vu international degree programmes 2013-2014

international degreeprogrammes atvu university amsterdam

2013-2014

looking further intovu university amsterdam

2 INTERNATIONAL DEGREE PROGRAMMES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

Contents

3 master’s Programmes CategoriZed By interest4 vu university amsterdam4 Why look further into vu university amsterdam?5 finanCial matters6 admission requirements and deadlines6 hoW to aPPly6 Phd

7 BaChelor’s degree Programmes8 amsterdam university College (auC)8 Computer science9 international Business administration (iBa)

11 master’s degree Programmes12 accounting and Control12 ancient studies (research)13 archaeology13 artificial intelligence (ai)14 arts and Culture: programme Comparative arts and media

studies14 arts and Culture: programme design Cultures15 arts and Culture (research): programme visual arts, media

and architecture15 Bioinformatics and systems Biology16 Biology16 Biomedical sciences17 Biomolecular sciences17 Business analytics (Ba)18 Cardiovascular research18 Chemistry19 Classics and ancient Civilizations: programme ancient

history19 Classics and ancient Civilizations: programme ancient

studies (one year) 20 Classics and ancient Civilizations: programme Classics20 Clinical and developmental Psychopathology21 Cognitive neuro psychology21 Communication and information studies: programme

metaphor in discourse22 Computer science22 Culture, organization and management (Com)23 drug discovery and safety23 earth sciences24 ecology24 econometrics and operations research25 economics25 economics, tinbergen institute master of Philosophy in

economics26 entrepreneurship (Business administration)26 environment and resource management (erm)27 finance27 finance: quantitative finance honours track

28 financial management (Business administration)28 geographical information science (gis)29 geosciences of Basins and lithosphere29 global health30 health sciences30 honours programme in Business research31 human movement sciences: sport, exercise and health31 human movement sciences: sport, exercise and health

(research) 32 human resource management (Business administration)32 hydrology33 information and knowledge management (Business

administration)33 information sciences 34 international Business law34 international Crimes and Criminology35 law: specialization transnational legal studies35 law and Politics of international security36 lifestyle and Chronic disorders (lCd)36 linguistics (research)37 literary studies: programme literatures in english37 management Consulting (Business administration)38 management, Policy analysis and entrepre neurship in the

health and life sciences (mPa) 38 marketing39 mathematics39 medical natural sciences40 neurosciences 40 oncology41 Parallel and distributed Computer systems (PdCs)41 Philosophy: Christian studies of science and society 42 Physics 42 Political science43 research in religion and theology (marrt)43 science, Business & innovation (master’s track in Chemistry

and Physics)44 social and Cultural anthropology44 social Psychology 45 spatial, transport and environmental economics45 stochastics and financial mathematics46 strategy and organization (Business administration)46 theology: specialization Bible translation (Bt) 47 theology: specialization Church ministry (Cm) 47 theology: specialization Cross-Cultural theology (CCt) 48 theology: specialization divinity (dv) 48 theology: specialization evangelical and reformation

theology (ert) 49 theology: specialization living reformed theology (lrt) 49 theology: specialization Pentecostal studies (Ps) 50 transport and supply Chain management (Business

administration)

3INTERNATIONAL DEGREE PROGRAMMES AT VU UNIVERSITY AMSTERDAM

master’s Programmes CategoriZed By interest

language, arts and Cultureancient studies (research)archaeologyarts and Culture: programme Comparative arts and media studiesarts and Culture: programme design Culturesarts and Culture (research): programme visual arts, media and architecture Classics and ancient Civilizations: programme ancient historyClassics and ancient Civilizations: programme ancient studies (one year)Classics and ancient Civilizations: programme ClassicsCommunication and information studies: programme metaphor in discourselinguistics (research)literary studies: programme literatures in english

eConomiCs, Business and laWaccounting and ControlBusiness administrationeconomicseconomics, tinbergen institute master of Philosophy in economicsentrepreneurship (Business administration)financefinance: quantitative finance honours trackfinancial management (Business administration)honours programme in Business researchhuman resource management (Business administration)information and knowledge management (Business administration)international Business lawinternational Crimes and Criminologylaw: specialization transnational legal studieslaw and Politics of international securitymanagement Consulting (Business administration)marketingspatial, transport and environmental economicsstrategy and organization (Business administration)transport and supply Chain management (Business administration)

health and life sCienCesBiologyBiomedical sciencesBiomolecular sciencesCardiovascular researchglobal health health scienceshuman movement sciences: sport, exercise and health

human movement sciences: sport, exercise and health (research)lifestyle and Chronic disorders (lCd)management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurship in the health and life sciences (mPa)neurosciencesoncology

mathematiCs and ComPuter sCienCesartificial intelligence (ai)Bioinformatics and systems BiologyBusiness analytics (Ba)Computer scienceeconometrics and operations researchinformation sciencesmathematicsParallel and distributed Computer systemsstochastics and financial mathematics

natural sCienCesChemistrydrug discovery and safetyearth sciencesecologyenvironment and resource management (erm)geographical information science (gis)geosciences of Basins and lithospherehydrologymedical natural sciencesPhysicsscience, Business & innovation (master’s track in Chemistry and Physics)

religion and PhilosoPhyPhilosophy: Christian studies of science and societyresearch in religion and theologytheology: specialization Bible translationtheology: specialization Church ministrytheology: specialization Cross-Cultural theologytheology: specialization divinitytheology: specialization evangelical and reformation theologytheology: specialization living reformed theologytheology: specialization Pentecostal studies

soCial sCienCesClinical and developmental Psychopathology Cognitive neuropsychologyCulture, organization and managementinternational Crimes and Criminologylaw and Politics of international securityPolitical sciencesocial and Cultural anthropologysocial Psychology


vu university amsterdam

established in 1880, vu university amsterdam is a leading european research university. With over 24,000 students and about 4,600 staff, we are a modern organization at the cutting edge of academic higher education. vu university amsterdam offers a wide range of english-taught programmes at three levels; Bachelor’s (Ba, Bsc), master’s (ma, msc) and doctoral (Phd). twelve faculties share a single campus and cover a wide spectrum of arts, sciences and medicine.

Why look further into vu university amsterdam?

vu university amsterdam:• Is consistently listed amongst the top universities in the world

in different rankings• Is located in one of the most dynamic and fast-growing

business districts in the netherlands• Offers a modern campus university with student housing just

a five-minute bike ride away• Helps you with housing, visas and important registrations

needed for studying in the netherlands• Offers an international environment. A quarter of the students

in our english-taught programmes come from abraod.• Provides high quality education in small and highly interactive

classes• Is located in lively and multicultural Amsterdam, which has

the largest concentration of students in the netherlands and where english is the 2nd language

• Offers an internship as part of most programmes: an excellent opportunity to explore a certain field of work ‘from the inside’.

living in amsterdamamsterdam is the most multi-cultural city in the world, boasting 179 different nationalities, where english is widely spoken. at vu university amsterdam some 78 nationalities work and study closely together creating a vibrant international academic community.

did you know that:• Amsterdam has approximately 780,000 inhabitants?• Amsterdam has 150 canals?• Amsterdam is the largest city in the Netherlands?• The quality of life in Amsterdam is ranked 13th worldwide,

compared with london at 39th and new york at 49th (mercer study 2010)?

• With almost 92,000 students, Amsterdam is a real student’s city?

• Amsterdam is one of the safest cities of the world (rank 13), according to the 2010 quality of life survey from international consultancy mercer?

in short: amsterdam is unique in having all the Benefits of Big City life in a ComPaCt City. it is easy to feel at home in a City like this, WhiCh is so Well geared to meeting the needs of its many international residents.

living in the netherlandsimages of the netherlands abound, from clogs and tulips to vibrant amsterdam and an open and welcoming society. But these traditional perceptions of the country hide a much more interesting story: one of excellent universities and an international reputation for research and development in many of the most exciting fields of education, science and technology. the international outlook for which the netherlands is famous is also reflected in the range of degree programmes on offer. there are few non-english speaking countries where the range of english-speaking programmes is so wide and diverse.

ranking and eduCationOverall the quality of the Dutch higher education is amongst the best in the world. according to the thes qs World university rankings, no other country in the world can claim more than half of all its universities being ranked in the world’s top 200, vu university amsterdam is ranked 139th, no 3 in the netherlands. education at vu university amsterdam is structured according to the Bachelor’s and master’s system. students embark on a one-year or two-year master’s programme after completing a Bachelor’s programme, which usually takes three years. after graduating from the master’s programme, some students opt to study for a doctorate. generally speaking, the teaching style can be described as student-centered: we stimulate students to develop their own opinion through independent and creative thinking. at vu university amsterdam this means that teaching is conducted in small tutorials, where interactivity is the norm rather than the exception. at all turns, students are encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue with their professors.

BaChelor’s and master’s Programmes in dutChvu university amsterdam also offers Bachelor’s and master’s programmes in dutch. if you are interested in taking one of these programmes as a non-dutch speaker, you can take advantage of the special language-learning facilities offered by vu university amsterdam. further information can be found on our website WWW.vuamsterdam.Com.

faCilities and aCtivitiesas a student at vu university amsterdam, you will have an extensive range of facilities at your disposal. you will have access to an extensive library, wireless network throughout the university and numerous computer and reading rooms for students’ use. the university’s sports centre offers at least 35 different sports and griffioen, the university’s cultural centre, organizes a variety of courses in arts and cultural activities.


vu university amsterdam serviCesour international officesat the central international office of vu university amsterdam we can help you to find accommodation and to apply for a visa and residence permit (if applicable). We also offer orientation periods for international students in august, consisting of social events, sports activities and a cultural programme. the faculty will help you with course overviews, course registration, and transcripts. you can also go to them with study related questions.

finanCial matters

students from the european union (eu) or the european economic area (eea) pay the same tuition fees as a dutch student. the tuition fees for most programmes are determined by the dutch government on an annual basis and vary depending on the programme. experience shows that it costs between €700 and €1,000 a month to live and study in the netherlands, excluding tuition fees and other non-recurring expenses. some students manage to spend less, but of course that depends on your lifestyle. Please check the website to see what the specific tuition fees are: WWW.vu.nl/tuitionfee.

sCholarshiPsas an international student planning to study at vu university amsterdam, you can apply for a variety of grants and bursaries. detailed information about scholarships and deadlines can be found on WWW.vuamsterdam.Com/sCholarshiPs orWWW.grantfinder.nl.

• vu Fellowship programme (vuFp) vu university amsterdam has established a fund to offer

financial support to talented international students. an annual amount of nearly €1,300,000 is available, covering 2 types of scholarships. general criteria for selection are excellence and motivation.

• Other scholarships you can apply for the netherlands fellowship Programme

(nfP) or another scholarship available. nfP grant: if you are from a developing country, currently employed and wish to obtain a master’s or doctoral degree in the netherlands. you can find a list of the approved vu master’s degree programmes at WWW.nuffiC.nl/nfP. for further details see WWW.studyinholland.nl.

international student organiZation esn-vuniverseesn-vuniverse is an organization for all international and dutch students at vu university amsterdam. it brings together dutch and international students from a variety of disciplines to introduce them to the university and amsterdam, and to make them feel at home. esn-vuniverse organizes a host of activities, including cocktail parties, weekly get-togethers (borrels) and social gatherings every two weeks, as well as a larger social event once a month. Check out WWW.esn-vuniverse.nl for further details.

aCCommodation the international office of vu university amsterdam is able to provide accommodation for short-stay foreign students at the university. the rental period is 6 or 12 months. the prices vary between €320 and €600 per month per person. housing contracts cannot be cancelled during your stay at the university. If you have any questions about our accommodation or therules and regulations checkWWW.vuamsterdam.Com/aCCommodation.

“i look back on my time at vu as the most precious experience of my life. i graduated in 2005 with a master’s degree in Business administration. at vu, i participated in my first consulting team, and sold my first consulting project to the amsterdam Canal company. at vu, you will not only be taught from books, but they also give you opportunities to experience the real business world. lectures are given by professors as well as alumni who are in interesting positions in related fields. Besides knowledge, you can also gain valuable networking skills and build up relationships. you cannot imagine how valuable this can be for your future career. furthermore, i also would like to say that this wonderful university is becoming more international year by year. more and more international students visit vu university amsterdam, and there are more and more exchange opportunities to different countries. most important of all, at vu i started to understand how to be an individual myself, with self-confidence and respect. i learned how to live independently, how to cope with strange things in daily life, thanks to my university. i love amsterdam!”ting yang from Beijing, China

this wonderFuluniversity is becoming more internationalyear by year


All documents required are mentioned on our webpages, however some programmes may have additional requirements which can be found on the website of the relevant programme. you’ll need to submit the following documents:

• A certified copy of your original Bachelor’s degree certificate and a certified transcript of all the marks you have obtained during your Bachelor’s programme. you can upload these documents so we can start your application process. Certified copies need to be sent to the vu university amsterdam by post as well. if you have not graduated yet, send us an official transcript listing the grades you have received to date.

• Covering letter (1 or 2 pages in length) stating your reasons for applying to the programme of your choice.

• A clearly legible copy of the page(s) in your passport (or ID-card if you are an eu student) that contain(s) your personal data. a copy of a passport /id card that has expired will not be accepted.

• If you already live in the Netherlands, a copy of your valid residence permit (front and reverse side).

• A curriculum vitae, including your personal details, and listing your previous education and relevant work experience.

• Your Bachelor’s or Master’s thesis. This can be a part of your Bachelor’s thesis or another research paper written by you. We will check your sample for plagiarism as one of the first steps of the evaluation procedure.

• Two letters of recommendation written by members of the academic staff at the educational institute where you studied (or are studying) for your Bachelor’s.

• The results of an English language test. Exceptions are made for students who have completed their education in Canada, usa, uk, ireland, new Zealand or australia or who have obtained an international Baccalaureate or european Baccalaureate diploma.

• A course description of the courses you followed during your previous education.

• A list of the literature you used during your previous education.

Phd

for people with a recognized master’s degree, vu university amsterdam offers the possibility of earning a doctorate, or the anglo-saxon Phd degree. the process of earning a doctorate normally takes four years or more and consists of conducting independent research and writing a dissertation. Phd candidates in holland are regarded as professional researchers rather than as students. The fact that the majority of the PhD candidates is employed, strengthens their status as professional researcher. You can apply for a PhD position if you meet the requirements of the Phd programme. you can find the positions atWWW.Workingatvu.nl. more information can be found atWWW.vuamsterdam.Com/Phd.

admission requirements and deadlines

All programmes have specific admission requirements. In general you will need an academic Bachelor’s diploma closely related to the master’s programme you intend to pursue at vu university amsterdam. to enter the Bachelor’s programmes you will need an equivalent of a Dutch VWO diploma (VWO is the dutch pre university). all programmes start in september.

language requirementsfor all international study programmes, students need to be proficient in English. International applicants are requested to submit an english proficiency test with their application. Please check our website for general information about the exact requirements: WWW.vuamsterdam.Com/admission. for extra requirements, please check the website of the specific study programme.

aPPliCation deadlinesthe general application deadline for non-eu students is 1 april, for eu students 1 june. some programmes may have other deadlines, make sure you check the programme website.

aPPly onlinefor all international programmes you can apply online by using a national online application system throughWWW.studielink.nl. you can find this system via the website WWW.vuamsterdam.Com/admission. you will need to fill in your personal details, programme details and upload the required documents. VU University Amsterdam charges an application fee for non-eu students. if you start the programme, the application fee will be returned.

students who wants to apply at amsterdam university College apply via WWW.auC.nl.

eu students non-eu students

Bachelor april 1 april 1international (for decentralized (for decentralizedBusiness selection) may 15 selection) may 15administration (for the draw) (for the draw)

master’s june 1 april 1programmes

amsterdam february 1 february 1university College

Bachelor june 1 april 1Computer science


BaChelor’s degree Programmes

8 bachelor’S ProGraMMeS

your ProgrammeWhen you finish the three-year Bachelor’s programme you will understand the language of computers, from the logic that systems are built on to the various abstractions of language used to program them. moreover, you’ll learn how computer networks share information in an efficient and secure way and how users interact with systems. you’ll be in the expert seat with a much needed knowledge at your call. the full-time programme

is divided in blocks of 6 weeks where you’ll study two courses simultaneously. the first two years are fixed, half of your third year consists of a free minor. the average time investment is around 30 hours a week.

your future CareerWith your knowledge you can make the difference between a secure network and an open door, between a patchy solution and a state of the art system. knowledge in the field of Computer science is invaluable for almost any industry or company so you’ll have many options when it comes to finding the right job. Still it’s worthwhile to continue your education and go for a master’s degree that will open up even more doors.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsstudents must hold a dutch vWo diploma (including maths: Wiskunde-B) or an international equivalent. Specific requirements and more details about the selection criteria can be found on the website.

WWW.vu.nl/Cs

your Programmethe auC programme challenges you from day one to think about the ‘big issues’ in society and science. you will learn how to participate in the debates that really matter. at auC you design your own individual study programme, choosing from among the many courses offered. You can major in the sciences, social

sciences or humanities. your course options will be influenced by your choice of theme and major. Six ‘themes’ form the orientation to your personal programme: energy, Climate and sustainability -life, evolution, universe - health and Well-being - information, Communication, Cognition - social systems - Cities and Cultures.

substantial emphasis is placed on the sciences. four of auC’s six themes have a clear science component. since most scientific advances and cutting edge discoveries occur at the boundaries of disciplines, such issues are best pursued based on rigorous scientific training in an interdisciplinary context.

your future CareerAs an AUC graduate you will be qualified for further study at graduate level (Master’s and PhD) in major research universities in the netherlands and abroad, or to pursue a career in international corporate or public organizations.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe auC programme is small-scale and intensive, and only 300 students are admitted each year. your academic performance, interests and motivation are assessed before admission. excellence and diversity characterize our students. so our student group is international and so is the auC faculty. they come from all over the world and together form an international academic community. more information can be found on the website.

