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Shaping the cities of tomorrow

Regional and Urban Economics (Spatial and Applied Economics)

Enrolling in our master's specialisation in Regional and Urban Economics positions you to tackle the pressing challenges of urbanization and regional development. With more than 50% of the world’s population living in cities – a figure set to rise to 70% in the coming decades—there is a critical need for experts who can understand and influence the economic forces shaping our cities and regions.

Scroll down to read what alumni Giang Vu, Ruben Velsink, Noah Schneider and Pascale Schellekens say about the programme.

Upon completion of this specialisation, you will be awarded the degree of Master of Science (MSc) in Spatial and Applied Economics.

Our specialisation prepares you for impactful careers as urban or regional economists, policy analysts, consultants, and more. You will gain the skills to analyse large spatial datasets, develop effective policies, and contribute to sustainable urban development. With a strong link to real estate and land markets, you will be well-equipped to address housing affordability, spatial inequalities, and the broader economic systems that shape cities and regions. Good to know: Most graduates find jobs within 3 months and are better paid than graduates from other economics programmes. 

Most graduates find jobs within 3 months as regional/urban economists with (inter)national government agencies or consultancy firms. More specifically, some examples of positions where graduates of the Urban and Regional Economics specialisation end up are:    

  • Consultant at ECORYS in Rotterdam 
  • Advisor Spatial Economics at the Municipality of Amersfoort  
  • Policy advisor at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate, the Hague 
  • Research and policy analyst at the City of Albuquerque 
  • PhD student ETH Zürich 
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January 2026

MSc Spatial and Applied Economics

Discover your ideal Spatial and Applied Economics specialisation

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Want to apply for Spatial and Applied Economics: Regional and Urban Economics?

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