biomolecular Systems (AtoSiM) jointly operated by Amsterdam, Rome and Lyon.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER As a chemistry graduate, there is a wide range of career opportunities open to you. Most of our students find a job soon after graduation. They work in the chemical/ pharmaceutical industry (41%), policy making (24%), scientific research (10%) or go into teaching (7%). Another 17% pursue a career in other fields.

CHEMISTRY

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Direct admission to the Master’s programme in Chemistry is possible with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. If you hold a

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • • • • •

ANALYTICAL SCIENCES MOLECULAR DESIGN, SYNTHESIS AND CATALYSIS MOLECULAR SIMULATION AND PHOTONICS SCIENCE FOR ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY SUSTAINABILITY- THE MOLECULAR APPROACH (EXCELLENCE PROGRAMME)

Bachelor’s degree in a related subject, you can be admitted with some additional requirements. The Master’s programme provides opportunities to fill specific gaps in your knowledge.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Biomolecular Sciences - Drug Discovery and Safety - Science, Business and Innovation.

WWW.VU.NL/CHEMISTRY

WHY STUDY CHEMISTRY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Are you interested in finding out how to use inexpensive organic materials to capture CO2? Or would you like to develop groundINTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

21

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS If you hold a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from a foreign university, you are welcome to apply for this Master’s programme. We will assess your qualifications for relevance to your chosen Master’s specialization and decide whether and to what extent a pre-Master’s track is required.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Artificial Intelligence – Business Analytics – Information Sciences – Parallel and Distributed Computer Systems.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • • • • •

FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTING AND CONCURRENCY INTERNET AND WEB TECHNOLOGY COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND SECURITY HIGH-PERFORMANCE COMPUTING SOFTWARE ENGINEERING

WWW.VU.NL/COMPUTERSCIENCE

WHY STUDY COMPUTER SCIENCE AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The Master’s programme in Computer Science has a solid

DRUG DISCOVERY AND SAFETY

reputation for its approach to the subject. Nearly 100% of Computer Science students find a full-time job that matches their qualifications before the day of graduation. As a student, you will

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS)

The Master’s in Computer Science is a two-year programme,

• BIOMARKERS AND CLINICAL CHEMICAL ANALYSIS • C OMPUTATIONAL MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY AND TOXICOLOGY • DRUG DESIGN AND SYNTHESIS • DRUG DISCOVERY AND TARGET FINDING • DRUG DISPOSITION AND SAFETY ASSESSMENT

consisting of a core track and a selected track. The core track (48

WWW.VU.NL/DDS

profit from the expertise of VU University Amsterdam’s research groups, and from their contacts at national and international level.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

credits) deals with all aspects of Computer Science, whereas the selected track (36 credits) enables you to delve deeper into the subject matter that interests you most.

WHY STUDY DRUG DISCOVERY AND SAFETY AT VU UNIVERSITY There are five tracks to choose from:

AMSTERDAM?

Foundations of Computing and Concurrency, Internet and Web

Developing new drugs is such a complex and wide-ranging

Technology, Computer Systems and Security, High-Performance

process that it requires real specialists who are excellent team

Computing and Software Engineering.

players. The Master’s programme provides you with broad theoretical knowledge of the first phases of drug discovery and

You will conclude your programme with a Master’s project. This

development. At the same time, your chosen specialization and

takes the form of a graduation project in one of the research

research project will make you an expert in one of these areas.

groups at the Department of Computer Science or an internship

Drug Discovery and Safety is a one-of-a-kind programme at the

at a company. Most students complete the project on an individual

intersection of chemistry and life sciences.

basis, but it can also be completed in a group.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME YOUR FUTURE CAREER

In this Master’s programme, you will examine drug discovery

Computer Science graduates are in demand. The vast majority

and safety from a range of disciplines: chemistry, pharmacology,

of our students (90%) embark on a career in consultancy, the

medicine, genetics and toxicology. This multidisciplinary approach

software business, other private sector businesses or the

is essential in tackling the diseases of tomorrow and developing

government sector. Jobs include systems manager, information

the drugs of the future. Drug Discovery and Safety starts with

analyst, software engineer, policy advisor or project manager.

introductory courses on chemical biology, ADME processes, drug

Others set up their own company. Graduates with excellent grades

action and computational design. You will take advanced courses

can apply for a PhD position.

in one of five specializations, write a thesis and carry out your own research project in one of our internationally renowned research groups at the Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical

22

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

Sciences. You can also opt for an internship abroad or our

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

Double Degree Programme in collaboration with the University

The one-year Master’s in Information Sciences trains you to

of Copenhagen. Our Master’s coordinator will provide you with

become an outstanding professional who – working independently

expert guidance in putting together your own personalized

or in a team – is able to solve problems with regard to the design,

programme within your specialization.

application and practical use of complex information systems in organizations.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

The first half of the semester consists of optional and compulsory

With a Master’s in Drug Discovery and Safety, you will have

courses offered by VU University Amsterdam and the University

excellent career prospects and can generally expect to earn a

of Amsterdam. Both institutions offer five courses of six credits,

good salary. Our graduates have gone into scientific research

and you will select a minimum of five courses from a total of ten.

(45%), pharmaceutical sales (25%), government or private-sector

Topics range from e-business and visual analytics to courses on

policy-making (10%), teaching (5%) and other jobs (15%) ranging

the social web and internet information. The full list of courses

from clinical research associate to patent consultant and from

can be found online.

toxicologist to customs researcher.

The academic research component of the Master’s consists of courses on research methods and thesis design (12 credits), and a

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

thesis worth 18 credits.

You can join the programme if you have a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy or Chemistry.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Career prospects for Information Sciences graduates are

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

excellent. Our graduates work in a wide range of industries and

Biomedical Sciences - Biomolecular Sciences - Chemistry -

public institutions, both inside and outside the IT sector. They

Medical Natural Sciences.

take on positions as consultants, analysts, designers, project coordinators, IT programme managers and researchers. Some graduates pursue their studies to PhD level and some go on to start their own businesses.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS The Master’s is open to students with a university Bachelor’s degree in Information Sciences or in related fields such as Computer Science, Informatics, Business Analytics or Artificial Intelligence. A detailed application procedure for international students can be found at the website.

INFORMATION SCIENCES

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Artificial Intelligence – Computer Science.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • BUSINESS VARIANT • WEB VARIANT WWW.VU.NL/IS

WHY STUDY INFORMATION SCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Information Sciences bridge the gap between Information and Communication Technology and its practical use in society.

Are you more interested in the application of technology than technology for its own sake? Do you believe it’s important not to lose sight of the role people, organizations and cultures play in generating, processing, designing, modelling, communicating and sharing information? Are you fascinated by knowledge and innovation? If so, the Master’s programme in Information Sciences is an excellent choice for you.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

23

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Direct admission is possible with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or Engineering Mathematics. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in another science subject, your application will be assessed by the Examination Board. Assessment criteria include 90 credits of Mathematics courses at BSc level, including some advanced courses.

MATHEMATICS

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Stochastics and Financial Mathematics - Business Analytics - Physics - Computer Science - Bioinformatics and Systems

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS)

Biology.

• STOCHASTICS • DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS AND DYNAMICAL SYSTEMS • TOPOLOGY AND GEOMETRY WWW.VU.NL/MATHEMATICS

WHY STUDY MATHEMATICS AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Mathematics is a vibrant, multifaceted and versatile field, focusing on the study and development of techniques to tackle pure and applied mathematical questions. Often, the dividing line between theory and practice is illusory. Mathematical theory, developed for a specific problem, often finds its way into

MEDICAL NATURAL SCIENCES

unexpected applications. The Department of Mathematics at VU University Amsterdam maintains close ties with organizations where mathematical principles are applied, including financial companies and other businesses, VU University Medical Center and biomedical research groups.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The Master’s programme in Mathematics consists of specialized

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • • • •

MEDICAL PHYSICS MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY MOLECULAR CLINICAL DIAGNOSTICS PHYSICS OF LIFE

WWW.VU.NL/MNS

courses, optional courses and a Master’s project, culminating in the Master’s thesis in your second year. You can carry out this project under the supervision of a staff member from the Department of Mathematics, or externally at a company or

WHY STUDY MEDICAL NATURAL SCIENCES AT VU UNIVERSITY

research facility. The Mathematics Department at VU University

AMSTERDAM?

Amsterdam has an excellent reputation as a training and research

The field of medicine is developing incredibly fast. While the first

institute, active in areas that vary from the purely theoretical to

pacemaker was too large to implant, nowadays these devices

the highly applied.

are the size of a matchbox and doctors can set them remotely.

The Departments of Mathematics at the Dutch universities have

Such technological advances call for bright scientists with

joined forces to offer joint courses through the MasterMath

an innovative approach to medical research. Medical Natural

initiative. This gives you an ideal opportunity to interact with

Sciences is a multidisciplinary programme that combines physics

students and lecturers from other institutes in the Netherlands.

and chemistry with medicine. It will equip you perfectly for future

All students are required to take at least 30 credits of MasterMath

developments in medical research, in all their complexity.

courses.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME YOUR FUTURE CAREER

Medical Natural Sciences starts with introductory and advanced

As a Mathematics graduate, your versatility, analytical acumen

courses that combine subjects in physics and chemistry with

and problem-solving skills will make you an ideal candidate for

clinical-based topics. You will write a literature thesis, join

a variety of jobs in industry, banking, technology, consultancy,

one of the participating research groups and possibly opt for

service organizations and many other fields. Graduates with

an internship abroad. You will also choose one of the following

excellent grades are invited to apply for one of our PhD positions.

specializations:

As PhD student you will conduct research, culminating in a doctoral dissertation.

• MEDICAL PHYSICS: contribute to the improvement of medical devices aimed at studying processes in the human body and for

24

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

• PHYSICS OF LIFE: deal with challenging technological

of users. Scalability, performance, security and visualization are key topics.

developments such as protein activity in living cells, optical tweezers and medical imaging.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

• MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY: become an expert in clinically-oriented

The Master’s in Parallel and Distributed Computer Systems is a

research focused on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of

two-year programme that strikes an effective balance between

cardiovascular complications.

classroom and applied work. About one third of the first three

• MOLECULAR CLINICAL DIAGNOSTICS: study the discovery,

semesters is devoted to practical projects. The emphasis shifts

validation and identification of predictive biomarkers and their

gradually from lectures to independent and research-oriented

application in clinical chemistry.

study with practical work, seminars and the identification of open research questions.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

The first semester is an even mix between compulsory and

Medical technology is developing rapidly. Medical Natural

elective courses. Compulsory courses include Distributed

Sciences graduates therefore enjoy highly favourable career

Systems, where you will learn about the development of

prospects in the fields of genetics, bio-informatics, pharmacy

middleware systems for large-scale computer networks.

and molecular research. You can work in clinics, institutes or

Parallel Programming teaches you how to write programs that

companies in areas relevant to your specialization. If you decide to

run in parallel on a large number of processors and Computer &

become a clinical physicist or clinical chemist, your Master’s will

Network Security is a wide-ranging course on security.

be a springboard to a postgraduate programme.

The final semester is dedicated to the Master’s thesis, which usually involves conducting research together with a member of

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

the programme’s academic staff.

The Examination Board of the Faculty of Sciences can admit international students with a qualification that is equivalent to a

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

Dutch Bachelor’s degree in Medical Natural Sciences.

PDCS is a research Master’s, which means that most of our students are preparing for a career in academic or industrial

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

research. Many PDCS graduates continue their studies by

Bioinformatics and Systems Biology - Cardiovascular Research -

obtaining a PhD research position at a top university. Others join

Drug Discovery and Safety - Neurosciences - Oncology - Physics.

industrial research laboratories. PDCS graduates are needed in many sectors. Graduates with an entrepreneurial drive often start their own companies.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS The Master’s programme in Parallel and Distributed Computer Systems is an internationally oriented, multidisciplinary programme based on outstanding research at VU University Amsterdam. The requirements, procedures and regulations are therefore different from those of a standard Master’s programme.

For the full procedure, check the website.

PARALLEL AND DISTRIBUTED COMPUTER SYSTEMS

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Artificial Intelligence - Computer Science.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/PDCS

WHY STUDY PARALLEL AND DISTRIBUTED COMPUTER SYSTEMS AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? As the internet develops, it has come to include cloud computing centres, smartphones, RFID tags and sensor networks.

This connected world brings new opportunities for science and business, but also new challenges to privacy and security.

You will study entirely new software architectures and largescale, geographically distributed systems which can serve billions INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

25

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS In addition to general requirements for the Master’s in Physics, each specialization has its own set of specific requirements.

