Majors

Health and Life sciences encompass the study and application of medical, biological, and health-related knowledge. The purpose of this field is to understand, diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases in humans and other living organisms, making a tangible impact on the world. Neuroscience is a multidisciplinary field dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the human mind. Discover how biological principles intersect to shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and be at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovation.

Courses in Health and Life Science and Neuroscience include, but are not limited to, Oncology , Human Anatomy, Biochemistry, Practical Life Science, Genetics, Medical Microbiology, and Neurobiology.

Opportunites for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Health and Life Sciences and Neuroscience have opportunities to continue to master's programmes in fields like biomedical sciences, (cognitive) neurosciences, public health, and health sciences.

At the University of Groningen, students can access master's programmes in both the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the Faculty of Medical Sciences. To help our students meet the entry requirements, we have desigend a specific set of courses that can make them eligible for the progammes Premaster's Medicine and MSc Medical Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is woven into the fabric of our daily lives, playing a crucial role in solving societal challenges. Interdisciplinary AI is a dynamic and evolving field that not only addresses critical societal issues but also embraces a wide range of perspectives from different disciplines.

At the heart of Interdisciplinary AI is a commitment to educating and empowering students in the ethical and innovative use of AI.  At UCG, we aim to equip the next generation with the skills to develop the smart and responsible systems of tomorrow and explore innovative approaches to regulate emerging technologies and prioritise the development of people-oriented systems.

AI always touches multiple domains (e.g. natural language processing, computer vision, robotics etc.) and therefore requires insights from computer science, mathematics, cognitive science, sociology, ethics, philosophy and more. AI tools are, or will be, used in numerous fields, including healthcare, finances, education, and environmental sciences. For each application both domain specific-knowledge and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential.

Courses include, among others, Linear Algebra, Programming in Python, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Smart Technology Lab. 

"The small scale, enthusiastic and highly qualified lecturers and a possibility to individualise your programme with relevant sciences, social sciences and humanity courses makes UCG a unique place to study AI". Dr. Oksana Kavatsyuk - Cluster Coordinator

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Interdisciplinary AI have opportunities to continue to master's programmes in fields like artificial intelligence, computational cognitive science, computing science, energy and environmental science, and science communication. 

At the University of Groningen, UCG has estbalished agreements with the master’s programmes MSc Artificial Intelligence and MSc Computational Cognitive Science to ensure a seamless transition.

Psychology is the study of the human mind and human behavior, but it can also include all of human activity. It includes questions such as: How and why do we filter incoming information to understand the world around us? How do our identities, personalities, and abilities emerge across our lifespan? What role do societal norms play in the increasing prevalence of depression and anxiety?

Studying this field, you will explore how psychology describes, explains, and predicts the complexities of human thought and action, equipping you with insights to navigate and influence the world around you.

Courses in Psychology include, among others, Social and Cultural Psychology, Biopsychology, Cognitive Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Philosophical Foundations of Psychology, Understanding Bias, Decision Making, Personality and Individual Differences, Neurobiology, and Clinical Neuropsychology.

"A broad understanding of psychology benefits greatly from an interdisciplinary approach – which is what we offer at UCG. Psychological phenomena are best understood when we draw from other fields such as linguistics, neuroscience, philosophy and anthropology. It can therefore be a highly interdisciplinary field of study that allows students to explore new disciplinary boundaries and truly tackle the complexity of the human mind and behaviour".

Dr. Naomi de Ruiter - Cluster Coordinator

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Psychology have opportunities to continue to master's programmes in fields like psychology; behavioural and social sciences; behavioural and cognitive neuroscience; computational cognitive science; clinical and psychosocial epidemiology; and philosophy, science, and humanities.

At the University of Groningen, UCG and the Faculty of Behavioural Sciences have created a tailored coursework plan to help our students meet the requirements for the MSc Psychology.

Economics explores how societies navigate the challenge of limited resources, making decisions that shape our world. It’s about understanding the choices we make and how they impact everything from resource distribution to social welfare. Economists are at the heart of tackling some of the biggest issues we face today, from economic crises and inequality to climate change.

By mastering tools like econometrics and cost-benefit analysis, you’ll gain the skills to influence policy and drive solutions for market failures and economic development. Studying economics empowers you to make a real difference in today’s interconnected world.