WWW.vu.nl/auC

computer science

amsterdam university college (auc)

liberal arts and sciences amsterdam university College is a joint programme between VU University Amsterdam and the university of amsterdam. auC offers a Bachelor’s (honours)programme in liberal arts and sciences. as a typical auC student, you have a keen mind, broad interests, international orientation, strong motivation and commitment, a lot of energy, you work hard, and you care about your environment and about society in general. your interests cross the boundaries of subjects, cultures and languages. You want to contribute to the debate on important scientific and social questions, preferably at an international level. in short, you want to make a difference!

anyone can use a computer. in fact, most people use more than one daily without even realizing it. But who understands the actual technology of the most powerful tool ever invented? Computer science graduates have valuable knowledge that is much needed in society today. they are the talented few that build networks and invent the systems that billions depend upon. they invent new ways to use technology and explore the endless possibilities of computers. do you want to be part of the talent network?

9bachelor’S ProGraMMeS

your ProgrammeiBa takes three years and is a full-time programme. a year has six periods. during each period you will work intensively on two courses simultaneously. you will attend lectures and participate in required case studies and discussion sessions. You will work on assignments in small teams of students and you will prepare for classes and exams individually. the programme will start with an introductory course on international business administration. you will attend courses from each of the

main disciplines of iBa: strategy and marketing, finance and accounting, organization and human resource management, and iCt and logistics. furthermore you will follow auxiliary courses that will provide you with necessary academic and professional skills. the first two years of the programme are fixed. in your third year you will follow a number of compulsory courses and choose electives, you will go on exchange, and you will write your Bachelor’s thesis.

your future CareerAs an IBA graduate you will be well-equipped to find entry-level positions in global or multinational organizations. the programme trains you for management and consultancy roles in the framework of the professional service industry. While you may work directly for service-based organizations, you could equally well be employed by large industrial companies. Or of course continue your studies on a master’s level in the field of economics.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsinternational Business administration is a numerus clausus programme, only 150 students per year are selected. students must hold a Dutch VWO diploma or an equivalent. Specific requirements and more details about the selection criteria can be found on the website.

WWW.vu.nl/iBa

international business administration (iba)

faced with increasing globalization, organizations are experiencing an ever growing need for people with a strong background in business studies with an internationalcharacter. With a Bachelor’s degree in international Business administration you will be able to help organizations address crucial questions, such as: how to deal with internationalpartners and competitors, how to manage diverse humanresources and how to deal with the cultural effects of amerger.

10 MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

“i graduated from the master’s in Political science. amsterdam is a great place to go for studies abroad. it is a vibrant and cultural city where history and modernity meet. as a vu student you can meet and interact with people from all over the world, giving you a truly valuable life experience in a multi-cultural setting. during my Bachelor’s studies in my home country of romania, i really wanted to enroll in a master’s programme in the West. looking back, i can say that vu university amsterdam was the right choice. the studies are challenging, the pace is intense. for me, the master’s programme was decisive in terms of enhancing my creative and critical powers of cognition. i certainly developed analytical abilities that now prove invaluable to me in my current position as a diplomat. my experience as a vu student has enriched my personal and professional development. i have fantastic memories of my days at vu university amsterdam. i’m still in touch with my fellow students and we get together whenever we can. I also really enjoyed getting to know amsterdam and its environs by bicycle, and the student concerts at the Conservatorium were a true delight.”sava diamandi from romania

amsterdam is a great place to go For studies abroad

11MASTER’S PROGRAMMES

master’s degree Programmes


your Programmeancient studies is a two-year, full-time research master’s programme (120 credits) covering the archaeology, culture and languages of the ancient world of the mediterranean and Western europe. the main focus is on the period from the first millennium BCe to 500 Ce. the programme offers a rich blend of disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches, with courses spanning all

three fields of research, field-specific seminars, a component consisting of electives and tutorials, and a thesis.Within the programme there is ample room for your own interests and specializations. you will also be involved in the activities of our researchers from the very beginning. since all master’s programmes concerning the ancient world are now jointly provided by both universities in Amsterdam (VU University amsterdam and the university of amsterdam), these rich programmes offer many opportunities for students.

your future Careerthe master’s programme serves as a solid preparation for Phd research in the fields of archaeology, ancient history and classics, as well as offering clear opportunities for different career paths in teaching, museums and heritage management.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in archaeology, assyriology, Classics or history (specialization ancient history only), good proficiency in english and a keen interest in research.

other interesting Programmes at Both universities the one-year master’s programmes in archaeology, Classics(vu university amsterdam and the university of amsterdam) or ancient studies (vu university amsterdam only), and the two-year research master’s in archaeology (university of amsterdam).

WWW.vu.nl/anCientstudies-researCh

your Programmethe programme aims to combine and confront perspectives from research and practice. teaching staff consists of a mixture of active researchers and faculty with a professional background. We combine lectures with active teaching methods, and course work in the form of assignments, case studies and research. there is a considerable emphasis on methodology and analytical methods. the master’s culminates in an individual thesis testing the full range of academic skills.

your future Careersuccessful completion of the master’s programme will give you a solid basis for pursuing a career in accounting and control. the programme is designed in particular for students aiming for financial manager or controller positions in major organizations and for those who seek to work as an internal or public auditor. electives make it possible to modify the programme in preparation for specific career choices. options for further specialization, including professional qualification, in each of these areas are available through the range of postgraduate programmes offered at vu university amsterdam. you can also continue your academic career by applying for a Phd position.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in accounting or accounting and finance, or a Bachelor’s degree in economics or Business with significant accounting content, including intermediate-level courses in financial and management accounting.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration: specialization financial management - finance.

WWW.vu.nl/aCCounting

accounting and control

ancient studies (research)

the master’s programme in accounting and Control deals with all aspects of generating, reporting and using financial data in organizations. topics covered include management’s use of fi-nancial information for planning and control, preparing published financial statements, financial auditing, risk management and corporate governance. The programme equips you with know-ledge of the relevant rules and regulations, such as ifrs, as well as of the research techniques and theoretical frameworks you need to work in the field of accounting and control.

the ancient world of the mediterranean and Western europe is an object of study for archaeologists, ancient historians or researchers specialized in the greek or latin languages. however, we believe that – in addition to solid, in-depth research – thematic research integrating all of these fields of study will generate new insights and open up entirely new paths in research. We offer the best of all worlds by combining these different approaches and by cooperating closely with our colleagues from the university of amsterdam (the best of both universities!).


your Programmethere are three master’s programmes in archaeology: archaeology of north Western europe, mediterranean archaeology, and landscape and heritage. depending on the professional profile you are aiming for, you can choose one of the following specializations:• Late Iron Age and Roman archaeology of North Western

europe: discusses the development of the roman empire within the regional context of north Western europe.

• Medieval and Early Modern archaeology: focuses on the development of amsterdam from its medieval origins to the cosmopolitan centre of the dutch golden age.

• Landscape Archaeology: addresses the cultural landscape from a wide range of perspectives.

• Archaeological Heritage: focuses on the variety of meanings that archaeological remains can be given in modern society

• Issues of objects and people: discusses technique, style and the social role of objects and buildings.

• Mediterranean interconnections: focuses on the role of external contacts in the development of societies.

each of these specializations involves a one-year full-time programme (60 credits), comprising a body of specialized and optional courses (42 credits) and a master’s thesis (18 credits).

your future CareerA Master’s in Archaeology makes you well-qualified for positions in dutch and european companies as an archaeological researcher, or in local, national or international heritage management institutions and public services.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsdirect admission is possible with an academic Bachelor’s degree in archaeology.

other interesting Programmes at Both universities the one-year master’s programmes in Classics, ancient history (vu university amsterdam and the university of amsterdam) or ancient studies (vu university amsterdam only), and the two-year research master’s in archaeology (university of amsterdam) or ancient studies (vu university amsterdam).

WWW.vu.nl/arChaeology

your Programmethe master’s in artificial intelligence is a two-year programme. there are four specializations which consist of compulsory and elective courses. a typical compulsory component is knowledge engineering, which teaches you how knowledge can be described using modern information modelling techniques. Other courses include Data Mining Techniques, Intelligent Web applications, evolutionary Computing or model-based intelligent environments. you will complete your study with a thesis based on a five-month internship or graduation project.you can choose one of the following specializations:• Webscience: understand how the Web has changed the way we

live. study the Web and make informed decisions about Web technology and its impact.

• Intelligent Systems Design: study the architecture, compo-nents, techniques, representations and interfaces of Intelligent systems. learn how to build intelligent systems, and study the underlying techniques and principles.

• Human Ambience: learn how to model mental and physiological processes. gain experience in integrating such knowledge wit-hin applications that support humans in their daily functioning.

• Cognitive Science: immerse yourself in the multidisciplinary study of mind and cognition. gain a deeper understanding of the human mind, for both theoretical and practical purposes.

your future CareerAll recent graduates have found jobs relevant to their degree within a few months of graduating. examples are organizational consultancy, human factor design, applied human-computer interaction. ai students are highly desirable in the business, re-search and public sectors. a master’s degree in ai offers a solid foundation for continuing research as a Phd student.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence or Computer science. under specific circumstances other students may also be admissible.

other interesting ProgrammesComputer science – information science.

WWW.vu.nl/artifiCialintelligenCe

archaeology

artiFicial intelligence (ai)

the master’s programmes in archaeology and Classics and Ancient Civilizations are taught jointly by VU University amsterdam and the university of amsterdam through the amsterdam Centre for ancient studies and archaeology (aCasa). aCasa offers the broadest educational package in the Netherlands with regard to antiquity.

ai is about smart and intelligent environments that support humans. the goals of ai are very diverse, and range from making internet searches more efficient to supporting elderly people in their struggle with dementia. as an ai student you will study the application of knowledge engineering, multi-agent technology or evolutionary methods. intelligence is about more than just logical thinking and computation.therefore, you will also gain knowledge from other disciplines: philosophy, psychology, information science and linguistics.


your Programmethe programme is a one-year master’s degree programme comprising courses (30 credits), electives or an internship (12 credits) and a master’s thesis (18 credits).Compulsory courses are:• Design, History and Culture• Methods of Design Analysis: The Meanings of Design• Design in Words: Criticism, Writing and Theory• The Arts and Crafts of “Dutch” Design

Possible electives are: trans-media storytelling; reading Concepts of intermediality; seminar architecture; Crossmedial Exhibitions; Trajectory Global and Local, Global Changes; Literature Visualized; Trajectory Culture and Power; Culture and identity in organizations; migrations and Circulations; and ethnicity and nationalism.

your future Careerthe programme design Cultures prepares students for employment in various sectors of the job market. Students of design Cultures can look forward to careers in cultural institutions (editor, project manager), museums (researcher, curator), media (author, critic, producer), government (administrator, advisor), design agencies (researcher, consultant) and educational and research institutes (teacher, researcher).

sPeCifiC admission requirementsdirect admission to the master’s programme is possible with an academic Bachelor’s degree in art, industrial design, architectural design, design, fashion or (visual) cultural studies.it is also suitable for students with an academic Bachelor’s degree other disciplines of the Humanities (history, journalism, communication studies) or in anthropology or sociology. only with a major or specialization in design, fashion, art or visual culture (equal to a minimum of 30 credits).

other interesting Programmesthe programme Comparative arts and media studies and the two-year visual arts, media and architecture research master’s.

WWW.vu.nl/designCultures

your Programmethe programme is a one-year master’s degree programme comprising seminars, electives and a master’s thesis.Compulsory courses are:• Introduction: Reading Concepts of Intermediality• Transmedia Storytelling• The Art of Comparison: The Cinematic City• Crossmedial Exhibitions

Possible interdisciplinary electives are: Creative City; screen-writing; fiction and film; literature visualized; the gothic gaze; visual art and the american Poet; design, history and Culture; and methods of design analysis.

your future Careerthe programme Comparative arts and media studies prepares students for employment in various sectors of the job market. graduates work in the fields of cultural and historical research, in digital registration of cultural heritage materials, in cultural policy and administration, in education, in other sectors of arts and culture, such as museums, archives, film theatres and cultural funds, and as festival organizers, programmers, producers and distributors.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsdirect admission to the master’s programme is possible with an academic Bachelor’s degree in art, film, tv, digital media or (visual) cultural studies. it is also suitable for students with a background in another humanities subject (e.g. history, journalism, communication studies, comparative literature) with a solid background (at least 30 credits) in art, film, tv, digital media or (visual) cultural studies.

other interesting Programmes the programme design Cultures and the two-year in visual arts, media and architecture research master’s.

WWW.vu.nl/ComParativearts

arts and culture: programme design cultures

arts and culture: programme comparative arts and media studies

the programme Comparative arts and media studies focuses on the relations between visual arts, film, literature, television and the digital media, i.e. crossovers and interrelations between the arts and the media, but also within and between various media. these have been intensified with the arrival of the digital (hyper) medium insofar as the latter works through the interplay of words, images, and sounds on the screen, but also through the convergence of film, television, radio, news writing, e-books, and photography on the web.

the programme design Cultures focuses on product design, graphic design and fashion in a broad social, cultural and academic context. Central to the programme is the diversity of cultural processes where design has evolved as a practice, a product, an environment and a discourse in recent decades. the focus is on both the designer as ‘author’ and the complex chain of production, sale, consumption and criticism in which design operates and derives its many different meanings.


your ProgrammeBoth Bioinformatics and systems Biology are strongly interdisciplinary fields. the programme combines molecular and cell biology, computer science and mathematical modelling to integrate the vast amounts of biological data into fundamental knowledge. you will develop a strong feel for scientific research and high levels of abstraction, and learn to combine the rapid developments in these fields. the master’s starts with an in-depth introduction to both Bioinformatics and systems Biology. after two months, you can specialize in either systems Biology or Bioinformatics. Bioinformatics integrates with a stronger focus on the data, systems biology does this more from the perspective of mechanism of molecular interactions. this programme is a

collaboration within the science domain between vu university amsterdam and the university of amsterdam (uva) and has resulted in a high-quality Master of Science programme.

some of the topics covered in the programme:• Algorithms in sequence analysis• Protein structure prediction and simulation• Next Generation Sequencing• Medical applications of Bioinformatics• Modelling techniques• Experimental verification of models• Relevance of Systems Biology to cancer research• Synthetic biology (possibility to join the iGEM competition)

your future Careerour graduates are in great demand: every student has immediately found employment in industry or the academic world. The vast majority go on to work within the field, while more than half of our students continues scientific research as a Phd student. thanks to technological advances such as next generation sequencing and the development of personalized medicine, career prospects will only improve.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe master’s programme is open to motivated candidates with an appropriate qualification in biology or another scientific discipline. This may be a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Computer science, mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Pharmaceutical sciences.

WWW.vu.nl/systemsBiology

your Programmethe visual arts, media and architecture research master’s is a two-year, full-time programme of 120 credits. it consists of a compulsory component of two general courses spanning all three fields of research – imagining the image and Critical issues in the Cultural industries -, three field-specific research seminars, a seminar on research methodology, and an optional component

consisting of electives and tutorials. the master’s thesis (30 credits) that concludes the programme is a substantial study based on independent academic research. Please visitwww.visualartsmediaarchitecture.wordpress.com. this website, designed and maintained by vama students, provides you with information about current research projects, exhibitions, lectures, and keeps you posted about future activities.

your future Careerthis programme will enable you to work as an independent researcher. in the academic world, the research master’s degree is seen as an important step towards obtaining a doctorate. graduates can also embark on a career in art and media management, journalism and publishing, teaching or government. alternatively they could find employment at art and architecture centres, research agencies, museums, film festivals or art and media archives.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa candidate should have at least a Bachelor’s degree in art, architecture or media and Culture and have achieved excellent marks throughout.

other interesting Programmesthe one-year master’s in arts and Culture, and its programmes Comparative arts and media studies, and design Cultures.

WWW.vu.nl/vama

arts and culture (research): programme visual arts, media and architecture

bioinFormatics and systems biology

the visual arts, media and architecture (vama) research master’s offers a study of current developments in visual arts, architecture and media – from both a theoretical and historical perspective. these developments - including the role of the new media, the ever expanding culture industry and the rise of the ‘creative industries’ - have led to complex relationships between visual arts, architecture, media and society. students will be trained to critically examine and discuss the visual and material manifestation, presentation and representation of these relationships.

vast amounts of data have been generated by genomics research over the years, enabling us to gain a deeper under-standing of life. By understanding life’s complex molecular networks we can improve our quality of life and conquer major diseases.


your Programmethe master’s in Biomedical sciences is a two-year full-time programme, starting each september. there are three compulsory courses; you are free to select the rest from the seven specialization packages, you will go on two researchplacements and you will write a literature-based thesis. lectures form only a comparatively modest part of the Biomedical sciences programme. for the most part, you are encouraged to conduct your own research and to pass on what you learn from your research activities to your fellow students.

there is plenty of scope for practical work, giving you the opportunity to use the very latest research methods and equipment. You can choose one of the following specializations:• Infectious Diseases• Cardiovascular Diseases• International Public Health• Immunology• Cell Biology• Psychophysiology• Medical and Behavior Genomics

your future CareerYour job prospects are excellent with a Master’s degree in Biomedical sciences. sixty percent of our graduates enterscientific research at a university or specialist institute. But depending on your specialization, it is also likely that you willfind work involving policy-making, for instance.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsstudents who hold a Bachelor’s degree obtained at an institution outside of the netherlands may be admitted to the master’s programme in Biomedical sciences based on a decision by the Board of examiners.

other interesting ProgrammesBiology - Biomolecular sciences - drug discovery and safety - environment and resource management - management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurship in the health and life sciences - neurosciences - oncology.

