Skip to ContentSkip to Navigation
Education Master's and PhD degree programmes International Economics and Sustainable Development
Header image International Economics and Sustainable Development

International Economics and Sustainable Development

Study International Economics and Sustainable Development in Groningen and learn about the societal and economic implications of international trade, finance, and sustainable development.

We are confronted with major challenges, such as rising inequality, populism, the erosion of democracy, tackling climate change and promoting fairer, and more inclusive growth. How can you make a real impact to address these challenges? In this MSc programme, we teach you about the necessary tools and economic theories to make an impact. You also develop an analytical mindset to work on societally relevant issues. Our graduates move on to influential jobs at (international) companies, government, or international organizations.

In the MSc International Economics and Sustainable Development, you are taught societally relevant topics and how they are related to the world of economics, and we help you develop valuable skills in international trade, international finance and banking, policy analysis, and more. Also, you learn to analyze economic data, assess policy options, make economic development strategies, and provide recommendations to policymakers. We are proud of the recent very positive evaluation by the EQUIS peer review team about the outstanding quality of the students and management of the programme.

Did you know that the courses taught are closely related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? To address the complex challenges facing the world, we believe it is essential for students to learn about the environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Companies all over the world increasingly recognize the importance of socially responsible practices that contribute to sustainable development. In this master’s programme, you work on real-world assignments in a diverse team to come up with solutions using empirical methods. Furthermore, you will explore the various dimensions of globalization, including the movement of goods and capital. You will cover issues such as inequality, trade, investment, environmental sustainability, and economic policy in developing countries.

Facts & Figures
Degree
MSc in Economic Development and Globalization
Course type
Master
Duration
12 months (60 ECTS)
Croho code
60963
Language of instruction
English
Start
February, September
Faculty
Economics and Business

Important to know

As of September 2025, the MSc in Economic Development and Globalization will change its name to MSc in International Economics and Sustainable Development. Please note that the curriculum and the intended learning outcomes of the MSc programme remain the same.

With this name change, our goal is to provide you with a clearer understanding of what this Master's programme has to offer. There are two key reasons to change the name of the programme. First, although the curriculum and the intended learning outcomes have remained similar, the content of the programme has evolved to focus more strongly on the societal and economic implications of international trade and development. Second, based on surveys and interviews with bachelor and master students, potential employers, as well as teaching and support staff, it is clear that it is valuable to have both international economics and sustainability reflected in the programme name. This new programme name helps prospective students find us in the first place, and it helps students to signal on the labor market that it is a serious economics programme where sustainability is central.

Read more
Why study this programme in Groningen?
  • This MSc in Groningen is unique because of its international perspective, reflected both in its content and student community. You delve into a wide range of topics, all highly relevant to our society, you study linkages between industries across borders and you will work in project teams with students from different countries.
  • Our graduates pursue various career paths. You may work in the private sector, government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, or consulting firms, focusing on international trade, climate change, international finance, policy analysis, and more.
  • Explore the ethical dilemmas and consequences associated with international economics and sustainable development, including issues related to sustainability, social justice, and human rights. You will address global challenges and topics that are related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and work towards solutions to make a positive change.
  • We take an interdisciplinary approach, integrating economics, environmental research, policy analysis, and technological developments. This broad perspective prepares you to tackle complex and real-world problems.
  • Our academic staff have strong relationships with international research and consultancy institutes, as well as policy advice centers. We invite industry experts regularly to give guest lectures and show you how what you study can make an impact.
  • The programme has been internationally accredited by the AACSB and EQUIS, ensuring a high-quality education, which only 1% of universities reach worldwide.
  • Our alumni have the opportunity to engage in high-level research activities of international organizations (such as the OECD in Paris, Conference Board in New York, and the ILO in Geneva) and national organizations (such as the Dutch Central Bank and The Netherlands' Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis).
Programme

You start by learning about topics like international trade, growth, and development economics and apply these theories to real-world problems. Using data and research findings, you are able to understand the role of globalization on sustainable business practices, why governments come up with certain policies, and how they can benefit one country but disadvantage another.

Depending on your interests, you can choose to specialize in various topics by selecting elective courses in global finance, economic geography, inclusive and sustainable finance, international banking, and monetary policy. You can also decide to participate in the focus area Energy Transition and Climate Change and specialize in energy transition and innovation.