A thorough understanding of economics benefits greatly from an interdisciplinary approach, which is one of the key strengths at University College Groningen. For instance, psychology provides valuable insights into consumer behavior, helping us understand the cognitive and emotional factors that influence purchasing decisions and market trends. Similarly, sociology can shed light on the role of social norms, networks, and institutions in shaping economic interactions. By embracing an interdisciplinary approach, students are encouraged to explore these interconnected aspects, which not only broadens their academic perspective but also enhances their ability to think critically and creatively about real-world economic challenges.

Courses in Economics involve, but are not limited to, Macro-Economics, Micro-Economics, Public Finance, Political Economy, Empirical Political Economy and Intermediate Macroeconomics.

Opportunities for future studies

Students specialising in Economics have a broad range of options for pursuing a master's degree, inlcuding fields such as economics, financial economics, (international) business, business administration, public policy, or law and economics.

At the University of Groningen, these inlcude the options to pursue a Research Master's in Economics and Business, as well as an MSc in Economic Development and Globalization.

International Business is about the global exchange of goods, services, capital, knowledge, and technology. This field dives into managing businesses that operate across diverse cultural, political, and economic landscapes. As a student, you'll explore key areas like international trade, global supply chain management, and cross-cultural management. You'll learn effective strategies to tackle global challenges and seize opportunities, while also developing the skills to navigate both the technical and ethical aspects of international business.

A solid understanding of business is greatly enriched by an interdisciplinary approach, which is one of the key strenght at University of Groningen. By drawing from diverse discipons, students can gain a more holistic view of business issues. For instance, integrating knowledge from areas like cultural studies and international relations enriches our understanding of international business by considering cultural nuances, geopolitical factors, and cross-border economic relations. Political science is also essential, fo example in assessing the influence of government policies, trade agreements, and regulatory systems on business strategies. This interdisciplinary approach invites you to dive into these interconnected areas, expanding your academic horizons while sharpening your ability to think critically and creatively about real-world business challenges.

Courses in International Business include, among others, International Business, Micro-Economics, Principles of Entrepreneurship, Global Corporate Strategy, International Marketing.

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on International Business have opportunities to pursue master's programmes in fields such as (international) business, entrepreneurship, (international) marketing and economics.

At the University of Groningen, these opportunites include access to the MSc in International Business Management, the MSc in Business Administration, the MSc in Marketing - Marketing Management, the MSc in Finance, the MSc in International Financial Management, the Research Master's in Economics and Business, and the MSc in Small Business and Entrepreneuship.

Politics is all about power, governance, and decision-making. As a politics student, you’ll dive into how public decisions are made, how conflicts are managed, and how justice, rights, and democracy shape societies. You’ll tackle big questions about resource distribution, global governance, and the ethical responsibilities of nations. Focussing on politics at UCG offers you a unique blend of theory and practical application. For instance, students explore European policy while developing skills in drafting fact sheets, manuals, and policies, some of which are shared with real policymakers.

"Politics is ideal for students passionate about understanding and influencing the mechanisms of power, governance, and justice, who are eager to grasp the complexities of the modern world, and aspire to make meaningful contributions to society – whether through public service, legal practice, or advocacy." – Dr. Ritumbra Manuvie, Cluster Coordinator

Politics does not exist in isolation but is deeply interconnected with other disciplines such as economics, history, sociology, AI and ethics. This interdisciplinary approach allows our students to explore how political systems operate within broader social, economic, technological and cultural contexts. Core questions inlcude: What are the ethical responsibilities of nations in global governance, and how do these responsibilities influence international relations and policies? How do different models of democracy compare in terms of their effectiveness and ethical foundations? And in what ways do political philosophies influence public policies and the interpretation of freedom and responsibility within societies?

Courses in Politics inlcude, but are not limited to, Political Philosophy, Freedom and Responsibility, International Relations Theories (and Practice), and Models of Democracy, International Politics and Global Justice.

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Politics have opportunities to pursue master's programmes in fields such as philosophy, politics and economics, politics / political science, international relations, international politics, oolitical philosophy / political theory, security studies, public policy, journalism and area studies.

At the University of Groningen, our students focussing on politics can access master's programmes in both the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Philosophy. To thelp them meet the entry requirements, we have designed a specific set of courses that can make them eligible for the Research Master's International Relations, the MSc in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, and the MA in International Humanitarian Action.

