Economics

Economics at Radboud University is a comprehensive Bachelor's program designed to provide students with a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and real-world application. The program equips students with the skills necessary to analyze complex economic issues at local, national, and global levels. Throughout the degree, students explore various fields including microeconomics, macroeconomics, development economics, and behavioral economics, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of economic principles.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills such as data analysis, modeling, and critical thinking. Students engage in case studies, research assignments, and projects that foster analytical and problem-solving abilities. The program also includes components on sustainable development and social responsibility, reflecting Radboud University's commitment to societal relevance and ethical considerations in economics.

Students have access to modern facilities and participate in a vibrant academic community. The program offers opportunities for internships, international exchanges, and collaboration with industry partners, giving students valuable experience and networking opportunities. The learning environment encourages independent thinking, innovative approaches, and active participation.

Radboud University's Economics Bachelor's program prepares graduates for diverse career paths including finance, consultancy, government, research, and international organizations. The program aims to develop not only academic competence but also the communication skills and ethical awareness essential for responsible economic analysis and decision-making. With a focus on societal impact and sustainability, the program aligns with global challenges and prepares students to contribute thoughtfully and effectively in their professional lives.

Your studies will take three years and you will have lectures and seminars for fifteen hours per week. During lectures, we encourage you to ask questions and to take part in discussions, instead of just listening to the lecturer. In seminars you will work together in groups of fifteen to twenty students. You will have to hand in assignments and papers, or give a presentation, which you will prepare in a study group of three or four students.
During the third year, you will have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester. If you choose the specialisation International Economics and Business, a semester abroad is even obligatory! You can choose from among our two hundred partner universities worldwide. You will finish your studies with a Bachelor’s Thesis: your own research project. Many students choose to do their research project at a company. After completion of the programme, you will be awarded the degree Bachelor of Science (BSc).

Language requirements
You should have sufficient proficiency in the English language in order to be admissible. No proficiency in the Dutch language is required. Should you have obtained a high school diploma from a European country in which you have taken English in the final examinations, then in some cases you do not have to provide a separate language certificate. You will find a list of these diplomas on the specific programme web pages. Proficiency in the English language can be proven by meeting one of the following conditions:
• You have a diploma from the list of European diplomas, as mentioned above.
• You have a Dutch VWO diploma.
• You have a German ‘Zeugnis der Allgemeinen Hochschulreife’ with English as ‘Grundkurs’ or ‘Leistungskurs’ in the ‘Abitur’.
• You have an International Baccalaureate.
• You have a European Baccalaureate with English Language 2 or 1.
• You have obtained a diploma equivalent to or higher than the Dutch VWO level from an institution where the language of instruction is English in one of the member states of the EU/EEA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the USA.
• You are a citizen of Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA. Should you not meet one of the conditions mentioned above, then, in general, you should provide one of the following language certificates. Some programmes may have further language requirements, so please check the web page of the programme you’re interested in carefully. 
• IELTS Academic: A minimum overall score of 6.0, apart from Chemistry and Molecular Life Science, which require an minimum overall score of 6.5. Please check programme specific web pages for information on minimum sub-scores.
• TOEFL iBT: A minumum overall score of 80, apart from Chemistry and Molecular Life Sciences, which require a minimum score of 90. Please check programme specific web pages for information on minimum sub-scores.
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): minimum mark of C.
• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): minimum mark of C.

Radboud Scholarship Programme: Radboud University has scholarships available for the most talented Bachelor’s students who have a citizenship from a non-EU/EEA country and who have not studied in the Netherlands before. Each year, sixteen Radboud Scholarships are awarded to Bachelor’s students, two per English-taught Bachelor’s programme. The scholarship lowers the tuition fees to the amount of the legal tuition fees of €2,006 in the first Bachelor’s year and includes the costs of health insurance for the first year and the fees for visa and residence permit. The deadline for application is 1 April 2017. More information can be found on www.ru.nl/rsp

Governmental student finance: EU/EEA students might qualify for a student loan from the Dutch government. To be entitled to this loan, you need to work for fourteen hours a week (56 hours a month) in the Netherlands (next to your studies). If you are entitled to receive the student loan from the Dutch government, you may receive up to € 1,000 per month, in addition to your salary. After graduation, you will need to pay back the loan. In order to determine how much you need to pay back each month, the Dutch government will take your financial situation (such as income) into account. More information is available on www.duo.nl

The Economics Bachelor's program at Radboud University offers students a comprehensive understanding of economic concepts, theories, and applications. The program is designed to equip students with analytical and quantitative skills necessary to analyze complex economic issues in various contexts. Students will explore the functioning of markets, the behavior of consumers and firms, and the role of government policies in shaping economic outcomes. The curriculum includes courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and economic policy, providing a balanced theoretical and practical perspective. Additionally, students have opportunities to specialize in areas such as development economics, behavioral economics, or international economics, depending on their interests and career goals. The program emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills to prepare graduates for careers in the public sector, private industry, or further academic research. Practical components such as case studies, internships, and project work are integrated to enhance real-world understanding and employability. The university promotes an international environment, encouraging students to engage with global economic issues and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, the program fosters skills in communication, teamwork, and ethical considerations in economics, aligning with global standards and societal needs. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue master's degrees or enter the workforce as economists, policy advisors, data analysts, or consultants. Radboud University’s high-quality teaching, strong research orientation, and supportive academic community contribute to an enriching educational experience for aspiring economists.