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About us University College Groningen Education Majors

Social Sciences Major

social

Social Sciences study human behaviour and social relationships in different contexts. In short it studies what we do, how we do it and why we do it and how this both enables and limits the behaviour of others. What choices do people make? What kind of society should we live in? How do nation states, firms and organizations operate in the global society and how do their decisions affect markets and individual decisions? Social Sciences is a broad discipline which covers e.g. international relations, politics, psychology, economics and law.

The Social Sciences major offers, among others, expertise in the following four fields of studies:

Psychology

Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. It seeks to dive into understanding the intricate dynamics of our mental lives, from how we process information to how we act alone and with others. 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.

Opportunities for future studies

Students who focus their studies on Psychology have opportunities to continue to master 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.

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Economics

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.

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 who focus their studies on Economics have opportunities to continue to master programmes in fields like Economics and (International) Business.

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International Business

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.

Our program integrates insights from politics, economics, and global justice, offering a comprehensive perspective on how businesses impact and are influenced by global trends. In an era where globalization is constantly reshaping industries, studying international business is crucial for those aspiring to lead in the evolving global economy.

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 continue to master programmes in fields like (International) Business, Entrepreneurship, (International) Marketing and Economics.

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Politics

Politics revolves around power, governance, and society's organization. It explores conflict management through deliberation, compromise, and democratic decision-making. As a politics student, you'll study political institutions and processes, learning how public decisions are made and implemented. You'll tackle crucial issues like resource distribution, conflicts of interest, and managing domestic and international disputes. Our foundational courses will help you critically analyze key concepts such as justice, rights, freedom, and democracy. You'll also explore the ethical dimensions of political decisions and their impacts on human rights and well-being.

Core questions in this field of study are: 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? In what ways do political philosophies influence public policies and the interpretation of freedom and responsibility within societies? How can policy-making in the European Union be improved through evidence-based policy analysis? And what role does international law play in shaping policies related to human rights and economic policies across different political systems?

Our program intersects with economics, law, and international relations, shaping policies that influence society locally and globally. Studying politics is essential for developing informed, responsible citizens and future leaders with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

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 continue to master programmes in fields like Philosophy, Politics and Economics, Politics / Political Science, International Relations, International Politics, Political Philosophy / Political Theory, Security Studies, Public Policy, Journalism and Area Studies.

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Law

Law is much more than courtroom drama and legal statutes. It's a dynamic field that delves into societal, political, and philosophical issues, offering students unique insights into the systems and relationships that shape our world. Within our Liberal Arts and Sciences program, studying law hones your critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical understanding, preparing you for a wide range of professional careers.

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 program emphasizes not only the functioning of legal rules but also the ethical imperatives essential for justice and equality in modern societies.

Core questions in Law are:

  • How do legal systems ensure justice?

  • How do international legal frameworks influence national laws and policies? 

  • What are the ethical obligations of legal professionals in upholding human rights?

  • How does the law balance individual freedom with societal responsibility in its regulations and enforcement?

  • How does the study of Criminal Law contribute to our understanding of justice, rehabilitation, and punishment in society?

Engaging with law at UCG means preparing for responsible leadership, informed citizenship, and ethical decision-making. This foundation empowers you to excel in various fields, both academic and professional, and to make a meaningful impact in the world.

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 opportunities to continue to master programmes in fields like International Law, International Relations, Politics / Political Science, or Security Studies.

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Last modified:14 August 2024 12.02 p.m.