Migration and Mobility (History and Anthropology, 19th-21st century)

The Master's programme in Migration and Mobility (History and Anthropology, 19th-21st Century) at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an interdisciplinary exploration of the complex phenomena of human movement, migration, and mobility from historical and anthropological perspectives. Designed for students interested in understanding the socio-cultural, political, and economic dimensions of migration throughout the modern era, this programme provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical insights with empirical research methods. Students will examine a wide range of topics, including migration policies, refugee movements, diaspora communities, urban mobility, labor migration, and the impacts of globalization. The programme encourages critical analysis of historical narratives and contemporary debates surrounding migration, offering a nuanced understanding of the factors that drive human mobility and its consequences for societies worldwide. Through lectures, seminars, and fieldwork, students develop analytical skills, ethnographic research techniques, and a deep awareness of diverse perspectives. The programme also emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating insights from history, anthropology, political science, and social sciences to prepare graduates for careers in academia, policy-making, international organizations, NGOs, and consultancy. Graduates of this programme will be equipped to contribute to ongoing debates and to shape informed policies on migration and mobility issues, fostering a more inclusive and understanding global society. Throughout the programme, students will have access to extensive research resources, academic experts, and opportunities for international exchange, enabling them to build a robust academic profile and professional network. The programme prepares students not only for academic careers but also for positions that require expertise in migration studies, emphasizing the importance of analytical rigor, cultural sensitivity, and policy relevance.

Migration and Mobility (History and Anthropology, 19th-21st Century) at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the dynamic processes of human migration and mobility, focusing on historical and contemporary perspectives from the 19th century to the present day. This master's programme provides students with the theoretical frameworks, methodological skills, and empirical insights needed to analyze the causes, patterns, and impacts of migration worldwide. Throughout the programme, students examine various forms of movement, including voluntary and forced migration, refugee flows, labor mobility, and diaspora communities, considering their social, cultural, economic, political, and environmental dimensions.

The curriculum combines history and anthropology to foster a nuanced understanding of migration phenomena. Students engage with key themes such as migration policies, integration processes, identity and belonging, transnationalism, modernization, globalization, and the impact of technological advancements on mobility. Courses are designed to encourage critical thinking and real-world application, integrating case studies from different regions and periods to illustrate diverse migration experiences and challenges.

In addition to coursework, students have opportunities to participate in fieldwork, internships, and research projects, often collaborating with NGOs, governmental agencies, and international organizations. The programme emphasizes developing analytical and research skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy advisory roles, international organizations, NGOs, and media outlets addressing migration issues.

The programme duration is typically one year for full-time students, with options for part-time study. Students benefit from the university’s vibrant academic community and access to extensive resources, including specialized libraries and research centers. Graduates of the programme are equipped to contribute critically and creatively to debates and policy-making processes concerning migration and mobility, making a meaningful impact in a globally interconnected world.

Admission to the Master's program in Migration and Mobility (History and Anthropology, 19th-21st century) at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam requires applicants to hold a Bachelor's degree from an accredited university, preferably in fields related to History, Anthropology, Sociology, or relevant social sciences. Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, with particular emphasis on courses related to migration studies, social theories, and human mobility. Proficiency in English is mandatory, with accepted tests including IELTS with a minimum score of 6.5, TOEFL iBT with at least 90 points, or equivalent qualifications recognized by the university. As the program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, applicants are expected to submit a motivation letter of approximately 500 words, detailing their interest in migration and mobility issues, previous research or work experience, and their motivation to pursue this specific program at VU Amsterdam. A curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and relevant internships should accompany the application. Furthermore, applicants are encouraged to submit a sample of academic writing, such as a research paper or essay, which showcases their analytical and writing skills, preferably related to migration studies or social sciences. For international applicants, additional documentation such as a copy of passport and proof of English language proficiency are required. The admissions committee also values candidates with experience in fieldwork, intercultural communication, or related practical experience, which can enhance their contributions to the academic community. While specific prerequisites for this program may vary slightly from year to year, overall, candidates should demonstrate a clear motivation and capacity for interdisciplinary research integrating historical and anthropological perspectives on migration and mobility from the 19th century to the present day. To strengthen their application, prospective students should review the program’s focus areas and research themes available on the university’s official website and align their statement and CV accordingly. Deadlines for application submissions are typically set several months before the start of the academic year, and applicants are advised to submit all materials through the official online portal. It is recommended to contact the admissions office for any questions or clarification about the requirements and application process.

The Financing studies of the Migration and Mobility (History and Anthropology, 19th-21st century) program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects associated with migration, mobility, and related societal changes over the course of the 19th to 21st centuries. The program is primarily funded through a combination of sources including government grants, Dutch national research funding bodies, and European Union research programs that support higher education and innovative research initiatives in social sciences and humanities.

Tuition fees for international students are set in accordance with the policies of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, which typically involve a standard fee structure for non-EU/EEA students, complemented by possible fee waivers or scholarships based on academic merit or financial need. Dutch and EU students benefit from substantially lower fees, reflecting Dutch government policies supporting domestic and regional students. The university also offers various scholarship opportunities, some of which are specifically aimed at students enrolled in interdisciplinary programs like Migration and Mobility, to offset tuition costs and living expenses.

In addition to direct educational funding, the program's research activities often attract external grants from institutions interested in migration studies, historical research, and social anthropology. These grants not only support faculty research but sometimes fund student involvement through research assistantships and internships. Students may also have access to financial support through internships, part-time work opportunities within the university, or external collaborations with organizations involved in migration policies, refugee support, or international development.

The program encourages students to seek additional funding through national and international scholarship programs such as the Holland Scholarship, Erasmus+ mobility grants, and funding offered by various foundations dedicated to social sciences and humanities. These financial avenues support students’ ability to participate in international exchanges, fieldwork, and conferences, which are integral components of the program’s experiential learning approach.

Overall, the financing landscape for the Migration and Mobility program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam combines institutional funding, governmental support, external grants, and scholarship opportunities. This multi-source approach aims to make the program accessible to a diverse student body while supporting high-quality research and international exchange initiatives.

The Master's program in Migration and Mobility (History and Anthropology, 19th-21st century) at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex phenomena of migration and mobility. This program combines historical analysis with anthropological insights to explore the social, political, economic, and cultural dimensions of migration processes from the 19th century to the present day. Students will examine case studies from Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, providing a comprehensive global perspective on migration patterns and their implications for societies.

The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking and research skills, focusing on both qualitative and quantitative methods. Core courses delve into the history of migration, border studies, diaspora communities, integration policies, and the impact of migration on identity and belonging. Additionally, students have the opportunity to specialize in particular regions or themes, tailoring their education to their career interests.

Practical skills are emphasized through assignments, fieldwork, and internship opportunities, preparing students for careers in academia, policymaking, international organizations, NGOs, and cultural sectors. The program also encourages engagement with current debates on migration, integration, and social justice, fostering a nuanced understanding of contemporary challenges.

Language of instruction is primarily English, accommodating international students and fostering a diverse academic environment. The program duration is typically one year for full-time students, with options for part-time study. Graduates will obtain a Master's degree (MSc), qualifying them for further academic research or professional positions in migration-related fields.

The faculty involved are experts in migration, history, anthropology, and related disciplines, ensuring high-quality instruction and mentorship. The university's strong connections with international institutions and ongoing research projects provide students with networking opportunities and practical experience.

Overall, the program aims to produce well-informed, critically-minded graduates capable of contributing to scholarly research, policy development, and societal debates surrounding migration and mobility in the modern world.