Sustainability in Economics and Business

This course sets the thematic foundations of the track. The three pillars of sustainability (environmental protection, social equity and economic resilience) are presented and interconnected. We focus on themes such as climate mitigation and adaptation, the restoration of nature, equitable access to resources, responsible and ethical businesses, and social cohesion. The latest developments in policy and business are critically analysed with live case studies and real-world applications.  

Applied Econometrics

In this course you learn about regression analysis. In applied economics this is a powerful tool to analyse empirical relationships. Particular attention will be paid to the statistical assumptions underlying the basic model. We will cover the analysis of: (1) experimental data, (2) panel data and (3) time series. These tools will be essential to later evaluate the impact of environmental regulations, corporate ESG performance, and quantify the effect of climate change. 

Games and Strategy

In this course we use game theory to analyse optimal strategies for firms. After discussing the main concepts of game theory we apply these concepts to business strategy. We distinguish between the internal context and the external context of the firm.

Behavioural Economics for Business

Classic economics assume agents to be rational and selfish. Behavioural economics challenge both assumptions. You will study individual choice: bounded rationality concepts in decisions under uncertainty, information processing, judgement, time preferences and heuristic decision-making. Also you will explore strategic interaction, especially social preferences and reciprocity.

Experimental Economics

In this course you will learn the basic methodology of experimental economics: how to design a simple experiment, including writing instructions. You will practice both with laboratory and field experimentation evolving around industrial organisation, labour economics, behavioural economics and individual and group decision-making.

Research Seminar

Formulating a good research question for your thesis can be challenging. This course helps you find one, by discussing your ideas with faculty members and fellow students.

Sustainability in Economics and Business 

This course sets the thematic foundations of the track. The three pillars of sustainability (environmental protection, social equity and economic resilience) are presented and discussed. We focus on themes such as climate protection and restoration, equitable access to resources, responsible and ethical businesses, and social cohesion. Best practices in policy and business are presented and critically analysed with case studies and real-world applications.

Research seminar in Sustainability  

Formulating an impactful research question is the cornerstone of a successful thesis and can lead to exciting career opportunities. In this collaborative seminar, you will refine your ideas through interactive discussions with faculty members and peers, shaping your research direction before launching into your project.

The academic programme culminates in a thesis which allows you to design, execute and take leadership on your very first sustainability project.  It is your chance to dive deep into a sustainability goal you are passionate about through an independent research project. A professor of your track will supervise and support you in writing your thesis. 

If you are a student of the Master's Business Economics and you have a record of academic excellence, a critical mind and an enthusiasm for applied research, then our Business Economics Honours programme is a great opportunity for you.

A specialisation track must be chosen when applying for the Master’s programme. However, track modifications are still possible until late October. The criteria for all tracks are identical and do not impact the likelihood of being accepted into the programme.

Our Master’s programme admits around 35 students per specialisation track. If you meet the entry requirements, you will always be accepted; this Master’s does not have a numerus fixus.

Most courses have one 2-3 hour lecture and one 2-hour tutorial per week. Generally students take 3 courses at a time, so count on about 12-15 contact hours per week.

Our preference is for in-person lectures. Certain sessions may be pre-recorded or follow a hybrid format. This entails preparing for Question and Answer (Q&A) sessions through video clips and readings, with subsequent discussions during meetings.

Attendance is usually not compulsory for lectures, but commonly for tutorials and other sessions. Students greatly benefit from being present and engaging in discussions with both the instructor and their classmates.

The majority of courses have a final written on-site exam. Most courses have additional assessment methods, including oral presentations, developing research proposals, conducting experiments and writing up results. Finally, some courses grade active participation. This is reflected by attendance and activity in tutorials and online assignments.