Economics Behaviour and Policy

The Master's programme in Economics, Behaviour, and Policy at Radboud University offers an interdisciplinary and international approach to understanding economic issues through the lenses of psychology, behavioural science, and policy analysis. Designed for students interested in exploring how human behavior influences economic decision-making and how these insights can be applied to develop effective policies, the programme combines rigorous theoretical coursework with practical applications. Students will delve into core economic theories while integrating behavioural perspectives to understand real-world phenomena, such as consumer choices, market dynamics, and institutional reforms. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and experimental methods, preparing graduates to work in diverse areas including public policy, economic consulting, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions. Radboud University’s vibrant academic environment fosters collaboration across disciplines, encouraging students to participate in innovative research projects and internships that provide valuable hands-on experience. The programme also benefits from close ties with policymakers and industry experts, enriching the learning experience with contemporary case studies and real-world challenges. Graduates will be equipped with the skills to analyze complex economic and behavioural data, design and evaluate policies, and contribute to socially and economically responsible decision-making. With a focus on ethical considerations and sustainability, the Master's in Economics, Behaviour, and Policy aims to develop professionals capable of making insightful, impactful contributions to society. The programme is suitable for students with a background in economics, psychology, or related fields who seek to deepen their understanding of behavioural economics and policy development in a global context.

The Master's in Economics, Behaviour and Policy at Radboud University offers an interdisciplinary and innovative approach to understanding economic behaviour and the impact of policies on society. This programme is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of economic theories combined with insights from psychology, sociology, and neuroscience to analyse how individuals and groups make decisions and how these decisions influence economic outcomes. Throughout the programme, students will explore fundamental questions about human behaviour, decision-making processes, and the effectiveness of various economic policies in promoting social welfare and sustainability.

The curriculum covers core topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, behavioral economics, policy analysis, and research methods. Special attention is given to experimental and empirical research techniques, enabling students to critically evaluate economic policies and develop evidence-based solutions. Practical projects, case studies, and internships are key components of the programme, providing students with real-world experience and opportunities to collaborate with policymakers, businesses, and nonprofit organizations.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, students will learn to apply quantitative skills like statistical analysis and econometrics, which are essential for analysing data and validating research hypotheses. The programme also emphasizes ethical considerations and the societal impact of economic decisions, preparing students to become responsible professionals capable of designing and implementing policies that aim for social equity and sustainability.

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in government agencies, international organizations, research institutes, and private sector companies involved in policy development, consulting, or economic analysis. The Master's in Economics, Behaviour and Policy at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and integrative education that combines economic theory with behavioural insights to foster innovative solutions to societal challenges.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Economics or a closely-related discipline from a research university.

You must have sufficient background in research methods and mathematics (and economics if you took a different degree).

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English.This requirement has been satisfied when the student meets one of the following conditions:

• Has successfully completed a three-year Bachelor's programme at a Dutch university.
• Is a citizen of Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, or the United States of America.
• Has successfully completed a Bachelor's programme that was taught completely in the English language in one of the following countries: EU/EEA-countries, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, United States of America.
• Has successfully completed a Master's programme from a Dutch university of applied sciences (HBO).

All other students need one of the following certificates (TOEFL and IELTS certificates may not be older than two years).

• A TOEFL score of ≥90, with subscores not lower than 18
• A IELTS score of ≥6.5, with subscores not lower than 6.0
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

A letter of motivation

In this letter of motivation (max 2 pages) you should explain why you want to attend this programme and why you think you are suited for this programme.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,006 in 2017/2018). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,006 in 2017/2018). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Bachelor's degree programme in Economics, Behaviour and Policy at Radboud University offers students a comprehensive understanding of economic principles, human behaviour, and policy analysis. The programme aims to equip students with the analytical tools necessary to address complex societal and economic issues. Throughout the course, students explore various economic theories and models, gaining insights into how individual choices and social factors influence economic outcomes. A unique aspect of this programme is its focus on behavioural economics, which examines the psychological factors affecting decision-making processes. This interdisciplinary approach combines economics, psychology, and policy studies, preparing graduates to analyze and develop effective policy solutions in diverse contexts.

Students will engage in a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, case studies, and group projects, fostering both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum covers core economics topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and research methods, alongside modules dedicated to behavioural science and policy evaluation. Practical experience is emphasized through internships, research projects, and collaborations with policy institutions, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world settings. The programme also encourages international perspectives, with opportunities for exchange programmes and collaboration with students and experts from around the world.

Career prospects for graduates of Economics, Behaviour and Policy are broad and diverse. They can pursue roles in government agencies, international organizations, consultancy firms, or the private sector, particularly in areas related to economic analysis, policy development, and behavioural research. The skills gained during this programme—such as critical thinking, data analysis, and strategic planning—are highly valued across various industries. Radboud University’s supportive learning environment, combined with its strong research community and excellent teaching facilities, ensures students are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions in their professional lives after graduation.