Social and Cultural Science

Social and Cultural Science at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding contemporary social issues and cultural dynamics. This Bachelor's programme provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze complex societal questions, explore cultural diversity, and engage critically with social phenomena. The programme emphasizes a combination of theoretical frameworks and practical research skills, enabling students to work effectively in diverse professional contexts such as policy, consultancy, research, and cultural organizations. Throughout the three-year curriculum, students will study topics including social theory, cultural analysis, migration, identity, power, and inequality. They will also gain hands-on experience through projects, internships, and fieldwork, allowing them to apply their learned knowledge to real-world situations. The programme encourages an international perspective, with opportunities for study exchange and collaboration with global partners, facilitating an understanding of social and cultural issues across different societies. Students will develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills, preparing them for meaningful careers in a rapidly changing world. Graduates are equipped to contribute to societal debates, develop innovative solutions, and pursue further academic research. Radboud University’s Social and Cultural Science programme stands out because of its focus on both societal relevance and academic rigor, fostering a stimulating learning environment where students can grow into knowledgeable, responsible, and engaged citizens.

The Bachelor's programme in Social and Cultural Science at Radboud University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to explore the complex interactions between individuals, societies, and cultures. Throughout the programme, students engage in the study of social phenomena, cultural developments, and human behavior across different communities and contexts. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, anthropology, cultural studies, and other social sciences.

In the first year, students are introduced to fundamental concepts in social and cultural theory, gaining a solid foundation in methods of qualitative and quantitative research. Courses cover topics such as social identity, cultural diversity, social change, and the role of institutions in shaping societies. This initial phase aims to develop analytical skills and a broad understanding of social structures and cultural dynamics.

The second year deepens students' knowledge through specialized courses focused on topics like globalization, migration, ethnicity, and social inequality. Students also begin to develop their research projects, learn to formulate research questions, and apply various methodologies. They are encouraged to critically analyze societal issues and explore their implications on local and global scales.

In the third year, students have the opportunity to tailor their studies based on personal interests and career goals. Options include participating in internships, engaging in international exchanges, or specializing in particular areas such as media and communication, development studies, or social policy. The programme emphasizes practical application of theoretical knowledge, preparing students for diverse careers or further academic research.

Throughout the programme, students are supported by experienced faculty members and are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and extracurricular activities that enhance their understanding of contemporary social issues. By the end of their studies, graduates will have developed strong analytical, research, and communication skills, enabling them to contribute effectively to societal and cultural development in various professional contexts.

The programme also fosters a global perspective, emphasizing understanding of cultural differences and societal challenges worldwide. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in social research, policy advising, cultural consultancy, international organizations, or to continue their studies in master's programmes related to social sciences or cultural studies. Overall, Radboud University's Bachelor's in Social and Cultural Science provides a thorough and engaging education designed to prepare students for meaningful contributions to society through a nuanced understanding of social and cultural phenomena.

A completed Bachelor's degree from a spatially-oriented discipline

In order to get admission to this Master's you will need a completed Bachelor’s degree from a spatially-oriented discipline, such as spatial planning, human geography or environment studies.

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 background in research methodology

Because of the academic nature of this programme, we require all our students to have basic training in research processes, e.g. research design and data analysis.

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 program in Social and Cultural Science at Radboud University offers students an in-depth understanding of societal structures, cultural phenomena, and social processes. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, anthropology, political science, and cultural studies to provide a comprehensive perspective on contemporary social issues. Students will explore topics such as identity, diversity, social inequalities, globalization, and social change, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary to understand and address complex societal challenges. The curriculum includes theoretical coursework, practical research methods, and opportunities for international exchange and internships, which help students develop both academic and professional competencies. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, intercultural communication, and ethical considerations, preparing graduates for careers in NGO work, policy consultancy, social research, journalism, or further academic study. The program is designed to be accessible for students interested in understanding the societal underpinnings of cultural dynamics and social interactions. With a strong focus on active learning and student engagement, the program fosters a collaborative learning environment, encouraging students to participate in research projects, seminars, and debates. Radboud University’s location in the Netherlands provides a vibrant multicultural setting that enriches both classroom learning and extracurricular activities. The program also offers specialized minors and elective courses allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within social and cultural issues. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to discussions on social policy, cultural integration, and societal development, making this degree highly relevant in the increasingly interconnected world of today.