In general, you should hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physics or Physics and Astronomy or an equivalent qualification. Please contact the programme coordinator for your specialization to obtain detailed information on specific further requirements.

PHYSICS

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Mathematics - Medical Natural Sciences - Science Business & Innovation.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • • • • •

ADVANCED MATTER AND ENERGY PHYSICS PARTICLE AND ASTROPARTICLE PHYSICS PHYSICS OF LIFE AND HEALTH SCIENCE FOR ENERGY AND SUSTAINABILITY THEORETICAL PHYSICS

WWW.VU.NL/PHYSICS

WHY STUDY PHYSICS AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Physics is an indispensable part of modern society. Our lives would be entirely different without computer chips, lasers, MRI screening and all the other benefits of physics research.

SCIENCE, BUSINESS AND INNOVATION (SBI)

The Master’s in Physics provides you with plenty of opportunities to study and engage in ground-breaking fundamental research and its applications. The programme offers a wide range of

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS)

courses and the opportunity to work with leading international

• ENERGY & SUSTAINABILITY • LIFE & HEALTH

researchers in advanced laboratories such as the Laser Centre (LCVU).

WWW.VU.NL/MSBI

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The Master’s programme gives you wider knowledge and a deeper understanding of physics as a whole, and the opportunity

WHY STUDY SBI AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

to specialize in a specific area. The specializations offered range

Successfully introducing scientific inventions to the market is a

from Advanced Matter and Energy Physics to Physics of Life and

complex process in which science and business cooperate to the

Health. You will take core courses in your chosen specialization,

fullest extent at each stage of development. As an SBI student, you

plus a number of optional subjects. These options can be general

will be trained to bridge the gap between the laboratory, the work

physics subjects or courses drawn from another specialization.

floor and the boardroom. This will give you the rare and highly

In your second year, you will join one of the research groups for

sought after professional combination of understanding both

your Master’s project and write a Master’s thesis. In addition to

the science behind innovations and the dynamics of innovative

your specialization, you can choose between various professional

markets.

profiles which emphasize research, communication, education or executive and management skills. You will also benefit from

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

the collaboration between VU University Amsterdam and the

SBI is a two-year Master’s track in Chemistry and Physics

University of Amsterdam, which expands the range of courses and

(120 credits) and is taught in English. All SBI Master’s students

research topics open to you.

take general courses in the business and the science behind scientific innovations. Alongside these core courses, you will

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

choose specific courses in line with your specialization. From

A Master’s degree in Physics provides a solid steppingstone to

the start of the programme, you will specialize in either Energy

a variety of career paths. You can pursue a career at a research

& Sustainability or Life & Health. You will also carry out a four-

institute, a major multinational, a telecommunications company

month research project with a research department. Your SBI

or a bank. Other opportunities can be found in the public sector,

Master’s culminates in a six-month internship at a company or

software houses and consultancies. You can also choose to

knowledge institute, where you will complete a project at the

continue your research at PhD level.

crossroads of science, business and innovation. In making these crucial choices, you can rely on the expert guidance of SBI’s internship coordinator.

26

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

semester, you can select subjects from a list of recommended

Positions open to you as an SBI graduate include assistant R&D

courses provided each year by the department. The last semester

project manager, assistant business analyst, high-tech marketing

is dedicated to your Master’s project, which is either a research

trainee or strategy consultant in the public or private sector.

project or an external project carried out at a business or

You might find yourself working for a venture capital company

research facility outside the university.

investing in innovative concepts, a government or business consultancy or in the energy and pharmaceutical sector, where

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

research and development are key.

A Master’s degree in Stochastics and Financial Mathematics will be a great asset to you in finding employment in the business

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

world, especially with major financial institutions (e.g. banks,

Your application will be reviewed by the Examination Board. As an

insurance firms), rail transport and telecommunications

international applicant, your degree must at least be equivalent to

companies. Your future employer will not only benefit from

a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

your mathematical background, but also from the personal and organizational skills you developed on the programme.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Chemistry - Physics.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Admission is possible with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics or a closely related subject, such as Statistics or Econometrics, subject to Examination Board approval. You also require some knowledge of measure and integration theory, probability and stochastics.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Business Analytics - Computer Science - Mathematics.

STOCHASTICS AND FINANCIAL MATHEMATICS 2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/SFM

WHY STUDY STOCHASTICS AND FINANCIAL MATHEMATICS AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

ACCOUNTING AND CONTROL

Stochastics examines phenomena in which chance plays a central role, such as general election results, share price fluctuations and interactions between molecules in a living cell. The Master’s programme in Stochastics and Financial Mathematics trains you in the full depth and breadth of this field, expanding your abilities and insights and enhancing your career opportunities.

VU University Amsterdam maintains close contact with the mathematics departments of many financial businesses and is

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • ACCOUNTANCY • CONTROLLING • H ONOURS PROGRAMME IN BUSINESS RESEARCH (20 ADDITIONAL CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/BUSINESSRESEARCH WWW.VU.NL/ACCOUNTING

located in the financial heart of Amsterdam.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The Master’s in Stochastics and Financial Mathematics is a

WHY STUDY ACCOUNTING AND CONTROL AT VU UNIVERSITY

small-scale programme that is characterized by a personal style

AMSTERDAM?

and individual attention. Student-teacher interaction plays a key

The Accounting and Control programme draws on the strengths

role. You will benefit from having the opportunity to study in small

of VU University Amsterdam both as an established research

groups and work closely with the academic staff.

university and as one of the major providers of postgraduate

The two-year programme is divided into four semesters. In the

professional education in accountancy. With a strong academic

first semester you will take one course that lays the foundation

core, an openness to the world of professional practice, and an

for the more advanced subjects to come. In the second and third

international outlook, the programme is an effective starting point INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

27

in your development as a professional preparer, user or auditor of financial information, and a gateway to further specialized training.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME Half of the programme consists of a common core of 30 credits. In the five core courses, you will consider the accounting and control domain from four disciplinary perspectives: financial accounting, management accounting, corporate governance and risk management, and corporate law. The final core course focuses on research methodologies in accounting. The other half of the

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

programme consists of two or more electives and an individual thesis of 18 credits, all of which you can use to develop a specific disciplinary profile.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Successful completion of the programme will give you a solid basis for pursuing a career in accounting and control. The programme is designed in particular for students aiming for financial manager or controller positions in major organizations and for those seeking work as an internal or public auditor.

Electives make it possible to gear the programme to specific career choices.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • • • • • • • •

ENTREPRENEURSHIP FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT CONSULTING STRATEGY AND ORGANIZATION TRANSPORT AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT H ONOURS PROGRAMME IN BUSINESS RESEARCH (20 ADDITIONAL CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/BUSINESSRESEARCH

WWW.VU.NL/BUSINESSADMINISTRATION

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS To be admitted you must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree),

WHY STUDY BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION AT VU UNIVERSITY

including advanced courses in Financial Accounting, Management

AMSTERDAM?

Accounting, Quantitative Methods and Financial Statement

No part of the Dutch economy is growing as fast as the business

Analysis.

services industry. The Master’s in Business Administration at VU University Amsterdam is the only Master’s in the country and in

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

Europe to focus specifically on this aspect of industrial activity.

Business Administration: Financial Management - Finance.

The university is located alongside Dutch multinationals, right in the heart of Amsterdam’s Zuidas business district. Our teaching staff provide an ideal combination of excellent scholarship and hands-on experience straight from the business world.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The Master’s in Business Administration is a one-year, full-time programme. The programme offers seven specializations, each with its own entry requirements, giving you the opportunity to become a leading expert in one of these areas. You will complete the programme by writing a Master’s thesis about your own research on a specific topic taken from your specialization’s research spectrum. Upon successful completion of the programme, you will have amassed expert knowledge in this specific area of studies and you will receive an internationally recognized Master of Science degree (MSc) in Business Administration. The specialization will be stated on your diploma supplement.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Regardless of the specialization you choose, you will be ideally equipped for a career in management, research or consultancy, both internal and external. Your strengths will either lie in your knowledge of a specific field (FM, HRM, IKM, S&O, TSCM) or in your command of processes and skills (Entrepreneurship, MC).

28

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

(equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including

Finance - Accounting and Control.

advanced courses related to the specialization of your choice and general courses such as Statistics, Business Statistics and/

WWW.VU.NL/FINANCIALMANAGEMENT

or Research Methods. See specific admission requirements per specialization.

7 SPECIALIZATIONS:

3 HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

1 ENTREPRENEURSHIP

HRM can be defined as the management of work and people in order to achieve desired outcomes. For organizations, these outcomes involve high performance aligned with

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

organizational goals. For employees, they involve career and

There is a growing realization that small and young businesses

development opportunities. Human resource managers take

can have a major impact on economic growth, and that

on the challenge of aligning individual needs to organizational

entrepreneurship provides fertile ground for innovation. In this

requirements using HRM tools and models. This process takes

specialization, we view entrepreneurship as a process of creating

place in the context of environmental and societal trends, such

and exploiting opportunities by combining resources in novel

as increasingly diverse employee backgrounds and more fluid

ways, with creativity playing a vital role. This produces new

career paths.

economic, public and societal value. We study entrepreneurial processes in small companies as well as large firms, in

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

governmental organizations and among individual professionals.

You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

advanced courses in Organizational Behaviour, Human

You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree

Resource Management and Research Methods for Business.

(equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including advanced courses in Business Statistics, Business Research

WWW.VU.NL/HRM

Methods, Organization Design and Strategy. This specialization is currently being reviewed for MSc accreditation (expected: September 2014), upon which graduates will be awarded a

Master’s in Entrepreneurship.

4 INFORMATION AND KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT

WWW.VU.NL/ENTREPRENEURSHIP

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? You will develop a thorough understanding of innovative organizational forms and new online technologies, and you

2 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

will focus on their value to develop business and improve organizational processes. You will be called on to think creatively and critically, using new academic insights, while

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

searching for innovative, practical solutions to turn information

Financial management professionals have to be experts in three

and knowledge into strategic value. Many high-profile

major fields: they must have a thorough understanding of how

companies are keenly interested in our students, both when

to acquire financial resources (corporate finance), know the law

collaborating with them on joint projects during courses and

of the land in the financial environment (financial markets) and

upon graduation.

have a keen awareness of how to manage and report internal financial flows (management/financial accounting). In addition,

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

the programme has two focus areas: financial management

You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree

in business (Corporate Finance and Accounting) and financial

(equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including

management in the financial sector (Banking and Insurance).

advanced courses in E-Business, Information Technology, Knowledge Management, Innovation Management, Business

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Research Methods, and (Strategic) Management/Organization.

You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree),

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

including advanced courses in Corporate Finance, Financial

Marketing - Business Administration: specialization Strategy

Management, Financial Markets and Institutions, Business

and Organization/Management Consulting.

Statistics and Accounting.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

29

5 MANAGEMENT CONSULTING

7 TRANSPORT AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

Consultants are hired when clients are unsure what action to

Building on our strong research track record, this

take or lack the time for proper reflection. The consultant’s

specialization offers you the right academic and professional

task is to solve management problems, improve performance,

skills to manage supply chains and transport networks in

implement changes and seize new opportunities. Yet even

both product-oriented and service-oriented firms and in

when consultants are called in, clients may still fail to take the

policy-making environments. In close collaboration with our

right decisions or to implement change. We offer you the tools

scientific staff, policy makers and leading multinationals, you

and training to develop the personal skills you need to become

will examine contemporary transportation and supply chain

an invaluable partner to businesses, government bodies and

challenges and develop novel solutions and insights. Whether

other organizations.

you wish to pursue a career in business or in the academic world, this specialization is an excellent choice.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

(equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including

You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree

30 credits of advanced Business Administration courses (e.g.

(equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including

Strategy and Organization, Organizational Design) and 30

several advanced courses in Strategy Operations Management,

credits of method courses (e.g. Business Statistics, Research

Basics of Transport Economics, and/or Logistics and Decision

Methods). If you have completed a 30-credit minor in

Analysis. We are looking for highly motivated students with

Business Administration as part of another degree, you may

a strong work ethos and strong analytical skills. A solid

also apply.

command of English is required.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

Business Administration: specialization Strategy and Control.

Spatial, Transport and Environmental Economics.

6 STRATEGY AND ORGANIZATION WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? You will explore the four challenges faced by businesses in the 21st century: globalization, collaboration, transformation, and servitization. You can study the challenges involved in the internationalization of entrepreneurial companies and multinational enterprises, and explore different forms of collaboration, including alliances, mergers and acquisitions.