WWW.vu.nl/BiomediCalsCienCes

your Programmein addition to lectures and seminars, there are a large number of compulsory practicals and excursions to help you gain a more thorough understanding of the material. the programme (two-year) consists of three compulsory courses, six elective courses, two research projects and a literature survey. This survey is a key component of this programme. you will carry out independent research into biology literature on a topic of your choice, under the personal supervision of a tutor.

you can choose one of the following research specializations:• Ecology: Focuses on the functioning of and interactions between

the earth, plants, animals and micro-organisms, approaching

these processes at levels ranging from the molecular and genetic to the regional.

• Green Life Sciences: Focuses on growth and how plants develop and adapt to their environment. other topics include plant/microbe interactions, structure and systematics, molecular biology, genetics, evolution: ecology and physiology.

• Brain and Behaviour: Focuses on the multiple facets relevant to all kinds of behavioural functioning and how these are influenced by genes, the environment and developmental factors.

your future Careeryou can choose to enter the field of scientific research – sixty percent of our graduates go on to conduct Phd research at a university or specialist institute - or perhaps choose for a different career path such as teaching, public relations, policy work or consultancy.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsA Bachelor’s degree in Biology is required. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in another subject, the Examination Board will decide whether you can be admitted.

other interesting ProgrammesBioinformatics and systems Biology - Biomedical sciences -Biomolecular sciences - ecology - environment and resource management - management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurship in the health and life sciences - neurosciences.

WWW.vu.nl/Biology

biomedical sciences

biology

Biology is the study of life in all its fascinating manifestations, from viruses to human beings. By embracing new technologies, biologists have discovered that all life forms are governed by the same principles. the building blocks of life and the processes that make life possible are the same in mice, plants, bacteria and in people too. vu Biologists are specialized in these “universal principles” of life.

in the master’s programme in Biomedical sciences you can link research in infectious diseases with international publichealth, take up immunology and combine it with cell biology, or specialize in two separate subjects like cardiovascular diseases and brain and behaviour. or perhaps you would like to be the architect of your own specialization. in short, there are plenty of opportunities available.


your ProgrammeBa is a two year-programme. the first six months are devoted to compuslory courses. over the next twelve months, you will focus on one of three specializations. in the last six months you will do a traineeship.you can choose from one of three specializations:• Business process optimization: you will tackle quantitative

business problems with the aid of mathematical algorithms which are then implemented in decision support systems.

• Computational intelligence: you will simulate the human brain in a computer programme to make decisions with optimization and data mining techniques.

• Financial risk management: you will learn to price derivatives, such as share options, and strategies for risk management.

you will deal with both practical and theoretical aspects of the discipline. all three areas of specialization prepare you for a career in business, industry, government or with a research facility.

your future CareerWith a master’s degree in Ba, you will always be in demand on the labour market. Companies need academics who have learned to analyse quantitative problems, come up with good solutions and implement them. you may also wish to consider continuing your education in a Phd research programme.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsstudents who have a Bachelor’s degree in Business mathematics, mathematics or econometrics from a university or an institute of higher education will be admitted with some additional requirements.

other interesting ProgrammesComputer science - econometrics and operations research - mathematics.

WWW.vu.nl/BusinessanalytiCs

your Programmethe master’s programme in Biomolecular sciences combines theory with practice. in the first semester you will start with compulsory courses. following the compulsory courses, you will start your first internship (research project). The second internship, the literature study and the additional selected topics form the main components of the second year of study.you can choose one of the three specializations:• Cell Biology: Regulation of gene expression: It is a miracle

how a single fertilized egg cell develops into a complex organism and how undifferentiated stem cells can be assigned

to take on specific roles in this process. gene expression in eukaryotes is often controlled by transcription factors, yet post-transcriptional control also takes place. unravelling these regulatory networks will open up huge possibilities in biomedical and biotechnological research.

• Biological Chemistry: focuses on the interaction of cells, cellular structures and individual proteins with their “chemical environment“.

your future Careermost graduates aspire to a career in research and opt for aPhd, after which they can continue their studies as post-doctoral researchers, or work as university lecturers or hold jobs in industry. Some graduates work for medical product manufacturers or pharmaceutical companies.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsstudents with Bachelor’s degrees ranging from biomedical sciences and biology to chemistry, physics, mathematics andengineering can be admitted to the programme. the examination Board will decide on admission.

other interesting ProgrammesBiology - Biomedical sciences - drug discovery and safety - environment and resource management - management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurship in the health and life sciences - neurosciences - oncology.

WWW.vu.nl/BiomoleCularsCienCes

biomolecular sciences

business analytics (ba)

the master’s in Biomolecular sciences at vu university amsterdam is a programme for students with a research-oriented profile. the focus is on how the molecular basis of biological function affects health status. the programme covers genetics, microbiology, structural biology, cell physio-logy, molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, biomathe-matics, genomics, bioinformatics, immunology and infection.

the master’s in Business analytics (Ba) is a multidisciplinary programme aimed at improving business processes by applying a combination of methods based on mathematics, computer science and business management. Ba is hands-on: from an understanding of the theoretical applications of the field, you will be trained to recognize and solve company problems and will use your knowledge in the different areas of expertise to improve business practices.


your Programmethe master’s in Chemistry is a two-year programme that offersvarious specialization tracks. each master’s programme consistsof introductory and advanced courses, a research project inthe field of your specialization, a dissertation and a colloquium. there are also optional courses. you can choose a specialization track that suits your own particular ambitions and interests:• Analytical Sciences• Molecular Design, Synthesis and Catalysis• Molecular Simulation and Photonics• Science for Energy and Sustainability

if you opt for analytical sciences, your courses might include:(Bio)molecular spectroscopy; high throughput screening.if you opt for molecular design, synthesis and Catalysis,your courses might include: Coordination and organometallicChemistry; synthetic organic Chemistry.if you opt for molecular simulation and Photonics, your coursesmight include applied theoretical Chemistry and molecularPhotonics and understanding quantum Chemistry. if you opt for science for energy and sustainability your courses might include: Catalysis for sustainable energy; management of sustainable innovation. your future Careerthere are many different career opportunities for chemists. 100% of the students find a job after their graduation. The figures break down as follows: scientific research (10%); Chemical/Pharmaceutical industry (41%); Policy-making (24%); teaching (7%); Other jobs (17%).

sPeCifiC admission requirementsdirect admission to the master’s programme in Chemistryis possible with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. if you holda Bachelor’s degree in a related subject, please contact themaster’s coordinator: marly van den Boom([email protected]).

other interesting ProgrammesBiomolecular sciences - drug discovery and safety.

WWW.vu.nl/Chemistry

your Programmethe two-year programme (120 credits) provides students with tremendous opportunities to fulfill their personal ambitions.the programme is research-oriented and has a multidisciplinary character. Students are trained in state of the art techniques in cardiovascular research, diagnostics and therapy. the programme consists of 6 compulsory courses (total 30 credits), a minor research project (21 credits), a major research project (42 credits) and a literature project (9 credits). You are free to choose from a range of courses (up to 18 credits) within the general requirements of the programme.

for more detailed programme information and admissionrequirements please visit our website or contact the programme coordinator at [email protected].

your future Careera master’s degree in Cardiovascular research will enable you to work in the field of cardiovascular research at universities, research institutes and pharmaceutical or biotech companies in the Netherlands or abroad. The majority of cardiovascular research Masters graduates (75%) will rapidly join an international Phd programme. other options include further specialization in medical or clinical programmes and management.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in life sciences or related field.

other interesting Programmesoncology.

WWW.vu.nl/CardiovasCular

master’s Programmes

chemistry

cardiovascular research

this master’s programme offers students with a Bsc degreein biomedical sciences or general health sciences the pos-sibility to follow a structured programme within cardiovas-cular sciences embedded within the iCar-vu institute for Cardiovascular research of vu university medical Center. the purpose of this master’s is education in all aspects of cardio-vascular function and cardiovascular disease.

Chemistry forms the bridge between biology at one end of the spectrum (biomolecular chemistry) and physics and mathematics at the other (physical-theoretical chemistry). traditionally, organic and analytical chemistry – synthesizing and measuring – lie at the heart of the discipline.


your Programmeyou can choose from five different specializations:• Archaeology and History• Latin Language and Culture• Greek Language and Culture• Babylonian-Assyrian Language and Culture• Ancient Thought: from Plato to Augustine

the core module of most specializations is great debates in ancient historical studies. as part of this module, vu university amsterdam and uva lecturers will deal with themes in ancient studies that are vigorously debated, and students will write a paper on one of these debates. for the rest of your programme you may choose courses on language, history or archaeology at aCasa.

your future Careergraduates will have a broad view of the ancient world and are trained to cross disciplinary boundaries. they are therefore suited to jobs in cultural institutes, museums, publishing companies, specialist libraries and booksellers and companies that organize specialist tours of mediterranean regions. graduates also find work in many professions where an academic attitude is expected. those specializing in latin language and Culture may choose to complete the master’s degree in education to become teachers of latin. in addition, graduates can opt for further education in a research master’s or Phd programme.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in ancient Cultures, Classics, ancient history, archaeology or assyriology. the language courses require advanced knowledge of Greek, Latin or Akkadian (Babylonian-assyrian). the specialization in ancient thought is also well suited to students with a Bachelor’s degree in theology or Philosophy.

WWW.vu.nl/anCientstudies

your Programmethe programme ancient history consists of two core modules, both of which introduce you to some of the most important debates within the discipline (great debates in ancient historical studies i and ii) and give due attention to interdisciplinary research. you will conclude the modules with a term paper.

there is a choice of two specializations: east-West Confrontations or religion and Culture. as part of these specializations, you can choose various modules, such as Confrontation between greek and mesopotamian Cultures, greek elites during imperial times (both at vu university amsterdam), the rise of Christianity, and the roman City (uva). these modules all reflect the respective expertise

of the academic staff. in addition, it is also possible to take elective modules from the programmes in ancient history, and Classics, and from the master’s programme in archaeology.

your future Careerdue to the broad range of study programmes offered by aCasa (amsterdam Centre for ancient studies and archaeology), graduates become accomplished historians of Antiquity. They may choose to complete a master’s degree in education and become history teachers. graduates also work in cultural institutes, museums, publishing companies, specialist libraries and booksellers and companies that organize specialist tours of the mediterranean region, as well as in many other professions where an academic attitude is expected.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsThe usual requirement is a Bachelor’s degree in History. however, students with a Bachelor’s degree in greek and latin languages and Cultures, ancient Cultures and archaeology are also welcome.

other interesting Programmes at Both universitiesthe master’s in archaeology, the master’s programme in Classics (vu university amsterdam and the university of amsterdam) or ancient studies (vu university amsterdam only), and the two-year research master’s in archaeology (university of amsterdam).

WWW.vu.nl/anCienthistory

classics and ancient civilizations: programme ancient history

classics and ancient civilizations: programme ancient studies (one year)

the programme ancient history has been specifically developed for students who wish to dedicate their master’s studies primarily to the history of the mediterranean and West Asian worlds during Antiquity.

the ancient world, including the mediterranean and West Asian worlds in Antiquity, is the object of study of this programme. ancient studies does not adhere to disciplinary boundaries. Few questions can be answered solely by relying on archaeological, historical or literary sources. in ancient studies you will learn to use what you need, be it ancient history, archaeology, ancient languages or philosophy. this is an ideal course for those whose interests include both history and archaeology and who view written sources as a product of society.


your Programmein this two-year research master’s you will work on theoretical and practical problems in individual, group, and tutorial settings using a diverse range of learning activities (seminars, practicals, research projects, presentations and lectures). Electives and research projects will enable you to discover your own individual

direction and approach. your tutor will be a leading scientist in your field of interest, providing feedback on essential academic skills, including presentation, collaboration and applying theoretical concepts.

your first year will feature courses like Psychopathology, theory of therapeutic and Preventive intervention, epidemiological research, scientific writing and presenting and your first research project. Your second year includes a course on Trends in Brain and Behaviour, three practical skills courses and your master’s thesis. in both years you can choose from a range of elective courses.

your future Careeras a graduate of the research master’s in Clinical and Developmental Psychopathology you will be well-equipped to find employment as a researchers with a national research and development institute such as the trimbos institute, the nji, verwey jonker institute or tno. other career options are available within the research departments of mental health care organizations, municipal health services, ministries or local government bodies.

sPeCifiC requirementsan academic Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or education, english proficiency.

other interesting ProgrammesCognitive neuropsychology.

WWW.vu.nl/PsyChoPathology

your Programmethe programme Classics (60 credits) consists of two specializations. each of these has three core courses of 6 credits each. the first specialization, linguistic and narratological approaches to Classical texts, combines literary and linguistic approaches to the study of greek and latin texts. in the opening course you will become acquainted with the theory and practice of narratology, discourse linguistics and related approaches. the following two courses are respectively devoted to greek and latin authors, who will be studied in the light of these approaches.

the second specialization, intertextuality and reception, focuses on the intertextual relationships between ancient texts and the reception of classical literature in modern literature. in the opening course, several forms of intertextuality and reception will be distinguished, illustrated and put into practice. in the following two courses you will study greek and latin and their rich reception in the Western tradition. in addition to the three core specialization courses, you can choose from a wide variety of courses, ranging from greek linguistics to roman archaeology. you will complete the programme with a master’s thesis.

your future Careergraduates will be specialists in greek and roman literature and/or linguistics, being thoroughly trained in the interpretation of complicated texts. many graduates pursue a research degree or complete a master’s degree in education to become a teacher of Classics at secondary school. graduates also find work in other professions, becoming publishers, journalists, communication specialists, museum curators or specialist tour guides in the mediterranean region.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Classics, including greek and latin.

WWW.vu.nl/ClassiCs

clinical and developmental psychopathology

classics and ancient civilizations: programme classics

the programme Classics at vu university amsterdam allows you to choose from a wide variety of subjects offered by outstanding staff with a vast range of specializations. Cooperation with the university of amsterdam at the amsterdam Centre for ancient studies and archaeology (aCasa) also allows you to follow courses at that university. Certain courses profit from the combined expertise of staff members from both universities.

join leading international scientists in mastering and advancing the treatment and prevention of mental disorders in children, adolescents and adults. Why do people develop mental disorders? What processes lead to mental health problems? is it possible to intervene and prevent the onset of mental health problems and disorders? and what can we do to treat these problems? do existing treatments actually work and which elements are the most effective? Breakthroughs are achieved by overcoming old dichotomies between science and practice, mental health and mental illness, brain and environment, and childhood and maturity. on this research master’s programme you will be taught by world-class scientists who embody such an integrative approach.


your Programmethe programme (60 credits) consists of a core course on genre analysis, three compulsory courses, two elective courses from elsewhere in the faculty, and an 18 credits master’s thesis of approximately 25,000 words.

the three compulsory courses are: introduction to metaphor: theory and research; metaphor in language: register, style, and rhetoric; metaphor in Communication: media and settings.

your future Careerthis ma degree may serve as solid preparation for Phd work on metaphor and other language and discourse phenomena in various fields of linguistics, and the humanities more broadly. given the important contribution that metaphorical language can make to effective communication, there are clear opportunities for developing a professional career in document design, communication advising and other fields in which discourse analysis plays an important role.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsstudents are eligible for admission with a Bachelor’s degree in english, linguistics or language and Communication. if you have studied english or language and Communication, you will only be eligible if your Bachelor’s degree has a strong linguistic component.

other interesting Programmesthe research master’s in linguistics.

WWW.vu.nl/metaPhorindisCourse

your Programmeyou will interpret clinical cases within cognitive-neuro-psychological theories and put these theories to the test in a clinical environment. you will do so by making use of behavioural measurements, neuropsychological tests and neurophysiological techniques such as EEG and MRI. The programme also has a strong focus on academic skills, such as critical analysis and presenting your own research. the two-year programme includes three elective courses, seminars, a research internship and writing a master’s thesis.

Courses include neuropsychology of Cognitive dysfunctioning; advanced statistics; memory and memory disorders; Cognitive neuroscience; Perception; seminar attention; Brain imaging.

your future Careeryou will become a versatile and skilled researcher who is capable of pursuing a successful career in the netherlands or abroad within universities, research institutes or a clinical setting. Psychology and brain are taking on a more and more important role in society. students find careers in developing evidence-based clinical applications, in human factors research, in marketing and iCt, in industry (product development), and in the pharmacological industry. many move on to do a Phd in cognitive psychology, neuropsychology or one of the other brain sciences.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsan academic Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, artifical intelligence, Biology or related field, with a keen interest in research, english proficiency.

other interesting Programmesartificial intelligence - neurosciences.

WWW.vu.nl/neuroPsyChology

cognitiveneuropsychology

communication and inFormation studies: programme metaphor in discourse

in this programme you will learn how to investigate the human mind. you will study individual patients with brain damage or neurological disorders to obtain an accurate impression of the relationship between the nature and the location of the injury and the patient’s symptoms. you will learn to interpret these cases within cognitive and neuropsychological theories, as well as acquire essential skills in the cognitive neurosciences. in the end, you will become an expert on brain functioning.

metaphor in discourse is a one-year master’s programme in (english) language, cognition, and communication that is unique in the world. It is taught by internationally well-known specialists and is part of a new and exciting teaching and research community at vu university amsterdam whose members focus on the study of effective communication in various languages, media, and domains, including journalism and health. metaphor in discourse is an interdisciplinary programme, including linguistic, cognitive and social aspects of metaphor in interaction. attention is given to fundamental and applied issues of metaphor, which may each form the basis of the master’s thesis.


your Programme Com is a decidedly international programme focusing on organizational culture, zooming in on questions of transnational cooperation and entrepreneurship. the programme enables students to deepen their knowledge of the cultural dimension of management and organization, as well as their skills to research, describe and explain this dimension.

the programme focuses on two themes: • Identity and Diversity in Organizations • Cultural Change and Intervention in the first semester students follow a number of in-depth seminars, using qualitative research methods which typify the ethnographic approach. in the second semester students conduct fieldwork research for their master’s thesis. they may conduct this research in the netherlands or abroad, for example in southeast asia, southern africa or the Caribbean.

your future Career the prospects for Com graduates are favourable, with international jobs available in a wide array of sectors. Graduates obtain positions within corporations as hrm officers (e.g. in recruitment), commercial officers (e.g. in customer relations) or policy support officers (e.g. in internal communications). the non-profit and public sectors also have many opportunities in the policy field that are ideal for Com graduates.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsA Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Anthropology, Sociology, Political science, organization science, Communication science (from a social sciences perspective), organization Psychology, social Psychology, or Business administration. you must also have had research methodology.

other interesting ProgrammesPolitical science - social and Cultural anthropology.