You finish the master's programme by writing and defending a thesis. Here are some examples of topics students researched:

  • The relation between job polarization and the rise of populism
  • The environmental Kuznets curve
  • The impact of migration on technological change
  • The inflation rate and central bank independence
  • The determinants of global value chain participation by developing countries
  • The effects of the US-China trade war on manufacturing workers in European countries
Semesters
CoursesCourse Catalog >1a1b2a2b
Economic Development (5 EC)
Foreign Direct Investment and Trade (5 EC)
Elective(s) MSc ED&G A (10 EC)

A few examples are: Globalization Debates; International Banking and Finance; Trade, Environment and Growth; Economic Geography. The full list of electives can be found on Ocasys.

Elective(s) MSc ED&G B (10 EC)

A few examples are: Business Ethics; Emerging Markets (MSc); Foreign Market Entry Strategies; Sustainable Finance; Energy Transition & Innovation; Monetary Policy, Strategy and Operations; Regulating Energy Markets; Sustainability in Global Value Chains. The full list of electives can be found on Ocasys.

Research Seminar for ED&G (5 EC)
Master's Thesis ED&G (20 EC)
Country Studies (5 EC)
Programme options
Future Prosperity and Sustainability Focus Area (specialization)

Focus on the sustainable developments in our current society by the increasing influence of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. The upcoming impact of the SDGs force companies to redefine their purpose and seek a path for meaningful contribution. But, what are companies responsible for, and who bears the burden of the consequences? Your skills and knowledge will prepare you to actively contribute to the strategic developments in this dynamic field.

More information about this option

Healthy Society Focus Area (specialization)

Focus on tackling problems that impact healthcare providers and their societal partners in their day-to-day work. Issues such as scarce human resources combined with a higher, more complex demand for care, and more demanding citizens require solutions, which you will think about and design.

More information about this option

Energy Transition and Climate Change Focus Area (specialization)

Focus on the serious changes within the energy sector by dealing with issues such as how firms adapt to renewable energy, how the higher taxes are managed during this transition and how to deal with the weather dependent production of energy systems. Gain the knowledge and skills to shape a sustainable future in this evolving energy sector.

More information about this option

Master Internship (specialization)

Opportunity to gain work experience by doing an internship in the second semester of your study.

You will be rewarded 15 ECTS on top of your programme. Your thesis will be postponed to the third semester.

More information about this option

Double Degree Master - Central-Eastern European Economics (Budapest) (specialization)

The two-year double-degree master combines international business and international economics topics, with a special focus on issues of economic transformation and integration.

More information about this option

Double Degree Master - International Development Economics (Göttingen) (specialization)

The two-year double-degree master focuses more on the economic development of low-income countries and a more microeconomic perspective on inequality, poverty and growth.

More information about this option

Double Degree Master - Economic Development and Growth (MEDEG, Lund) (specialization)

This two-year double-degree master combines the analysis of economic development from a long-run, historical perspective with a range of courses in economics and demography.

More information about this option

Double Degree Master International Business and Finance (Shanghai) (specialization)

Are you interested in an international career in or involving China?

Study in Shanghai after your FEB Master's programme in Groningen and gain first-hand knowledge and experience of China and the economy, finance and culture.

More information about this option

Study abroad

  • Study abroad is optional
Entry requirements

Transfer options

Transferring from...

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Business AdministrationUniversity of Groningen

Additional requirements

More information:

Students have to successfully complete the minor in International Economics and Sustainable Development.

Economics and Business EconomicsUniversity of GroningenNo additional requirements
Econometrics and Operations ResearchUniversity of GroningenNo additional requirements
International BusinessUniversity of GroningenNo additional requirements
Industrial Engineering and ManagementUniversity of Groningen

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Psychology (NL)University of Groningen

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

SociologyUniversity of Groningen

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Econometrics and Operations ResearchErasmus University RotterdamNo additional requirements
Economics and Business EconomicsErasmus University RotterdamNo additional requirements
Fiscale EconomieErasmus University Rotterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

International Business AdministrationErasmus University Rotterdam

No additional requirements

More information:

For profile Analytical Decision-makers.