Alternatively, you can focus on topics including the design and management of services, how production firms use services to improve their competitive position and the management of

ECONOMETRICS AND OPERATIONS RESEARCH

service innovation.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including advanced courses in Strategy and Environment, Organizational Design and Business Statistics/Research Methods.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • ECONOMETRICS AND MATHEMATICAL ECONOMICS • O PERATIONS RESEARCH AND BUSINESS ECONOMETRICS WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMETRICS

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Business Administration: specialization Management Consulting.

WHY STUDY ECONOMETRICS AND OPERATIONS RESEARCH AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Econometrics and Operations Research is a fascinating scientific discipline which develops state-of-the-art quantitative methods and applies them to the analysis of economic problems in their broadest sense. Due to the diversity of modelling and analytical techniques, the programme is divided into two specializations.

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VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

Each track provides you with the opportunity to examine a number

2 SPECIALIZATIONS:

of areas in greater detail, oriented either towards economic or business processes.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

1 ECONOMETRICS AND MATHEMATICAL ECONOMICS

The curriculum features many of the latest developments in areas such as financial econometrics, combinatorial optimization

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

and game theory. The programme offers two tracks, one in

This specialization focuses on econometric methods and

Econometrics and Mathematical Economics and one in Operations

techniques within finance and economics. Within the field of

Research and Business Econometrics. You will choose a

Econometrics you will learn to model economic time series and

specialization at the beginning of the programme, or you may

estimate parameters using advanced statistical techniques

combine courses from both specializations to create a tailor-made

such as Kalman filters and Monte Carlo simulations for short-

programme based on your own interests. In the latter case, no

term forecasting. Within the field of Mathematical Economics

specialization will be mentioned on your degree certificate.

you will learn to model and investigate markets with large players and develop optimal business strategies.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER You will have excellent career prospects in areas where

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

mathematics, statistics and IT resources are applied to

Besides the basic mathematics involved in the general

the quantitative analysis of business problems. Operations

requirements, applicants should have advanced knowledge of

researchers work in a range of industries, including logistics,

Econometrics, Statistics, and Mathematical Economics (beyond

software development, transport and distribution, manufacturing

the basic level).

and consultancy. Econometricians find employment in national policy research at planning agencies or government ministries, in

WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMETRICS

financial institutions and consultancy firms.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS To be admitted you must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree),

2 OPERATIONS RESEARCH AND BUSINESS ECONOMETRICS

including elementary courses in calculus, linear algebra, statistics, probability theory, mathematical economics and programming

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

language such as C/C++, JAVA, Matlab and/or Ox. You may also

This specialization is geared towards analysing, modelling

require either advanced courses in econometrics and/or operations

and optimizing operational business processes. The topics

research, depending on the specialization you choose.

in the field of Operations Research concern the analysis of combinatorial optimization algorithms, and stochastic

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

simulation of logistical systems. Within Business Econometrics

Business Analytics - Finance: Honours track in Quantitative

you will learn to model business processes and to apply

Finance.

quantitative techniques for solving business decision problems.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Besides the basic mathematics involved in the general requirements, applicants should have advanced knowledge of Operations Research (specifically stochastic modelling and deterministic optimization) and Mathematical Economics (beyond the basic level).

WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMETRICS

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

31

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including advanced courses in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Statistics and Mathematics.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

ECONOMICS 1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • • • •

DEVELOPMENT ECONOMICS ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL POLICY INTERNATIONAL AND MACROECONOMIC POLICY SPATIAL ECONOMICS

WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMICS

Spatial, Transport and Environmental Economics - Research Master: Tinbergen Institute Master of Philosophy in Economics.

4 SPECIALIZATIONS: 1 DEVELOPMENT ECONOMICS WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? The department of Development Economics forms one of the strongest development economics research groups in Europe.

Our approach is decidedly empirical, using case studies or survey

WHY STUDY ECONOMICS AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

data from individual households or firms to test competing

The Master´s in Economics admits highly motivated and inquisitive

theories and to evaluate the impact of implemented policy

minds from a global pool of applicants (40% international).

initiatives and specific development projects. The Development

Using behavioural models and statistical techniques, you will

Economics curriculum is also shaped by broader issues of

tackle economic issues in a broad range of areas, straddling

human development. We cooperate closely with the University of

globalization and development, labour and health economics,

Amsterdam, which is responsible for certain teaching activities.

urban and transport economics, and international macroeconomic policy coordination. We offer world-class teaching with an

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

excellent student/teacher ratio. The programme is highly rated by

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s

our students and is one of the top Economics programmes in the

degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s

Netherlands.

degree), including advanced courses in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Statistics and Mathematics.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME You will learn to take a structured approach to solving practical

WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMICS

problems, using modern and appropriate methodology, and basing your research conclusions and policy recommendations on sound scientific principles. In core courses, you will gain a thorough understanding of economic tools in microeconomics,

2 ECONOMICS AND SOCIAL POLICY

macroeconomics and econometrics at an advanced level. You will then take in-depth and challenging field courses to put

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

theory into practice, with a focus on applied modelling and policy

The Microeconomics research group is one of the strongest

perspectives. Taking a specialization is optional, and students who

in the country in this field, and it forms the backbone of this

would prefer to exercise a range of talents can freely pick and mix

specialization. It focuses on three specific areas: A) bridging

from our list of elective courses. Those who wish to gain more

the gap between micro- and macroeconomic approaches to

expertise in a particular policy field can choose from among the

labour market policies, B) strategies embraced by firms to

four specializations within this Master’s programme. Finally, you

gain market power and the role of government in enhancing

will conduct your own research and subject current theories to

transparency, C) the consequences of ageing on social security

critical tests, culminating in a thesis.

and healthcare institutions and policies to improve work, health and longevity outcomes.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Having graduated, you will be a versatile and independent

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

economist, with an internationally recognized MSc degree in

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s

Economics, testifying to specialized knowledge as an expert in

degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s

your field. Some graduates work as policy advisors or analysts at

degree), including advanced courses in Microeconomics,

ministries, government agencies or central banks. Others become

Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Statistics and Mathematics.

consultants or join multinationals in banking and insurance, while others pursue research at PhD level.

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VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMICS

3 INTERNATIONAL AND MACROECONOMIC POLICY WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? This specialization builds on the foundations of advanced macroeconomics. Among other topics, specialization courses discuss strategies involved in the coordination and cooperation needed to maintain and promote European integration. Another area focuses on growth in developing nations. We also study the drivers of growth in industrialized countries, specifically

FINANCE

the strategies embraced by firms to boost innovation and growth, and the role of policy. Our highly respected teaching staff have an international track record in academia, central

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS)

banking and policy advice.

• H ONOURS TRACK IN QUANTITATIVE FINANCE (84 CREDITS)

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

WWW.VU.NL/FINANCE

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including advanced courses in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Statistics and Mathematics.

WHY STUDY FINANCE AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The financial sector is constantly subject to change and innovation,

WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMICS

creating a need for people who have a thorough understanding of finance to create workable solutions and improvements. This calls for academic skills, knowledge of financial economics

4 SPATIAL ECONOMICS

and an awareness of the latest developments in the industry.

The Master’s programme raises your level of knowledge in investments and corporate finance. It provides the conceptual

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

frameworks and practical insights that are vital for understanding

This specialization studies the economics of space, transport

how financial management and financial markets operate.

and the environment. Global warming, traffic congestion and core-periphery structures in economic activity are

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

three examples of issues addressed in the coursework. All

Throughout the programme, there is a strong focus on finding

courses apply relevant theoretical and empirical insights

answers to burning questions in financial economics. Following

to practical issues. You will learn to use modern analytical

the economic crisis, it is vital that you receive a broad training in

tools to investigate potential solutions and to formulate policy

all aspects of finance, as provided by four compulsory courses:

recommendations. Our staff are internationally renowned

Corporate Finance, Empirical Finance, Asset Pricing, and

and active participants in national and international economic

Financial Markets and Institutions. Lectures, tutorials, and real-

policy debates.

life case studies help you to apply theoretical concepts to specific practical contexts. Our teaching staff are engaged in international

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

financial research or hold key positions at leading financial

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s

institutions, thus providing a direct link between cutting-edge

degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s

academic theories and real-world application. While the standard

degree), including advanced courses in Microeconomics,

Master’s programme in Finance has no formal specializations, two

Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Statistics and Mathematics.

or more elective courses enable you to further specialize either in Corporate Finance or (Security) Investments. The Quantitative

WWW.VU.NL/ECONOMICS

Finance honours track has its own designated set of courses.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER As a Finance graduate, you can pursue a career in the corporate sector (treasurer, risk manager, controller or financial manager), the financial sector (banker, analyst, portfolio manager, accounting expert, insurance expert), the non-profit sector (national government agencies, international agencies, supervisory bodies) or in consultancy. Our curriculum is designed to allow easy entrance to a range of postgraduate programmes.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

33

(equal to the Dutch academic Bachelor’s degree), including advanced courses in Corporate Finance, Investments or Asset Management, Quantitative Methods, Mathematics or Econometrics and Statistics.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Business Administration: Financial Management - Finance: Honours track Quantitative Finance - Accounting and Control Stochastics and Financial Mathematics.

MARKETING

1 SPECIALIZATION:

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS)

HONOURS TRACK IN QUANTITATIVE FINANCE

• H ONOURS PROGRAMME IN BUSINESS RESEARCH (20 ADDITIONAL CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/BUSINESSRESEARCH

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

WWW.VU.NL/MARKETING

The Quantitative Finance honours track is a 84 credits prestigious programme specifically for students who are interested both in Finance and in quantitative modelling

WHY STUDY MARKETING AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

aspects of the finance profession. You will tackle issues in

This programme focuses on training you to become a marketing

the field of risk management and the development of complex

professional with a strongly developed critical and analytical

financial products, and apply methodological concepts to real-

intellect, in-depth knowledge and a keen insight into state-of-

life situations. You will be trained in asset pricing, investment

the-art marketing, as well as the ability to apply this insight to

issues and derivatives, as well as in the application of the

practical marketing problems. The programme distinguishes

latest computational and econometric techniques needed for a

itself from others by focusing on strategic marketing topics and

successful career.

integrating a managerial and research-focused approach. The Master’s thus forms an excellent basis for solving marketing

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

problems in both consumer and business markets.

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree),

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

including advanced courses in Investments, Mathematics and

In the Master’s programme in Marketing, you will study and

Programming. Knowledge of Econometrics at the level of a

analyse the choices that companies make in defining, creating

graduate course in an economics programme.

and delivering superior customer value with the ultimate aim of achieving a sustainable competitive edge. Accordingly, you will

WWW.VU.NL/QUANTITATIVEFINANCE

concentrate on acquiring and applying knowledge of strategic marketing and market research, and you will specialize in the areas of consumer and business marketing. You will integrate and apply your new knowledge in present-day real-life case studies and challenges set by our business contacts. Specialization courses include Cross-Cultural Consumer Research and GeoMarketing, and academic seminars on topics such as Innovation, Strategy and Online Marketing. You will learn to think critically, make succinct analyses and reach well-argued conclusions.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER With a Master’s in Marketing, you can pursue a career in marketing management or market research, for example as a product manager, marketing manager, account manager or market researcher in a multinational corporation or in the SME sector. In addition, the Master’s in Marketing can lead to a career in consulting, management or a range of other fields.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including advanced courses in Consumer Behaviour, Research Methods/ Marketing Research (including substantial experience of using SPSS).

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VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Business Administration: Information and Knowledge

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s degree

Management (E-marketing).

(equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree), including advanced courses in Microeconomics, Econometrics, Regional Economics, Transport Economics, Environmental Economics and Mathematics.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Economics: specialization Spatial Economics - Business Administration: Transport and Supply Chain Management Environment and Resource Management: specialization Environmental Studies - Earth Sciences: specialization Earth and Economics.

SPATIAL, TRANSPORTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS 1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • SPATIAL ECONOMICS • TRANSPORT ECONOMICS • ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS WWW.VU.NL/STREEM

3 SPECIALIZATIONS: 1 SPATIAL ECONOMICS WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? Spatial Economics analyses how various forces contribute to spatial dynamics and network development from a mainly microeconomic perspective, and explores the use and further development of various techniques, methods and tools in this field.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

WHY STUDY STREEM AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s

This leading scientific programme offers you a thorough education

degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree),

in the modern theory and empirics of regional, urban, transport

including advanced courses in Microeconomics, Econometrics,

and environmental economic issues. Applying the theory to

Regional Economics, Transport Economics, Environmental

practical issues is one of the programme’s key features. You will

Economics and Mathematics.

learn to use your analyses to investigate potential solutions and formulate policy recommendations. According to the 2011

WWW.VU.NL/STREEM

Master’s Choice Guide published by the Centre for Higher Education Information (CHOI), this programme is among the best Economics Master’s in the Netherlands.

