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Education Bachelor's degree programmes Global Responsibility & Leadership
Header image Global Responsibility & Leadership

Global Responsibility & Leadership

Explore local solutions to global challenges. Take a deep dive into the fields of politics, governance, psychology, economics, global health, earth system and data science. Join the BSc. Global Responsibility & Leadership of University College Fryslân - it's the number 1 BSc. programme in the Netherlands!

✔ Inspired by the UN Sustainable Development Goals: global challenges – local solutions

✔ Adapted to apply classroom concepts directly in the Living Lab, a research collaboration with local partners

✔ Includes the majors: Responsible Planet, Responsible Governance or Responsible Humanity

This hands-on and future-oriented bachelor is inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and rooted in the Liberal Arts & Sciences philosophy. As a student at University College Fryslân, you get the opportunity to foster your personal development in a small-scale, international learning campus.

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Facts & Figures
Degree
BSc in Global Responsibility and Leadership
Course type
Bachelor
Duration
36 months (180 ECTS)
Croho code
59327
Language of instruction
English
Start
September
Faculty
Campus Fryslân
Studie in CijfersTop Rated Programme Keuzegids 2023
Why study this programme in Leeuwarden?
  • Inspired by the United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development
  • Small-scale and personal education
  • Residential university college
  • International community
  • Living Lab projects with local and global partners
Programme

Year 1 consists of seven courses introducing students to the interdisciplinary educational concept of the programme and the majors. The Foundation consists of core courses in Economics, Political Science, Psychology, Earth & Energy, Global Health, Information Technology. Students must also complete the Skills Lab which provides a solid ground in academic communication, research methodology, intercultural communication and collaboration.

Throughout the three years, students have the opportunity to design their own programme based on the major and minor options as well as complementing it with extracurricular activities.

CoursesCourse Catalog >
Academic Communication (5 EC)
Explaining Human Behaviour (5 EC)
Introduction to Global Health (5 EC)
Introduction to Programming (5 EC)
Language and Culture I (5 EC)
Major courses (15 EC)
Politics, Power & International Responsibility (5 EC)
Principles of Economics (5 EC)
Statistics I (5 EC)
The Earth System (5 EC)

You follow courses from one of the three majors of your choice:

  • Responsible Planet
  • Responsible Governance
  • Responsible Humanity

In addition, you conduct a Living Lab research internship with one of our regional or (inter)national partners.

Living Lab project: The Living Lab project is a unique feature of the GRL programme and provides you with the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge and skills in the real world. As such, the Living Lab Project creates a win-win situation: you learn how to apply your academic knowledge in actual, real-life contexts and develop related skills (communication, collaboration, problem-solving, research) whereas public and private stakeholders get to work with talented young people that are able to provide insight into questions important for the region.

Examples:

  • Fries Social Planbureau: investigate how civilian initiatives can collaborate and co-create with institutions to promote social inclusion and economical change.
  • Amnesty International: conduct participatory research to enhance the social capital among youngsters in order to strengthen international human rights.
  • Elodea: look into climate resilient food production in Friesland, specifically how pear soils can be repurposed to make them more resilient to change.
CoursesCourse Catalog >
Ethics & Global Responsibility (5 EC)
Leadership Lab (5 EC)
Living Lab research internship (10 EC)
Major courses (30 EC)
Qualitative Methods (5 EC)
Statistics II (5 EC)

Year 3 of the GRL programme consists of three parts:

  • Major Courses
  • Minor
  • Capstone final project

Major courses: In the final year, students can choose different interdisciplinary courses to complete their major.

Minor: The Year 3 minor gives students the opportunity to individualise their programme even further. Most students will choose to go for an exchange semester at a university abroad, but you could also do a minor at another university in The Netherlands or abroad, or you can use the minor space to fulfil pre-master requirements in preparation for a masters programme at the University of Groningen or another university. Last but not least it's also possible to do an internship.

Capstone final project: Students complete their third year with a Capstone project, which is the academic culmination of your degree. The Capstone meets the standards and requirements of (semi-independent) academic research but does not have to take the form of a traditional thesis. You're encouraged to decide for yourself how to complete your degree and to present the project in a creative way. For example, by developing an app, filming a public service announcement, designing a product, writing a policy paper or creating a theatre production. Students could also choose to do another Living Lab project for their Capstone Final Project.