International Business AdministrationErasmus University Rotterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

For profiles Performance Analysts, Behavioural Experts, Global Thinkers and Business Developers: you need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Business AdministrationErasmus University Rotterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Public Administration ScienceLeiden University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

For profile Economics, Public Administration and Management: you need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Computer ScienceLeiden University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

For profile Informatica & Economie: you need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Business AnalyticsMaastricht University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Business EngineeringMaastricht University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Econometrics and Operations ResearchMaastricht UniversityNo additional requirements
Economics and Business EconomicsMaastricht UniversityNo additional requirements
Global StudiesMaastricht University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Fiscale EconomieMaastricht University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

International BusinessMaastricht UniversityNo additional requirements
Study programmeOrganizationTransition
AccountancyNyenrode New Business School

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Business AdministrationNyenrode New Business School

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Business AdministrationRadboud University Nijmegen

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Economics and Business EconomicsRadboud University NijmegenNo additional requirements
Study programmeOrganizationTransition
International Business AdministrationTilburg University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

EconomicsTilburg UniversityNo additional requirements
Entrepreneurship and Business InnovationTilburg University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Econometrics and Operations ResearchTilburg UniversityNo additional requirements
Fiscale EconomieTilburg University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Actuarial ScienceUniversity of Amsterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Business AdministrationUniversity of Amsterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Business AnalyticsUniversity of Amsterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Econometrics and Data ScienceUniversity of AmsterdamNo additional requirements
Economics and Business EconomicsUniversity of AmsterdamNo additional requirements
Fiscale EconomieUniversity of Amsterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
International Business AdministrationUniversity of Twente

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Economics and Business EconomicsUtrecht UniversityNo additional requirements
Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Business AnalyticsVU University Amsterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Econometrics and Operations ResearchVU University AmsterdamNo additional requirements
International Business AdministrationVU University Amsterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Business AdministrationVU University Amsterdam

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Economics and Business EconomicsVU University AmsterdamNo additional requirements
Study programmeOrganizationTransition
Management and Consumer StudiesWageningen University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Economics and GovernanceWageningen University

Via a pre-master with a maximum of 45 EC

More information:

You need to first complete the 45 EC (or less) Pre-Master's programme. For information about the Pre-MSc application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

Admission requirements

The information about entry requirements is an indication of your admissibility. Every application will be reviewed individually by the Admissions board so the admission decision may differ from the indication in this table.

Registration procedure

Students with a Dutch diploma can apply directly to Studielink. More information on the  steps to apply .

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students01 May 202501 September 2025
15 October 202501 February 2026
EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025
15 October 202501 February 2026
non-EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025
15 October 202501 February 2026

Admission requirements

Specific requirementsMore information
previous education

To be eligible for admission to this Master, you need to hold an academic Bachelor's or Master's degree from a research university in one of the following - or closely related - fields: Business Economics, Business Administration, Econometrics and Operations Research, Economics and Business Economics, International Business, Technology Management.

To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies. For more information, please visit: https://www.rug.nl/feb/apply-msc. If you have any questions concerning admission to this programme, please contact our Admissions Office: https://www.rug.nl/admissions.

certified competences

A GMAT/GRE test is required from all candidates who obtained their bachelor's degree from a university in a non-EU/EEA country. For specific scores and exemptions, please see https://www.rug.nl/feb/gmat-gre.

  • Both GMAT and GRE are now being offered by mba.com and ETS as an online option to take from home worldwide. Please check their websites for more information.
language test

IELTS Academic overall score 6.5 (Speaking 6, Writing 6.5); TOEFL internet-based overall score 90 (Speaking 20, Writing 24); Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (overall score 176, Speaking 169, Writing 176).

  • ETS is offering the TOEFL tests as an online option to take from home worldwide. Please check their website for more information.
other admission requirements

Not meeting the pre-education requirements for direct entry? Please read more about our pre-Master programmes .

Registration procedure

Students have to apply via Studielink and the Progress Portal (replacing the previous system, Online Application System OAS) of the University of Groningen. After you apply for the programme of your choice, the Admissions Office will evaluate your educational background and assess your eligibility. Your application will be assessed on an individual basis. More information on how to apply.

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students01 May 202501 September 2025
15 October 202501 February 2026
EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025
15 October 202501 February 2026
non-EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025
15 October 202501 February 2026
Tuition fees
NationalityYearFeeProgramme form
EU/EEA2024-2025€ 2530full-time
non-EU/EEA2024-2025€ 20800full-time

Practical information for:

After your studies

In the MSc International Economics and Sustainable Development, you will acquire a diverse set of skills that will prepare you for a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. As an economist, you will be able to analyze economic data, conduct research, and use economic models to understand and evaluate economic trends, policies, and development strategies. What's more, you will have an understanding of international economic dynamics and how they affect inequality but also environmental economics and sustainability. This knowledge and skills are needed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our society today.