2 TRANSPORT ECONOMICS

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The programme offers an integrated view of the themes of space,

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

transport and the environment from an economic perspective.

Transport Economics focuses on the causes and consequences

The Department of Spatial Economics boasts internationally

of a growing demand for mobility from a microeconomic

renowned staff, all active participants in the national and

perspective. It also addresses problems such as traffic

international debate on economic policy. The first period of the

congestion, reliability, safety and environmental externalities.

programme centres on a core of compulsory courses. The next periods are devoted to specialized courses and practical work in

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

which you will carry out your own research project as a basis for

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s

your final thesis. You are free to choose your own specialization

degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree),

courses, depending on the fields in which you are most interested

including advanced courses in Microeconomics, Econometrics,

(see Specializations).

Regional Economics, Transport Economics, Environmental Economics and Mathematics.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Many graduates find employment as policy economists with the

WWW.VU.NL/STREEM

government or consultancy firms. There are also opportunities with organizations such as airlines, airport authorities, railway companies and logistics companies. Others opt for a position as economic researchers with economic policy institutes.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

35

3 ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME Tinbergen Institute offers a Research Master’s programme with three tracks: economics, econometrics and finance. Its scope,

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

level and quality rival that of equivalent programmes at leading

Environmental Economics focuses on economic aspects of

academic institutions worldwide.

environmental problems and policy. It combines scientific

The first year consists of rigorous training in the core subjects and

and policy expertise and addresses the need to integrate

tools of economics, econometrics and finance (Microeconomics,

economics with insights from other disciplines, notably the

Macroeconomics, Finance and (Advanced) Econometrics). In the

environmental sciences.

second year, before committing to a specific line of research, students can explore the institute’s many fields of research by

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

choosing from over 40 field courses offered in the TI programme.

Applicants must possess at least an accredited Bachelor’s

The programme culminates in the MP hil thesis (30 credits),

degree (equivalent to a Dutch university Bachelor’s degree),

supervised by one of TI’s senior research fellows, all of whom

including advanced courses in Microeconomics, Econometrics,

have excellent international credentials. The final version of

Regional Economics, Transport Economics, Environmental

the thesis should be suitable for submission to an international,

Economics and Mathematics.

peer-reviewed journal and may serve as the first chapter of a PhD dissertation.

WWW.VU.NL/STREEM

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Tinbergen Institute’s Research Master’s programme is a gateway to a wide variety of PhD dissertation opportunities. Over 90% of graduates continue in a PhD position at the University of Amsterdam, VU University Amsterdam or Erasmus University Rotterdam. TI ’s PhD alumni have taken up influential (research) positions all over the world: at universities, in the government sector, international organizations and major companies.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS The typical TI student is one of the better students in his/her class and is mathematically skilled, creative, inquisitive, hard-working,

TINBERGEN INSTITUTE MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY IN ECONOMICS 1 YEAR (120 CREDITS) • ECONOMICS • ECONOMETRICS • FINANCE WWW.TINBERGEN.NL/PROSPECTIVE -STUDENTS/

WHY CHOOSE THE TINBERGEN INSTITUTE MPHIL IN ECONOMICS AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Tinbergen Institute (TI) provides high-quality graduate education in economics, econometrics and finance on behalf of three of the Netherlands’ top universities: Erasmus University Rotterdam, the University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam. The best economics researchers from these universities teach on the Tinbergen Institute programme. Each of these ‘TI fellows’ has excellent international credentials, carries out research, and acts as a student advisor. In 2013, the programme was rated one of the top Master’s programmes in the Netherlands.

36

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

independent and has plenty of academic ambition. Admission to the programme is highly selective and competitive. Criteria include a Bachelor’s degree with a strong quantitative orientation (economics, econometrics, mathematics, physics) and a strong motivation to obtain a PhD.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education or a related field, and have an appreciable interest in research. You must have received an 8 (B+) or higher for your final Bachelor’s thesis and have a grade average of 7.5 or higher.

Furthermore, you must be proficient in English.

CLINICAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOPATHOLOGY

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Research master’s in Cognitive Neuropsychology.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/PSYCHOPATHOLOGY

WHY STUDY CLINICAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? In a small-scale academic setting, students on the Research Master’s in Clinical and Developmental Psychopathology learn about the etiology, development and course of psychopathology,

COGNITIVE NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

and they are trained in cutting-edge methods for its prevention and treatment. The best researchers in this field provide topnotch teaching on the newest insights into the relationship between mental health, biological endowments and environmental

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/NEUROPSYCHOLOGY

resources, the neuropsychological substrate and human relationships, and adaptive and maladaptive developmental pathways.

WHY STUDY COGNITIVE NEUROPSYCHOLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

The Master’s in Cognitive Neuropsychology will teach you how to

In this two-year Research Master’s you will work on theoretical

investigate the human mind. You will learn about cognitive and

and practical problems in individual, group, and tutorial settings

neuropsychological theories and apply these to individual patients

using a diverse range of learning activities (seminars, practicals,

with brain damage. You will understand how such disorders lead

research projects, presentations and lectures). Electives and

to fascinating symptoms, and what such symptoms mean for

research projects will enable you to discover your own individual

our theories of the mind. In doing so, you will acquire essential

direction and approach. Your tutor will be a leading scientist in

skills in the cognitive neurosciences, including experimenting,

your field of interest, providing feedback on essential academic

programming and imaging. In the end, you will become an expert

skills, including presentation, collaboration and applying

on brain functioning.

theoretical concepts. Your first year will feature courses such as Psychopathology, Theory of Therapeutic and Preventive

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

Intervention, Epidemiological Research, Scientific Writing and

You will interpret clinical cases based on cognitive neuro-

Presenting and you will complete your first research project.

psychological theories and you will be given the opportunity to put

Your second year will include a course on Trends in Brain and

these theories to the test in a clinical environment. You will do so

Behaviour, three practical skills courses and your Master’s thesis.

by making use of behavioural measurements, neuropsychological

In both years you can choose from a range of elective courses.

tests and neurophysiological techniques such as EEG and MRI. The two-year programme also has a strong focus on academic

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

skills, such as critical analysis and presenting your own research.

As a graduate of the Research Master’s in Clinical and

It includes three elective courses, seminars, a research internship

Developmental Psychopathology, you will be well equipped to find

and a Master’s thesis. Courses include Neuropsychology of

employment as a researcher with a research and development

Cognitive Dysfunctioning; Advanced Statistics; Memory and

institute. Other career options are available in the research

Memory Disorders; Cognitive Neuroscience; Perception;

departments of mental healthcare organizations, municipal health

Attention; and Brain Imaging. Students who are proficient in Dutch

services, government ministries and local government agencies.

and have a Dutch Bachelor’s degree with a neuropsychological specialization will be eligible for a specialized programme that prepares them for the Dutch GZ opleiding.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

37

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

thesis as the culmination of your Master’s degree.

You will become a versatile and skilled researcher, capable of

Teaching takes place on a small scale in seminars, workshops,

pursuing a successful career at a university, research institute or

and individual mentorships. Our lecturers are internationally

in a clinical setting. Graduates work in developing evidence-based

recognized in diverse fields. The programme features special

clinical applications, in human factors research, in marketing and

facilities, including a dedicated research laboratory and a work-

IT, in the pharmaceutical industry, etc. Many go on to obtain a PhD

study room, and has a truly international character: all teaching is

in cognitive psychology, neuropsychology or other brain sciences.

in English, and more than half of our students come from outside the Netherlands.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Artificial

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

Intelligence, Biology or a related field and have an appreciable

As a social psychology graduate, you can work in college

interest in research. You must have received an 8 (B+) or higher

or university settings, in the private sector as a consultant,

for your final Bachelor’s thesis and have a grade average of 7.5 or

researcher, or manager, or in government and non-profit

higher. Furthermore, you must be proficient in English.

organizations, designing and evaluating policies and programmes in education, conflict resolution, environmental protection, etc.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

You can also pursue your studies to PhD level.

Research Master’s in Neurosciences, Artificial Intelligence.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or a related field and have an appreciable interest in research. You must have received an 8 (B+) or higher for your final Bachelor’s thesis and have a grade average of 7.5 or higher. Furthermore, you must be proficient in English.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Research master’s in Cognitive Neuropsychology - Political Science.

SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY: REGULATION OF SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR 2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/SOCIALPSYCHOLOGY

WHY STUDY SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY: REGULATION OF SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

CULTURE, ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT

Become the best scientist and scholar that you can be! Our Master programme in Social Psychology takes a multidisciplinary approach to understanding fundamental social psychological processes. The underlying idea is that new insights regarding human behaviour can be understood more completely by incorporating evolutionary, cognitive, and social structural perspectives into the study of diverse social and psychological

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • IDENTITY AND DIVERSITY IN ORGANIZATIONS • CULTURAL CHANGE AND INTERVENTION WWW.VU.NL/COM

phenomena, including self processes, interpersonal relations, and intra- and inter-group phenomena. Social psychology is therefore an important factor in countless situations and settings.

WHY STUDY CULTURE, ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

This programme explores how people deal with their work,

During the first year, courses focus on basic principles and

customers and each other both within and between organizations.

advanced skills, including methods, statistics, and writing; you

It focuses specifically on cultures and national and international

will also complete a research project. The second year integrates

management styles and offers you a comprehensive

this knowledge and places it in a broader, multidisciplinary

understanding of complex sociocultural and sociopolitical

context; you will complete two research projects and write a

patterns and processes in organizational contexts. This

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VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

interdisciplinary Master’s programme integrates management and organizational theory with anthropological, sociological and psychological approaches to identity, politics and cross-cultural cooperation. It is a unique approach that is only available at VU University Amsterdam.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME In the first semester you take a number of in-depth seminars, using mainly qualitative research methods which are key to the ethnographic approach in organization studies. In the second

POLITICAL SCIENCE

semester you conduct fieldwork research for your Master’s thesis in an organization and country of your choice, benefiting from individual supervision by experienced professionals.

The Master’s programme requires you to develop an interdisciplinary academic, critical, and investigative researchfocused attitude. Within organizations we explore how people cope with colleagues and handle themselves. We look at changing cultures and the central issues of management styles and

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • COMPARATIVE EUROPEAN POLITICS • GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE • I NTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND TRANSNATIONAL GOVERNANCE • POLICY AND POLITICS WWW.VU.NL/PS

strategies. You will combine research techniques and relevant theoretical approaches, giving you a basis for gathering qualitative data that can be used to understand the complexities of everyday

WHY STUDY POLITICAL SCIENCE AT VU UNIVERSITY

life in organizations.

AMSTERDAM? Are you interested in international and European politics,

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

environmental governance and policy making? Welcome to

The prospects for Culture, Organization and Management (COM)

the Master’s programme in Political Science! You will become

graduates are favourable. Many graduates become organizational

acquainted with current academic research in the field of political

consultants. Others enter the fields of customer relations, HRM

science, while exploring a specialization of your choice and

and recruitment, or policy and internal communications. In the

learning about the most important research traditions, theories

non-profit sector and the public sector, there is an increasing

and approaches. The programme has been developed and is

demand for COM graduates, particularly in interdisciplinary

taught by an internationally renowned team with an extensive

teams.

international network. Approximately 25% of our students come from abroad.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS To join the Master’s programme you must have a Bachelor’s

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

honours degree from an accredited research university in one

The programme has a unique cumulative structure, in which

of the following subjects: Anthropology, Sociology, Political

you continue to specialize month by month. You start the first

Science, Organization Science, Communication Science (from a

semester with two basic courses in the major sub-disciplines

Social Sciences perspective), Organization Psychology, Social

of the field: Comparative Politics and International Relations (or

Psychology, or Business Administration. Your studies must

Public Administration for the Policy and Politics specialization).

have included courses in qualitative social sciences research

In smaller groups, you then focus on a particular issue within

methodology.

your specialization and an issue selected from one of the other specializations. In the final phase of the programme,

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

you concentrate exclusively on your own specialization with a

Social and Cultural Anthropology - Political Science.

workshop and by working on your individual Master’s thesis topic.

This Master’s therefore provides you with a solid foundation in all aspects of Political Science, as well as a clear specialization.

Throughout the programme, you benefit from highly interactive tutorials, workshops and intensive individual supervision.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Our graduates find work as policy analysts or advisors with international governmental or non-governmental organizations in the private sector, or as civil servants in government ministries.