WWW.vu.nl/Com

your Programmethe master’s in Computer science is a two-year programme worth 120 credits. you can choose from a range of specializations, each one consisting of a number of compulsory subjects, a subject on the theory of computer science, a mathematics subject and compulsory practicals within the specialization. you also have the freedom to choose a number of optional subjects. You will conclude the programme with a Master’s project or internship.

you can choose from one of the following specializations:• Internet and Web Technology

• High-Performance Distributed Computing • Software Engineering• Multimedia• Formal Methods and Software Verification• Technical Artificial Intelligence

your future Careermany of our graduates opt for a career as a software engineer but there are a wealth of other options available to you, including being an information analyst or a project manager. Alternatively, you could become a web engineer, a data warehouse consultant, a user interface designer, a systems specialist, or an it consultant. a few of our students opt to pursue research. a Phd can lead to an academic career in the netherlands or abroad, but a career in government or business is also possible.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsstudents with a Computer science Bachelor’s diploma can apply for admission to the master’s programme in Computer science. We will judge on a case-by-case basis whether the student’s Bachelor’s degree fits the chosen specialization of the master’s programme and whether and to what extent a pre-master’s track may be required. The Examination Board may set additional requirements.

other interesting Programmesartificial intelligence - Business analytics - information sciences - Parallel and distributed Computer systems.

WWW.vu.nl/ComPutersCienCe

culture, organization and management (com)

computer science

in the master’s programme in Computer science you will learn a great deal about the technology behind distributed computers, computer systems software engineering, internet technology and a host of other related areas. the master’s programme is designed to offer a solid basis for a career in business, as well as to prepare you for further education as a scientific researcher.

organizations are a social intersection where people meet. the Culture, organization and management (Com) programme explores how people deal with their work, customers and each other within their organizations, and also researches culture and management styles. Com provides a deeper understanding of the complex socio-cultural patterns and processes within organizations, integrating knowledge of organizations with social-scientific insights into culture, identity and power. Com places organizational problems and management issues in a wider social and cultural context.


your Programmethe master’s in earth sciences is a broad, interdisciplinary two-year programme worth 120 credits. our diverse range of subjects includes Sedimentary Environments; Dynamics and Climate Change recorders; Building tectonic models; advanced geochronology; Contaminant hydrogeology. you can choose one of the following specializations:• Solid Earth: use computer models, geochemistry and geophysics

to study deep lithospheric processes and link them with basin (de)formation, uplift and erosion.

• Applied Environmental Geosciences: focus on the Earth’s surface, and broaden your knowledge of the (sub)recent geological record, land-surface processes, ocean and climate dynamics and the role of man in ‘system earth’.

• Geoarchaeology: where conventional archaeologists focus on

social context and culture, in geoarchaeology you will address the geographical, geological, biological and material sciences aspects of the remnants of our ancestors.

• Earth Sciences and Economics: focus on how the continuously changing ‘system earth’ affects our economy, and on how we can implement earth scientific knowledge in spatial decision making processes: natural hazards, new water storage areas, etc.

• Paleoclimatology and geo-ecosystems: How can we account for the interaction between climate and marine/terrestrial ecosys-tems by studying the geological past? you will use paleoclimate records from land and ocean environments to assess the dyna-mic relationship between the various factors governing climate change.

your future CareerWhere your career as an earth scientist takes you depends upon your specialization. oil and gas companies, soil consultancy firms and museums are among the many possibilities. you can alsopursue a career in research at a government ministry, university, geological service or research institute.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsFor any questions about admission requirements, please contact the master coordinator, dr. Bernd andeweg: [email protected].

other interesting Programmesecology - environment and resource management – geographical information sciences - geosciences of Basins and lithosphere - hydrology - spatial, transport and environmental economics.

WWW.vu.nl/earthsCienCes

your Programme drug discovery and safety is a two-year programme. it startswith introduction and advanced courses on drug discovery anddevelopment. after this you will write a thesis (literature survey)on drug research. your own laboratory research is anotherimportant part of the programme. moreover, you will choose oneof the following specializations:• Drug Discovery and Target Finding: you will investigate where

and how drug molecules work in the human body.• Drug Disposition and Safety Assessment: you will study the

mechanisms of unwanted and toxic properties of substances.

• Drug Design and Synthesis: you will concentrate on the design and synthesis of new substances with improved or modified biological properties.

• Computational Medicinal Chemistry and Toxicology: you will use extremely fast computers to study new molecules and to predict their properties and interactions.

• Biomarkers and Clinical Chemical Analysis: you will focus on the development of new methods for analysing biological samples to study drug-protein interactions.

your future Careergraduates have excellent career prospects and can generally expect to earn a good salary. employment percentages: scientific research (45%); pharmaceutical sales (25%); government or private-sector policy-making (10%); teaching (5%); other jobs (15%) ranging from clinical research associate to patent consultant and from toxicologist to customs researcher.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical sciences or Chemistry. if you hold a Bachelor’s degree in a related subject, please contact the Pr officer: tessa lange ([email protected]).

other interesting ProgrammesBiomolecular sciences - Chemistry - medical natural sciences.

WWW.vu.nl/dds

Herpesvirus-Encoded G Protein-CoupledReceptors as Modulators ofCellular Signaling Pathways

David Maussang-Detaille

Herpesvirus-Encoded G Protein-Coupled Receptors as Modulators of Cellular Signaling Pathways

David Maussang-Detaille

Cover David Def.indd 1 29-07-2009 15:18:53

drug discovery and saFety

earth sciences

developing new drugs is a very complex and wide-ranging process, which requires real specialists who are excellent team players. in the master’s programme drug discovery and safety, you will examine drug discovery and development from a range of disciplines: chemistry, pharmacology, medicine, genetics and toxicology. this multidisciplinary approach is essential to tackle the diseases of tomorrow and to develop drugs of the future.

you study earth sciences because you want to understand planet earth, a complex system. the programme focuses on our areas of expertise in research, including tectonics, paleo-climatology, sedimentology and quaternary geology. You will participate in a research project including fieldwork, laboratory work and/or computer modelling.


your Programmethe curriculum features many of the latest developments in areas such as financial econometrics, combinatorial optimization and game theory. the programme offers two streams:• Econometrics and Mathematical Economics, focusing on

econometric methods and techniques within finance and economics. Within the area of econometrics you will learn to model economic time series and estimate parameters using advanced statistical techniques such as Kalman filters and monte Carlo simulations for short-term forecasting. Within the

area of mathematical economics you will learn to model and investigate markets with large players and develop optimal business strategies.

• Operations Research and Business Econometrics is geared towards optimizing operational business processes. you will learn to construct and analyse network models of logistic systems, and stochastic models of business decision problems.

your future Careerour graduates have excellent career prospects in areas where mathematics, statistics and ICT are applied to the quantitative analysis of all kinds of problems from the world of business, finance, economics and beyond. econometricians find employ-ment in national policy research departments at planning agencies and government ministries, in financial institutions and consultancy firms. operations researchers can be found in a range of industries, including logistics, innovative software development, transport and distribution, manufacturing and consultancy. you can also apply for a Phd.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in econometrics, operations research, mathematical economics or related field with courses in linear algebra, Calculus, Probability theory and programming skills.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness analytics - finance: quantitative finance honours track.

WWW.vu.nl/eConometriCs

your Programmein this two-year programme you will spend the first fourmonths on coursework. the remainder of each year is spenton a literature survey and a research project. Half of the courses are compulsory, while the other half consists of electives. you will select your own research topics.

you can choose between two specializations; • Ecology and Evolution: You will understand how nature

works, both as an aim in itself and with a view to maintaining biodiversity and to combating the effects of pollution and climate change.

• Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology: This track deals with the sources and fate of chemicals, as well as their environmental effect on wildlife and human health.

your future Careerfifty percent of our students pursue their studies at Phdlevel. others opt for a career in consultancy or applied environmental sciences, where they deal with topics such as nature management, landscape planning and the development of molecular tools to assess pollution, improve food quality or help identify alternative energy sources. some of our graduates work in policy preparation for government, water boards or ngos.

sPeCifiC admission requirements you can be admitted if you have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in another subject, the examination Board will decide whether you can be admitted and will set additional requirements, if necessary.

other interesting ProgrammesBiology - earth sciences - environment and resourcemanagement - hydrology.

WWW.vu.nl/eCology

ecology

econometrics and operations research

ecology is about understanding how nature works, both as an aim in itself and with a view to maintaining biodiversity and combating the effects of pollution and climate change. in this respect, the master’s in ecology at vu university amsterdam is unique: we study ecology from a plant, animal and systems perspective. in determining ecological properties, we operate from the molecular level – looking at which genes trigger responses to environmental stress – up to the regional scale, using field observations to identify ecosystems’ patterns and functions.

econometrics and operations research is a fascinating scien-tific discipline which develops state-of-the-art quantitative methods and applies them to the analysis of economicproblems in their broadest sense. due to the diversity ofmodelling and analytical techniques, the programme is divided into two specializations (see below). each stream provides you with the opportunity to examine a number of areas in greater depth oriented on either economic or business processes.


your Programmeyou will gain a thorough understanding of fundamental economic tools in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics at an advanced level. emphasizing applied modelling and policy perspective, the programme teaches you to put theory into practice and to use your insights to make constructive contributions to current debates. this is the role of our focused in-depth and challenging field courses that discuss state-of-the-art academic literature in topical context. Their subjects relate to, among others, globalization, health economics, urban economics, or human development. finally you will conduct your

own research, and subject existing theories to critical tests.You can (but are not required to) further develop your expertise by selecting one of the following specializations:• Development Economics• Economic and Social Policy• International and Macroeconomic Policy• Spatial Economics

your future Careera graduate in economics is a well-trained economist, with extensive knowledge of economic techniques and economic policy issues. some graduates become consultants with firms gearedtowards public policy or market analysts at (government) organi-zations such as competition authorities or central banks. others join multinationals, for instance in banking and insurance, orcontinue an academic career with a Phd programme and university research. employment opportunities are not specific to particular industries or countries.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in economics (or closely related field testifying to advanced undergraduate knowledge in micro- and macroeconomics, and quantitative tools in mathematics and statistics/econometrics).

other interesting Programmesspatial, transport and environmental economics - economics, tinbergen institute master of Philosophy in economics.

WWW.vu.nl/eConomiCs

your Programmetinbergen institute is accredited by the royal netherlands academy of arts and sciences (knaW). tinbergen institute works together with the economics departments of erasmus university rotterdam, university of amsterdam and vu University Amsterdam. The Institute ensures the high quality of the graduate programme by selecting lecturers from among the best researchers of the three departments. a large proportion of the students come from outside the netherlands. the

first year of the master’s of Philosophy programme provides rigorous training in the core subjects and tools of economics, econometrics and finance. in the second year, students specialize in a research field by doing field coursework and thesis research. students conclude the programme by writing a master’s thesis under the supervision of a research fellow. the thesis can serve as a starting point for Phd research. specializations are economics track and econometrics track.

your future Careerstudents who perform well in this programme are expected to transfer to a three-year Phd position in this programme. the institute’s Phd students are employed as researchers by the economics department of university of amsterdam, vu university amsterdam or erasmus university rotterdam. these are full-time positions that come with all the benefits of employment, including a good salary. alumni have taken up influential positions all over the world: at universities, in the government sector, international organizations and major companies.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s or master’s degree in economics or related field. admission is both highly selective and competitive. also seewww.tinbergen.nl.

other interesting Programmeseconomics, and other related programmes.

WWW.vu.nl/eConomiCs-mPhil

economics

economics, tinbergen institute master oF philosophy in economics

economics is concerned with virtually every aspect of society. The Economics Master’s is a high-quality programme for the prospective professional economist with an interest in applying modern economic analyses to important socialproblems. using behavioural models and statisticaltechniques, you will tackle economic issues in areas such asmacroeconomic imbalances, pervasive poverty, sustainable social security, inflation or deflation, and costly traffic congestion. you will learn to take a structured approach to solving practical problems, and to basing research conclusions and policy recommendations on sound scientific principles. having graduated, you will be aversatile and independent economist.

vu university amsterdam’s research master’s in economics, finance and econometrics is part of tinbergen institute’s graduate programme which consists of two years of intensive coursework and research in the master’s of Philosophy in economics and three years of Phd thesis research. the programme is a research master’s in economics, econometrics and finance and leads to an msc degree. it is a selective programme, geared towards excellent students who wish to pursue an academic or research-oriented career.


your Programmethe programme takes a multidisciplinary approach to envi-ronment and resource management. in this one-year master’s programme, you will be part of a very international student body where part of the learning experience is understanding how en-vironmental change and resource depletion occurs in, is experi-enced by, and is addressed in different parts of the world. you will link different theories to understand how a diversity of approaches

helps to better understand, analyse and deal with environmental problems. you will link theory to practice and understand the practical challenges in addressing environmental problems. you will have the opportunity to find your own focus in your master’s specialization and your own niche through your master’s thesis.

in addition to the core components, you can opt for one of the specializations:• Energy Studies• Climate and Water Policy• Environmental Studies• Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity

your future Careerthe environment and resource management Programme offers excellent career prospects in the field of environment, policy and management. You might find a job as a researcher, pursue a Phd or move out of academic research and become a consultant, policymaker or activist at an ngo at national or international level.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsnew applicants must at least hold a Bachelor’s degree from a university. all applications will be assessed by the examination Board.

other interesting Programmesearth sciences - ecology – hydrology – spatial, transport and environmental economics.

WWW.vu.nl/erm

your Programmethe master’s in entrepreneurship is an academic programme that focuses on educating entrepreneurial people who are able to produce, assess and bring to life innovative, viable, high-quality ideas in a number of contexts (a new firm, an existing organization, profit-oriented/social/mix, diversity of industries). the master’s specialization in Entrepreneurship is unique in its broad inter-pretation of entrepreneurship (broader than ‘simply’ new venture creation) and in its academic outlook. you will learn to appreciate the complexity and the challenges associated with the highly

rewarding entrepreneurial activities that take place in organizati-ons of all shapes and sizes. this master’s specialization has been developed in close cooperation with the prestigious amsterdam Center for entrepreneurship (www.feweb.vu.nl/acevu), which is dedicated to providing excellent teaching programmes in entre-preneurship.

your future Careeronce you have passed all the components of the master’s pro-gramme, you will be awarded the degree of master of science in Business administration, with the annotation of your specializa-tion. students completing a degree with this specialization can start their own ventures, become intrapreneurs (entrepreneur in the context of a larger organization), or in an even broader sense (entrepreneurship-as-lifestyle), they can become managers who aim to create an entrepreneurial culture within their firm, policymakers who aim to create conditions in order to stimulate entrepreneurship, consultants or project leaders in innovation pathways. last but not least they can decide to become entrepre-neurship researchers and obtain a Phd (see: www.abri.vu.nl).

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration with courses related to entrepreneurship, strategy management and organization theory.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration, and related specializations.

WWW.vu.nl/entrePreneurshiP

entrepreneurship (business administration)

environment and resource management (erm)

there is a growing realization that small and young businesses can have a major impact on economic growth, and that entre-preneurship provides fertile ground for innovation. in theentrepreneurship specialization, we view entrepreneurship as processes of creating and exploiting opportunities by combining resources in novel ways. this produces new economic, public and social value. Creativity plays a vital role in these processes. We study entrepreneurial processes in all contexts where they occur: in small companies as well as large firms, in govern-mental organizations and among individual professionals.

the master’s programme in environment and resource management focuses on environmental change and resource depletion. We regard environmental problems as societal problems. the programme will train you in a multidisciplinary approach towards analysing and solving environmental problems in a variety of contexts. erm offers a breadth of theories and analytical tools as well as opportunities to specialize in a number of subjects in greater depth. The programme helps you understand and analyse the different aspects of the socio-economic consequences of human intervention on our planet.


your Programmequantitative finance responds to the need in the financial community to quantify and manage risks more effectively. the programme also responds to shifts in the regulations for businesses (ifrs), banks (Basel ii) and pensions and insurance organizations (solvency ii). the faculty of economics and Business and the Faculty of Sciences have joined forces to produce this programme. as result of this union you will benefit from an extensive range of optional courses and the expertise of

three research teams, whose work is published internationally. the variety of optional courses allows you to design your own specialization and create your own career profile. you can focus on fundamental, methodological subjects or on the application of advanced methodology. Subjects include Advanced econometrics, investments, quantitative risk management, stochastic Processes and derivatives.

your future Careerupon successful completion of the programme, you will beawarded the title master of science in finance, with the annotation quantitative finance honours track. the career opportunities for graduates are excellent as there is an ever-growing demand for people who can provide solid quantitative analyses of financial and economic issues. Examples of jobs within your field include derivates specialist, hedge fund manager, asset/liability manager, risk manager and financial product developer.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in finance or related field with courses like investments, mathematics and Programming. knowledge of econometrics at the level of a graduate course in an economics programme.

other interesting Programmesfinance - Business administration: specialization financial management - stochastic and financial mathematics.

