Organizational and Management Control

Program Overview:

The Master's in Organizational and Management Control at the University of Groningen is a comprehensive advanced degree designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the fields of organizational management, control mechanisms, and strategic decision-making. This programme offers a unique combination of theoretical frameworks and real-world applications, enabling graduates to understand, design, and implement effective control systems within diverse organizational contexts.

Throughout this programme, students will explore core topics such as managerial accounting, financial control, performance measurement, risk management, and governance structures. Emphasizing analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities, the curriculum prepares students to critically assess organizational processes and develop innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, accountability, and strategic alignment. Special attention is given to contemporary challenges like digital transformation, sustainability, and global competitiveness, ensuring that graduates are well-positioned to meet the evolving demands of modern organizations.

The programme employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from economics, psychology, information technology, and business strategy. Students gain hands-on experience through case studies, simulations, and project-based assignments, often collaborating with industry partners to solve real-world problems. This practical emphasis ensures that graduates possess not only theoretical expertise but also the practical skills required to implement control systems effectively in diverse environments.

The faculty comprises leading experts in the fields of management control, organizational psychology, and financial management, providing students with mentorship and access to cutting-edge research. The university's strong connections with the business community afford students numerous opportunities for internships, networking, and professional development.

Graduates of this programme are prepared for a variety of careers including management consultants, financial controllers, internal auditors, risk managers, and roles in corporate governance and strategic planning. They are equipped to contribute to organizational success by designing and maintaining control systems that promote transparency, accountability, and sustainable growth.

Overall, the Master's in Organizational and Management Control at the University of Groningen offers an intellectually stimulating environment where students develop the skills and insights necessary to lead effective control functions in organizations and to excel in competitive, complex, and dynamic settings.

Organizational and Management Control at the University of Groningen is a comprehensive Master's program designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the fields of organizational analysis, managerial decision-making, and internal control systems. The program aims to develop professionals capable of assessing, designing, and optimizing control mechanisms within various types of organizations, including both private and public sectors. Throughout the curriculum, students explore theories of management control, risk management, corporate governance, and compliance, gaining insight into how organizations can achieve their strategic objectives effectively and ethically.

The program combines academic rigor with real-world applications, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in internal auditing, management consulting, risk management, and organizational development. Students engage with a diverse set of courses covering topics such as financial control, operational control, strategy and innovation, information systems control, and legal frameworks surrounding organizational governance. Through case studies, group projects, and internships, students learn to analyze complex organizational environments, identify control deficiencies, and recommend appropriate improvements.

Furthermore, the program emphasizes analytical skills, critical thinking, and ethical considerations in management control processes. It incorporates modern digital tools and data analytics techniques, enabling students to handle large datasets and derive actionable insights for organizational improvement. The curriculum is delivered by experienced faculty members who combine academic knowledge with practical experience, often collaborating with industry partners to provide students with relevant, real-world perspectives.

Graduates of the Organizational and Management Control master's program are highly sought after in the job market, thanks to their specialized knowledge and versatile skill set. They are prepared to pursue careers in internal audit departments, consultancy firms, regulatory agencies, or take on management roles within organizations. The University of Groningen supports students through a vibrant academic community, networking opportunities, career counseling, and access to a wide range of resources. Upon completion, students receive a internationally recognized degree that opens doors to numerous professional opportunities in the dynamic field of organizational and management control.

Admission requirements

To be eligible for admission to this Master, you need to hold an academic Bachelor's or Master's degree from a research university in one of the following - or closely related - fields: Business Economics, Business Administration, Econometrics and Operations Research, Economics and Business Economics, International Business, Technology Management, Management Control. To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades that you have obtained. For more information, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/abackground If you have any questions concerning admission, please contact our Admissions Office: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure/support/admissions-office

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) To be eligible for admission to this Master, you need to hold an academic Bachelor's or Master's degree from a research university in one of the following - or closely related - fields: Business Economics, Business Administration, Econometrics and Operations Research, Economics and Business Economics, International Business, Technology Management, Management Control. To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades that you have obtained. For more information, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/abackground If you have any questions concerning admission, please contact our Admissions Office: http://www.rug.nl/education/international-students/application-procedure/support/admissions-office
2. erkende verworven competenties (EVC’s) GMAT/GRE; for specific scores (and exemptions), see http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/cother
3. cijferlijst A certified grade list(s) is considered in the evaluation.
4. taaltoets cijfer TOEFL internet based (IBT): 90, IELTS Academic: 6.5; for specific scores, see: http://www.rug.nl/feb/education/admissions/int/2/blanguage

Financing studies at the University of Groningen encompass a variety of funding options and financial support mechanisms designed to assist both domestic and international students throughout their academic journey. The university provides detailed information on scholarships, grants, and loan opportunities to help alleviate the financial burdens associated with higher education. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the Groningen Scholarship Programme, which offers several scholarships based on merit and financial need. Additionally, the Holland Scholarship is available for students from outside the European Economic Area, providing a substantial contribution toward tuition fees. To support students in their living expenses, the university recommends applying for external scholarships such as those provided by the Dutch government or international organizations.

The university also facilitates financial planning by offering guidance on budget management and part-time work opportunities on and around campus. The Student Financial Service Centre at Groningen assists students with questions related to student loans, budgeting, and employment. For students who qualify, Dutch government-issued student loans can be arranged through the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (DUO). These loans are interest-free during the study period and can be repaid after graduation under flexible conditions. The university emphasizes the importance of early financial planning and encourages students to explore all available funding sources before beginning their studies.

Furthermore, the university collaborates with various external organizations to provide additional financial support schemes tailored to specific groups, such as international students or students with disabilities. In recent years, the institution has expanded its efforts to include more flexible scholarship programs and financial counseling services to ensure inclusive access to education for all qualified applicants. Overall, the financing studies available at the University of Groningen aim to enable students to focus on their academic and personal development without undue financial stress, fostering an environment conducive to successful educational outcomes.

The master's program in Organizational and Management Control at the University of Groningen is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the area of organizational control systems, management accounting, strategic control, and performance measurement. This program emphasizes the importance of effective control mechanisms within organizations to ensure strategic objectives are met and resources are utilized efficiently. It combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates for roles in management consultancy, internal audit, control functions within organizations, and other managerial positions requiring expertise in organizational control. Students will study core topics such as management accounting, control systems design, strategic management, decision-making processes, performance measurement, and the use of information technology in management control. The program also offers opportunities for specializations and electives that allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests, potentially including digital transformation, risk management, or sustainability in organizations. The curriculum is delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies, group projects, and internships, fostering an active learning environment. The international orientation of the program attracts students from diverse backgrounds, promoting a global perspective on management and control practices. Graduates will develop skills in analyzing organizational systems, designing effective control mechanisms, and implementing managerial strategies that enhance organizational performance. The University of Groningen provides excellent facilities and a supportive academic community to facilitate student learning and research. The program prepares students for careers in various sectors, including private companies, public organizations, and non-profit institutions, where management control plays a critical role. Overall, the program aims to develop strategic thinkers and skilled practitioners who can contribute to organizational success through innovative and effective management control solutions.