You can also enter the field of journalism or pursue a career in communication and public relations, or continue your studies by participating in PhD programmes around the world.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

39

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must hold a Bachelor’s honours degree in Political Science,

2 GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL GOVERNANCE

International Relations or a closely related discipline from an accredited research university. Your studies must have included

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

social sciences research methodology and you must have

The development of human civilization and industrial growth

achieved good grades throughout. You also need an excellent

has left almost no species, country or part of the ocean

working command of English (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 100).

untouched. Politicians and policy makers have to cooperate with multinationals, organizations and scientists to confront

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

international environmental problems. In this specialization

Culture, Organization and Management - Social and Cultural

you will engage with the political aspects and implications

Anthropology - Law and Politics of International Security.

of topics such as climate change, sustainability and nature.

You will familiarize yourself with current research and learn

4 SPECIALIZATIONS: 1 COMPARATIVE EUROPEAN POLITICS

about the most important research traditions and approaches related to international environmental politics.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must hold a Bachelor’s honours degree in Political Science, International Relations or a closely related discipline

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

from an accredited research university. Your studies must

European integration is having a major impact on citizens,

have included social sciences research methodology and you

politicians, businesses and governments. This creates

must have achieved good grades throughout. You also need an

conflicts on issues such as the influx of Polish workers in

excellent working command of English (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL

the Netherlands or how to solve the European debt crisis.

iBT 100).

These new political realities require keen minds who are knowledgeable about Brussels and developments in European

WWW.VU.NL/PS

politics. This Master’s specialization acquaints you with current scientific research on the European Union and its member states, and the debates on key issues that affect Europe.

3 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND TRANSNATIONAL GOVERNANCE

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must hold a Bachelor’s honours degree in Political

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

Science, International Relations or a closely related discipline

Issues of war and peace, terrorism, globalization and economic

from an accredited research university. Your studies must

crises are not restricted by national borders. They therefore

have included social sciences research methodology and you

require an international or transnational approach. As a result,

must have achieved good grades throughout. You also need an

politicians and diplomats ever more frequently find themselves

excellent working command of English (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL

dealing with multinationals, NGOs and intergovernmental

iBT 100).

organizations such as the World Bank. This results in a shift in political power. In this specialization, you analyse these issues

WWW.VU.NL/PS

and get to grips with theoretical approaches and current research in the field of international relations.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must hold a Bachelor’s honours degree in Political Science, International Relations or a closely related discipline from an accredited research university. Your studies must have included social sciences research methodology and you must have achieved good grades throughout. You also need an excellent working command of English (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 100).

WWW.VU.NL/PS

40

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

4 POLICY AND POLITICS

courses on human security and related issues, with time for individual research in the field of your choice. You will deal with various aspects and manifestations of human security

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

and insecurity, such as livelihood, risk-taking, sustainable

The specialization in Policy and Politics offers you an

development, migration and belonging, and religion and security.

interdisciplinary combination of political science and

The programme begins with a comprehensive theoretical

governance studies. The focus is on the interaction between

orientation on human security. Halfway through this orientation,

political institutions and policy development. You will receive a

you will choose a theme: Constructing Identities and Notions

thorough introduction to the interaction between political and

of Belonging or Development and Social Transformations. In

governance processes, not only in the Netherlands, but also at

the second semester you will spend three months conducting

European and international level. You will apply this knowledge

fieldwork research for your Master’s thesis in a country of your

to specific policy areas, including security policy.

choice. You will be closely involved in your fellow students’ projects through joint activities such as Master’s conferences, the

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

reunion day after fieldwork and the weekly graduate seminar that

You must hold a Bachelor’s honours degree in Political

supports you when writing your thesis.

Science, International Relations or a closely related discipline from an accredited research university. Your studies must

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

have included social sciences research methodology and you

The job market offers a variety of prospects for anthropology

must have achieved good grades throughout. You also need an

graduates. You can find anthropologists in policy or management

excellent working command of English (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL

positions in companies, government organizations and NGOs.

iBT 100).

Other career opportunities include government jobs in the social services or advisory positions in the field of communication and

WWW.VU.NL/PS

organization.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You must hold an honours Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology or a closely related discipline from an accredited research university.

Your studies must have included courses in qualitative social sciences research methodology and you must have achieved good grades throughout.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Culture, Organization and management - Political Science.

SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY 1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/SCA

WHY STUDY SOCIAL AND CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? This challenging, small-scale and tightly organized Master’s programme explores the multiple dimensions of human security and insecurity. Your focus will be on people’s attempts to achieve material, physical and existential security, and on how these often clash and create new insecurities. The programme’s anthropological approach to the issue of human security is unique.

In its most recent NVAO quality assessment, this programme was judged to be the best anthropology Master’s in the Netherlands.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The programme offers you a fascinating combination of intensive INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

41

4 SPECIALIZATIONS: 1 EXPLORING A DISCIPLINE WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? The specialization Exploring a Discipline is specifically

THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES

targeted at those who want to deepen their knowledge in theology or religious studies. The programme offers students maximum freedom to choose courses that correspond with their field of interest. This specialization is especially suited to professionals in a field of theology or religious studies (e.g.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • • • •

EXPLORING A DISCIPLINE LEADERSHIP MEDIA TEACHING RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY

WWW.VU.NL/TRS

ministers or secondary school teachers), or students who are eager to obtain in-depth expertise in theology or religious studies.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or Religious Studies from a university abroad will only be admitted following an assessment of their degree by the admissions board.

WHY STUDY THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES AT VU UNIVERSITY

WWW.VU.NL/EXPLORING-A-DISCIPLINE

AMSTERDAM? Today’s reality of religious diversity inspires the mission of the Faculty of Theology, located in Amsterdam, a metropolitan environment characterized by a diversity of denominations and

2 LEADERSHIP

religious faiths from around the world. The faculty’s goal is to provide sound academic instruction and to engage in solid

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

scholarly research in this multi-religious context and, in doing so,

There is enormous demand for good leadership in all types

to make a meaningful contribution to the city, the nation, and the

of organizations, from church communities to other third-

world.

sector organizations and businesses: leadership that inspires people, that brings people together; leadership that is based

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

on humanity and sustainability. This specialization focuses

The one-year programme in Theology & Religious Studies aims

on leadership issues in societal organizations and on leaders

to train academic professionals who are specialized in the role of

of religious or religiously inspired organizations who wish to

religion and theology, education, management or media. You may

gain a deeper understanding of the academic theory behind

also opt to spend a year specializing in one area of theological

leadership.

expertise, and then continue your studies in the second year of the Research Master’s. Central to this Master’s programme is

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

the professional field and the link between a specific section of

Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or Religious

contemporary society and the way in which theological reflection

Studies from a university abroad will only be admitted

relates to this field. The programme includes general and

following an assessment of their degree by the admissions

specialized courses, an internship and a thesis.

board.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

WWW.VU.NL/LEADERSHIP

A wide range of careers are open to you, including positions of responsibility and entrepreneurship in societal organizations and movements, in politics, in schooling and education, in media and communication, in non-profit organizations, in churches and other religious organizations, and in the world of business. The programme also offers a solid basis for a career in research.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or Religious Studies from a university abroad will only be admitted following an assessment of their degree by the admissions board.

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VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

3 MEDIA WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? The media bombard us with reports on clashes between different religions and faith-based cultures. Across the globe, religion holds sway over the public debate, and the worldwide growth of Islam carries huge political significance. But religion is also part of popular culture. New forms of spirituality are gaining ground alongside age-old religious traditions. The Master’s specialization in Media enables you to reflect critically

THEOLOGY & RELIGIOUS STUDIES

on the media’s role in constructing everyday images of social and cultural reality, religion and identity.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/TRS-RESEARCH

Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or Religious Studies from a university abroad will only be admitted following an assessment of their degree by the admissions board.

WHY STUDY THEOLOGY AND RELIGIOUS STUDIES (RESEARCH) WWW.VU.NL/MEDIA

AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The Theology & Religious Studies research Master’s programme offers you the opportunity to conduct research in

4 TEACHING RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY

any specialization offered. At VU University Amsterdam you can choose to specialize in one of the following disciplines: Biblical Studies, Church History, Dogmatics, Practical Theology,

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

Philosophy of Religion, and Islamic Theology. Within the discipline

In recent years, a need has arisen for interreligious dialogue

of Biblical Studies, you may also specialize in the field of Bible

in politics, education and business. This has much to do with

Translation. The specialization you choose will define the content

globalization: flows of migrants, increasing mobility and new

of your personal programme.

and changing modes of communication have made the world a smaller place. This specialization focuses on education,

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

exploring methods for promoting interreligious learning. It

The Faculty of Theology’s Master of Arts in Theology & Religious

is designed for those who deal with religious diversity in a

Studies (research), is a two-year research Master’s degree

professional capacity and who wish to promote interreligious

comprising 120 credits. The programme consists of in-depth

dialogue and learning.

training in specialized research and allows advanced studies in a wide range of theological topics and disciplines. The specialized

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

research training is supervised by leading scholars from the

Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or Religious

Faculty. The programme of the research Master’s is designed to

Studies from a university abroad will only be admitted

prepare you for a career involving theological research, especially

following an assessment of their degree by the admissions

doctoral study, but also for positions in society or in religious

board.

organizations in which academic excellence is a prerequisite. The degree is comparable to the M.Phil. in other countries.

WWW.VU.NL/TEACHING-RELIGIOUS-DIVERSITY

YOUR FUTURE CAREER The Theology & Religious Studies research Master’s degree is the gateway to writing a doctoral dissertation at VU University Amsterdam. If you are interested in pursuing your theological studies at the PhD level, then we strongly recommend this Master’s programme. With outstanding grades, you will be eligible for the doctoral programme at the University’s Graduate School of Theology.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Theology or Religious Studies from a university abroad will only be admitted following an assessment of their degree by the admissions board. Your grade average needs to be equivalent to (or higher than) a 7.5 in the Dutch system.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

43

CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH

ONCOLOGY 2 YEARS (120 CREDITS)

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS)

WWW.MASTERONCOLOGY.NL

WWW.MED.VU.NL/NL/OPLEIDINGEN/MASTERCARDIOVASCULAR-RESEARCH

WHY STUDY ONCOLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? Be part of life-saving oncology research. The Master’s WHY STUDY CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH AT VU UNIVERSITY

programme in Oncology trains students to become world-class

AMSTERDAM?

researchers with in-depth knowledge, razor-sharp academic

This Master’s programme offers students with a Bachelor’s

acumen and top-notch investigative skills. Our mission is to train

degree in biomedical sciences or general health sciences the

excellent students to become tomorrow’s leading scientists in the

opportunity to follow a structured programme in cardiovascular

field of cancer research.

sciences under the auspices of the ICaR-VU Institute for

You will be personally supervised by the programme coordinator

Cardiovascular Research at VU University Medical Center. The

and you will be in close contact with the programme’s top

central goal of this Master’s programme is to provide a world-

researchers. We have alliances with renowned institutes in the

class education in all aspects of cardiovascular function and

Netherlands and abroad.

cardiovascular disease.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

The two-year Master’s programme (120 credits) provides you

The two-year programme (120 credits) provides you with

with the opportunity to fulfil your individual needs and ambitions

tremendous opportunities to fulfil your personal ambitions.

with the greatest possible degree of freedom. After successfully

The programme is research-oriented and has a multidisciplinary

completing the compulsory courses (30 credits), your will

character. You will be trained in state-of-the-art techniques

be free to choose from a wide range of specialized optional

in cardiovascular research, diagnostics and therapy. The

courses (15 credits) and two research projects (66 credits). For

programme consists of six compulsory courses (30 credits), a

your placements you can choose from a variety of challenging

minor research project (21 credits), a major research project

projects either at VUmc, other Dutch research institutes or one

(42 credits) and a desk research project (9 credits). Electives

of our leading international partners. Finally you will complete

make up a further 18 credits.

a literature survey (9 credits) under the supervision of a VUmc oncology expert. A select group of outstanding students will

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

be offered the opportunity to follow an advanced Top Master’s

A Master’s in Cardiovascular Research enables you to work in

programme; they will attend advanced courses in oncology and

the field of cardiovascular research at a university, a research

will be required to complete a research project at a specialist

institute or a pharmaceutical or biotech company in the

cancer centre abroad.

Netherlands or abroad. The majority of our graduates (75%) make a smooth transition to an international PhD programme. Other

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

options include management positions and further specialization

A Master’s degree in Oncology will enable you to work in the field

in medical or clinical programmes.

of biomedical/oncological research at a university (including VU University Amsterdam/VUmc), a research institute such as

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

the Netherlands Cancer Institute, or pharmaceutical or biotech

Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or

companies in the Netherlands or abroad.

a related field. For more detailed programme information and admission requirements, please visit our website or contact the

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

programme coordinator at e.kanters@vumc.nl.

Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Medicine, Medical Natural Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry or other related Life Sciences are welcome to apply. An assessment is part of the admission procedure.