Law is a dynamic field that delves into societal, political, and philosophical issues, offering students unique insights into the systems and relationships that shape our world.

At UCG, studying law provides a deep understanding of how legal principles intersect with global and societal issues. You'll learn about the rule of law as a cornerstone of democracy, ensuring laws are applied equally and fairly, safeguarding human rights and liberties. Our programme emphasizes not only the functioning of legal rules but also the ethical imperatives essential for justice and equality in modern societies. You will deal with questions like 'How do legal systems ensure justice?' 'How do international legal frameworks influence national laws and policies?' and 'How does the study of Criminal Law contribute to our understanding of justice, rehabilitation, and punishment in society?'

One of the hallmarks of this field of study is its strong interdisciplinary character. Law isn’t just about rules—it’s connected to everything from economics and history to AI and ethics. At UCG, you’ll dive into how legal systems work within broader social, economic, and technological contexts, giving you a well-rounded perspective on law’s real-world impact.

What sets studying law at UCG apart is the balance of theory and hands-on experience. You’ll explore European law while building practical skills like drafting fact sheets, manuals, and policies—some of which you’ll share with real policymakers, giving you a taste of how law influences the world around you. Emphasizing critical thinking and multidisciplinary analysis, this field provides foundational knowledge, independent research opportunities, and practical skills in legal reasoning, preparing students for a range of professional fields.

Courses in Law include, but are not limited to, Fundamentals of Law, Policy and Principles of Private Law, International Law, European Law, The Age of Human Rights, and Criminal Law.

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Law have a broad range op opportunities to pursue master's programmes in fields such as (international law), international relations, politics / political science, or security studies.

At the University of Groningen, students can continue to master's programmes both at the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Law. To help them meet the entry requirements, we have established specific course pathways that can make them eligble for LLM programmes, and the MA in International Relations.

In this field of study, you'll delve into the nature of truth, meaning, rationality, reality, and values. You'll explore human dilemmas through a philosophical lens, grappling with questions such as: What does it mean to act morally good? What does it mean to act and think rationally? What is the meaning of "truth," and what makes a true statement true? What is a logically valid argument? What distinguishes science-based claims from others? Is there an objective reality?

Key subjects include ethics, philosophy of language, aesthetics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, metaphysics, philosophy of science, and philosophy of technology. Embark on a journey to understand the fundamental aspects of human existence and thought.

Courses in Philosophy inlcude, but are not limited to, Ethics, Philosophy of Mind, Philosophy of Science, Meaning and Truth in Language and Art, Political Philosophy, and Existential Risks.

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Philosophy have opportunities to continue to master programmes in fields like philosophy, or gender studies, but there are also many other options, depending on your interests and focus points.

If you have completed at least 60 ECTS in UCG Philosophy courses and related UCG courses from other fields of study, you meet the basic requirements for admission to the MA in Philosophy at the University of Gronigen.

In this field of study, students investigate human culture and the arts. We humans are fundamentally cultural beings. Everything we do and create is shaped by our culture, whether technology, the arts, language, politics, and science. At UCG we focus on the mechanisms and processes through which culture is connected to social reality and the analyses of the ways in which culture and the arts contribute to bringing about social change. Areas of study we cover are: media and technology, the arts, gender, history, the public sphere, culture and cognition. We ask questions like 'How do media and technology affect the way we live, think, and do politics?', 'What role does gender play in contemporary culture?', 'How are the arts and media connected to democratic functioning?', or 'When and how does ethics come in debates on new technologies?'

"There is a  growing awareness of the importance of the perspectives that the Humanities have to offer in creating more sustainable futures for ourselves and the world we live in. To realise this potential, meaningful connections are being made to the sciences and social sciences in for example the fields of climate change, migration, technology and AI". Dr. Marlieke Wilders - Cluster Coordinator

Courses include, but are not limited to, Cultural Criticism, Leadership in Culture, Myths we Live by, World Literature, Artivism, Music in Culture, Postcolonial Theory, and Dystopias.

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Arts and Culture have opportunities to continue to master programmes in the fields of, for example, Literature, Media Studies, Cultural Studies, or Gender Studies.

At the University of Groningen, these opportunities include to acccess the MA in European Studies (“Euroculture”) and a Research master in Arts & Culture.