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Education Bachelor's degree programmes Econometrics and Operations Research
Header image Econometrics and Operations Research
Bachelor - full-time

Econometrics and Operations Research

Study econometrics and operations research in Groningen to learn how to use mathematical modelling to find solutions to real-life problems in our society.

What is the most cost-efficient location for placing windmills in the Netherlands? How can mathematics and statistics help us understand the relationship between climate change and economic factors, such as food prices, energy costs, or job opportunities? If you enjoy solving problems like this, this programme could be right for you. The BSc Econometrics and Operations Research (EOR) at the University of Groningen teaches you all about mathematical modelling. In many courses you practice modelling by applying data to real life cases in many areas, including climate change, environmental matters, welfare, and well-being. The combination of the four profiles econometrics, operations research, actuarial science, and mathematical economics, makes this a unique programme in the Netherlands. If you like economics, mathematics, and statistics, enjoy finding solutions to complex issues, and aim to contribute significantly to relevant societal problems, then this could be the programme for you.

  • Econometrics is about the statistical methods needed to estimate the relation between variables. How do micro-finance loans help alleviate poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa?
  • Operations research focuses on optimal decision-making and finding approximate solutions to complex real-life problems. How to deliver a number of packages with the smallest environmental footprint possible?
  • Actuarial science is about modelling the risks faced by, for instance, insurance companies and pension funds. How are pensions related to people living longer?
  • Mathematical economics studies how economic actors (individuals, government, companies) interact with each other. Does price discrimination reduce social welfare?
Facts & Figures
Degree
BSc in Econometrics and Operations Research
Course type
Bachelor
Duration
36 months (180 ECTS)
Croho code
56833
Language of instruction
English
Start
September
Faculty
Economics and Business
Accreditation logo AACSBAccreditation logo EQUIS
Apply now
Why study this programme in Groningen?
  • The BSc Econometrics and Operations Research provides you with a strong theoretical base and teaches you how to apply theory to real-life data and cases, concerning, for example societal and environmental (global) issues.
  • A unique feature of the programme is the EOR game.You will play this business simulation game in all three years of the programme to apply the knowledge and skills you have gained from different courses.
  • The programme in Groningen is known for small-group teaching and personal contact with lecturers and fellow students.
  • In the third year you have the possibility to study abroad, but you can also follow a minor at FEB, such as a deepening minor, which includes a new course on big data and machine learning.
  • Students from the BSc Econometrics and Operations Research form an active and ambitious community. Study association VESTING organizes all kinds of social and study-related activities throughout the year to prepare you for your future career and make the most out of your study time at the Faculty of Economics and Business.
  • The programme has been internationally accredited by the AACSB and EQUIS, ensuring a high-quality education, which only 1% of universities reach worldwide.
Programme

During the first year, you will follow a wide range of courses that introduce you to the field of econometrics and operations research such as: data analytics, statistical modelling, programming, calculus, linear algebra, finance, microeconomics, probability theory, and probability distributions. You will also start with a game which is specifically developed for students from the BSc Econometrics and Operations Research.

In the game, you will take on the role of running a fictional company, making decisions across multiple fields. In the course Introduction to Data Analytics you will focus on how to apply data and how to visualize data while taking ethical aspects into account. In the Programming course, you will work every week with another data set. All the course units from your first year lay the foundation for the rest of the programme.

Semesters
CoursesCourse Catalog >1a1b2a2b
Introduction to Data Analytics (5 EC)
Math I: Calculus (5 EC)
OR Modelling (5 EC)
Math II: Linear Algebra (5 EC)
Probability Theory for EOR (5 EC)
Programming for EOR (5 EC)
Finance for EOR (5 EC)
Math III: Analysis (5 EC)
Microeconomics for EOR (5 EC)
Math IV: Multivariate Calculus (5 EC)
Probability Distributions (5 EC)
Statistical Modelling for EOR (5 EC)

Also in the second year, you will follow a wide variety of courses focusing on modelling in different types of ways. Within the Dynamic Econometrics course, you will create an original research question that involves the analysis of time series data, with special attention to the relation between climate and economic variables. You learn how to design and use algorithms and heuristics that can find solutions for global problems.