Graduates of this MSc programme take up positions in internationally oriented firms (such as banks, consultancy firms, and multinationals), international organizations (such as World Bank, IMF, European Union, UN, and OECD), and internationally oriented departments of government agencies and policy advisors.

Job examples

  • Market/policy analyst
  • (Development) economist
  • Sustainability consultant
  • Trade expert
  • Global strategy and policy advisor
Research

Linking education to research and career preparation

Our research-driven education is strongly rooted in business practice and society. At the heart of our teaching approach is (interdisciplinary) research and in collaboration with external partners, students, and professors conduct projects on societally relevant topics such as healthy society and the economics of healthcare systems, digitalization, and how AI is shaping business and societies, leadership and governance, future prosperity and sustainability, climate change and how to tackle the shift to renewable energy. From day one of your degree, we are about making a real impact. The teachers in this programme are all active researchers in the Global Economics and Management research group, in the area of international economics, and several of them collaborate with the renowned Groningen Growth and Development Centre . The following (full) professors teach in the MSc International Economics and Sustainable Development:

Milena Nikolova is the Aletta Jacobs Professor in the Economics of Well-being. She is an expert on the health and well-being consequences of migration, labor market arrangements, and entrepreneurship. In addition to science, she is actively engaged in public policy and making a societal impact – she has worked in tanks and international institutions, such as the Urban Institute, the Brookings Institution, and the World Bank.

Steven Brakman is an expert in the field of economic geography, including as co-editor of the Journal of Regional Science . He frequently contributes to the public debate, including on Brexit, Trump’s trade war, and trade agreements. He has published extensively and authored textbooks on international economics and economic geography.

Dirk Bezemer studies the interaction between the financial system and the rest of the economy, focusing on the role of debt. His research is published in numerous journals and he has been funded by the Institute of New Economic Thinking . He is also a columnist in the Dutch periodical De Groene Amsterdammer .

Bart Los ’ area of expertise is on the interlinked nature of (regional) economies and the impact of such linkages on trade patterns and economic outcomes, such as economic growth and employment. He has published widely, is the editor of Economic Systems Research , and has contributed to the public debate on the consequences of Brexit.

Robert Inklaar ’s research is on the causes and consequences of productivity growth, including the impact on broader welfare. His research has appeared in a range of top economic journals and his work on developing the Penn World Table and Maddison Project Database is used extensively around the world.

Erik Dietzenbacher is an authority in the field of input-output analysis, including as president of the International Input-Output Association . His research has improved the tools for input-output analysis and these have been applied in such areas as international trade and environmental economics.

Harry Garretsen combines research in international economics with research on management and leadership. In this latter role, he is one of the directors of the LEAD centre of expertise. He is also a sought-after expert, including on the Bankraad, the advisory board of the Dutch Central Bank.

My passion for developmental issues and my aspiration to work for international organisations made this programme a perfect fit (Siri Maringanti)

I chose this MSc programme at FEB to deepen my understanding of applied economics and to build on my undergraduate studies in the International Economics and Sustainable Development (previously ED&G) track. My passion for developmental issues and my aspiration to work for international organisations made this programme a perfect fit. I particularly enjoyed the courses Economic Development and Economic Geography. I was fascinated by structural transformations in countries, especially transitioning from low-income to middle-income status, which was also the focus in my thesis. The insights I gained into agglomeration economies and policy impacts further broadened my perspective.

Although I didn’t choose a specific focus area, the programme’s flexibility allowed me to explore various subjects. The support from lecturers was outstanding. My thesis supervisor, in particular, was very patient and encouraging. Overall, this programme significantly improved my writing skills and understanding of empirical research, enhancing my critical thinking. The international atmosphere was a highlight too, filled with passionated peers who motivated each other.
Read more

Study associations

EBF

The Economics and Business Faculty association (EBF) is the faculty association for all students studying at the faculty of Economics and Business of the University of Groningen.
The EBF is your partner during your time in Groningen by organising events that support you with your studies and help you prepare for your future career.
https://www.ebfgroningen.nl/
Read more
Study support

Studying means working independently and planning your studies yourself. But successful studying depends on many different factors, so it is understandable that you may need to consult an impartial expert to discuss your study progress and personal circumstances that influence your studies. The faculty's study advisor's are available to help you. Obviously, everything discussed with the study advisor remains confidential.