Master - full-time

International Economics and Sustainable Development

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

We face major opportunities, challenges and disruptions, such as AI, migration, inequality, populism, and climate change. The MSc International Economics and Sustainable Development (IE&SD) equips you with tools and economic theories to make a real impact . After graduation, you move on to influential roles in international organizations, government, or the private sector.
In Groningen, you are taught societally relevant topics and how they are related to real-world economics . We help you develop valuable skills and knowledge in international trade, economic development, 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.

Shape your programme with a selection of elective courses such as International Banking and Finance, Inclusive Finance, Geographical and Urban Economics, and Globalization Debates.
Choose to specialise in topics focused on answering issues around future prosperity, healthy societies or the energy transition within this programme.
Study abroad by applying for one of our Double degree programmes with our partners in Corvinus University in Hungary , Lund University in Sweden , University of Göttingen in Germany or Fudan University in Shanghai, China .

Facts & Figures

Degree: MSc in International Economics and Sustainable Development
Course type: Master
Duration: 12 months (60 EC)
Croho code: 60963
Language of instruction: English
Start: February, September
Faculty: Economics and Business

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Why study this programme in Groningen?

Tackle global challenges tied to sustainability, social justice, and human rights, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals .
Interdisciplinary academic approach where we combine economics, environmental research, policy analysis, and technology to solve real-world problems.
Learn from internationally renowned professors - leaders in development economics. They specialize in: productivity growth, regional development, international banking and economic geography, among others.
Collaborate in research with international organizations like the OECD, Conference Board, and Dutch Central Bank .
We prepare you for a career in sectors like international trade, climate change, finance, and policy analysis with top organizations.
Proudly evaluated by EQUIS for our high-quality students and excellent programme management.
The programme has been internationally accredited by the AACSB and EQUIS, ensuring a high-quality education, which only 1% of universities reach worldwide.

Programme

You start your studies by exploring topics like international trade, growth, and development economics and learn to 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.

You can tailor your studies with electives in International Banking and Finance, Inclusive Finance, Geographical and Urban Economics, and Globalization Debates . There is also an option to specialize in Energy Transition and Climate Change, Future Prosperity and Sustainability or Healthy Society.

	Semesters
CoursesCourse Catalog >	1a	1b	2a	2b
Foreign Direct Investment and Trade (5 EC)
Sustainable Economic Development (5 EC)
Elective(s) 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) 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 (5 EC)
Country Studies (5 EC)
Master's Thesis (20 EC)

Programme options
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
Future Prosperity and Sustainability (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 (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 (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

Study abroad

Study abroad is optional

Entry requirements

Admission requirements

Specific requirements	More information
previous education	Below you will see a table with 'transfer options'. Please check the entry requirements for your Bachelor's degree (from a research university of a university of applied sciences). This programme offers customized entry packages: https://www.rug.nl/feb/education/study-programmes/pre-msc/customized-entry-packages/faqs-customized-packages/msc-iesd. If your degree is not mentioned in the table below, you can still apply via a Pre-Master's programme. For information on application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster. 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.

Specific requirements

More information

previous education

Below you will see a table with 'transfer options'. Please check the entry requirements for your Bachelor's degree (from a research university of a university of applied sciences).

This programme offers customized entry packages: https://www.rug.nl/feb/education/study-programmes/pre-msc/customized-entry-packages/faqs-customized-packages/msc-iesd.

If your degree is not mentioned in the table below, you can still apply via a Pre-Master's programme. For information on application and entry requirements, please check https://www.rug.nl/feb/premaster.

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.

Transfer options

Transferring from...

Erasmus University Rotterdam

Leiden University

Wageningen University

VU University Amsterdam

Maastricht University

Nyenrode New Business School

University of Twente

Tilburg University

University of Amsterdam

University of Groningen

Utrecht University

Radboud University Nijmegen

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Business Administration	Erasmus 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.
Economics and Business Economics	Erasmus University Rotterdam	No additional requirements
Econometrics and Operations Research	Erasmus University Rotterdam	No additional requirements
International Business Administration	Erasmus 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.
Fiscale Economie	Erasmus 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 Administration	Erasmus University Rotterdam	No additional requirements More information: For profile Analytical Decision-makers.

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Public Administration Science	Leiden 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 Science	Leiden 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 programme	Organization	Transition
Economics and Governance	Wageningen 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.
Management and Consumer Studies	Wageningen 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 programme	Organization	Transition
Business Administration	VU 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.
International Business Administration	VU 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 Analytics	VU 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 Economics	VU University Amsterdam	No additional requirements
Econometrics and Operations Research	VU University Amsterdam	No additional requirements

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Business Engineering	Maastricht 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 Economie	Maastricht 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 Analytics	Maastricht 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.
Global Studies	Maastricht 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 Business	Maastricht University	No additional requirements
Economics and Business Economics	Maastricht University	No additional requirements
Econometrics and Operations Research	Maastricht University	No additional requirements