WWW.vu.nl/quantitativefinanCe

your Programme throughout the programme, there is a strong focus on finding answers to burning questions of financial economics. The fourcompulsory courses are Corporate finance, empirical finance, asset Pricing and investments, and financial markets and institutions. in lectures and tutorials you will examine real-life case studies and learn to apply theoretical concepts to specific practical problems. our teaching staff is engaged in international financial research, and several hold key positions at such leading

financial institutions as ing, aBn amro, dnB, thus providing a direct link between cutting-edge academic theories and their application in the real world of finance. While the regular master’s programme in finance has no formal specializations, two or more elective courses enable you to further specialize either in Corporate finance or (security) investments.

your future Careerthere is a wide range of career opportunities open to you with a Master’s degree in Finance. You can join national or multinational companies, banks and insurers or go into consultancy, govern-ment or the academic sector. occupations include financial specialist, risk manager, treasurer, banker, financial consultant, fund manager, investment expert and financial analyst.some graduates have gone on to obtain a Phd and embark on an academic career.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in finance or related field with courses like investments, asset management, Corporate finance and Business statistics and Business mathematics.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration: specialization financial management -finance: quantitative finance honours track - accounting and Control - stochastic and financial mathematics.

WWW.vu.nl/finanCe

Finance

Finance: honours track Quantitative Finance

The financial sector is constantly subject to change and innovation, creating a need for people who have a thorough understanding of finance to shape workable solutions and improvements. this calls for academic skills, knowledge of financial economics and the awareness of the latest developments in the industry. the master’s programme raises your level of knowledge in investments and Corporate finance. it provides the conceptual frameworks and practical insights in financial economics, vital to understanding how financial management and financial markets operate.

the quantitative finance honours track is a prestigious programme within the master’s in finance for students who are not only interested in Finance but also in quantitative modelling aspects in the finance profession. you will tackle issues in the field of risk management and the development of complex financial products and apply methodological concepts to real life situations. you will be well-trained in asset pricing, investment issues, and derivatives, but also in the application of the modern computational and econometric techniques needed for a successful career.


your Programmegis is offered as a three-year distance-learning programme on a part-time basis. distance-learning means that you will study approximately 8 to 10 hours per week via the internet. one week per year, in june, you will participate in a workshop at the campus. during this workshop you will attend lectures and you will work on group assignments with your fellow students. gis is a flexible, modular programme. it is divided into a basic component comprising core modules and a specialization involving elective modules, enabling you to tailor the programme to meet your specific needs. after completing the specialization modules, you will also start working on your master’s research

project. Core modules in GIS touch upon the following topics: advanced gis (5 credits); database theory (4 credits); geodata Capture, standards & quality (5 credits); research methods (4 credits). the following specializations are offered within the gis programme: gis - giscience - gis and management - gis and environment.

your future Careerthe employment market for gis graduates is very healthy. many students have got promotion, career advancement or new jobs during the programme or after completing their studies. the research group responsible for the gis programme, sPinlab (spatial information laboratory), is always open to good Phd proposals. graduates are employed as, for example, information systems managers, applications analysts or gis consultants.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in any subject. Please contact the Master’s coordinator: [email protected].

other interesting Programmesarchaeology - earth sciences - ecology - Business administration:specialization transport and supply Chain management - spatial, transport and environmental economics - environment and resource management - geosciences of Basins and litosphere - global health - hydrology.

WWW.vu.nl/gis

your Programmethe master’s specialization in financial management draws clear links between in-depth academic and conceptual insights in corporate finance, accounting and financial markets and the everyday realities of the finance professional both in the financial sector and non-financial organizations. it also aims to help you develop an academic attitutde that will prove invaluable in your personal and professional development.

you can choose elective courses with the following focus areas:• Finance and Accounting: offers a wide spectrum of relevant

knowledge for the financial manager, crossing the boundary between finance and accounting and emphasizing the Business administration programme’s integrated approach.

• Banking and Insurance provides students with insightful knowledge of financial products (like pensions and insurance), the management of financial institutions (for instance banks), and of the way financial markets work.

your future CareerOur graduates have found jobs in the corporate sector (treasurer, risk manager, controller or financial manager), in the financial sector (bankers, analysts, portfolio managers, accounting experts, insurance experts), in the non-profit sector (national government agencies, international agencies, supervisory bodies) or in consultancy. our curriculum is designed to allow easy entrance to the post-graduate programmes.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration with courses related to corporate finance, accounting, financial management and financial markets.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration, and related specializations - finance.

WWW.vu.nl/finanCialmanagement

geographical inFormation science (gis)

Financial management (business administration)

the financial management specialization of the master’s programme in Business administration is built on three main pillars: corporate finance, financial and management accounting and financial markets. Professionals in financial management need to have a broad expertise in these three fields. the programme is flexible and offers two subspecializations: financial management in business (finance and accounting, functional approach) and financial management in the financial sector (Banking and insurance, sector approach).

geographical information science (gis) is one of the fastest expanding areas in information technology. offered under the auspices of unigis, a network of universities cooperating in the design and delivery of distance learning in gis, the master’s programme at vu university amsterdam enables professionals and students to acquire new knowledge and skills in the field.


your Programmethis innovative research master’s offers you a research approach to global health that spans a range of disciplines and encompasses a systems-based perspective. you will receive two years of research training supervised by professors and have the opportunity to produce your own Phd research grant proposal.As a Master’s student in Global Health, you acquire the knowledge, skills and attitude to (1) analyse complex national

and international health challenges, and (2) design, implement and evaluate integral strategies for intervention in order to meet complex global health challenges. you will learn to build on systems thinking as well as research that combines and transcends individual disciplines. the programme has four components: compulsory courses, elective courses, and two research internships of five months each.

your future Careeras a graduate of the research master’s programme in global health, you will be thoroughly prepared for pursuing a Phd study on global health issues. if a Phd position is not your primary objective, the Master’s programme will also prepare you very well for other research positions. Worldwide there is an urgent need for more research on health problems, health interventions, health systems and health policy.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in one of the basic disciplines of global health, with basic knowledge of epidemiology (e.g. medical Biology, health sciences, medical anthropology, medicine, healtheconomics, Pharmacy). visit our website for further admission requirements.

other interesting Programmeshealth sciences – lifestyle and Chronic disorders – management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurschip in the health and life sciences.

WWW.vu.nl/gloBalhealth

your Programmethis small scale master’s programme is a two-year programme consisting of lectures, practical work and research projects. A strong emphasis is placed on presentation (oral and written), the application of knowledge and skills, and fieldwork. during the first year, you will be based at vu university amsterdam, where you will choose one of the following specializations:• Sedimentary Basins: Architecture and Evolution• Continental Lithosphere: Composition and Rates of Processes• Petroleum Systems: Development and Regional Geology

in the second year, you will also attend courses at one or more of our partner universities to ensure that you get ‘the best of both worlds’. You will work on a specialized research project at a university or company and can enroll in a variety of advanced short courses.

your future Careerupon completion of this programme, universities will be keen to welcome you as a research fellow. this degree also offers the best route to a career in industry and research institutes. networks with industry and research institutes are expressed in three positions of extra ordinary professors. they play an important role in teaching subjects in the field of geo-energy; petroleum, geothermal energy and aspects of CO2 sequestration are part of their expertise.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of aforeign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in earth sciences. Please contact the Master’s coordinator: [email protected].

other interesting Programmesearth sciences - ecology - environment and resource management - geographical information sciences - global health - hydrology.

WWW.vu.nl/geosCienCes

global health

geosciences oF basins and lithosphere

quantitative knowledge of sedimentary basins is becoming increasingly important to sustainable development in europe. not only are sedimentary basins mankind’s repositories for water, geothermal energy, and hydrocarbon resources, but they also host media for the storage of reclaimed water, natural gas and waste (including nuclear waste), and, perhaps most importantly, Co2. this research master’s is international and multidisciplinary in scope. students build regional knowledge of sedimentary basins worldwide and conduct thematic fieldwork.

new and emerging infectious diseases, changing disease patterns, rising costs of healthcare - just some of the factors that add complexity to the health challenges the world is facing today. many diseases do not stop at national borders and most health problems have a social, political and economic impact. These health challenges require extensive analysis from different points of view to develop innovative health interventions. in the research master’s programme in global health you will get to grips with the wider context of the health challenges that face us in the 21st century.


your Programmeamsterdam Business research institute (aBri) of the faculty of economics and Business administration (vu university amsterdam) and the faculty of economics and Business (University of Amsterdam) jointly offer the Master’s Honours programme in Business research. the institute consists of 10 research tracks covering diverse topics in Business and organization. the master’s honours programme in Business Research provides talented students the opportunity to equip themselves with skills and experience needed to enter advanced

positions in business research and consulting. the programme is worth of additional 20 credits on top of a regular master’s programme. Courses include, Honours Research Colloquia, statistical quantitative research methods, qualitative research methods and thesis master Class. the programme concludes with an individual thesis.

your future Careerupon successfull completion of the honours programme, students will be awarded the title master of science in marketing, Business administration or accounting and Control (depending on specialization), with the annotation of honours programme in Business research. Completing the master’s honours programme in Business research gives you the advantage over regular master’s students when applying for academic research positions. one such career option is to enter a Phd programme. Besides academia there are also many research-related careers such as consulting and public administration that are also excellent career options.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration or related field. high motivation and interest in research, 7.5 gPa or higher. also see www.abri.vu.nl.

other interesting Programmesmarketing - Business administration (all specializations) - accounting and Control.

WWW.vu.nl/honoursBusinessresearCh

your Programmein this one-year programme you will choose one specialization, complete a five-month internship and write your thesis. each specialization comprises five courses of one month each, two courses are compulsory, two courses are electives. you can choose one of the following specializations: • Policy and Organization of Healthcare: focuses on health

technology assessment and health economics.• Prevention and Public Health: you will study humans’ behaviour

in their living and working environment.• Infectious Diseases and Health: examines pathogenic micro-

organisms and parasites from the perspective of disease prevention and treatment.

• Nutrition and Health: explores the role that diet plays in maintaining good health and in disease treatment and recovery.

• International Public Health: has a strong interdisciplinary focus and covers international developments in health intervention strategies. due to globalization health concerns are changing too.

your future Careerhealth sciences touches on many aspects of society, with a resulting broad range of career options. your excellent analytical ability, comprehensive overview of the healthcare system and specialized knowledge and skills will make you a valuable asset to employers in the healthcare sector. Career options include a post as a researcher at a university or specialist institute, health insurance policy officer, sickness prevention policy officer for municipal health services, communication advisor on health issues, manager of a healthcare institution, epidemiologist and health advisor for an ngo.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in health sciences. Contact the master’s coordinator marianne donker for personal advice and further information regarding admission: [email protected].

other interesting Programmeslifestyle and Chronic disorders - management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurship in the health and life sciences - global health.WWW.vu.nl/healthsCienCes

health sciences

honours programme in business research

since 1900, life expectancy in Western europe has increased by 30 years. only five of those years can be attributed to curative medicine; the remaining 25 years are due to public health, hygiene and prevention measures. in the master’s programme in health sciences, you will learn to explore and analyse the various complex factors that contribute to health and disease.

the msc honours Programme in Business research is a prestigious programme for talented master’s students from Business administration, marketing and accounting and Control. the programme (20 additional credits) offers students the chance to look beyond the scope of their own specialization and to tackle and experience a broad variety of organizational and managerial issues. students will be well-trained to look at research questions from different angles and be immersed in advanced research method skills. it is a step towards asuccessful academic or related research-oriented career.


your Programmehuman movement sciences: sport, exercise and health (research) is a two-year research master’s programme. the first year is dedicated to preparation for scientific research, providing a profound background in the domains of sport, rehabilitation, and regenerative medicine. in addition, you are trained in state-of-the-art research methods and advanced statistics. you can fine-tune your own profile, with a focus on sport, health or more basic fundamental aspects of human

movement. the second year is reserved for a research intern-ship, to gain hands-on experience in all aspects of scientific research. the department offers ample possibilities for spending all or part of the internship abroad. upon successful completion of the course, you will be awarded an internationally recognized master of science degree (msc).

your future Careerafter completing the research master’s, you will be all set to pursue a scientific career (typically starting with a Phd position), but you will also be well equipped for other research-related positions.

sPeCifiC admission requirements each year thirty students can be admitted to this selective research master’s programme. you can apply if you have a Bachelor’s degree in human movement sciences or related life science. you should be highly motivated and have a strong interest in and aptitude for research, as demonstrated during your Bachelor’s. admission also depends on average grades (for either Bachelor’s or pre-master’s programme) and proficiency in english.

other interesting Programmesthe one-year master’s programme human movement sciences: sport, exercise and health.

WWW.vu.nl/hms-mPhil

your Programmethe master’s programme comprises two main tracks: ‘sport’ and ‘health’. these tracks are not strictly divided and the programme can be tailored for each individual student. the sport track focuses on exercise and muscle physiology as well as on biomechanics and sports psychology. the health track addresses movement disorders, restoration of motor function within the context of rehabilitation, and normal and abnormal motor development.

Besides lectures and seminars, the programme comprises several compulsory practicals and a research internship.

a substantial part of the study load entails self-study, allowing some flexibility in combining the programme with a part-time job or other activities. successful completion of the course results in an internationally recognized master of science degree (msc).

your future Careerthe master’s programme provides an excellent background for a career in both applied research and vocational higher education in sports and health. although management as such is not part of the programme, many graduates take up management or policy-making functions in sports and (mental) health care.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in human movement science or related field.

other interesting Programmesthe two-year research master’s programme human movement sciences: sport, exercise and health (research).

WWW.vu.nl/hms

human movement sciences: sport, exercise and health

human movement sciences: sport, exercise and health (research)

from the latest developments in sports training to new approaches to rehabilitation, the master’s in human movement sciences provides state of the art insights into the ways in which motor performance can be enhanced. By choosing a focus on either sports or health, you can fine-tune your own profile.

this two-year research master’s programme aims atintegrating fundamental scientific research with relevantquestions from clinical and sports practice. The multi-disciplinary programme stretches from molecular biologyto cognitive neuroscience and human motor behaviour.the programme prepares students for a career in scientific research in the domains of sport, health or more basic fundamental aspects of human movement.


your Programme the master’s in hydrology is a two-year programme of 120 credits. it is a mix of lectures, tutorials, excursions and extended periods of fieldwork outside the university to provide a combination of theorethical knowledge and application under field conditions. our courses include: Catchment response analysis; ecohydrology; regional hydrogeology and groundwater management; groundwater flow modelling; hydrochemistry; international hydrology field courses and research projects. Hydrogeology focuses on saturated and unsaturated groundwater and surface water flows on a local and

regional scale, as well as on groundwater exploration and water quality issues. Ecohydrology focuses on processes regulating the hydrological cycle and water quality, and how these are affected by changes occurring at the land surface in response to human activities (e.g. deforestation, climate change).

your future Careeryou might be involved in managing surface water or groundwater resources; groundwater exploration and recharge studies in sub-humid areas; groundwater clean-up operations using bioremedial measures; river basin flood prediction; studying the effects of land cover change on streamflow totals and regime; erosion and sedimentation issues and their remediation; wetland and forest hydrological issues; or water-related policies and climate change studies.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsyou can gain admission to the master’s programme in hydrology with a Bachelor’s degree in earth sciences, geology or geography. the same applies if you have a three-year Bsc in other natural sciences and technology. Additional requirements in terms of background knowledge are made for certain specializations.

other interesting Programmesearth sciences - ecology - environment and resource management - geographical information sciences - geosciences of Basins and lithosphere.

WWW.vu.nl/hydrology

your Programmeyou will learn all about effective hrm by comparing and applying theories and practices at the micro (individual behaviour, such as employee motivation), meso (organizational hrm practices, such as performance management) and macro (contextual factors, such as national culture) levels. this specialization

programme is unique because of its wide-ranging and multi-levelled approach. you will be encouraged to hone your critical and analytical skills by assessing current hrm theories and practices in light of their suitability over time and how they relate to various aspects of social, political and technological progress. you will look into whether traditional hrm theories are still relevant when applied to contemporary hrm issues, such as the ageing workforce in Western countries or the urge felt by today’s workers for work-family balance.

your future Careeronce you have passed all the components of the programme, you will be awarded the title of master of science (msc) in Business administration with the annotation of your specialization. as a specialist in human resource performance and development you will be extremely well qualified to pursue a career in HRM. many other opportunities will also be open to you, for example in general management or consultancy. alternatively, after graduating you will be eligible to apply for a Phd position, preferably within the field of Business administration.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration including courses like (advanced) human resource management.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration, and other related specializations.

WWW.vu.nl/hrm

hydrology

human resource management (business administration)

human resource management (hrm) can be defined as the management of work and people in order to achieve desired outcomes. for organizations, these desired outcomes involve high performance aligned with organizational goals.for employees, they involve career and development opportunities. human resource managers take on the challenge of aligning individual needs with organizational requirements using HRM tools and models. At VU University amsterdam, you will learn to reflect critically on these and many other issues facing hrm, a process taking place in the context of environmental and societal trends, such as the diversity of the employees’ backgrounds.

hydrology is the study of the movement of water and its quality throughout Earth’s hydrological cycle. The programme deals with the natural processes regulating the quantity and quality of our fresh water resources and how changes in our environment (pollution, population growth, land use change) affect the surface and ground water resources.


your Programmethe master’s in information sciences is a one-year programme. in the first five months, you will have a choice of master’s courses in information sciences based on recent international research at vu university amsterdam. the second half of the year focuses on your final project, resulting in an MSc thesis. The

project can take the form of a work placement with an external organization or a company. our range of courses is dynamic, reflecting ongoing research developments. the curriculum is therefore open to change from year to year, and may include guest courses, siks national graduate research school courses or new topics taught by the university staff. our current courses include: information retrieval; e-Business innovation; software architecture; ontology engineering.

your future Careerthe career prospects for information sciences graduates are truly excellent. you could become an e-business architect in an international consultancy, a web editor for a broadcasting company, an iCt manager at a bank/insurance company, or an iCt coordinator at a museum. our graduates often find themselves liaising between engineers and end-users, as there is enormous demand for experts who speak with both groups. the programme also prepares you for further education as a scientific researcher.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in information sciences. for any detailed information, please contact: michiel Boere ([email protected]).

other interesting Programmesartificial intelligence - Computer science.

