Economic Geography

Global Transformations, Local Impacts Why do some places thrive while others fall behind, and what can we do about it? The world is increasingly connected and changing rapidly. Economic Geography is about how places are affected in different ways, and how we can respond to challenges around socio-economic inequalities, competitiveness and sustainability.In this master, you will learn why some places benefit from new technologies such as AI while others struggle with job losses and productivity decline; how climate change is forcing regions to rethink energy generation and resource use; how population ageing, migration and urbanization put new pressures on housing, labour markets and public services; how shifting international relations change opportunities for trade and investment; and how policy can address place-specific challenges.We approach regional development from different angles, considering economic performance alongside wellbeing, accessibility, political behaviour, and how people and firms experience and identify with places. You will combine perspectives from different disciplines and connect them to practice through fieldwork and projects with governments, consultants and other organizations. A highlight is our annual two-day field trip to EU institutions in Brussels. You can also work with external partners on your master's thesis.You can specialize in one

Founded in 1614, the University of Groningen is the second oldest university in the Netherlands with over 33,000 students. Known for its vibrant student city atmosphere (1 in 4 residents is a student), excellent research output, and 4 Nobel Prize laureates including Ben Feringa (Chemistry 2016).