Do you want to help large multinationals grow, but also understand the impact of that growth on the climate? Are you curious about how psychology determines what we buy? Or do you want to use data and mathematical models to predict how the housing market will develop?
Economics is everywhere. It is not just about money, but about choices, behavior, and the future of our world. At Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, you won't become a standard economist. You will develop a sharp, unique vision that allows you to truly make a difference. Armed with your own personal compass, you will learn to make conscientious decisions that drive meaningful change in the world.
What makes a Bachelor in Economics at VU Amsterdam unique
- Top-tier education at the Zuidas: You study within walking distance of the Zuidas business district. With large corporations and innovative start-ups just around the corner, you are in direct contact with the practical world for cases and internships. Ideal for those who want to study in a prime location in Amsterdam.
- International quality: The School of Business and Economics (SBE) ranks among the best business schools in the world: we are in the top 50 for Economics and the top 100 for Management. Underscoring this quality, in 2022 we were the first in the EU to achieve the prestigious dual AACSB accreditation for both Business and Accounting. We see this standard reflected in our alumni, who, as independent thinkers, secure socially relevant positions.
- More than numbers: We believe economics is a human endeavor. Our education is science-driven, with a strong emphasis on ethics and reflective thinking. You learn to look beyond profit maximization and maintain a focus on people, society, and sustainability.
- Personal and engaged: The culture at VU Amsterdam is focused on collaboration and connection ; a place where a diverse mix of students, staff, and professionals immediately feels at home. Through active learning methods, we stimulate your independence, giving you the space and personal guidance to choose your own path.
Where will you make a difference?
The world of economics is broad. To help you choose, we have divided our economic programs into three profiles. Which profile fits you best?
1. Economics & Business
For the strategist and entrepreneur
Are you looking for a business program where you learn how to make companies not only profitable but also future-proof? In this track, you discover how organizations work and how to successfully launch products in the market. You will delve into business administration, public administration, organizational science, and innovation management. Whether you want to become a manager, entrepreneur, or consultant: this is your starting point for a promising career in the business world.
- Fits you if: You think strategically, are interested in the corporate world, and want to help organizations move forward.
- You learn: To design business processes, analyze markets, and bring innovations to the market.
- Programmes: Bedrijfskunde (Dutch programme), International Business Administration, Science, Business and Innovation (Dutch programme), Bestuurs- en Organisatiewetenschap (Dutch programme)
2. Economics & Society
For the socially engaged thinker
Do you want to understand why people make certain choices? And how economic decisions shape our society? If you want to study economics at university with a broad perspective, this is your track. You connect economics with politics, psychology, and sustainability. You investigate major issues such as inequality of opportunity, climate policy, and the energy transition. Additionally, you explore, for example, whether pension funds can be invested in a way that generates sufficient returns while remaining sustainable, how to keep healthcare costs manageable, or how companies can report transparently on both their financial position and their societal impact.
- Fits you if: You want to know how the world works, enjoy contributing to a sustainable society, and are looking for economic solutions to complex societal issues.
- You learn: How behavior influences markets and how to create policy for complex societal problems.
- Programmes: Economics and Business Economics, Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE), Aarde, Economie en Duurzaamheid (Dutch programme).
3. Economics & Mathematics
For the analytical problem-solver
Are you good with numbers and do you enjoy solving complex puzzles? Data is the new gold, but only if you interpret it correctly. In this track, you learn to build mathematical models and develop algorithms to predict the future. From stock prices and ride fares to hospital scheduling.
- Fits you if: You love math and logic, and want to make data-driven decisions.
- You learn: Programming, econometrics, statistics, and analyzing Big Data to find concrete solutions.
- Programmes: Econometrics and Operations Research, Econometrics and Data Science, Business Analytics.
