The programme
Behavioural Economics and Game Theory is one of the tracks of the MSc Economics. During your Master's you will follow 3 general courses and 5 track-specific courses. You will finish with a thesis.
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MacroeconomicsPeriod 15
In this course you will learn about modern macroeconomic models. You will learn how to use these models to explain and evaluate recent events and policy interventions. For example, the effect of uncertainty on savings, welfare and investment, the causes and nature of unemployment and inflation and the role of monetary and fiscal authorities.
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Microeconomics and Game TheoryPeriod 15
In this course you will learn to understand the workings and limitations of the market. You will learn how to analyse consumer and producer behaviour and how to use basic game theory. The central question is: what can markets do and when do they fail? What determines the outcome, and how does that depend on market structure?
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Applied EconometricsPeriod 1Period 25
In this course you will learn about regression analysis. In applied economics this is a powerful tool to analyse empirical relationships. You will learn how to interpret estimation and testing results and build a satisfactory empirical model. You will follow lectures and take part in lab sessions to acquire practical econometric skills by making computer exercises.
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Advanced Game TheoryPeriod 25
In this analytically challenging course you will dive into the concept of strategic interdependent decision making. Study theoretical concepts and their applications like the oligopoly, auctions, bargaining, reputation and signalling.
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Behavioural EconomicsPeriod 25
In this course you will learn to understand the psychological underpinnings of economics behaviour and of recent theories in behavioural economics. By critically reading and evaluating academic papers you will gain insight in individual choice and strategic interaction, especially social preferences and reciprocity.
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Experimental EconomicsPeriod 35
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.
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Evolution and BehaviourPeriod 45
How does evolution shape human behaviour in general and behaviour in economic situations in particular? To answer this question you will learn to understand the basic principles of evolutionary dynamics and evolutionary game theory.
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Choose 1 out of 2 electivesPeriod 45
Choose Neuroeconomics or Topics in Behavioural Economics
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ThesisPeriod 1Period 2Period 5Period 615
The academic programme culminates in a thesis, which allows you to engage with state-of-the-art data analysis and statistical techniques. The Master’s thesis is the final requirement for your graduation. It is your chance to dive deep into a topic in your field of choice (track) that you are enthusiastic about, and allows you to do an independent research project. A professor of your track will supervise and support you in writing your thesis.
Honours Programme
If you are a student of the Economics MSc and you have a record of academic excellence, a critical mind and an enthusiasm for applied research, then our Economics Honours programme is a great opportunity for you.
This MSc perfectly blends my 2 passions: economics and policy analysis. It's a challenging programme, that teaches you hard and soft skills.Anouk Roethof Read about Anouk's experiences with this Master's
Small group experiments, inspirational guest speakers or presentation assignments. My way of teaching is interactive and challenging.Joël van der Weele, coordinator of the Master’s track Behavioural Economics and Game Theory and teacher of both courses. Read the full interview
Analyse the Brexit negotiations using game theory. Game theory is invented by John Nash, the Nobel prize winner featured in the film 'A Beautiful Mind'. The theory is about mathematically determining the likely outcomes when 2 or more parties are negotiating. It provides a logical way of picking through various claims and counter-claims.
Contemporary issues
Examples of current newspaper headlines and relevant issues that could be discussed in your classroom.
- Does overconfidence affect risk taking and financial returns?
- What is the optimal gasoline tax in a Europe without borders?
- Experimental economics: are people inclined to take more risk under stress?
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Internship and exchange
Once you have completed your curriculum, you will have the possibility of doing an internship or going on an exchange abroad. For international students, it is an excellent opportunity to experience the Dutch labour market.
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Dutch language course
Are you interested in learning Dutch? There are various options available to maximise your Dutch experience and prepare for your future job in the Netherlands.
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Study associations
Many of our students are members of a study association. It is fun and useful for your future career at the same time. Faculty student associations are a great way to meet fellow students and future employers. They organise study trips (abroad), career events, weekly debates and social events. You can also purchase your textbooks and course syllabi at reduced rates.
Overview Study Associations
- Faculty student association Sefa
- International Student Committee (ISC,part of Sefa)
- International Student Network Amsterdam (ISN, part of Sefa)
- Study Association Actuarial Sciences, Econometrics and Operational Research (VSAE)
- Financial Study Association Amsterdam (FSA)
- Marketing Association Amsterdam (MAA)
- International study association (AIESEC)
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Student associations
Amsterdam has a thriving student community with many activities organised outside of the university’s grounds. You will find student associations focusing on networking, specific interests and sports. It is only at sororities and fraternities that you can expect an initiation ritual (hazing).
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Student participation
At university, you are entitled to make your voice heard and assess the quality of your own education. Students can participate in the discussion on the university's education policy in various ways, such as by joining the Programme Committee, the Faculty Student Council or the first-year focus group. You can also stand for election and dedicate your efforts to the programme and your fellow students.