CoursesCourse Catalog >
Capstone (10 EC)
Major courses (20 EC)
Minor (30 EC)

Study load

40 hours of class and self-study per week on average

Curriculum

To view a listing of the Bachelor programme course descriptions, please visit https://www.rug.nl/cf/university-college-fryslan/pdfs/grl-study-guide21-22-rug-cf.pdf

Programme options
Responsible Planet (major)

Courses:

  • Ecosystem Processes
  • Climate Change: Land, Earth & Water
  • Climate Data and Services
  • Introduction to Sustainable Energy Transition
  • Homes and Cars: Technologies, Citizens and energy transition
  • Petrocultures in Transition
  • The birds and the bees: Knowledge infrastructures for monitoring sustainability.
Responsible Governance (major)

Courses:

  • Key Political Thinkers: From Antiquity to Modern Political Theory
  • Comparative Political Systems
  • Governance and EU law
  • Global Environmental Governance
  • History of Economic Thinking
  • Behavioural Economics
  • Globalization & Development Economics
  • 22nd Century Economy.
Responsible Humanity (major)

Courses:

  • Diversity, Intersectionality and Global Health
  • Responsible Activism and Global Health
  • Global Equity and Resilient Health Systems
  • Worldwide Analyses of Global Health Issues
  • Applied Social Psychology
  • Psychological Perspectives on Leadership and Organisations
  • Consumer Psychology
  • Inter-group Relations.

Study abroad

  • Study abroad is optional

Study abroad is optional in Year 3

Entry requirements

Admissible Dutch diploma profiles

  • VWO Natuur & Techniek
  • VWO Natuur & Gezondheid
  • VWO Economie & Maatschappij
  • VWO Cultuur & Maatschappij

Admission requirements

Specific requirementsMore information
previous education

Students are required to have successfully obtained a secondary school diploma which allows entry to an academic university. Therefore, students need to obtain a Dutch VWO diploma. It is also possible to apply with a Dutch HBO (University of Applied Sciences) propedeuse or a colloquium doctum.

additional subject

English: As the GRL programme is fully taught and assessed in English, students are required to demonstrate their English skills by scoring a minimum final grade of 7 for the English course for the Dutch VWO diploma, or one of the certified English tests. Mathematics: Dutch VWO Wiskunde A, B or C with a passing grade.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

(in English)

assessment interview

After passing the first step of the selection procedure, you will be invited for an interview. This will take place in person in Leeuwarden.

reference letter

(in English)

(motivation-) letter

Letter of Motivation or a Video Presentation (in English)

Registration procedure

Students with Dutch diploma have to apply via Studielink and submit their necessary documents via online form sent by the Admissions Officer. After uploading all the required documents the Admissions Board will inform you if you're deemed admissible based on our admission criteria.

The applicant must pass a two-step selection procedure in order to be admitted to the programme. The selection procedure consists of two steps:
- Selection Documents
- Selection Interview

With your online application you’re asked to upload the following documents:
- Letter of Motivation or a Video Presentation*
- Reference Letter*
- Curriculum Vitae*
- Mathematics certificate (if necessary)
- English certificate (if necessary)
- Transcript of records (most recent version)
- Copy of secondary school diploma/certificate or proof of enrolment with expected graduation date
- Copy of valid passport or ID Card (ID for EU/EER students only, non- EEA students must upload a copy of their passport)

If you’re deemed admissible to the GRL programme, the Admissions Board will then have a further look at your selection documents and decide if you are invited for the second part of the selection procedure: the selection interview.

The selection interview will take place in person in Leeuwarden. The interview is a chance for us to get to know you better and for you to ask any pending questions you may have. Within approximately a week after the interview, you’ll be informed about the outcome of this second and final step of the selection procedure for the GRL programme.

*More information about documents can be found here: Criteria for University College Fryslân selection procedure documents 2023-2024

Selection procedure

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students01 May 202401 September 2024
EU/EEA students01 May 202401 September 2024
non-EU/EEA students01 May 202401 September 2024

There are two application deadlines: 15/January and 1/May. The 15 January deadline is an early bird deadline. If we receive your complete application before this date then you will have first choice in the student housing registration which opens on 1 April.

