Program Overview

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Introduction to the Double Degree Master's Programme in Demography and Social Inequality

The Double Master's Programme in Demography and Social Inequality is a unique opportunity for students to benefit from the expertise of two top-ranking universities. The programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of demographic change, population dynamics, and the challenges faced by modern societies.

Programme Description

The programme is a full-time, 24-month course that leads to two master's degrees: a Master of Sciences in Sociology and Social Research issued by the University of Cologne and a Master of Science in Population Studies issued by the University of Groningen. The programme focuses on demographic change, population dynamics, and the challenges faced by modern societies due to increasing life expectancy, decreasing birth rates, and migration.

Facts and Figures

• Degree: MSc in Population Studies
• Course type: Double Degree master
• Duration: 24 months (120 EC)
• Croho code: 60658
• Language of instruction: English
• Start: September
• Faculty: Spatial Sciences

Why Study this Programme in Groningen?

The programme is unique in its combination of analytical and social demography, its combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods, and its international, multidisciplinary, and strong scientific orientation. Interactive ways of teaching are employed by enthusiastic and dedicated teachers. Within the Netherlands, Groningen is the only university offering an MSc in Population Studies.

Programme Structure

The programme consists of two years, with students spending one year at each university. The curriculum includes a range of courses, such as:

• Analysis of Cross-Section Data
• Markets, Institutions, Organisations
• Sociological Theories
• Special Methods of Analysis
• Analysis of Longitudinal Data
• Research Seminar on Social Inequality and Demography
• Social Change
• Demographic Data and Analysis
• Population, Health and Place
• Qualitative Research for Policy & Practice
• Migration, Families and Households
• Optional course MSc Population Studies
• Population Projections & Sustainability
• Master's Thesis Population Studies
• Advanced Statistical Analysis

Curriculum

For more information about the courses in this programme, please refer to the programme's curriculum.

Study Abroad

Study abroad is required, with students spending one year at the University of Cologne and one year at the University of Groningen.

Entry Requirements

• Dutch diploma: A bachelor's degree with at least 15 ECTS in the field of Sociology / Demography and at least 10 ECTS in Statistics.
• International diploma: A bachelor's degree with at least 15 ECTS in the field of Sociology / Demography and at least 10 ECTS in Statistics.
• Knowledge minimum: Very good intercultural and social skills.
• Professional experience: Relevant practical experience is desirable.
• Grade average: Bachelor final grade equivalent to at least 2.7 (German grading system).
• Language test: English on VWO level or one of the following equivalents:
  • IELTS overall band 6.5, no less than 6.0 on each section
  • TOEFL internet based: Overall: 90, Reading: 18, Listening: 18, Speaking: 20, Writing: 21
  • Cambridge English: Cambridge certificate C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency (formerly known as CAE/CPE)

Application Deadlines

• Type of student: Dutch students, EU/EEA students, non-EU/EEA students
• Deadline: 15 May 2026
• Start course: 01 September 2026

Tuition Fees

• Nationality: EU/EEA, non-EU/EEA
• Year: 2026
• Fee: € 2601 (EU/EEA), € 21400 (non-EU/EEA)
• Programme form: full-time

Research

The Master's thesis topic is integrated in the research theme of the Population Research Centre: “Population and Wellbeing in Context”. The research themes comprise topics such as population decline, population ageing, social and economic inequality, global migration, life of migrants, healthy ageing in society, the sociology of the family, households, residence, studies on the labor market and working life, causes of death, child health, nutrition, access to health care, place making of elderly, and the assessment of social policies.

Job Prospects

The programme trains students in theories, and analytical and methodological tools from both sociology and demography. Students will learn to conduct high-quality research on how individuals' main life events influence and are influenced by the social and geographical context in which they live. After graduation, students can find work in business, government, or non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Demographers are trained to work with and interpret large data files, and can use these skills to make policy or develop programmes. Students can also pursue an academic career and apply for a PhD position.

Study Associations

Ibn Battuta is the Faculty Association of Spatial Sciences. Becoming a member of Ibn Battuta means students can join social drinks, foreign trips, lectures, and all other activities organized by the Association. At these events, students come into contact with students from all years, which is a great way to make friends that can last a lifetime. Ibn Battuta also organizes informative and career-focused activities.

Testimonials

The programme has received positive testimonials from students, who appreciate the interdisciplinary and international setting, the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, and the chance to develop new skills for social sciences. Students have also praised the engaging learning methods, the constant contact with the international community, and the synthesis of content and methods courses.

Conclusion

The Double Degree Master's Programme in Demography and Social Inequality is a unique and comprehensive programme that provides students with a deep understanding of demographic change, population dynamics, and the challenges faced by modern societies. With its interdisciplinary and international setting, the programme offers students the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, and to develop new skills for social sciences. The programme's research focus, job prospects, and study associations make it an attractive option for students who want to pursue a career in demography, sociology, or related fields.