WWW.vu.nl/informationsCienCes

your Programmethe programme will provide you with a firm understanding of the managerial challenges posed by the increasingly knowledge-intensive nature of organizing and developing business. it will help you appreciate the value of innovative organizational arrangements (online communities, virtual organizations, networked organizations) and emerging technologies (new e-business applications, social media, augmented reality, virtual worlds) in meeting these challenges. our teaching staff

are young and enthusiastic, and provide an ideal combination of scholarship and hands-on experience. the emphasis of the programme is on developing and using new theoretical insights to solve practical challenges. This is reflected in joint projects that are carried out together with companies such as Philips, rabobank, iBm, ordina, kPmg, secondlife, eBay, marktplaats, randstad and Planet internet.

your future Careerthe relevance of managing information and knowledge to improve organizational processes and develop business continues to grow. We have alumni working for organizations such as iBm, accenture, kPmg, tnt, deloitte, quint redwood Wellington, PWC, ordina, linkit, aBn amro, Philips and eBay. some have become business consultants, it consultants, business analysts, strategy consul-tants, project managers, marketing consultants or knowledge managers. others have successfully started their own businesses. a significant number of graduates have gone on to obtain a Phd.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration with focus on information management and e-business or knowledge management.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration: specialization transport and supply Chain management - Business administration: specialization strategy and organization.

WWW.vu.nl/ikm

inFormation and knowledge management (business administration)

inFormation sciences

managing information and knowledge to improve organizational processes and develop business is essential in the modern economy. that’s what the information and knowledge management (ikm) specialization is all about. it provides you with a thorough academic understanding of innovative organizational and technological solutions to turn information and knowledge into a competitive advantage. the courses in this specialization focus on the interactions between the individuals, organizations and partners involved in turning information and knowledge into strategic value, and how these interactions benefit from innovative organizational and technological developments.

information sciences is the multidisciplinary area spanning information and Communication technology (iCt) and their practical application in society. the programme focuses on web applications and internet research for the future e-society, including e-business, e-culture, e-entertainment and e-communities. learn to design intelligent web applications to publish, maintain and share data and knowledge across companies, public institutions and communities of interest. explore multimedia database design on the internet, where all kinds of users can access music libraries and digital museum collections. discover effective strategies for developingsuccessful networked business models for smes offering web-based e-services.


your Programmeinternational Crimes and Criminology is a full-time, one-year programme. the programme offers a multifaceted approach to international crimes. insights from various disciplines such as sociology, psychology, criminology and political science are dealt with extensively. the programme consists of four compulsory courses and several optional courses. the compulsory courses are:• International Crimes• Research Methodology of International Crimes• International Criminal Courts and Tribunals

• Perpetrators and Bystandersyou will complete the programme with a master’s thesis, which leads to the master of science degree (msc).

your future Careerafter finishing the programme, you will be able to assess empirical data and comment on theoretical notions on the one hand, and draft policy documents, develop preventive strategies and carry out fieldwork on the other. graduates will be equipped to embark on careers in a variety of organizations such as international criminal courts and tribunals, human rights organizations, government departments and research institutes. you could become an analyst at a criminal court, a post-graduate in criminology or a consultant for a nongovernmental organization.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Criminology, law, social sciences, Political sciences or any related subject and an interest in political violence, international crimes or other gross human rights violations. applicants must have a good proficiency in english. it is up to the admissions Board to decide on the selection of students. for more information on admission requirements, application and the programme, please check the website.

other interesting Programmeslaw and Politics of international security (llm).

WWW.vu.nl/iCC

your Programmeinternational Business law is a full-time, one-year programme. the programme consists of compulsory courses and elective courses that explore different areas of international business law. you will complete the programme with a master’s thesis, which leads to the master of laws degree (llm).

your future Careerstudents who have completed the master’s programme may for instance work as an attorney at an international law firm or as an in-house lawyer for an international company. you may also pursue a career as a legal counsel in government institutions or international organizations, or develop your academic skills by pursuing a Phd. alumni have formed a professional group on linkedin: ‘vu university amsterdam llm Programme international Business law’.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsApplicants must have a Bachelor’s, or an equivalent degree in Law. Students who do not meet this requirement are also encouraged to apply, provided that they have a sound academic background and proven experience in the field of law. applicants must have a good proficiency in english. it is up to the admissions Board to decide on the selection of students. for more information on admission requirements, application and the programme, please check the website.

other interesting Programmeslaw and Politics of international security (llm).

WWW.vu.nl/iBl

international crimes and criminology

international business law

the master’s programme in international Business law is designed for students who wish to pursue a career in the field of international commerce. it aims at developing an understanding of the world’s trading system and rules for international investments. the programme also looks into the legal fields of business such as contracts, taxes, competition, insurance, financing, market access and dispute settlement. you will study the interaction between the actors involved in transactions. in addition, you will develop skills to anticipate, analyse and address legal problems that may arise in the practice of international business.

international crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide and other gross human rights violations pose a threat to international peace and security and call for effective action. the master’s programme in international Crimes and Criminology deals with these crimes in a broad framework and trains students to become both academics and professionals. During the programme you will acquire the necessary intellectual skills to take a multidisciplinary approach to international crimes and learn how to apply these skills to real-world situations.


your Programmelaw and Politics of international security is a full-time, one-year programme. the programme deals with topics such as the united nations’ collective security system, the transformation of war (including terrorism and other forms of political violence), human rights protection, and humanitarian law. the programme consists of four compulsory courses and two elective courses in law and political science. the compulsory courses are:

• Changing Nature of War• International Humanitarian Law• Security Studies• Politics of International Criminal Justiceif you do not have a sufficient background in international relations theory or Public international law, then we strongly recommend you to take either Public international law or theories and approaches in international relations as elective courses. you will complete the programme with a master’s thesis, which leads to the master of laws degree (llm).

your future Careerthe programme prepares students for a career in one of the many fields where the concept of security is most significant, most prominently in policy-making, diplomatic service, legal advice to governments and international organizations, and academia.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsApplicants must have a Bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Law,social sciences or liberal arts, and a basic knowledge of international law or international relations theory. applicants must have a good proficiency in english. it is up to the admissions Board to decide on the selection of students. for detailed information on admission requirements, application and the programme, please check the website.

other interesting Programmesinternational Crimes and Criminology (msc) - international Business law (llm) - Political science (msc).

WWW.vu.nl/lPis

your Programmetransnational legal studies is one of the full-time, one-year specializations within the vu master of laws. you will choose an in-depth course in either eu law or Public international law (or take both). you will then choose from a range of optional courses, covering topics as diverse as human rights, e-commerce, law and religion, the politics of international law, children’s rights, and competition law, so that you can tailor your master’s to your particular interests. you may

also go on an internship or spend a period of study abroad. your programme culminates in the writing of a thesis.you will be encouraged throughout your year to participate in departmental seminars and discussions. Whatever your fields of particular interest, our aim is to stimulate depth of knowledge, breadth of vision, and intellectual curiosity.

your future Careergraduating students are well-placed for the employment market. european and international law specialists are in demand at eu institutions, the un, international organizations, ngo’s, national governments, and international legal practice. the programme is an ideal preparation for a university career.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in law, or a Bachelor’s degree in a related subject including at least 60 credits of relevant law, or, exceptionally, fewer than 60 credits of law but other subjects showing comparable and relevant knowledge (such as international relations or european studies). it is up to the admissions Board to decide on the selection of students. for more information on admission, application and the programme, please check the website.

other interesting Programmesinternational Business law (llm) - law and Politics of international security (llm).

WWW.vu.nl/tls

law: specialization transnational legal studies

law and politics oF international security

the traditional distinctions between national, european and international law fail to capture the nature of law in a globalizing world. Cross-border phenomena such as terrorism, economic interdependence, migration, global warming and the internet invite us to use and think about law in ways that challenge traditional ideas of sovereignty and jurisdiction. Transnational Legal Studies focuses on law beyond the state in its social, political, economic, symbolic and policy context.

issues of international peace and security are becoming increasingly important in legal, political and administrative practice. the concept of ‘international security’ is no longer confined to traditional issues of war and peace, but now also covers topics such as terrorism and criminal law. the law and Politics of international security programme is based on the assumption that international law cannot be properly understood outside its political context, whereas contempo-rary international politics cannot be fully grasped without a solid knowledge of international law. the programme offers a multidisciplinary approach and gives students the opportunity to specialize in an increasingly crucial field of studies.


your ProgrammeBeing small-scale, this programme affords students the opportunity to get to know the different lecturers and their areas of expertise. you will be involved in the activities of the research group from the very beginning. you will be invited to take part in their monthly research meetings, where they take turns presenting their research activities and engaging in discussion. your choice of courses will be based on your own interests and

the specialization that you wish to pursue. our areas of expertise include not only phonology and syntax but also subjects such as textual and/or genre analysis, anthropological linguistics, applied linguistics and sociolinguistics.

your future Careerafter completing the research master’s, many students go on to set up their own research programme as a Phd student. this involves carrying out research under the guidance of a supervisor, and writing a PhD thesis on the subject. You can also embark on a career at a research institute outside of the academic setting. other opportunities available to you after graduation include embarking on a career outside the field of research, for instance as an editor, a language policy worker in education for a local or national government or as a teacher.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in linguistics.

other interesting ProgrammesCommunication and information studies: programme metaphor in discourse.

WWW.vu.nl/linguistiCs

your Programme the research master’s in lCd is a two-year full-time programme. the aim is to become a skilled researcher, providing the ideal pathway to a Phd programme. therefore lCd includes:• Five methodology / epidemiological courses• Three applied courses in general scientific skills • Three elective courses

• Two scientific internships as a researcher, you need to understand research methods inside out. the methodology courses teach you how to set up valid and reliable (epidemiological) research. the applied courses focus on scientific writing in english, writing grant proposals, and ethics. furthermore there are elective courses on specific topics (e.g. mental health, Physical activity, overweight and Prevention). the second year is fully reserved for internships (total of 60 credits). your teachers are internationally recognized leaders in their scientific field.

your future Careerthis research master’s trains you for a specialist scientific career in this field. You could join a university or health institute as a researcher or Phd student. there are also opportunities in scientific work for the government or the pharmaceuticals industry. or you might consider becoming an epidemiologist in the health service.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsadmission is limited to 30 students per year. the programme is intended for students who have completed a Bachelor’s degree in health sciences or a Bachelor’s degree in a related programme.

other interesting Programmeshealth sciences - management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurship in the health and life sciences.

WWW.vu.nl/lCd

linguistics (research)

liFestyle and chronic disorders

improve your knowledge and skills in epidemiological research and help to improve evidence-based health care. this is important because many people in the Western World run high risks of developing chronic diseases and disorders. the biggest threats are unhealthy lifestyle factors that can cause such chronic health problems. does epidemiological research into health and lifestyle issues appeal to you? Choose the research master’s in lifestyle and Chronic disorders (lCd). lCd is in the process of becoming an officially accredited epidemiology programme by the dutch association of epidemiology.

the research master’s in linguistics is a two-year programme which will enable you to develop into a professional researcher. the programme deals with linguistics in its broadest sense. all students will take the general course linguistic research, which is taught by three or four lecturers, each of whom lectures on the history of research in the field of linguistics from the perspective of their own specialization. in addition, you will select an area in which you wish to specialize.


your Programmeliteratures in english consists of 60 credits and aims to give new insights into the ways in which literary works and the visual arts continually reinforce one another. after a theoretical core course, you will be exposed to a host of highly diverse yet interrelated courses on renaissance theatre, american poetry, and gothic fiction, movie adaptations, and screenwriting that zoom in on the visual turn.

your future Careerupon completion of your degree you’ll be a specialist in english literary studies, with a strong international orientation and trained in discussing and writing about complex ideas. this affords excellent opportunities in the growing international corporate sector. in recent years, many of our graduates have found employment in the commercial sector, working as communications specialists, marketing managers or lexicographers, for instance. there are also many opportunities available in journalism, translation, editing and publishing. alternatively, you can choose to continue your studies by pursuing a research degree or an educational master’s degree that enables you to teach senior secondary school classes or pursue a Phd.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s programme in english literature, or a Bachelor’s programme in humanities in english and american literature and culture.

other interesting ProgrammesCommunication and information studies: programme metaphor in discourse.

WWW.vu.nl/literaturesenglish

your Programmethis specialization offers a combination of academic research strategies and consultancy approaches. it also emphasizes strong personal, research and interviewing skills, which will help you select the most appropriate tools for formulating your arguments and for providing your clients with real added value. our teaching staff includes some of the best-known consultants in the netherlands and all staff members combine their wide-ranging consultancy experience with their academic

work at the faculty. honours track: in addition to the standard 60-credit programme, honours students may add some courses from other specializations like strategy and organization or finance, Banking and insurance. they will conduct research for a consulting company and write a scholarly article based on this research in addition to their thesis.

your future Careeronce you have passed all the components of the programme, you will be awarded the title of master of science in Business administration with the annotation of your specialization and honours track, if applicable. graduates will be prepared for a job in consulting as a junior consultant, research associate at a consulting company, a junior policy adviser at a Ministry or an internal consultant working in business. some graduates are currently involved in major projects, including the integration of ing and Postbank. others have taken up positions in consulting firms with a more specialized focus, such as strategy consulting, it consulting or marketing research. you can also start with a PhD project on consulting after the Master’s programme

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration or a (social) science degree with at least 30 credits management courses.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration: specialization strategy and organization.

WWW.vu.nl/managementConsulting

literary studies: programme literaturesin english

management consulting (business administration)

literatures in english is the english programme of the literary studies master’s at vu university amsterdam. it approaches the relationship of literature with its visual sister arts from both a theoretical and practical perspective. literatures in english examines the ways in which literature interacts with the visual arts, ranging from painting to television. What are the differences and similarities between how a story is told in fiction as opposed to a theatre production or a movie? how is visuality represented in poems, plays and novels?

Consultants are hired when clients do not know what action to take, when they are uncertain or when they do not have the time they need for proper reflection. that is what makes management consultancy a challenging profession. how can you help to improve a decision? What consulting role is most appropriate? how can you convince your client of the best course of action? the specialization in management Consulting prepares you for these challenges by offering you tools and training for developing the personal skills needed by consultants.


your Programmein the master’s programme in marketing you will study and analyse choices that companies make in defining, creating and delivering superior customer value with the ultimate aim of achieving a sustainable competitive edge. accordingly, the first semester concentrates on acquiring and applying knowledge of strategic marketing and market research as well

as further specializations in the areas of consumer and business marketing. next, in teams you will integrate and apply the acquired knowledge in real life current cases and challenges, submitted by our business contacts. the second semester features several specialization courses including cross-cultural consumer research and geo-marketing and academic seminars on topics such as innovation, strategy, and online marketing. these courses and seminars are an excellent preparation for choosing a specific subject for your Master’s thesis and preparing a research proposal.

your future Careermany graduates of the master’s programme in marketing find a job in marketing management or market research, for example as a product manager, marketing manager, account manager or market researcher in a large multinational corporation or in the small and medium enterprise sector. in addition, the master’s in marketing allows you to choose a career in consulting, management or a range of other fields beyond marketing itself.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in marketing or related field with a focus on marketing research, services marketing and Consumer Behaviour.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration: specialization information and knowledge management.

WWW.vu.nl/marketing

your Programmethe two-year master’s programme in mPa is structured as follows: compulsory courses (33 credits), optional courses (18 credits), two internships (60 credits) and writing a thesis (9 credits). the compulsory courses are designed to build core competencies, while optional courses are designed to explore a particular area in greater depth. internships form an important part of the programme, with placements possible in, for example, the ministry of health, a pharmaceutical company or a research institute. internships abroad are also an option. in addition, you are required to write a thesis on a subject of your choice. you can specialize in: • Health and Life Sciences-based Policy: focuses on governmental

policy and the way it is used to solve complex social questions.• Health and Life Sciences-based Management and

entrepreneurship: focuses on the evolution of scientific knowledge and how this has contributed to interesting and relevant innovations for society.

• International Public Health: focuses on situating health issues within an international context.

• Science Communication: focuses on becoming an expert in the field of science communication.

your future Careerhaving completed the master’s programme in mPa, your career prospects will be very promising. your career opportunities will include policy preparation with a government department or public health organizations, a post as a university researcher, a career at a pharmaceutical company, for example as a clinical research assistant or an advisor.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsFor details about admission requirements, please contact the master’s coordinator: [email protected] examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

other interesting Programmeshealth sciences - lifestyle and Chronic disorders - global health.