Admission requirements

Specific requirementsMore information
previous education

Students are required to have successfully obtained a secondary school diploma which allows entry to an academic university. Therefore, students need to obtain a Dutch VWO diploma or international equivalent. It is also possible to apply with a Dutch HBO (University of Applied Sciences) propedeuse or a colloquium doctum.

additional subject

English: As the GRL programme is fully taught and assessed in English, students are required to demonstrate their English skills by sitting an approved English test (listed below). Some exemptions are made for demonstrating English proficiency. Mathematics: Due to the content of some courses, UCF has a mathematics requirement. If you did not obtain one of the mentioned requirements, then you are asked to provide us with a Mathematics course description with your online application. If your mathematics level is deemed insufficient, you will be required to obtain one of the accepted Mathematics proficiency certificates.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

(in English)

assessment interview

After passing the first step of the selection procedure, you will be invited for an interview. This will take place in person in Leeuwarden or online.

reference letter

(in English)

(motivation-) letter

Letter of Motivation or a Video Presentation (in English)

other admission requirements

For more information about international equivalency, certificates, exceptions and more: www.rug.nl/cf/ucf

Language requirements

ExamMinimum score
C1 Advanced (formerly CAE)C1
C2 Proficiency (formerly CPE)C2
IELTS overall band6.5
IELTS listening6
IELTS reading6
IELTS writing6
IELTS speaking6
TOEFL internet based90

Registration procedure

Students have to apply via Studielink and the Online Application System (OAS) of the University of Groningen. After uploading all the required documents the Admissions Board will inform you if you're deemed admissible.

The applicant must pass a two-step selection procedure in order to be admitted to the programme. The selection procedure consists of two steps:

  • Selection Documents
  • Selection Interview

With your online application you're asked to upload the following:
-Letter of Motivation or a Video Presentation*

-Reference
Letter*
-Curriculum Vitae*
-Mathematics certificate
-English certificate
-Transcript of records (most recent version)
-Copy of secondary school diploma/certificate or proof of enrollment with expected graduation date
-Copy of valid passport or ID Card

If you're deemed admissible to the GRL programme, the Admissions Board will have a further look at your selection documents and decide if you're invited for the second part of the selection procedure: the selection interview.

The interview can take place either in person or online. The interview is a chance for us to get to know you better and for you to ask any questions you may have. Within approximately a week after the interview, you'll be informed about the outcome of this second and final step of the selection procedure for the GRL programme.

*More information can be found here: Criteria for University College Fryslân selection procedure documents 2023-2024

As of academic year 2023-2024 all applicants with a non-Dutch qualification will have to pay an application fee of €100.
More information: Admission and application.

Selection procedure

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students01 May 202401 September 2024
EU/EEA students01 May 202401 September 2024
non-EU/EEA students01 May 202401 September 2024

There are two application deadlines: 15/January and 1/May. The 15 January deadline is an early bird deadline. If we receive your complete application before this date then you will have first choice in the student housing registration which opens on 1 April.

Tuition fees
NationalityYearFeeProgramme form
EU/EEA2023-2024€ 4588full-time
non-EU/EEA2023-2024€ 14300full-time

At the moment, first-time 1st-year EU students of programmes such as GRL, get a tuition fee reduction of around 1105 EUR.

More information can be found here: Halving statutory tuition fees for first-year students.

Frisian students can apply to a scholarship provided by the Province of Fryslân of most likely EUR 4,380.

Practical information for:

After your studies

Compared to a mono-disciplinary bachelor, a university college education offers a broad study programme.

The bachelor Global Responsibility & Leadership combines the best of both worlds: it offers you a wide variety of opportunities to explore different disciplines, but also the advantage of structured guidance, similar to a dedicated bachelor programme. This will benefit your choice for a master's programme after graduation, as you will have a profound background related to one of the three majors: Responsible Governance, Responsible Humanity or Responsible Planet.

After graduation, you can choose from a wide array of master programmes. Here are some examples:

  • Political Science
  • Economics
  • Psychology
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Health Sciences
  • International Relations
  • Psychology, Politics, Economics
  • Sustainable Entrepreneurship
  • Business and Public Administration
  • Euroculture

Job prospects

After getting your master's degree, you can choose to apply for a PhD position or start working as a policy advisor, a consultant, an entrepreneur or as a development specialist in both the private or public sector. Given the fact that your bachelor is internationally orientated and recognised, you will have outstanding career perspectives in an international working environment.

