Social Cultural Science

The Master's programme in Sociology at Radboud University offers students an in-depth exploration of social structures, cultural dynamics, and human behavior within contemporary society. Designed for individuals interested in understanding complex social issues, the programme combines theoretical insights with practical research skills, enabling students to analyze and address societal challenges at local, national, and global levels. Throughout the programme, students examine topics such as social inequality, identity, migration, globalization, and social change, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the forces that shape social life. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and encourages students to develop their own research projects, utilizing qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Students benefit from a vibrant academic community, experienced faculty members, and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. The programme prepares graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, consultancy, international organizations, and social innovation initiatives. With a strong focus on both theoretical foundations and practical applications, the Master’s in Sociology at Radboud University equips students with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to social development and policy formulation, whether through research, management, or advocacy. The programme also promotes internationalization, offering exchange opportunities and courses taught in English, making it accessible to students from around the world. Overall, this Master's programme is an excellent choice for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of social processes and to develop the analytical and research skills necessary for making a positive impact on society.

his two year Master’s programme starts in September and comprises three pillars.

The first pillar contains the core theoretical themes in the fields of Public Administration and Organisation Science, such as public policy, public management, bureaucracy and public service, and human resource management. These courses connect classic theories to cutting edge research. Students both develop knowledge about theories and learn to apply them in research. It offers room to develop your personal interests through a tailor-made tutorial.

The second pillar consists of a broad range of philosophy of science and research methods courses. These courses will focus both on high control designs such as experimental and survey research as on low control designs such as case studies and field experiments. The programme will provide you with the broad basis that is needed for researchers in this field. We offer various choices in the programme so that you can choose the modules that are most valuable to you.

The third pillar consists of both applied and fundamental research projects, resulting in a (smaller) group thesis at the end of the first year and a (larger) individual thesis at the end of the second year. A policy-oriented research project typically involves a specific organisation or policy problem. The aim of the project is to offer advice on a current issue, and this requires you to conduct research in a real-life setting. A theory-oriented research project involves the writing of an academic article or the formulation of a detailed PhD proposal, which can serve as the basis for a future PhD project.

Candidates for the Research Master’s program should hold either:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from a Dutch university
• A national or University College Utrecht Bachelor’s Degree in one of the related disciplines (General Social Sciences, Business Administration, Policy Studies, Communication, Cultural Anthropology, Organisation Science, Human Resource Management, Social Sciences, Sociology, Political Science)
• An international Bachelor’s Degree in one of the above mentioned disciplines
• A one-year (inter)national Master’s Degree in one of the above mentioned disciplines.

In order to successfully participate in this programme, you must be proficient in English. The following requirements apply*/**:

• IELTS, Academic Module. Minimum score: 7.0 overall band, at least 6.5 for writing.
• TOEFL, iBT. Minimum score: 100, institutional scores are not accepted (the TOEFL institution code for Utrecht University is 9062).
• Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English, at least a B grade.
• Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English, at least a C grade.

The financing of the Social Cultural Science program at Radboud University is structured to provide students with a range of options to support their studies financially. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's nationality and the specific degree program. For EU/EEA students, the tuition fee for the bachelor's program is approximately €2,300 per year, whereas non-EU/EEA students pay a higher fee, which can be around €9,000 to €12,000 annually. These fees are subject to change annually and students are advised to consult the university's official website for the most current information.

Radboud University offers several financial support options, including grants, scholarships, and loans. International students may be eligible for scholarships such as the Radboud Scholarship for outstanding international students, which covers tuition fees and sometimes provides a monthly allowance for living expenses. Additionally, Dutch students can apply for governmental student loans and grants to assist with their living costs. The university's own financial aid programs include the Talent Scholarships and the Excellence Scholarships, aimed at attracting highly talented students.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources as well, such as the Oranje Fonds or Erasmus+ program, which offer grants for students engaging in exchange programs or special projects related to social and cultural sciences. Financial planning is a crucial aspect of studying at Radboud University, and students are advised to start their application process early to meet scholarship deadlines. Furthermore, part-time jobs and internships are common ways for students to fund their education while gaining valuable work experience in their field of study.

International students should also consider costs beyond tuition fees, including accommodation, health insurance, study materials, and daily expenses. The university's location in Nijmegen offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to major Dutch cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam. Students can find on-campus housing options, which often come at different price points, or they can rent private accommodations in the city.

In summary, the financing of the Social Cultural Science program at Radboud University includes tuition fees that differ based on nationality, various scholarship opportunities for both Dutch and international students, possible government loans and grants, and personal funding through part-time work. Proper financial planning from the outset ensures students can focus on their studies and fully benefit from the academic and cultural offerings of the program.

Social Cultural Science at Radboud University is a multidisciplinary programme that explores the complexities of social and cultural phenomena in contemporary society. The programme aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of social structures, cultural practices, and human behaviour through a combination of theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods. Students examine issues such as identity, diversity, migration, social inequality, media, and politics, gaining insights into the factors that shape societies and cultures around the world. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in public policy, consultancy, media, non-governmental organisations, and academia. The programme emphasizes active learning through projects, internships, and collaboration with external partners, offering students practical experience and real-world applications of their knowledge. International orientation is a key feature, with courses available in English and opportunities for international exchanges and internships abroad. The faculty is composed of experienced researchers and practitioners dedicated to providing high-quality education and mentorship. Graduates of Social Cultural Science develop a strong foundation in research, communication, and intercultural competency, equipping them to address societal challenges with innovative and informed solutions. The programme also encourages students to engage critically with current social issues, fostering a global perspective and social responsibility. Overall, Social Cultural Science at Radboud University prepares students not just for immediate employment but also for lifelong learning and active citizenship in a rapidly changing world.