44

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

For more detailed admission requirements, please see

3 SPECIALIZATIONS:

www.med.vu.nl or contact Dr M. van Duist at masteroncology@vumc.nl.

1 ARCHAEOLOGY OF NORTH WESTERN EUROPE WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? Together, Amsterdam’s universities cover over 3000 years of West European archaeology. The University of Amsterdam specializes in the archaeology of the Middle Ages and the Early Modern Era. VU University Amsterdam concentrates on late prehistory and Roman times in Western Europe, with a special focus on Dutch archaeology. The programme covers topics such as settlement archaeology, archaeology of cult sites,

ARCHAEOLOGY 1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • ARCHAEOLOGY OF NORTH WESTERN EUROPE • LANDSCAPE AND HERITAGE • MEDITERRANEAN ARCHAEOLOGY WWW.VU.NL/ARCHAEOLOGY

archaeology of gravesites, integration processes in the Roman Empire, and research into city centres and material culture studies.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME Within the Archaeology of North Western Europe specialization, you can choose one of the following tracks: • L ate Prehistory and Roman Archaeology of North Western Europe explores the Celtic/Germanic societies of North Western Europe during the late Iron Age, and their eventual integration into the Roman Empire.

• Medieval and Early Modern Archaeology focuses on the origins and development of cities (especially Amsterdam),

WHY STUDY ARCHAEOLOGY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

developments in landscape, and settlement and agrarian

VU University Amsterdam and the University of Amsterdam offer

strategies in various Dutch landscapes.

a joint Master’s in Archaeology within the Amsterdam Centre for Ancient Studies and Archaeology (ACASA), which also offers

In the first semester you will take compulsory courses and

a range of other Master’s programmes in the field of Ancient

choose two to three electives. You will amass fieldwork

Studies. This joint venture enables you to choose from a wide

skills at one of ACASA’s current research locations in the

range of subjects and develop as an archaeologist in many

Netherlands and around the Mediterranean. You can also

different specialisms.

write a protocol book based on an internship in the field (max 12 credits). In the second semester, you will conduct research

The programme comprises the following specializations:

for your Master’s thesis supervised by two of the programme’s

Archaeology of North Western Europe, Landscape and Heritage,

staff.

Mediterranean Archaeology.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

With a specialization in the Archaeology of North Western

Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology are eligible for

Europe, you are exceptionally well equipped for a professional

admission to the Master’s programme in Archaeology.

career in archaeology, either in the Netherlands or with a European company in this field. You can also pursue your

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

studies at PhD level, work in heritage management or public

The one-year Master’s programme in Classics & Ancient

services, or enter sectors such as journalism, tourism and

Civilizations, and the two-year Research Master’s programme in

publishing.

Classics & Ancient Civilizations.

WWW.VU.NL/ARCHAEOLOGY

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

45

2 LANDSCAPE AND HERITAGE

3 MEDITERRANEAN ARCHAEOLOGY

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

Study the past of a landscape and discover the significance of

VU University Amsterdam and the University of Amsterdam

archaeology as heritage. The specialization in Landscape and

share a long tradition of conducting archaeological research

Heritage is not restricted by geographical or chronological

in the Mediterranean basin. The large number of fieldwork

boundaries, but deals thematically with archaeological

projects in Italy and Greece and the collections of the

landscapes and archaeological heritage in many different

Allard Pierson Museum testify to this. The Mediterranean

societies.

Archaeology specialization offers two tracks that interlink with the universities’ rich, on-going traditions, encompassing

Within the Landscape and Heritage specialization, you can

archaeological objects, their creators and their users.

choose one of the following tracks: STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME • L andscape Archaeology addresses the cultural landscape

Within the Mediterranean Archaeology specialization, students

from wide-ranging perspectives and through core themes:

can choose one of the following tracks:

ecological and economic dimensions of interrelationship

• Issues of Objects and Peoples deals with material culture

between man and landscape; historical stratification of

and incorporates aspects from material culture studies,

landscapes; ‘past in the past’; landscape and identity.

material sciences and museum archaeology. The in-depth

• A rchaeological Heritage is for archaeology graduates with

analysis of different facets of pottery or material from

an affinity for heritage management and policy. It interprets

burials and sanctuaries invites you to learn more about

the social and economic significance of archaeological

humans and the past. It discusses aspects of material

remains in modern society, especially the shift towards

culture, from technique and style to the social role of objects

heritage, and explores the current archaeological system and how the ‘market’ operates.

and buildings.

• Mediterranean Interconnections explores the Mediterranean in the broadest sense of the term, linking current

In the first semester, you will take compulsory courses and

discussions about interconnections with cultural exchanges

two to three electives from the other track or specializations.

in the Mediterranean from 2000 B.C. onwards.

In the second semester, you will conduct research for your Master’s thesis, supervised by two of the programme’s staff.

In the first semester, you will take compulsory courses and two to three electives from the other track or specializations.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

In the second semester, you will conduct research for your

With a specialization in Landscape and Heritage you are

Master’s thesis, supervised by two of the programme’s staff.

exceptionally well equipped for a professional career in archaeology, particularly in heritage management or public

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

services. You can also pursue your studies at PhD level,

With a specialization in Mediterranean Archaeology, you

work for a Dutch or European company doing archaeological

are exceptionally well equipped for a professional career in

research or enter sectors such as journalism, tourism and

archaeological services or heritage management, for example.

publishing.

You can also pursue your studies at PhD level, work for a museum or educational institution or enter sectors such as

WWW.VU.NL/ARCHAEOLOGY

journalism, tourism and publishing.

WWW.VU.NL/ARCHAEOLOGY

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VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

• Crossmedial Exhibitions The range of interdisciplinary electives includes Fiction and Film; Literature Visualized; The Gothic Gaze; Visual Art and The American Poet; Design, History and Culture; and Methods of Design Analysis.

ARTS & CULTURE

YOUR FUTURE CAREER The Comparative Arts and Media Studies specialization prepares you for employment in various sectors. Our graduates work in cultural and historical research, digital

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS)

registration of cultural heritage materials and cultural policy

• COMPARATIVE ARTS AND MEDIA STUDIES • DESIGN CULTURES

archives, film theatres and cultural funds, and positions such

and administration. Other career paths include museums, as festival organizer, programmer, producer and distributor.

WWW.VU.NL/ARTS-CULTURE

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS You can join the Comparative Arts and Media Studies specialization with an academic Bachelor’s degree in Art, Film, WHY STUDY ARTS & CULTURE AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

TV, Digital Media or (Visual) Cultural Studies. If you have a

The Master’s Programme in Arts & Culture consists of two

degree in another humanities subject (e.g. History, Journalism,

specializations, namely Comparative Arts and Media Studies,

Communication Studies, Comparative Literature), you may be

and Design Cultures. While Comparative Arts and Media Studies

eligible with at least 30 credits in Art, Film, TV, Digital Media or

focuses on the relations between the visual arts and media,

(Visual) Cultural Studies.

Design Cultures focuses on design history and theory. The Arts & Culture Master’s programmes at VU University Amsterdam are

WWW.VU.NL/ARTS-CULTURE

unique in the Netherlands and part of a research university with an outstanding reputation.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

2 DESIGN CULTURES

The two year Research Master’s Arts & Culture with its specialization Visual Arts, Media and Architecture.

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? The Design Cultures specialization focuses on the study of

2 SPECIALIZATIONS:

product design, graphic design and fashion in a broad and diverse cultural context. Central to Design Cultures is the diversity of cultural processes where design has evolved as

1 COMPARATIVE ARTS AND MEDIA STUDIES

practice, product, environment and discourse in recent decades.

The focus is on both the designer as ‘author’ and the complex chain of production, sale, consumption and criticism in which

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

design operates and derives its many different meanings.

The Comparative Arts and Media Studies specialization focuses on the relations between the visual arts, film, literature,

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

television and digital media. This not only covers crossovers and

Arts & Culture: Design Cultures is a one-year Master’s degree

interrelations between the arts and the media, but also within

comprising compulsory courses (30 credits), electives or an

and between various media. This process has intensified with

internship and a Master’s thesis (18 credits). Compulsory

the arrival of digital media and the hypermedium generated

courses are:

by the on-screen interplay of words, images and sounds,

• Design, History and Culture

and through the convergence of cinema, television, radio,

• Methods of Design Analysis: The Meanings of Design

journalism, e-books and photography on the web.

• The Arts and Crafts of “Dutch” Design • Design in Words: Criticism, Writing & Theory

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME Arts & Culture: Comparative Arts and Media Studies is a one-

Opportunities for interdisciplinary electives include Transmedia

year Master’s degree comprising seminars, electives and a

Storytelling; Reading Concepts of Intermediality; Seminar

Master’s thesis (18 credits). Compulsory courses are:

Architecture; Crossmedial Exhibitions; Trajectory Global and

• Introduction: Reading Concepts of Intermediality

Local, Global Changes; Literature Visualized; Trajectory Culture

• Transmedia Storytelling

and Power; Culture and Identity in Organizations; Migrations and

• The Art of Comparison: The Cinematic City

Circulations; and Ethnicity and Nationalism.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

47

1 SPECIALIZATION: YOUR FUTURE CAREER As a Design Cultures graduate, you can look forward to a career in a cultural institution (editor, project manager) or a

VISUAL ARTS, MEDIA AND ARCHITECTURE

museum (researcher, curator), in the media, (author, critic, producer), in the government sector (administrator, advisor), at

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

a design agency (researcher, consultant) or at an educational

The Research Master’s programme in Arts & Culture

or research institute (teacher, researcher).

consists of a single specialization in Visual Arts, Media and Architecture. It enables you to study current developments in

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

the visual arts, architecture and media from both a theoretical

You can gain direct admission to Design Cultures with

and historical perspective. These developments include the

an academic Bachelor’s degree in Art, Industrial Design,

role of the new media, the ever-expanding culture industry

Architectural Design, Design, Fashion or (Visual) Cultural

and the rise of the creative industries. The developments have

Studies. Admission is also possible with an academic

resulted in complex relationships between the visual arts,

Bachelor’s degree in History, Anthropology or Sociology, if your

architecture, media and society.

major or specialization (minimum 30 credits) was in Design, Fashion, Art or Visual Culture.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME As a student on the Research Master’s in Arts & Culture: Visual

WWW.VU.NL/ARTS-CULTURE

Arts, Media and Architecture, you will be trained to critically examine and discuss the visual and material manifestation, presentation and representation of these relationships. It is a two-year, full-time programme of 120 credits. While a fixed set of courses is compulsory, you will also have plenty of opportunity to define your own individual path on the basis of supervised personal research (tutorials) and your Master’s thesis (30 credits).

You will take the following compulsory courses: • Imagining the Image • Critical Issues in the Cultural Industries

ARTS & CULTURE

• Research Design And choose two of the following three seminars: • Reading Concepts of Intermediality

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS)

• Creative City • Focus Seminar

• VISUAL ARTS, MEDIA AND ARCHITECTURE WWW.VU.NL/VAMA

YOUR FUTURE CAREER The Research Master’s enables you to work as an independent researcher and is seen as an important step towards obtaining a PhD. You can also pursue a career in art and media

WHY STUDY ARTS & CULTURE (RESEARCH) AT VU UNIVERSITY

management, journalism, publishing, teaching or government.

AMSTERDAM?

Alternatively you could work for an art and architecture centre,

The Research Master’s programme in Arts & Culture comprises

research body, museum, film festival or art and media archive.

the specialization in Visual Arts, Media and Architecture. Arts & Culture (Research) is unique in the Netherlands and is proudly

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

offered by a research university with an outstanding reputation.

The Research Master’s programme is aimed in particular at the talented student who is exceptionally motivated to train

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

in academic methods in the field of art history, architectural

The one-year Master’s programme in Arts and Culture, and its

history, visual culture and media studies. To be admitted to the

specializations Comparative Arts and Media Studies, and Design

course, you should have at least a Bachelor’s degree in art,

Cultures.

architectural history or media and culture.

WWW.VU.NL/VAMA

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VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

• East-West Confrontations: examine the cultural interaction between the Near East and the Greek world, from religious and artistic motifs and science to writing systems and public administration. The expertise of the teaching staff centres mainly on the Hellenistic era (Alexander the Great in Mesopotamia), though earlier and later periods are also

CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

covered.

• Religion and Culture: explore these themes through Greek elite culture in the eastern half of the Roman Empire.

In the first semester, you will take a core course and two to

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS)

three electives from the other track or specializations. In the second semester, you will conduct research for your Master’s

• ANCIENT HISTORY • ANCIENT STUDIES • CLASSICS

thesis, supervised by two of the programme’s staff.