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Business Administration	Nyenrode 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.
Accountancy	Nyenrode 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 programme	Organization	Transition
International Business Administration	University 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 programme	Organization	Transition
International Business Administration	Tilburg 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 Economie	Tilburg 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.
Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation	Tilburg 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	Tilburg University	No additional requirements
Econometrics and Operations Research	Tilburg University	No additional requirements

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Fiscale Economie	University 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 Analytics	University 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 Administration	University 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.
Actuarial Science	University 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.
Economics and Business Economics	University of Amsterdam	No additional requirements
Econometrics and Data Science	University of Amsterdam	No additional requirements

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Industrial Engineering and Management	University of Groningen	Additional requirements with a maximum of 25 EC More information: There is a customised Pre-Master's programme of 25 ECTS available for for graduates of our BSc Industrial Engineering and Management programme. More information: https://www.rug.nl/feb/education/study-programmes/pre-msc/customized-entry-packages/faqs-customized-packages/msc-iesd
International Relations and International Organization	University of Groningen	Additional requirements with a maximum of 25 EC More information: There is a customised Pre-Master's programme of 25 ECTS available for graduates of our BSc International Relations and International Organization programme. More information: https://www.rug.nl/feb/education/study-programmes/pre-msc/customized-entry-packages/faqs-customized-packages/msc-iesd
International Business	University of Groningen	No additional requirements
Econometrics and Operations Research	University of Groningen	No additional requirements
Business Administration	University of Groningen	Additional requirements More information: Students have to successfully complete the minor in International Economics and Sustainable Development.
Economics and Business Economics	University of Groningen	No additional requirements

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Economics and Business Economics	Utrecht University	No additional requirements

Study programme	Organization	Transition
Business Administration	Radboud 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 Economics	Radboud University Nijmegen	No additional requirements

Registration procedure

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

Application deadlines

Type of student	Deadline	Start course
Dutch students	15 October 2025	01 February 2026
	01 May 2026	01 September 2026
	15 October 2026	01 February 2027
EU/EEA students	15 October 2025	01 February 2026
	01 May 2026	01 September 2026
	15 October 2026	01 February 2027
non-EU/EEA students	15 October 2025	01 February 2026
	01 May 2026	01 September 2026
	15 October 2026	01 February 2027

Admission requirements

Specific requirements	More 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.
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 student	Deadline	Start course
Dutch students	15 October 2025	01 February 2026
	01 May 2026	01 September 2026
	15 October 2026	01 February 2027
EU/EEA students	15 October 2025	01 February 2026
	01 May 2026	01 September 2026
	15 October 2026	01 February 2027
non-EU/EEA students	15 October 2025	01 February 2026
	01 May 2026	01 September 2026
	15 October 2026	01 February 2027

Tuition fees

Nationality	Year	Fee	Programme form
EU/EEA	2025-2026	€ 2601	full-time
non-EU/EEA	2025-2026	€ 21400	full-time

Practical information for:

Dutch students International students

After your studies

Job prospects

Graduates often take up positions in multinational firms such as banks and consultancy firms . It is also common for graduates to enter international organizations such as the World Bank, IMF, European Union, UN, and OECD and internationally oriented departments of government agencies.

Job examples:

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

Research

In Groningen, research is deeply connected to business practice, economics, and society . The professors in this programme are all active researchers in the Global Economics and Management department, in the areas of international economics, economic geography, and development economics. Several of the professors lead the renowned Groningen Growth and Development Centre .

Some key areas of research you might explore as a student are:

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

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Contact

Are you a current student? Contact the Student Support Desk (FEB)
Are you a prospective student? Fill in this contact form (FEB) (We will answer your question within 72 hours.)

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.

This MSc equipped me with a solid foundation in economic theory and practical skills, setting me up for a career in economics. (Matthijs Attema)

I chose the MSc in International Economics and Sustainable Development (previously Economic Development & Globalization) at the FEB to explore how economic policies shape our world. A standout aspect of the program was the course International Banking & Finance, where I gained insights into the financial system and the factors leading to the 2008 financial crisis. The flipped classroom approach kept me engaged and encouraged genuine understanding rather than rote memorization.

The program's atmosphere was incredibly enriching, filled with driven international students who were equally passionate about economic issues. The Master Community played a significant role in my experience, organizing social and career-related events that facilitated meaningful connections. Through these activities, I met alumni from the Dutch Central Bank (DNB), which ultimately helped me land a traineeship right after graduation.

FEB’s MSc in International Economics and Sustainable Development equipped me with a solid foundation in economic theory and practical skills, setting me up for a career in economics. The program opened valuable connections and provided insights that I carry forward into my professional journey.

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/

International Economics and Sustainable Development

Why study this programme in Groningen?

Programme

Study abroad

Entry requirements

Admission requirements

Transfer options

Registration procedure

Application deadlines

Admission requirements

Registration procedure

Application deadlines

Tuition fees

After your studies

Job prospects

Research

Contact

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

This MSc equipped me with a solid foundation in economic theory and practical skills, setting me up for a career in economics. (Matthijs Attema)

Study associations

EBF

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