WWW.vu.nl/mPa

marketing

management, policy analysis and entrepre-neurship in the health and liFe sciences (mpa)

the master’s in management, Policy analysis and entrepreneurship in the health and life sciences (mPa) is unique in its focus. Innovations and developments in the fields of health and life sciences give rise to complex social issues. the programme concentrates on the scientific aspects of integrating different areas of knowledge and on developing effective policies, taking the right decisions and motivating and managing the professionals who work in this sector.

the master’s of science in marketing focuses on educating marketing professionals to have a strongly developed critical and analytical intellect, profound knowledge and insight into state-of-the-art marketing as well as the ability to apply these insights to practical marketing problems. the programme distinguishes itself from other programmes by focusing on strategic marketing topics and integrating a managerial and research focused approach. the master’s thus forms an excellent basis for solving marketing problems in both consumer and business markets. you will learn to think critically, make succinct analyses, and reach well-argued conclusions.


your Programme medical natural sciences is a two-year programme. you will take introductory and advanced courses in a broad range of topics within medical natural sciences and write a literature thesis. in the second year you will join one of the participating research groups. you can choose one of the following specializations:• Medical Physics: you will gain clinical-physical or medical-

physical expertise and you will contribute to technological developments aimed at improving the quality of life.

• Physics of Life: you will deal with challenging technological developments in areas such as biochemical-biophysical studies

of the activity of protein molecules in the living cell and medical imaging.

• Medical Physiology: you will become an expert in clinically-oriented research focused on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular complications.

• Molecular Clinical Diagnostics: you will study the discovery, validation and identification of predictive biomarkers and their application in clinical chemistry.

your future Careeronce you have completed the master’s, you will be able to work in clinics and biomedical research institutes or companies. if you decide to specialize further as a clinical physicist or clinical chemists, your master’s degree will entitle you to apply for the postgraduate programme.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to the Dutch Bachelor’s degree in medical natural sciences. for details on admission requirements, please contact the PR Officer: Tessa Lange([email protected]).

other interesting ProgrammesBioinformatics and systems Biology - Biomolecular sciences - Chemistry - drug discovery and safety - Physics.

WWW.vu.nl/mns

your Programmethe master’s programme in mathematics gives you the opportunity to follow your interests. topics that are part of this programme are mathematical analysis, stochastics, algebra and geometry and biomedical mathematics.

the master’s programme in mathematics consists of specialized courses, optional courses and culminates in the master’s project, which is carried out under the supervision of a staff member from the mathematics institute or externally at a company or research facility. the nine dutch universities with MSc’s in Mathematics and Engineering Mathematics offer a joint

programme of courses, of which you will be expected to attend at least four. for more information, see www.mastermath.nl. students choose either a research or a social profile.

your future Careeryour training in analysis and your problem-solving skills will give you a head start in many professional environments, even those in which your specialist knowledge may initially seem less relevant. graduates with excellent academic records are invited to apply for one of our Phd positions.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in mathematics or engineering mathematics. The Examination Board may set additional requirements.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness analytics - stochastics and financial mathematics.

WWW.vu.nl/mathematiCs

mathematics

medical natural sciences

medical natural sciences is a multidisciplinary programme that combines physics and chemistry with medicine. this combination will introduce you to innovative ways of conducting medical research. a multidisciplinary background of this kind will equip you perfectly for tomorrow’s approaches to medical research, in all their complexity.

mathematics is a vibrant, multifaceted and versatile field that focuses on the study and development of techniques to tackle pure and applied mathematical questions. VU University amsterdam offers a wide variety of research topics in the field of mathematics ranging from probability theory, operations research and statistics via analysis to topology and k-theory.


your Programmethe two-year master’s programme (120 credits) provides students the chance to fulfill their individual needs and ambitions (with the greatest possible freedom). after successfully completing the compulsory courses (30 credits) including oncogenesis, tumour immunology, tumour Biology and Clinical Behaviour, innovative tumour therapies, Biostatistics and scientific Writing in english, students are free to choose from a wide range of specialized optional courses (15 credits) and two

research projects (66 credits in total). For your placements you can choose from among a variety of challenging projects either at vumc, other dutch research institutes or one of our leading international partners. finally you will complete a literature survey (9 credits) under the supervision of a vumc expert in oncology. a select group of the most outstanding students will be offered the opportunity to follow an advanced top master’s programme; they will attend advanced courses in oncology and will be required to execute a research project in a specialist cancer centre abroad.

your future Careera master’s degree in oncology will enable you to work in the field of biomedical/oncological research at universities (including vu university amsterdam/vumc) or other research institutes such as the netherlands Cancer institute and pharmaceutical or biotech companies in the netherlands or abroad.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsstudents with a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical sciences, medicine, medical natural sciences, Biology, Biochemistry or other related life sciences are welcome to apply. an assessment is part of the admission procedure. for more detailed admission requirements go to Masteroncology.nl or contact Dr. M. van Duist at [email protected].

other interesting ProgrammesCardiovascular research.

WWW.vu.nl/onCology

your Programmethe master’s in neurosciences is a two-year full-time programme. the teaching comprises lectures, research seminars, work groups, demonstrations, lab visits and practicals. first year: compulsory courses + first traineeship. second year: optional courses + literature survey + second traineeship. to give you an impression of the diversity of the programme, here is a small selection of the subjects we offer:Compulsory courses include general subjects such as from Molecule to Mind, but also more specific subjects, such as neurogenomics and Behavioural genetics. optional courses include: advanced neurogenomics; neuronal networks in vivo; experimental and Clinical

neuroendocrinology; neuropharmacology and Psychopharmacology; statistical genetics for gene finding; live Cell imaging; functional Brain imaging; system neurosciences; genomic data analysis.

your future CareerThe vast majority (70-80%) of Master’s graduates in Neuro-sciences go on to join a PhD programme. The world of the neurosciences is particularly keen to welcome students with a multidisciplinary education as offered by the master’s in neurosciences programme at vu university amsterdam. a Phd will prepare you for a top position at a university, with a research institute such as the netherlands institute for neuroscience or in the corporate sector.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in many different disciplines, but in particular those with a background in Biology, Biomedical sciences or Biological Psychology. For details about admission requirements, please contact the master’s coordinator: [email protected].

other interesting ProgrammesBiomedical sciences - Chemistry - drug discovery and safety - oncology - Physics.

WWW.vu.nl/neurosCienCes

oncology

neurosciences

each year over two million people suffer from a disease or condition which affects the brain, including dementia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, infarctions, tumours, epilepsy, addiction, schizophrenia, and anxiety and mood disorders. if you opt for the master’s programme in neurosciences, you will help to develop strategies for treating and possibly even preventing these afflictions.

the master’s programme in oncology aims to train students to become masters with in-depth knowledge, attitudes and skills in the field of cancer research and treatment. this includes development, execution, organization and evaluation of oncological scientific research. the research-orientated programme has a multidisciplinary character and is especially designed for students with a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical sciences and related life sciences, including medicine.


your Programmeat vu university amsterdam there is a long-standing tradition of Christian philosophical thinking and debate, which concentrates on a critical analysis of various contemporary issues: • presuppositions and consequences of the empirical sciences

and related technologies;• the ideological background of political and social developments;

• the rise of instrumentalism in various professions, like health care and social work.

the course offers an introduction into an integral Christian perspective, providing a challenging, critical and yet balanced evaluation of cultural developments. it also offers an analysis of modern and postmodern philosophy aimed at discerning the basic motives driving the development of contemporary culture. there are three subprogramme’s: science, technology and responsibility; Politics and society; or ethics, healthcare and social Work.

your future CareerThe programme aims to equip you for a deeper fulfillment of various functions in higher education or in social, political and professional organizations. training in various skills prepares students for future responsibilities within organizations, in public debates and in academia.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study from an accredited university.

other interesting Programmesresearch in religion and theology - theology specializations: Bible translation - Church ministry - Cross Cultural theology - divinity - evangelical and reformation theology - living reformed theology - Pentecostal studies.

WWW.vu.nl/Christianstudies

your Programmethe master’s in Parallel and distributed Computer systems (PdCs) is a two-year programme worth 120 credits. it features a balance of classes and applied work; about one third of the first three semesters is devoted to practical projects.

You will take compulsory subjects worth 42 credits and optional subjects worth 42 credits. The initial emphasis is on lectures but the focus gradually shifts towards independent, research-

oriented study with practical work, seminars and open research questions. The final semester is dedicated to the Master’s project, which usually involves conducting research together with a member of the academic staff. Core subjects include:• Distributed Systems: learn about developing middleware

systems for large-scale computer networks• Parallel Programming: make programs that run in parallel on

a large number of processors• Computer and Network Security: explore several security

aspects

your future CareerPdCs is a research master’s, which means that most of our students are gearing up for a career in academic or industrial research and will continue their studies in a Phd position at a top university. Others join industrial research laboratories. Some graduates join high-tech companies where their specific skills are applied to the execution of innovative projects.

sPeCifiC admission requirements a Bachelor’s degree or a statement that the applicant has completed courses in relevant subjects for a total of at least three full years of academic study or at least 180 credits in relevant subjects.

other interesting Programmesartificial intelligence - Computer science.

WWW.vu.nl/PdCs

parallel and distributed computer systems (pdcs)

philosophy: christian studies oF science and society

Do you dare to question the purpose of your discipline? the master’s programme is a one-year course that aims at providing students with the intellectual tools for analysing key issues in contemporary science and society from a Christian perspective. this tradition, which means taking an open and critical approach to modern-day issues, stretches back to augustine and many other thinkers within the Christian tradition. With students from many different countries enrolled, the programme provides a unique opportunity for debating these issues in an international context.

Entirely new software architectures are required to develop large-scale, geographically distributed systems to allow billions of users to manipulate huge amounts of data. scalability of algorithms will be a key issue, as existing technologies fall short in this respect. New techniques are also needed in security, performance analysis, programming models and visualization. the master’s programme in Parallel and distributed Computer systems specializes in educating students in this new area.


your Programme the programme offers four specializations: • International relations and transnational governance Peace-

treaties, international migration, environment, terrorism, human rights and crime call for an international political approach. the transmission in political power demands scholars with knowledge of international relations and global governance.

• Global environmental governance: focuses on the political aspects and implications of topics such as climate change, sustainability and nature. the protection of the environment

might be the biggest challenge of this era. this specialization studies the ways in which environmental problems are dealt with.

• Comparative European politics: Analyses the characteristics and diversity of nation states within their global context, with a particular focus on those in a european context.

• Policy and politics: Offers a combination of political science and public administration, focusing on the interaction between political institutions and policy-making. While policy and politics are closely related in practice, they operate according to distinct logics that students learn how to combine.

your future CareerYou could find a job as a policy analyst or advisor in a government ministry or an international organization like the eu. graduates also work for international ngo’s and policy consultancy firms. You will also be qualified to enter the field of journalism.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Political science, international relations or a related discipline. you must have had social sciences research methodology.

other interesting ProgrammesCulture, organization and management - social and Cultural anthropology - law and Politics of international security (llm).

WWW.vu.nl/PolitiCalsCienCe

your Programmethe master’s programme in Physics is a two-year programme. in the first year you follow courses relevant for your chosen specialization, with ample choice of optional courses. in the second year, you will join one of the participating research groups at a university or an external research group to work on your own research project. You can choose from the following specializations: • Advanced Matter and Energy Physics: deals with energy

materials and processes, fundamental physics tests in atomic gasses, complex liquids, soft condensed and biomatter.

• Particle and Astroparticle Physics: here you study particles and gravitational waves from the universe or you investigate

particle-antiparticle asymmetry using high-energy accelerator experiments.

• Physics of Life and Health: dive into the fascinating world of dna, proteins, cells, tissue mechanics and diagnostic instrumentation.

• Science for Energy and Sustainability: trains you to provide sustainable solutions to the current pressing global situation with regard to energy, climate and sustainability.

• Theoretical Physics: research topics include gravity and string theory, particle phenomenology, quantum optics, statistical physics, biophysics and laser optics.

your future Careeras a master in Physics you will have ample career opportunities in science, but also in industry (chip industry, medical applications etc.), in education and consultancy.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in Physics. the examination Board may set additionalrequirements.

other interesting Programmesmathematics - medical natural sciences - science, Business & innovation.

WWW.vu.nl/PhysiCs

political science

physics

the master’s programme in Physics provides you with plenty of opportunities to study and engage in groundbreaking fundamental research and its applications. Whether you are interested in astroparticle physics, creating artificial photosynthesis, testing fundamental symmetries at the atomic scale or physical processes within cells, the programme gives you the opportunity to deepen your knowledge.

the programme provides you with a thorough understanding of political processes and a comprehensive overview of developing socio-political structures, addressing, for example, issues of power and inequality, political communication and the environment. students will study key concepts including the nature of transnationalization and multi-level governance, within the context of interrelated disciplinary traditions such as Comparative Politics, international relations and european integration studies.


your ProgrammeIn projects or labs, you will analyse, interpret and work with new developments, inventions, products and services in life and/or energy science. Concurrently, you will advance and deepen your knowledge in natural, business and social sciences as well as enhance your skills with respect to leadership, decision making

and r&d management. additionally, you will take electives in an area of your choice. your studies will culminate in an interdisciplinary SBI project (a research internship leading to a master’s thesis), studying innovation processes that combine state-of-the-art inventions in life or energy science with strategies for implementation.

your future Career as an sBi graduate you are trained to integrate scientific aspects in a business and innovation context while taking organizational, social and cultural variables into account. Possible starting positions include junior R&D project manager, high-tech marketing trainee, or strategy consultant in the public or private sector.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsFor details about admission requirements, please contact the master’s coordinator: [email protected]. the examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in a related field.

WWW.vu.nl/sBi-msC

your Programmeyear 1:two specialization modules are followed by a module on research skills and two research papers. alongside this trajectory is another one in which you may choose to do advanced study in the chosen specialization (a guided reading course or a tutorial, depending upon the enrollment) or another master’s course on offer.

year 2:in periods 1-3 you follow seminars and in periods 4-6 you complete your research project in the form of a Master’s degree thesis. alongside the seminars you may once again choose to do an advanced study module in your field of specialization (normally a guided reading course) or another master’s level course on offer.

your future Careermost students enter the programme with the aim of completing their Phd at vu university amsterdam. you will become eligible for acceptance into the doctoral programme if you graduate from marrt with outstanding marks (an average of 8 out of 10 or higher). others enroll in marrt to prepare themselves to serve as ministers in local congregations or para-church ministries. The skills acquired during the programme provide the ideal preparation for these working environments. successful completion of your Phd at vu university amsterdam will prepare you for a career at any research institute, university or seminary throughout the world.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsA Bachelor’s degree in Theology required; enrollment upon admission.

other interesting Programmestheology.

WWW.vu.nl/rrt

research in religion and theology (marrt)

science, business & innovation (master’s track in chemistry and physics)

have you always been interested in theology and its role in society and in the lives of individuals? do you always want to know more? if so, you have the right attitude to become a scholar. if you hope to teach at a research institution or seminary, this programme can help you discover how to share your research and interests with students and fellow theologians. it will help you develop the skills you need to strenghten this passion for knowledge into an incisive scholarly approach.

transforming inventions into innovative products: that is theaim of the new science, Business & innovation master’strack. experts from the exact sciences, business administration and social sciences define a high-quality programme focusing on innovation processes in sustainable energy, drug development and biomedical technology. this master’s track has two themes: energy science and life science. you will focus on one theme or combine the two. Courses include: “Current sustainable energy technologies”, “Business, innovation and value creation in the life science industry” and “modelling of molecules and systems”.


your Programmeteaching takes place on a small scale, in seminars, workshops, and individual mentorships. instructors are internationally recognized in diverse fields. the programme features special facilities, including a dedicated research laboratory and a work-study room. We have a truly international character: activities are in english, and more than half of our students come from outside the netherlands. during the first year, courses focus on

basic principles as well as advanced skills, including methods, statistics, and writing; students also complete a research project. the second year integrates this knowledge and places it in a broader, multidisciplinary context; students also complete two research projects. Our Master of Science degree is internationally recognized.

your future Careersocial Psychology combines understanding interpersonal behaviour with sophisticated methods, so career prospects are favourable. after completing their education, social psychologists: (a) work in college or university settings, teaching and conducting research; (b) work in the private sector as consultants, researchers, marketing directors, or managers; or (c) work in government and non-profit organizations, designing and evaluating policies and programmes in education, conflict resolution, environmental protection, and other fields. graduates of our programme are well-placed for these types of jobs, and are also attractive candidates for advanced PhD work. In recent years, our students have quickly obtained desirable positions following graduation.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsan academic Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or related field; experience in methods, statistics; english proficiency. other interesting ProgrammesCognitive neuropsychology - Political science.

WWW.vu.nl/soCialPsyChology

your Programmethe programme begins with a comprehensive theoretical orientation on human security. halfway you will specialize in one of two profiles: • Constructing Identities and Notions of Belonging:

examines the ways in which people form imagined, ritualistic or face-to-face communities to shield themselves from feelings of anxiety, fear, risk, threat, alienation and exile. the central issues are migration, community construction, identity politics, violence and the pursuit of religious certainty.

• Development and Social Transformations: you will learn about the physical but culturally entangled aspects of human security, tackling issues including natural resource management, poverty and sustainable development, dispute resolution, gender issues, forced migration and international peacekeeping.

in both profiles, you will learn to analyse concrete issues of cultural diversity, social complexity, international inequality and development using anthropological theories and concepts. in the second semester, you will conduct fieldwork research for your thesis in your country of choice for approximately three months.

your future Career the labour market has varied possibilities for anthropologists: policy or management positions in companies, government organizations and ngos. jobs in governmental organizations in the social service field or as a communication and organization advisor are suitable positions.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in anthropology or a related discipline. you must have had qualitative Social Sciences research methodology.

other interesting ProgrammesCulture, organization and management - Political science.