WWW.VU.NL/CLASSICS-ANCIENTCIVILIZATIONS

Graduates of this specialization can find employment in sectors

YOUR FUTURE CAREER where knowledge of ancient culture and history is important, such as history magazines, publishing, cultural travel and museums. With a Master’s in Classics & Ancient Civilizations

WHY STUDY CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AT VU

you will also be able to pursue PhD research at a university or

UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

research institute, including both VU University Amsterdam

VU University Amsterdam and the University of Amsterdam offer

and the University of Amsterdam.

a joint Master’s programme in Classics & Ancient Civilizations within the Amsterdam Centre for Ancient Studies and Archaeology

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

(ACASA). This joint venture enables you to choose from a

The Ancient History specialization is open to students with a

wide range of subjects and develop as an ancient historian or

Bachelor’s degree in Ancient Studies. If you have a background

classicist in many different specialisms. The Master’s programme

in Archaeology, Greek and Latin Language and Culture, or

comprises the following specializations: Ancient History, Ancient

History, you may also be eligible, provided that Ancient History

Studies and Classics.

has been adequately covered in your Bachelor’s programme.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

WWW.VU.NL/CLASSICS

The two-year Research Master’s programme Classics & Ancient Civilizations and the one-year Master’s programme in Archaeology.

3 SPECIALIZATIONS:

2 ANCIENT STUDIES WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? The specialization in Ancient Studies does not adhere to

1 ANCIENT HISTORY

disciplinary boundaries. Few questions can be answered solely from an archaeological or literary vantage point. In Ancient Studies you learn to draw from the area of expertise that the

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

situation demands, be it Ancient History, Archaeology, Ancient

VU University Amsterdam and the University of Amsterdam

Languages or Philosophy. An ideal approach if you consider

are the only universities in the Netherlands to explicitly link

yourself both a historian and archaeologist, and want to view

the study of the ancient history of the Near and Far East with

literature as a product of society.

consideration of Mediterranean history. We also focus on Greek elite culture in the Roman Imperial era. In this specialization,

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

you will interact with students from widely differing academic

You can tailor your specialization in Ancient Studies to suit your

backgrounds such as History, Ancient Studies, Archaeology and

own particular interests by making an appropriate choice from the

Greek and Latin Language and Culture.

available options. You can choose between the following tracks: • Archaeology and Ancient History

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

• Ancient Thought: from Plato to Augustine

The Ancient History specialization provides two tracks, each with

• Ancient Studies and Ancient Greek

two core modules that introduce you to key debates in the field.

• Ancient Studies and Latin

There is also considerable emphasis on interdisciplinary research.

• Neo-Babylonian and Neo-Assyrian

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

49

In the first semester, you will take a core course and two to

tracks or specializations. In the second semester, you will

three electives from the other tracks or specializations. In the

conduct research for your Master’s thesis, supervised by two

second semester, you will conduct research for your Master’s

of the programme’s staff.

thesis, supervised by two of the programme’s staff.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER YOUR FUTURE CAREER

University language studies are not designed to lead to one

As a graduate of the Ancient Studies specialization, you can

specific career. As a Classics graduate, you can work within

find work in areas that require an in-depth knowledge of

your area of expertise or in less immediately relevant positions

antiquity, such as higher education or museums. However,

that call for a critical, independent and inquiring mindset.

your academic skills in conducting independent and critical

Possible areas of employment include secondary education,

research and producing coherent, concise and clear reports

libraries and publishing houses, the media and the corporate

will stand you in good stead in a wide variety of jobs, including

world.

as a PhD researcher.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Students with a Bachelor’s degree in Greek and Latin

The Ancient Studies specialization is open to students with a

Language and Culture are eligible for admission to the

Bachelor’s degree in Greek and Latin Language and Culture;

specialization in Classics.

Ancient Greek Language and Culture; Latin Language and Culture; Assyriology; and Ancient Studies. Students of History or

WWW.VU.NL/CLASSICS

Archaeology may also be eligible, provided that Mediterranean Archaeology and/or Ancient History have been adequately covered. Admission requirements may vary per track.

WWW.VU.NL/CLASSICS

3 CLASSICS WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? Classics is alive and kicking. The study of the texts, literature and material culture of ancient Greece and Rome offers a treasure trove of information. This information is not only fascinating in its own right, but it is also highly relevant to our present-day culture. Do you consider it a challenge to nuance

CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

our image of Greco-Roman antiquity and to forge new links between the present and the past? In that case, Classics is the specialization for you.

2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/CLASSICS-RMA

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The specialization comprises two tracks: • Linguistic and Narratological Approaches to Classical Texts:

WHY STUDY CLASSICS & ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AT VU

theoretical lectures on the principles of textual linguistics

UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

and narratology; parallel workshops applying theory to work

The ancient world of the Mediterranean and Western Europe

of Greek and Latin authors; choice between two modules

is an object of study for archaeologists, ancient historians and

in Greek and Latin linguistics or Greek and Latin literature

researchers specialized in Greek or Latin. We believe that in-

studies.

depth thematic research that integrates all of these fields of study

• Intertextuality and Reception: module on theory and practice

will generate new insights and open up entirely new areas of

of intertextuality and reception; Greek or Latin literature

academic endeavour. We offer the best of all worlds by combining

studies focusing on later historical periods; representative

these different approaches and by cooperating closely with the

texts from Christian literature; Greek section covers

University of Amsterdam, giving you the best of both universities.

Byzantine literature; Latin section covers Mediaeval and new Latin.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The Research Master’s in Classics & Ancient Civilizations is a full-

In the first semester, you will take three courses within your

time programme lasting two years. You will benefit from a highly

own specialization and two to three electives from the other

specialized, individually tailored study programme with close personal supervision from your mentor. The programme offers

50

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

an archaeological/historical track and a literary/cultural track.

1 SPECIALIZATION:

Each track comprises a number of disciplinary study clusters that correspond with the research interests of the various members of the teaching staff. These study clusters offer you a basis for

METAPHOR IN DISCOURSE

building your own individual study programme in consultation with your mentor.

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? Communication & Information Studies: Metaphor in Discourse

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

is a unique one-year Master’s in (English) language, cognition

The Research Master’s in Classics & Ancient Civilizations is the

and communication. It is taught by internationally renowned

ideal stepping-stone to an academic career in Archaeology, Greek

specialists and is part of a new and exciting teaching and

and Latin Language and Culture, Ancient History or Assyriology of

research community at VU University Amsterdam, whose

the first millennium BC. It opens the way to doctoral research at a

members focus on the study of effective communication in

university or research institute. Successful graduates stand a good

various languages, media and domains such as journalism

chance of being accepted for a PhD at VU University Amsterdam.

and health. Metaphor in Discourse is an interdisciplinary specialization, incorporating linguistic, cognitive and social

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

aspects of metaphor in interaction.

You can join the Research Master’s programme if you have a Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Greek and Latin Language

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

and Culture, Ancient Studies or a related degree. Your thesis

Your studies on metaphor will be framed by a core course

grade and your grade average must be 8 or higher, and you must

on genre analysis. This course relates language use

possess appreciable research skills.

to the properties and functions of genres such as the novel, advertisements, news reports, news broadcasts,

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

conversations and e-mail. The approach to metaphor is

The one-year Master’s programme in Classics & Ancient

inspired by the cognitive-linguistic view of metaphor as cross-

Civilizations and the one-year Master’s programme in

domain mapping in thought. It also takes in other approaches

Archaeology.

to metaphor, such as those found in stylistics, discourse analysis, applied linguistics and semiotics. In addition to the core course, you will take three compulsory courses: Metaphor in Professional Practice; Metaphor, Mind, Multimodality; and Tools for Metaphor Analysis. You will take one additional elective course and will complete the programme by writing a Master’s thesis (18 credits).

YOUR FUTURE CAREER This Master’s degree will prepare you thoroughly for PhD research on metaphor and other language and discourse phenomena in various fields of linguistics and in the

COMMUNICATION & INFORMATION STUDIES

humanities. Given the importance of metaphorical language in effective communication, there are clear opportunities for developing a professional career in document design, communication advice and other fields where discourse analysis plays a key role.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • METAPHOR IN DISCOURSE WWW.VU.NL/METAPHOR

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS The Metaphor in Discourse specialization is specifically aimed at students with an interest in research on metaphor in all communication types. It provides a solid background for PhD research. A Bachelor’s degree in English, Linguistics, or Language and Communication is required. If your degree is

WHY STUDY COMMUNICATION & INFORMATION STUDIES AT VU

in another subject, you will only be eligible if it has a strong

UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

linguistic component.

The Master’s programme in Communication & Information Studies comprises the specialization Metaphor in Discourse. The

WWW.VU.NL/METAPHOR

programme is meant for all students who are interested in the role of language in discourse and communication.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES The Research Master’s in Linguistics.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

51

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES The one-year Master’s programme Communication & Information Studies and its specialization Metaphor in Discourse.

LINGUISTICS 2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/LINGUISTICS

LITERARY STUDIES WHY STUDY LINGUISTICS AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The Research Master’s in Linguistics is a two-year programme which will enable you to become a professional researcher. The programme deals with linguistics in its broadest sense. In your first year you will take a general course in the field of linguistics research, taught by three or four lecturers. They are all experts

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • LITERATURES IN ENGLISH WWW.VU.NL/LITERATURES

on the history of research in the field of linguistics within their own specialization and on the methods and techniques used in their individual fields.

WHY STUDY LITERARY STUDIES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

The Master’s programme in Literary Studies comprises the

This two-year Research Master’s trains you as a researcher in

specialization Literatures in English. The Literatures in English

theoretical linguistics, applied linguistics, and applied language

specialization attracts a large number of students from abroad

and communication studies. The programme contains a set of core

each year and is proudly offered by an internationally oriented

courses in these areas which all students take, but at the same

research university with an outstanding reputation.

time it allows you to specialize in one of the three main research themes of the Department of Language and Communication,

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

namely Language, Cognition and Communication; Language

The one-year Master’s programme Communication & Information

Acquisition; and Language Documentation. The researchers

Studies, with its specialization Metaphor in Discourse.

working within these departmental themes are all affiliated with interfaculty research institutes at VU University Amsterdam. As a result, there is great emphasis on the relationship between

1 SPECIALIZATION:

linguistics, the cognitive sciences, anthropology, communication theory, and education. The programme will also train you in the various methods of linguistic research (corpus-based research,

LITERATURES IN ENGLISH

fieldwork, native speaker intuitions, experiments, and linguistic modelling).

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? The Literatures in English specialization at VU University

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

Amsterdam focuses on the relation between literature and

After completing the Research Master’s, many students opt to

visual culture. Rooted in the university’s tradition of studying

pursue a PhD. You might also embark on a career at a research

the relations between word and image, this specialized

institute outside of the academic setting. Other opportunities

interdisciplinary programme will teach you to analyse the

available to you after graduation include working as an editor,

various ways in which textual and visual culture interact.

a teacher or a language policy officer in education for a local or

The topics studied from this perspective range from the

national government.

Renaissance stage to screenwriting, from the relation between poetry and photography to film adaptations of gothic novels.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics in order to be considered for admission to the programme.

52

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME Literatures in English consists of 60 credits and aims to give you new insights into the ways in which literary works and the visual arts continually reinforce one another. After a theoretical core course, you will be exposed to a host of highly diverse yet interrelated courses on Visual Arts and the American Poet; Fiction and Film; Renaissance Literature and Visual Culture; Literature and Society; The Gothic Gaze; and Screenwriting. You will complete your Master’s degree by writing a Master’s thesis (18 credits).

YOUR FUTURE CAREER Upon completing your degree, you will be a specialist in English literary studies with a strong international orientation and a thorough training in discussing and writing about complex ideas. Many of our recent graduates have found employment in the commercial sector, working as communication specialists,

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW 1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) • REGULATION OF BUSINESS • BUSINESS RELATIONS WWW.VU.NL/IBL

marketing managers or lexicographers, for instance.

Opportunities also abound in journalism, translation, editing and publishing.

WHY STUDY INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS LAW AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

VU University Amsterdam benefits from its unique location in the

The Master’s programme is intended for students with an

heart of Amsterdam’s business district, where many international

academic Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Culture.

law firms are located. As a student of International Business Law,

It is also suitable for students with other Bachelor’s degrees in

you will be able to network in a real-life business environment.

the Humanities (e.g. History, Comparative Literature, Cultural

Some courses are taught by legal practitioners, who can give you a

Studies, American Studies) who also have a solid background

genuine understanding of how law works in practice. Classes are

(at least 30 credits) in English and American literature and

small, international and interactive. The mix of nationalities within

culture.

the group gives the programme an extra dimension.

