Earth and Economics

The Bachelor's in Earth and Economics at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers a unique interdisciplinary programme designed for students who are passionate about understanding the complex interactions between the Earth's ecosystems and economic systems. This programme combines intensive coursework in environmental sciences, geology, and economics to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of global environmental issues and sustainable development. Throughout the programme, students acquire analytical skills to assess the economic impacts of environmental policies and the ecological consequences of economic activities, preparing them for careers in environmental consultancy, policy-making, resource management, and international organizations. The curriculum emphasizes practical application and encourages students to develop innovative solutions for pressing global challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation. Students will engage in fieldwork, research projects, and collaborations with industry partners, gaining valuable hands-on experience. The programme also explores themes like renewable energy, circular economy, urban sustainability, and international environmental law, enabling graduates to operate effectively in multidisciplinary teams and diverse settings. With its focus on both Earth sciences and economics, the Bachelor's in Earth and Economics aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and mindset to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development goals worldwide. Graduates are prepared to pursue further studies or enter the workforce in roles that require a deep understanding of the environmental and economic dimensions of global issues, making this programme ideal for future leaders in sustainability and environmental economics.

The Bachelor’s program in Earth and Economics at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an interdisciplinary education that combines the scientific understanding of Earth systems with the analytical and strategic skills of economics. Throughout the three-year curriculum, students will explore the complex interdependencies between natural resources, environmental challenges, and economic development. The program is designed to prepare graduates for addressing global sustainability issues, resource management, and policy-making in a changing world.

In the first year, students gain foundational knowledge in Earth sciences, including geology, climatology, and environmental data analysis. They also start developing basic economic principles such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the physical and biological processes of the Earth while examining how economic activities impact and depend on these systems. Students participate in labs, fieldwork, and introductory economics courses to build practical skills.

The second year deepens understanding of the Earth's systems, focusing on environmental economics, resource management, and sustainable development. Courses cover topics such as environmental policy, renewable energy, climate change mitigation, and ecological economics. Students learn to analyze environmental data, develop models, and evaluate policy options. This year also introduces students to the economic valuation of natural resources and ecosystem services, highlighting the importance of integrating ecological insights into economic decision-making.

In the final year, students specialize further by choosing electives that enhance their expertise, such as environmental law, international economics, or sustainable finance. They undertake a major research project, applying their knowledge to real-world environmental and economic issues. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing students for careers in environmental consultancy, governmental agencies, international organizations, or further academic research.

Throughout their studies, students benefit from interdisciplinary teaching by experts in Earth sciences and economics, as well as practical training through internships, case studies, and collaborative projects. The program culminates in a comprehensive understanding of how economic decision-making can promote sustainable stewardship of Earth's resources, equipping graduates to contribute effectively to building a sustainable future.

Other requirements

1. intake gesprek Via een matchingstraject wordt je toegelaten. Zie voor de datum en een verdere omschrijving www.vu.nl/aardeeneconomie
2. taaltoets cijfer Tijdens de eerste weken van je studie doe je een taaltoets. Je toelating is hiervan niet afhankelijk, maar als deze onvoldoende is is een aanvullende cursus verplicht.

The financing of the Earth and Economics program at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam primarily involves a combination of tuition fees, government funding, and potential scholarships or financial aid options. As an international master's program, students are typically required to pay tuition fees, which vary depending on the student's nationality and residency status. Dutch and EU/EEA students benefit from reduced or statutory tuition fees, whereas non-EU/EEA students pay higher institutional fees. The university also offers various scholarships and grants aimed at supporting talented students financially, including VU Fellowship Programmes and external scholarship opportunities.

Students may also explore loan options available through Dutch governmental schemes or bank loans designed specifically for international students studying in the Netherlands. The university provides guidance and counseling on financial planning and available funding options to help students manage the costs associated with the program. Additionally, for students engaged in research or internships, there may be stipends or grants provided through specific projects or partnerships. The program's funding structure emphasizes accessibility and diversity, seeking to attract a wide range of students from different backgrounds.

The university also benefits from national and European funding sources aimed at promoting higher education and research in sustainability, economics, and environmental sciences. This funding supports the development and enhancement of the curriculum, faculty expertise, and research activities associated with the program. Additional financial support may come from industry collaborations, research grants, and partnerships with governmental agencies concerned with climate change, sustainable development, and economic transition.

Overall, the financing landscape of the Earth and Economics program is designed to be comprehensive, combining tuition revenue, public funding, and private support to ensure that students can pursue their studies with manageable financial burdens. The university continuously reviews and expands its financial aid offerings to align with the evolving needs of its student body, aiming to foster an inclusive environment where academic excellence is accessible regardless of financial background.

The Bachelor's degree program in Earth and Economics at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers students a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's natural systems and the economic principles that influence global environmental issues. This interdisciplinary program integrates geology, ecology, and environmental science with economics, policy analysis, and sustainable development to prepare students for addressing complex challenges related to climate change, resource management, and environmental conservation. Throughout the program, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling them to assess environmental risks and devise sustainable solutions within economic frameworks. The curriculum includes courses in Earth sciences, such as geology, climate systems, and geography, combined with economics topics like environmental economics, policy, and market-based instruments. Practical experience is emphasized through fieldwork, internships, and project work, often in collaboration with governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private industry. Graduates are equipped to work in environmental consulting, governmental agencies, international organizations, or pursue further studies in related fields. The program also focuses on fostering awareness of global issues, ethics, and the societal impact of environmental and economic decisions. With access to state-of-the-art labs and research facilities, students are encouraged to engage in innovative research that contributes to our understanding of Earth’s dynamics and sustainable economic practices. The program benefits from the university’s strong links with industry and government, providing students with networking opportunities and real-world insights. Overall, the Earth and Economics Bachelor's degree combines scientific rigor with economic analysis, preparing graduates to become effective professionals committed to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.