Macroeconomics focuses on analyzing and addressing important European and global policy issues. During the Discrete Operations Research course, you obtain pivotal techniques in solving problems that arise in practice such as supply chain optimizations, design of telecommunication networks, and transportation. The course Stochastic Operations Research introduces you to queueing and inventory systems. Queueing systems pervade our society at shops, supermarkets, call centers and so on. Such systems make trade-offs between operations costs (such as hiring personnel and service as perceived by customers, e.g., mean waiting time). To make such trade-offs, one should be able to analyze the behavior of queueing systems and compute relevant key performance indicators.
Semesters
CoursesCourse Catalog >1a1b2a2b
Macroeconomics for EOR (5 EC)
Math V: Advanced Linear Algebra (5 EC)
Statistical Inference (5 EC)
Linear Models in Statistics (5 EC)
Math VI: Convexity and Optimization (5 EC)
Stochastic Operations Research (5 EC)
Discrete Operations Research (5 EC)
Introduction to Econometrics (5 EC)
Life Insurance (5 EC)
Dynamic Econometrics (5 EC)
Game Theory (5 EC)
Risk Insurance (5 EC)

In the first part of the third year, you take a minor. You can choose a minor at the Faculty of Economics and Business, at another faculty within the University of Groningen, or you can study abroad for one semester. In the second semester of the third year, you will write your Bachelor's thesis to prove your modelling skills and follow the last course units of the BSc EOR programme.

The course Numerical Methods will teach you how to use the recent improvements in data storage and computing power to address economic and econometric issues that were impossible to address ten years ago through computer-intensive methods. Within the course Games, Competition and Markets you will study competition between firms, hence discussing many issues in the field of Industrial Organization. Topics in this course include price discrimination, search costs, advertising, and platforms. You will also follow one elective, which you can choose from an extensive list of courses. And last but not least, you will play the game one last time to see how the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the programme help you succeed in the game.

Semesters
CoursesCourse Catalog >1a1b2a2b
Minors (30 EC)

You can choose from a minor at the faculty, university minor or study abroad. Check the course catalog for more information.
Numerical Methods for EOR (5 EC)
Stochastic Models (5 EC)
Bachelor's Thesis (10 EC)
Elective BSc EOR (5 EC)

See course catalog for the list of electives.
Games, Competition and Markets (5 EC)

Study abroad

  • Study abroad is optional
  • Maximum of 30 EC
Entry requirements

Admissible Dutch diploma profiles

  • VWO Natuur & Techniek
  • VWO Natuur & Gezondheid

    wiskunde B

  • VWO Economie & Maatschappij

    wiskunde B

  • VWO Cultuur & Maatschappij

    wiskunde B

  • HBO propedeuse

    It is also possible to enter the programme with an HBO propaedeutic certificate, on condition that you meet the required level of mathematics and the English language skills. For mathematics, you must at least have completed B (previously mathematics B1) at Dutch VWO level. For English, you must also have completed this at VWO level or obtained one of the English certificates: IELTS Academic overall score 6 (Speaking 6, Writing 5.5); TOEFL internet-based overall score 90 (Speaking 20, Writing 20); C1 Advanced (with minimum score 169).

  • academic propedeuse

    You can enroll, as long as you have a finished VWO-degree with mathematics B.

Choice of degree programme check

The degree programme will organize a choice of degree programme check. Attendance is optional. The advice is not binding.

Explanatory notes

Matching is a way for first year students of a Bachelor's degree programme without a selection procedure to find out whether their chosen degree programme matches with what they want.

Registration procedure

Students have to apply online via Studielink. After you have applied, you have the right to participate in a matching activity. Matching is a procedure for students who want to apply for a Bachelor programme without a decentral selection procedure. Read more about the matching procedure.

More information on the steps to apply.

Selection procedure

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students01 May 202501 September 2025
EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025
non-EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025

Choice of degree programme check

If you intend to start with a bachelor degree programme at the University of Groningen in September, make sure to apply before May 1 in Studielink. The degree programme will give you the option to participate in a matching activity to see if you and the degree programme are a match. Which matchings activity they provide depends on the faculty and programme.

Any questions about matching? Check www.rug.nl/matching

Admission requirements

Specific requirementsMore information
previous education

To meet the general entry-level requirements, you will need an educational background equivalent to the Dutch pre-university education (VWO). For an overview of VWO-equivalent qualifications, please check https://www.rug.nl/vwo-equivalent-qualifications. If you have any questions concerning admission to the programme, please contact our Admissions Office: https://www.rug.nl/admissions.
additional subject

Mathematics should have been passed as a higher level (advanced) subject in your secondary school education. Please note that the level of mathematics will need to be assessed by the Admissions Board.
language test

IELTS Academic overall score 6 (Speaking 6, Writing 5.5); TOEFL internet-based overall score 80 (Speaking 20, Writing 20); Cambridge C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (overall score 169, Speaking 169, Writing 162).

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.