WWW.VU.NL/LITERATURES

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME The Master’s programme in International Business Law consists of core courses, electives, a research seminar, a Master’s thesis and a specialization (‘Regulation of Business’ or ‘Business Relations’). The core courses provide you with a general legal foundation, while later courses focus on more specific areas of international business law. In the final stage, you will write your thesis. The programme focuses on rules and practices for promoting international commercial transactions. It aims at developing an understanding of the world’s trading system and rules for international investments, and it examines the legal aspects of business practices. You will study the main legal areas and the interaction between the actors involved in transactions. In addition, you will develop skills to anticipate, analyse and address problems that may arise in the legal practice of international business.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER After finishing this Master’s programme, you can start a career as a professional business lawyer, an in-house counsel for a corporation, a government official or a legal professional for an international organization. Alumni have found jobs at international law firms, accounting companies, banks and government agencies. Pursuing a PhD is also an option.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Ideally, applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Law, but students with a sound academic background and INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

53

proven experience in the field of law may also apply. International

documents, develop preventive strategies and carry out fieldwork.

Business Law is a selective programme and open to a limited

Possible careers include working for international criminal courts

number of students only. You can find full details on admission,

and tribunals, human rights organizations, refugee organizations,

selection and application on our website.

government departments, universities or other research institutes.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Law and Politics of International Security - Transnational Legal

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Studies.

You will need to have a broad interest in the field and the capacity to learn how to use and apply a range of academic disciplines. You should have a high grade average, strong motivation and a keen interest in international crimes and criminology. Student numbers are limited. You can find full details on admission, selection and application on our website.

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES Law and Politics of International Security.

INTERNATIONAL CRIMES AND CRIMINOLOGY 1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/ICC

WHY STUDY INTERNATIONAL CRIMES AND CRIMINOLOGY AT VU

LAW AND POLITICS OF INTERNATIONAL SECURITY

UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? International Crimes and Criminology brings together a select group of highly skilled and motivated students to study international crimes from an interdisciplinary perspective.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/LPIS

Students have various backgrounds and nationalities, which makes the exchange of knowledge and experiences even more stimulating. The programme has strong links to the Center for International Criminal Justice. VU University Amsterdam is the

WHY STUDY LAW AND POLITICS OF INTERNATIONAL SECURITY

only university in the Netherlands and one of the few universities

AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

worldwide to offer this programme, so you will possess unique

The Master’s programme in Law and Politics of International

skills upon graduating.

Security is unparalleled in offering an interdisciplinary approach, taught by staff from the departments of International Law,

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

Political Science and Criminology. The programme attracts

The programme in International Crimes and Criminology

students from all over the world, so international security will

consists of five required courses, several elective courses and

be discussed in a truly international environment. Research is

an interdisciplinary Master’s thesis on international crimes.

emphasized throughout the programme. You will be introduced to

The programme deals extensively with insights from various

different methodologies for carrying out independent research,

disciplines such as sociology, psychology, criminology and

combined with practical activities and exercises such as role-

political science. This Master’s aims to define and conceptualize

playing and moot courts.

international crimes and to analyse ways to effectively prevent, eradicate and respond to them. You will study the causes of

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

international crimes and learn to measure and map out their

The programme in Law and Politics of International Security

scope in terms of consequences and cost.

consists of four required courses, two elective courses and a Master’s thesis. Topics include the United Nations system of

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

collective security, the transformation of war (including terrorism

On completing the programme, you will be able to objectively

and other forms of political violence), human rights protection, the

assess empirical data and critically comment on theoretical

development of international criminal tribunals and humanitarian

notions. On the practical side, you will be able to draft policy

law. In addition to lectures and seminars, you will have the

54

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

opportunity to take advantage of all sorts of interesting activities

preferences: practical, academic, public law, civil law, economic,

that are organized regularly, such as guest lectures, conferences

theoretical and social. Lecturers and researchers from a wide

and excursions. Field trips to international organizations and

range of Dutch and international backgrounds work together in

international tribunals are an integral part of the programme. You

this leading programme.

will be encouraged to participate in extra-curricular seminars with experts and practitioners in the field of international peace

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME

and security.

Transnational Legal Studies is one of the specializations in the Master’s in Law, consisting of 60 credits. You will choose an

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

in-depth course in either EU Law or Public International Law (or

After graduation you will have a one-of-a-kind, interdisciplinary

take both). You will then choose from a range of elective courses,

qualification. You will be able to find a job in international

covering topics as diverse as human rights, e-commerce, law

organizations, government agencies or NGOs. Your analytical

and religion, the politics of international law, children’s rights,

skills and understanding of international politics will make you

and competition law, so that you can tailor your Master’s to your

uniquely qualified to find solutions to complex problems. Careers

particular interests. You also have the opportunity to go on an

you could pursue include researcher, legal or policy advisor,

internship or spend time studying abroad. You will complete your

analyst, diplomat, consultant or journalist.

programme by writing a thesis. Important courses include ‘EU law seminars’, ‘International law seminars’ and ‘Transnational law

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

& social movements’. Whatever your particular field of interest,

Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in

our aim is to stimulate depth of knowledge, breadth of vision and

Law, Social Sciences or Liberal Arts, and a basic knowledge of

intellectual curiosity.

international law or international relations theory. Applicants must be proficient in English. Each year the programme is open

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

to a limited number of students only. For detailed information on

There is an ever-increasing need for transnationally trained

admission requirements, application and the programme, please

lawyers. Future employers may include EU institutions, the UN,

see the website.

international organizations, non-governmental organizations, national governments, international legal practices and

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES

universities. National law firms and local governments are also

International Business Law - International Crimes and

experiencing a growing need for lawyers with EU and international

Criminology - Political Science.

legal expertise.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in Law or in a related subject including at least 60 credits of relevant law coursework or, as an exception, fewer than 60 credits of law coursework but with other comparable and relevant subjects (e.g. international relations or European studies). For detailed information on admission requirements, application and the programme, please see the website.

TRANSNATIONAL LEGAL STUDIES

OTHER INTERESTING PROGRAMMES International Business Law - Law and Politics of International Security.

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS) WWW.VU.NL/TLS

WHY STUDY TRANSNATIONAL LEGAL STUDIES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? The Faculty of Law at VU University Amsterdam has uniquely united EU Law, International Public Law and Internet Governance in one department, which also works closely with the Legal Theory department. This approach facilitates both a wide-ranging and in-depth analysis of transnational legal issues. Students can design their own programmes in line with their personal INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

55

2 SPECIALIZATIONS: 1 CHRISTIAN STUDIES OF SCIENCE AND SOCIETY WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION? In the Christian Studies of Science and Society specialization

PHILOSOPHY

you will take a creative approach to questions concerning the underlying ideas of truth and reality, the underlying concept of the human being and ethics. You will take both a theoretical and a practical-ethical approach to these studies, doing so from a

1 YEAR (60 CREDITS)

Christian perspective. You will analyse the assumptions underlying

• CHRISTIAN STUDIES OF SCIENCE AND SOCIETY • PHILOSOPHY OF MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONS

framework of modern cultural developments both in the northern

WWW.VU.NL/PHILOSOPHY

mainstream approaches in your own field within the broad and southern hemisphere. You will also formulate productive adjustments and alternatives from a Christian perspective.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS There are three requirements for admission to the Christian

WHY STUDY PHILOSOPHY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM?

Studies specialization:

The one year Master’s programme in Philosophy teaches you to

• A Bachelor’s degree in any field

analyse and think philosophical issues through. You will be trained

• A basic knowledge of philosophy and a Christian worldview

to independently perform philosophical research and to report on

• A minor in Philosophy or an entry exam/assessment based

it correctly. Our inspired programmes offer you the opportunity to specialize either in fundamental philosophical research or in societal issues. Both the teaching and research at the faculty

on individual study • Further requirements: English language proficiency, Motivation letter & CV, recommendations

regularly receive highly favourable evaluations from independent inspection committees.

WWW.VU.NL/CSSS

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME You will start with general courses in the history of philosophy and one in theoretical philosophy. A course focusing on modern-day

2 PHILOSOPHY, MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONS

philosophy is also part of the programme. You will then continue with specialized courses before taking on your own research

WHY CHOOSE THIS SPECIALIZATION?

question. You will read the key literature relating to your topic

The Philosophy of Management and Organizations

and discuss it in preparation for writing your Master’s thesis at an

specialization offers training to future experts and scholars

advanced level.

in management and organization development in business and in non-profit organizations as well as in philosophy.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER

The programme combines rigorous training in analytical

The demand is growing for people who have learned to think

and normative methods with an emphasis on developing

outside the box, for people who can perceive the larger picture

management and organizational practice and theory. It will

and think critically. Students who graduate in philosophy

provide managers and philosophers with the expertise in the

ultimately work in a range of different areas: in academia,

philosophical foundations and the philosophical enhancement

education, the police, publishing, politics, newspapers and other

of management that they need in a society and business world

media, the business world and elsewhere.

that is becoming more and more culture-oriented.

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• A Bachelor’s degree in any field in combination with a minor in

• Relevant non-philosophical academic Bachelor’s degree in

philosophy (30 credits) or an entry exam/assessment based on individual study.

• Further requirements: English language proficiency, motivation letter & CV, recommendations.

combination with a minor in philosophy of 30 credits.

• Bachelor’s degree in philosophy, with a minor in the social sciences, economics or business administration of 30 credits.

• If candidates hesitate about their qualifications they may contact the Examination Committee of the Faculty of Philosophy.

WWW.VU.NL/PMO

56

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

SPECIFIC ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 1 A Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Health Sciences, Law, Medicine, Philosophy, Psychology, and Social Sciences.

2 The minor in Ethics and Social Philosophy taught by the Philosophy Department at VU University Amsterdam, or another minor of 30 credits consisting of courses in Philosophy and Ethics and a 6-credit paper on a philosophical subject.

PHILOSOPHY 2 YEARS (120 CREDITS) • PHILOSOPHY, BIOETHICS AND HEALTH WWW.VU.NL/PBH

WHY STUDY PHILOSOPHY AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM? In the two-year Master’s programme in Philosophy, you will reflect on important problems within a specific academic discipline. Because the sciences are not separate from the society in which they are practised, you will acquire a solid understanding of the wider connection between science, society, culture, ethics and the philosophy of life.

WHY CHOOSE THE SPECIALIZATION IN PHILOSOPHY, BIOETHICS AND HEALTH? The Master’s specialization in Philosophy, Bioethics and Health will provide you with the theoretical and practical tools needed to deal with ethical issues in healthcare and healthcare policy. You will learn how to reflect on practical problems from a medical, moral, legal, political and economic perspective. If you have a Bachelor’s in Health Sciences, this two-year specialization is a great opportunity to obtain two Master’s degrees: one in philosophy and one in your original field.

STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME AND THE SPECIALIZATION In the first year, you will combine your non-philosophy Master’s with three of our first-year courses: ethics, philosophical anthropology and an introduction to health sciences. Students who have a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences will take three philosophy courses and two elective courses in subjects such as health law and public administration. If you have a Bachelor’s in Philosophy, you can take a modified two-year programme.

The second year consists of four thematic courses, a seminar including a winter school (30 credits), a practical training course (12 credits), and a literature survey and thesis (18 credits), which count towards both Master’s degrees.

YOUR FUTURE CAREER With Philosophy, Bioethics and Health you will be an attractive candidate for the position of clinical ethicist or assistant/advisor to the management and board within healthcare organizations, health insurance companies, medical ethics committees and other organizations dealing with societal and ethical issues in healthcare. With two degrees (the full two-year programme), you will have an extra advantage on the labour market.

INTERNATIONAL MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

57

TESTIMONIAL

STARR BROWN/USA HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES: SPORT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH (RESEARCH MASTER) I chose to study at VU University to be introduced to a scientific perspective outside of my own culture and I was impressed with the comprehensive list of courses offered within the Research Master’s programme in Human Movement Sciences. During my first year I took many courses that integrated fundamental scientific understanding with practical human movement related questions.

Courses such as Tissue Engineering, Neurosciences and Treating Locomotor Disease offered a multidisciplinary application of HMS studies, whereas other courses focused on data analysis and modeling. The instruction style allowed ample opportunities to ask questions or have further discussion either during class, dropping

WELL-PREPARED FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

by the instructor’s office, or in lab sessions.

Now completing my second year, I notice that this Research Master’s programme has prepared me well in terms of critical analysis, objectiveness, and measurement skills. I am completing my own research project in which I am investigating the criteria by which the central nervous system controls the amount of body sway during upright standing. Through all phases of the research, I have applied knowledge and approaches learned during my first year.

Going forward, as I apply for research positions, I feel confident that my education from VU University makes me a strong candidate.

58

VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

SEE YOU AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM!

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Edition 22656/1_September 2013

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