WWW.vu.nl/sCa

social and cultural anthropology

social psychology

this is a small-scale, personal and intensive programme in anthropology and human security. you will explore the multiple dimensions of human security and insecurity (e.g. economic, socio-cultural, political), dimensions that are sometimes entang-led in contradictory ways. your focus will be on people’s attempts to achieve material, physical and emotional security, and on how these often clash and create new insecurities. during the pro-gramme, you will deal with various aspects and manifestations of human security and insecurity, such as livelihood, risk-taking, sustainable development, migration and belonging, and religion and security.

Become the best scientist and scholar that you can be! our master’s programme in social Psychology takes a multidisciplinary approach to understanding fundamental social psychological processes. the underlying idea is that new insights regarding human behaviour can be understood more completely by incorporating evolutionary, cognitive, and social structural perspectives in the study of diverse social psychological phenomena, including self processes, interpersonal relations, and intra- and inter-group phenomena. social psychology is therefore an important factor in countless situations and settings.


your Programmethe master’s programme consists mainly of courses in the core subjects of Financial Mathematics and Stochastics, but also allows you to choose some from other fields, including mathematics, econometrics and Business analytics. you will select four or five subjects from the list of recommended courses each semester. in consultation with the staff, you may be able to substitute some of these with other relevant

mathematical modules. the stochastics and financial Mathematics Master’s programme ends with a research project or with an external project carried out at a business or research facility outside the Department of Mathematics. This project culminates with the writing of your master’s thesis and an oral presentation of the results.

your future Careerafter graduation, you will be ready to start a career with, for example, a bank, an insurance company, an actuarial consul-tancy, a forensic institute, a statistical or planning agency or a railway or telecommunications company. several students embark on a career path that does not make direct use of their mathematical background, yet in which they do benefit from the personal and organizational skills developed in the programme. another option is to pursue Phd research in stochastics or financial mathematics.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsthe examination Board can admit students on the basis of a foreign diploma which is equivalent to at least a Dutch Bachelor’s degree in mathematics. the examination Board may set additional requirements.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness analytics - mathematics.

WWW.vu.nl/stoChastiCs

your Programmethis master’s programme offers an integrated view on the themes of space, transport and environment from an economics perspective. the department of spatial economics boasts internationally renowned staff, all active participants in the national and international economic policy debate. the study programme starts with a core of compulsory courses in the first period. the next periods are devoted to specialized courses and practical work in which you carry out your own research project on which your final thesis will be based. you will choose the courses for your specialization yourself, depending on the fields that you are most interested in. Potential specializations include:• Transport: Applied Transport Economics, Airline Business or

network analysis.• Environment: International Environmental Economics. • Region and Urban: Applied Spatial Economics, Geographical

information systems and real estate management.

your future Careermany graduates with a master’s degree in spatial, transport and Environmental Economics get jobs as policy economists with the government or consultancy firms. there are also opportunities with organizations such as airlines, airport authorities, railway companies and logistics companies. others opt for a position as economic researchers with economic policy institutes. you can also continue studying. if your ambition is an academic career, you can opt for the research master’s programme in economics (mPhil) at the tinbergen institute, the graduate school of vu university amsterdam, university of amsterdam and erasmus university.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in economics or related field with focus on regional, transport and /or environmental economics.

other interesting Programmeseconomics: specialization spatial economics - Business administration: specialization transport and supply Chain management - environment and resource management: specialization environmental studies - earth sciences: specialization earth and economics.

WWW.vu.nl/streem

spatial, transport and environmental economics

stochastics andFinancial mathematics

the master’s programme in spatial, transport and Environmental Economics offers you a high-quality scientific programme with a thorough education in the modern theory and empirics of regional, urban, transport and environmental-economic issues. applying the theory to practical issues is one of the key features of the programme. you will learn to use your analyses to investigate potential solutions and formulate policy recommendations. according to the 2011 master’s Choice guide (‘Keuzegids’), published by the Centre for higher education information (Choi), this programme is among the best economics masters in the netherlands.

stochastics examines phenomena in which chance plays a central role, such as the result of a general election, fluctuations in share prices or the interactions of molecules in a living cell. if you opt for the master’s programme in stochastics and financial mathematics, you will be trained to become an expert, both in terms of theory and in areas of application. you will also examine the full depth and breadth of the field, thereby expanding your abilities and insights and enhancing your opportunities on the job market.


your Programmethe one-year master’s programme provides advanced knowledge of the theory and practice of Bible translation. the study comprises four basic components: biblical languages and exegesis, linguistics and anthropology, translation studies and a thesis. applied linguistic principles help in understanding the source texts in the original languages and in rendering these in other languages.

religious and cross-cultural dimensions of a text broaden the perception of the reception of the translated text. numerous it products are used, e.g., in the subject Hebrew Syntax, Discourse structure and Computers. insights from anthropology, translation theory, and text linguistics all contribute to help solve translation puzzles encountered in Bible texts.

your future Careerthere is a constant demand for professionals in the field of Bible translation both in the netherlands and worldwide. graduates can apply for positions at Bible translation agencies and at academic institutions that focus on the languages, interpretation or translation of the Bible. A majority of our graduates find employment at the major Bible translation agencies such as the united Bible societies and Wycliffe Bible translators, as well as for mission work and national Bible societies.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in semitic or Classical languages, theology or Biblical studies.

other interesting Programmesresearch in religion and theology (marrt) - theology: specialization Cross-Cultural theology.

WWW.vu.nl/BiBletranslation

your Programmethe programme explores these strategic issues from a variety of disciplines and it examines them from a wide variety of different viewpoints. you will be encouraged to study topics including corporate strategizing and strategic design.

in addition, the programme provides you with an opportunity to explore your interests in the strategic domain. as companies increasingly use collaborative relationships as a means to gain competitive advantage, you may also examine different forms of collaboration, pre-merger and post-merger activities, and the design and management of strategic networks as a means to gain competitive advantage.

your future Careeronce you have passed all the components, you will be awarded the title of master of science in Business administration with the annotation of your specialization. You will be well-equipped to follow a range of promising career paths. our graduates have embarked on careers as consultants with renowned consultancy firms, policy makers and business analysts in various industries. others have set up their own businesses or obtained management positions with multinational enterprises and government agencies.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration with courses related to strategic management and organization theory.

other interesting ProgrammesBusiness administration, and other related specializations.

WWW.vu.nl/strategyorganiZation

theology: specialization bible translation

strategy and organization (business administration)

in the 21st century, organizations strive to achieve sustainable competitive advantage by creating global efficiency. Nowadays, firms will be confronted with questions such as the following: how to deal with cultural differences in a global economy, how to streamline corporate strategies and align foreign subsidiaries? how to choose the best location for your production facilities, service departments or corporate headquarters? And what are the best strategies when gearing up for growth and expansion? the programme will encourage you to examine different forms of inter-organizational collaboration, including strategic alliances and networks. You will also delve into the processes and techniques that strategists use to enable strategic and organizational change in public as well as corporate settings. the focus is on strategic and organizational issues in the design and management of national and international organizations.

you learn to propose creative solutions for the translation of biblical texts and to combine advanced knowledge of the theory and practice of Bible translation with practical skills that will prepare you for a career as a Bible translator, a translation advisor or an academic researcher in the field of the Bible translation. the multidisciplinary training in the fields of biblical languages, theology, linguistics, information technology, translation studies and anthropology will enable you to propose creative solutions for the translation challenges you encounter.


your Programmethe structure of the one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) Master’s consists of required courses and electives. The standard, full-time programme is: • Period 1: Cross-Cultural Theology I + Elective• Period 2: Cross-Cultural Theology II + Elective• Period 3: Thesis + General Research Skills• Period 4: Thesis + Elective• Period 5: Thesis + Elective• Period 6: Thesis + Integration Module

you can choose from a number of electives in each period. the thesis is worth 18 credits.

your future CareerA job as a church or social worker, for example a cleric, pastor, minister, trainer or spiritual leader. you will be a theologian trained to work in areas where culture and religion intersect, and in jobs involving globalization, interfaith dialogue and the role of religion in developmental issues. after completion you can train as a member of the clergy or you can transfer to the second year of the graduate school (pre-Phd programme) in the faculty of theology at vu university amsterdam.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa university or college Bachelor’s degree in theology.

other interesting Programmesresearch in religion and theology (marrt) - theology: specialization Church ministry.

WWW.vu.nl/CCt

your Programme the structure of the one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) Master’s consists of required courses and electives. The standard, full-time programme is:• Period 1: Church Ministry I + Elective• Period 2: Church Ministry II + Elective• Period 3: Thesis + General Research Skills• Period 4: Thesis + Elective• Period 5: Thesis + Elective• Period 6: Thesis + Integration Module

topics in Church ministry i and ii include, for example: Congregational development; sociological and ecclesiastical field studies; liturgy and homiletics; social ministry and evangelization. you can choose from a number of electives in each period. the thesis is worth 18 credits.

your future Careerafter completing the programme, you will have the knowledge, insight, skills, and professional attitude needed to work independently as a church minister. those already attached to an institution as a pastoral or diaconal ecclesiastical worker will have the knowledge and skills to lead liturgical services (either at their own institution or elsewhere), weekly meetings, or special services relating to death and marriage. after this master’s specialization, you can continue your studies with the master’s specialization in divinity, in which you will be trained for the ministry. as another option, if you are eager to carry out research and have obtained good grades, you could consider following a research master’s programme in theology.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in theology from university or a college of higher vocational education.

other interesting Programmesresearch in religion and theology (marrt) - theology: specialization Cross-Cultural theology.

WWW.vu.nl/ChurChministry

theology: specialization church ministry

theology: specialization cross-cultural theology

Become an academically equipped church leader. You willlearn how to investigate a faith community and how to detect its needs and potential. how can you encourage a particular church and help it to develop? the programme provides practice-oriented courses on educational, pastoral and liturgical insights, and helps you to develop your own style.

the programme deals with issues at the heart of contemporary society where culture and religion intersect. it will equip you to participate in interfaith dialogue and to deal with developmental issues within the context of religion. it fosters an awareness of the importance of context and culture in understanding scripture and tradition, and of the crucial role of these elements in the construction of theology and faith.


your Programmethe structure of the one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) Master’s consists of required courses and electives.

the standard, full-time programme is:• Period 1: Evangelical and Reformation Theology I + Elective• Period 2: Evangelical and Reformation Theology II + Elective• Period 3: Thesis + General Research Skills• Period 4: Thesis + Elective

• Period 5: Thesis + Elective• Period 6: Thesis + Integration Module

you can choose from a number of electives in each period. the thesis is worth 18 credits.

your future Careeralthough the programme in evangelical and reformation theology does not train you for a specific profession and your vocational prospects will depend on the denomination of your own church, graduates are eligible for teaching posts in theological seminaries in the netherlands and abroad, for ministry in local church communities, for leadership in parachurch organizations and for missionary work. it is possible to continue studying for a qualification as a teacher of Religion. You may be admitted to the second year of the research master’s in reformed theology (marrt), which is part of the faculty’s graduate school for Phd research.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in theology.

other interesting Programmesresearch in religion and theology (marrt) - theology: specialization Pentecostal studies - Center for evangelical reformation theology.

WWW.vu.nl/ert

your Programmethe structure of the one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) Master’s consists of required courses and electives.

the standard, full-time programme is: • Period 1: Divinity I + Elective• Period 2: Divinity II + Elective• Period 3: Thesis + General Research Skills• Period 4: Thesis + Elective

• Period 5: Thesis + Elective• Period 6: Thesis + Integration Module

you can choose from a number of electives in each period. the thesis is worth 18 credits. The two required modules, Divinity I and divinity ii, are taught courses (normally seminars) and offer advanced level instruction in the various theological disciplines enumerated above. students in these two courses choose the theological discipline in which to specialize and then receive instruction on that basis.

your future Careerafter successfully completing this master’s you may continue with the master of divinity programme of the Protestant theological university (Pthu) under certain conditions, or you may continue with the second year of the research master, ‘research in reli-gion and theology’ (marrt). depending upon your specialization and abilities, you will be eligible for teaching posts in theological seminaries, for leadership positions in parachurch organizations, for mission work, and for ministry in local churches.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in theology from an accredited university.

other interesting Programmesmaster of religion and theology (research) (marrt).

WWW.vu.nl/divinity

theology: specialization evangelical and reFormation theology

theology: specialization divinity

this master’s degree specialization is designed for students who want to deepen their knowledge of a particular theological discipline or who are contemplating becoming ministers in the Protestant Church of the netherlands (Pkn). the specialization divinity provides students with the opportunity to deepen their previous theological education by means of specialization in one of the theological disciplines taught and investigated in the five departments of the faculty: Biblical studies, Church history, dogmatics and ecumenics, encounter of traditions, and Praxis.

living in a largely post-Christian and secularized culture, Christians from the West are sometimes surprized to see the explosive growth of evangelical and Charismatic churches. With today’s renewed interest in personal spirituality, the emphasis on context and community, and the renewed vision of the church as a missionary community, evangelical church leaders and theologians have a unique opportunity to contribute to the issues that face today’s church and society.


your Programmethe one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) master’s consists of required courses and electives.

the standard, full-time programme is:• Period 1: Living Reformed Theology I + Elective• Period 2: Living Reformed Theology II + Elective• Period 3: Thesis + General Research Skills• Period 4, 5: Thesis + Elective

• Period 6: Thesis + Integration ModuleDoctrinal topics covered in the required modules include the doctrine of the triune god, revelation and the Bible and Christology. other possible topics are e.g. Christian identity in context, the challenge of islam and faith and science. you can choose from a number of electives in each period. the thesis is worth 18 credits.

your future Careerthe ability to apply theology in a hermeneutical way provides an excellent foundation to support you in your work as a church minister. the in-depth knowledge of Christian theology is the ideal preparation for working as a professional theologian for the church, for non-profit organizations, for the media, or for educational institutes. moreover, this is excellent preparation if you are considering becoming a doctoral student in systematic theology. Students whose marks are good enough can request admission to the second year of the faculty’s research master’s.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in theology or a master’s of divinity.

other interesting Programmesresearch in religion and theology (marrt) - theology: specialization evangelical and reformation theology.

WWW.vu.nl/lrt

your Programmethe structure of the one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) Master’s consists required courses and electives.

the standard, full-time programme is: • Period 1: Pentecostal Studies 1 + Elective• Period 2: Pentecostal Studies 2 + Elective

• Period 3: Thesis + General Research Skills• Period 4: Thesis + Elective• Period 5: Thesis + Elective• Period 6: Thesis + Integration Module

you can choose from a number of electives in each period. the thesis is worth 18 credits. suggested electives: evangelical and reformation theology; Contextual and Cross-Cultural hermeneutics; Biography and faith; theological aesthetics; ministerial and missiological studies; status of the individual in World religions; grace and freedom.

your future Careerhaving obtained your master’s title in theology, you will be a theologian eligible for teaching posts in theological seminaries, for leading positions in para-church organizations, for missionary work, and for ministry in local churches, depending on the requirements of the denomination.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in theology from an accredited university.

other interesting Programmesresearch in religion and theology (marrt) - theology: specialization evangelical en reformation theology - Center for evangelical reformation theology.

WWW.vu.nl/PenteCostalstudies

theology: specialization living reFormedtheology

theology: specialization pentecostal studies

this programme enables you to deepen your understanding of the Christian faith. it focuses on systematic and hermeneutical theology from a reformed perspective and aims at a comprehensive theological insight into the key aspects of the Christian faith. you will be challenged to translate these insights into new contexts and areas of application. the broad international character of the programme encourages you to place your own understanding of the faith in a wider context. the master’s has a strong focus on research.

spectacular changes took place in World Christianity in the 20th century. no longer predominantly white and western, the majority of Christians are now from the southern hemisphere. many of them are Pentecostal or Charismatic. With the influx of migrants from these areas, the cities of Western europe now host many Pentecostal migrant churches. Pentecostalism and Charismatic Christianity are regarded as the fastest expanding religious movements in the World today. What does this mean for our understanding of the church, our theology and our own spirituality?


your Programmethe netherlands is renowned throughout the world for its expertise in trade, transport and logistics. Major ports in the netherlands tranship enormous flows of goods and passengers to and from europe and the rest of the world. as a student you will be trained in organizing these flows of goods and services,

including the related flows of money and information. supply chain and transportation networks are investigated from the micro and meso perspective (e.g. transport and logistics processes) and the macro level (e.g. government regulations and environment). Core aspects include the organization, design, maintenance, usage and optimization of supply chain strategy, processes and cooperation in supply chain and transportation networks.

your future CareerOnce you have met all the requirements, you will be awarded the title of master of science in Business administration with an annotation of your specialization. you will be prepared for a career as the supply chain or transport manager in an international organization. alternatively you might enter the world of consultancy as a consultant in the supply chain management practice of a large firm. some graduates choose an academic career and become Phd researchers in this field. others may opt for the government sector and enter the domain of policy-making.

sPeCifiC admission requirementsa Bachelor’s degree in Business administration with courses like transport economics, operations management, logistics, and Physical distribution management.

other interesting Programmesspatial, transport and environmental economics.

WWW.vu.nl/tsCm

transport andsupply chain management (business administration)

Transport and Supply Chain Management is jointly offered by the departments of information systems and logistics and spatial economics. We focus on the analysis, design and operation of international supply chain and transport networks in professional service industries in the netherlands and abroad. you will tackle supply chain and transport problems in both profit and non-profit environments. the former includes airlines, retailers, wholesale companies, logistics service providers, rail operators and short-sea and long-distance shipping, while non-profit includes the health care sector, the public sector and non-governmental organizations in fields such as humanitarian aid.


80 programmes

taught in english

14 interdisciplinaryresearch institutes

campus university in amsterdam

12 Faculties

see you at vu university amsterdam!

Published by:Department of Marketing and Communicationvu university amsterdam

graphic design:studio vu

Photography:studio vu

edition 22252/1_september 2012

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vu international degree programmes 2013-2014

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