Job examples

  • Policy Advisor
  • Researcher
  • Entrepreneur
  • Consultant
  • Development Specialist
Research

After Year 1, the programme offers many opportunities to put your knowledge in practice and participate in research projects that have local impact. One of the main features of the GRL programme is the Living Lab projects, where you get to work with senior researchers, fellow students and private or public stakeholders on real-life issues affecting organisations, local governments or companies.

But the opportunities for developing research skills do not end there! Campus Fryslân offers the opportunity to become a student-researcher by participating in the ongoing research projects related to the Frisian Flagships and SDG’s:

  • Governance: local & global
  • Sustainable Economy
  • Culture, Language and Technology
  • Health and Food
  • Cross-cutting theme on Big Data and Innovation

When necessary, you get the opportunity to support senior researchers on their research projects. This allows you to develop networking and research skills and get involved in Campus Fryslân research outputs and contribution to social impact.
Lastly, during the last year, you can opt for a research internship at a local or international organisation. You must look and apply for internship opportunities themselves, but GRL staff is helpful with sharing ideas and contacts.

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Contact

  • Admission Admission Office (UFC) (* For questions related to Studielink, OAS and admission documents, kindly contact: )
    Email: ucf.bsc.admission rug.nl
  • Ask Our Students!
  • Chat With Our Students
  • Student Service Desk Ucf (For questions related to UCF/GRL, selection procedure and general information, kindly contact)
    Email: ucf-grl rug.nl

Timotej enjoys the innovative approach to education

UCF is full of kind, helpful, supportive and at the same time incredibly talented and motivated people.

In my opinion, the most important skills I have acquired so far are critical thinking, argumentation, public speaking, time management, cooperation, and a sense of responsibility.

I enjoy the innovative approach to education, which is visible in both the lessons and forms of assessment. Lessons provide plenty of space for discussions, formation of arguments, and practical exercises.

Read more

Zarina had a great student time in Leeuwarden

I mainly started studying in Leeuwarden because of the unique programme University College Fryslân had to offer. I wanted to study in the Netherlands and Global Responsibility and Leadership matched my interests very well.

Studying at CF has brought me a lot of new experiences, friends, opportunities and (self-)knowledge. I work at CF, while also pursuing my MSc in Climate Adaptation Governance there. I have made great connections and have developed both academically and personally..

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Evy is proud of her campus community

At University College Fryslân you are not only inspired to be a great student, but also encouraged to explore what it means to be part of a bigger community which you create together with everyone else at the campus. A welcoming, inclusive, and active community of which I am incredibly proud.

Being part of our faculty study association Nobis Cura Futuri (NCF) has given me the opportunity to get myself even more involved within our community..

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Study associations

Nobis Cura Futuri

Nobis Cura Futuri is the Study Association and the official embodiment of the international student community at Campus Fryslân.
Founded in 2020, we aim to provide plenty of fun, social and academic events (think of Pub crawls, talent shows, travels, guest-speaker evenings). All in the spirit of Nobis Cura Futuri: “The Care of the Future is Ours”, meaning we strive to provide activities that are aimed at making the most of your student life by adhering to our values of responsibility, diversity, sustainability and development.
https://www.rug.nl/cf/studeren-bij-cf/nobis-cura-futuri
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Student profile

We are looking for students that are motivated and ready for a challenging but rewarding education. In general, students that apply to the programme are internationally oriented, ambitious, socially engaged, open minded, adventurous and motivated. The best way to get to know our community is to get in contact with our current students. https://www.rug.nl/cf/university-college-fryslan/about-ucf/ask-an-ucf-student_

(Binding) study advice
  • A minimum of 60 EC in the first 12 months (binding)

At UCF we place a large amount of responsibility for the learning process with you: the student. Lecturers act as coaches who provide brief instruction, give feedback on student work and stimulate discussion. As UCF student you are required to fulfil the 60 EC binding study advice in order to continue with your second year. UCF provides you with academic and study support to help you achieve this requirement.

Study support

At the start of the GRL programme, each student is assigned a dedicated academic advisor. During the three years at UCF, the academic advisor can help the student with for example choosing the right major, minor and/or master's programme as well as guiding them in their capstone final project.

Next to the Academic Advisors, there is also a dedicated Study Advisor present at UCF: Drs. Maaike Moltzer. Maaike supports students that face personal difficulties, have issues with study planning, time management or if they have special needs.

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