Selection procedure

Application deadlines

Type of studentDeadlineStart course
Dutch students01 May 202501 September 2025
EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025
non-EU/EEA students01 May 202501 September 2025
Tuition fees
NationalityYearFeeProgramme form
EU/EEA2024-2025€ 2530full-time
non-EU/EEA2024-2025€ 13100full-time
EU/EEA2025-2026€ 2601full-time
non-EU/EEA2025-2026€ 13500full-time

Practical information for:

Dutch studentsInternational students
After your studies

Job prospects

Almost all students decide to continue with a Master's degree in EOR or a related field. Acquiring such a Master's degree will expand your career opportunities in the short and long term, at home and abroad. Graduates with an MSc degree in EOR are found in a broad spectrum of occupations where mathematical, programming and problem-solving skills are needed.

You can continue your education with the MSc in Econometrics, Operations Research and Actuarial Studies at the University of Groningen.

The world of business offers jobs in areas such as finance, insurance, logistics, and marketing. Also, the public sector hires econometricians. Finally, moving into academia is another possible career path. As a graduate, your degree will be highly valued in the labour market. The Faculty of Economics and Business is internationally accredited and belongs to the 1% of business schools around the world accredited by both EQUIS and AACSB.

Job examples

  • Quantitative analyst (logistics, finance, banking, insurance, marketing, healthcare, energy)
  • Consultant (logistics, finance, insurance, marketing, healthcare, energy, supply chain management)
  • Actuary (insurance, pensions)
  • Risk manager (financial sector)
  • Researcher (university, government, research institute, central banks)
Research

Linking education to research and career preparation

Our research-driven education is strongly rooted in business practice and society. At the heart of our teaching approach is (interdisciplinary) research and in collaboration with external partners, students and professors conduct projects on societally relevant topics. The lecturers involved in our programme conduct research projects on various economically relevant topics and often integrate such research into their lectures. Furthermore, alumni are regularly asked to give guest lectures in order to show how specific course topics can be used in practice.

Read more about the research conducted at the Faculty of Economics and Business.

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Watch this video

Strong emphasis on practical application (Ryan Dinwoodie)

The BSc EOR equips students with a comprehensive understanding of problem optimization, statistics, probability and other mathematical domains, which can be used to model and solve some of the most serious problems prevalent in today’s Society. This program is ideal for someone with a strong work ethic who has a rigorous understanding and passion for mathematics and wants to put theory into practice. It is an academically challenging and engaging program. Other than academic excellence, the program also strives to produce competent, conscientious, well-rounded and critically thinking graduates who can meet the demands of the labor market. The lecturers are highly knowledgeable and approachable and there exists a culture of communication and accessibility. Furthermore, Groningen is a culturally rich, beautiful and diverse student city, which offers an extraordinary and unforgettable student experience!

Read more

Study associations

VESTING

VESTING is the study association for the bachelor Econometrics and Operations Research and for the master Econometrics, Operations Research and Actuarial Studies at the University of Groningen (UG)
VESTING has the goal to bridge the gap between theory and practice in the field of Econometrics, Operations Research and Actuarial Studies. VESTING also strives to improve the contact between its members and to offer them the opportunity to develop themselves outside of the study. To achieve this, VESTING organizes many activities, both formal and informal.
https://devesting.nl

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/
Read more
(Binding) study advice
  • A minimum of 45 EC in the first 12 months (binding)

You will be offered study advice after the first year of study. You can expect a positive result if you have earned more than 45 ECTS credit points (out of a total of 60 ECTS). If you have earned fewer than 45 ECTS and are issued a negative result, you will not be allowed to continue with your degree programme.

You will receive preliminary study advice in December to make sure that you know where you stand. Please contact your study advisor as soon as possible if you have any questions about the BSA system. N.B. Some degree programmes use a tutoring system; please check with your study advisor.

Study support

As a student, you are expected to work independently, but of course, the faculty will help you do so. Together with other first-years, you will participate in a mentor group. The mentor, a senior student, will help you learn the ins and outs of the faculty. In addition, you will discuss your study progress with your tutor (a lecturer-supervisor) at regular intervals. The study advisors are available to help you with specific study problems.

During the first year, your mentor group, called Study Performance and Academic Attitudes (SPAA) group, will meet on a regular basis, supervised by your student-mentor. Assignments and discussions will help you gain insight into your own way of studying and how to develop effective study skills. This small-scale approach enhances contact between students and between students and lecturers. You will also have a lecturer-tutor, whom you will meet individually at the start of your studies and after the first two exam periods. This way you receive personal and regular feedback on your study progress. Successful studying depends on many different factors, so it is understandable that you may need to consult an impartial expert with whom you can discuss your study progress and personal circumstances. The faculty's study advisors are available to help you. Obviously, everything discussed with the study advisor remains confidential.

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