Pre-Master's programme

This information applies for students who wish to start their pre-Master’s programme in September 2027.

Who can apply?

A pre-master’s programme is available only to graduates of a Dutch HBO (University of Applied Sciences) programme with a relevant educational background. Applicants must not require housing in the Netherlands or a residence permit to study in the Netherlands.

If you are unsure whether your residence status meets these requirements, please email graduateschool.use@uu.nl and include a copy of both sides of your residence permit. Please clearly state that your question concerns admission to our pre-Master’s programme.

Graduates with non-Dutch credentials are not eligible for admission. By way of exception to this general rule, refugee students may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis. Such an exception applies only to refugee students who already hold a valid Dutch residence permit or W document and does not constitute a general eligibility route.

New focus of study

The pre-Master’s programme was developed for highly motivated students with a Dutch ‘hbo’ (college) degree in Economics or another relevant ‘hbo’-programme with a substantial link to Economics and Finance. For most ‘hbo’ students this will be a new focus of study, meaning that it is not directly aligned with the courses you have already completed, in terms of either content or working methods. You will need to bridge some gaps in a number of different areas in terms of methodology, knowledge and academic orientation (research elective).

Entry requirements

The pre-master’s programme has strict and specific entry requirements. 

Content

The pre-Master's programme is an English taught, 45 ECTS programme spread over one year and includes the following courses:

• Microeconomics
• Corporate Finance
• Macroeconomics
• Econometrics
• Applied Economics Research Course

The pre-Master’s programme starts in the first week of September. 

Progress Requirements and Refund Policy

The pre-Master’s programme must be concluded in one year. Students who do not pass a course after the retake opportunity will not be allowed to continue in the programme. 
If the Board of Studies decides that you must discontinue your studies due to insufficient progress, you will receive a proportional refund. Please note that you are not eligible for a (partial) refund if you decide to discontinue the pre-Master’s programme on your own initiative after it has started.

Tuition Fees pre-Master’s programme

More information on the tuition fees for pre-Master students.

Questions?

If you have questions about the pre-Master’s programme, please contact the Graduate School of Economics by email.