Social Sciences for a Digital Society Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
| Award | Attendance | Study | Duration | Start | Domestic fees | International fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Degree | On-Campus | Full-time | 2 years | September | €2694 per year | €17480 per year |
Course overview
How can we respond to discriminatory algorithms? What role do social media play in political polarisation? How can artificial intelligence be harnessed in healthcare? An increasingly digital society needs social scientists who can offer solutions to the challenges posed by digitalisation.
Through its unique focus on interdisciplinary and mixed methods approaches, the Research Master Social Sciences for a Digital Society trains students to anticipate, understand, and analyse the complex challenges of the digital society, and to meet them head-on.
With this degree under your belt, you’ll be ready for any role that involves analysing problems in social data science, offering solutions for societal issues using data, and responding to issues in the digital society – whether that’s in academia, government, the non-profit sector, or the corporate world.
Summer School
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Campus Tour
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Entry requirements
1. Academic requirements
Your previous education needs to be deemed equivalent to at least a Dutch academic Bachelor’s degree (wetenschappelijk onderwijs, WO) obtained at a research university (nominal duration 3 years).
2. Programme specific requirements
The Research Master in Social Sciences for a Digital Society is a selective programme. Selection is done by the Admission Board, based on the admission requirements and the documents in the application form. To successfully follow the Research Master in Social Sciences for a Digital Society, you need to have sufficient knowledge of research methods at the level and load of an academic Social Sciences bachelor’s programme.
The Admission Board needs to establish that you meet all of the following admission requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in social or behavioural sciences*, equivalent to a Dutch academic (WO) bachelor and therefore must be completed at a research university
- At least 12 ECTS in social science research methods
- A GPA of at least 7.5 out of 10 (Dutch grading system) or the international equivalent. Please be aware that a 7.5 is very high in the Dutch higher education system
* You can also apply with a degree in other fields such as mathematics, informatics, econometrics, operations research, computational linguistics, digital humanities and geography. It is important that you can demonstrate that you have a clear interest and background in social issues, as demonstrated by relevant elective courses, minors, internships or other extra-curricular activities. The Admission Board will assess if your interest and background in social issues is strong enough.
In all cases, your bachelor must be equivalent to a Dutch academic (WO) bachelor and therefore must be completed at a research university.
3. English language proficiency requirements
You will have to demonstrate sufficient English language proficiency. You can find an overview of relevant information to demonstrate your English language proficiency on the language requirement page.
Why study at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Studying with a green Conscience
VU Amsterdam champions sustainability and environmental responsibility with green buildings and parks on campus. Committed to climate change research and eco-friendly practices, we are at the forefront of promoting a greener future through innovative education and initiatives.
Be part of a diverse student community.
VU Amsterdam is known for its diverse and welcoming community, with students from over 120 countries. We create a supportive environment that fosters personal connections and collaborative learning, making it an ideal choice for international students seeking an inclusive academic experience.
An excellent history in education
Experience an affordable university in Amsterdam with nearly 150 years of excellence in science education and research. Join a vibrant community of international students and earn a prestigious degree in a rich academic environment. Choose us for a transformative educational journey!
Your gateway to Europe
VU Amsterdam is located in Amsterdam's thriving Zuidas business district, providing excellent access to Europe's cultural and professional opportunities. Studying here offers valuable internships and networking connections, placing you at the centre of a dynamic European landscape. Open doors to your future career with an education that connects you to the continent!