Study economics in Groningen and explore how inequality, the role of the state, and other big societal issues can be affected by economics – and how you can impact them for the better.
How do periods of higher interest rates affect the economy? And, how can monetary and fiscal policy be used to combat inflation? Can we predict whether a proposed government programme is likely to improve the welfare of its citizens and future generations? Can taxes and subsidies stimulate firms to care for the environment?
In the Economics profile of the BSc Economics and Business Economics in Groningen, you analyze big societal problems equipped with rigorous analytical tools from economics. The courses taught focus not only on macroeconomic and microeconomic theory and policy but also on the current and historical debates on topics such as inequality and limits to growth.
You will get insights into a wide range of topics like banking, fiscal and monetary policy, economic development, political economy, economic theory, decisions made by consumers on labour and other markets, and strategic behaviour between firms on markets. By studying economic problems with real-life data, you will gain the necessary knowledge to analyze complex economic issues, interpret data, and make informed decisions. As such, along with solid communication and presentation skills, you will develop valuable analytical and data skills.
The focus is on both theoretical and practical knowledge which prepares you for your professional life. Our programme is designed to shape students into future economists with a solid and strong analytical foundation. An economist who can understand historical trends and interpret today’s policies and economic data is able to make predictions about the future.
Do you want to learn more about the other profiles in Business Economics or International Economics and Sustainable Development ?
I wanted to study in Groningen because of the city, it is young and full of students, a perfect place to live during your study. The BSc Economics and Business Economics appealed to me because it offers great opportunities for choosing interesting courses after you have completed the first year.
In my second year, I chose the Economics profile because I am mostly interested in the theoretical foundations of economics. Within this profile, there are many courses that help build a good understanding of the foundations of economics, both on a mathematical and intuitive level. You also follow tutorials where you make sure you fully understand the theory. The teachers in this programme are always helpful and approachable for questions or to further talk about the study topics. Besides theory, there are interesting applications, mostly in policy areas that you work on. If you are interested in policy issues, this profile may be the right one for you.
My advice for new students is to work hard from the beginning. Although it is challenging at first, it will definitely help as you go further in your study because the courses become more and more interesting.
