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The University of Groningen has specific language requirements for admission to its programs, which vary depending on whether the courses are taught in Dutch or English. Here are the details:

1. English-Taught Programs

Most international students apply for English-taught programs, and proficiency in English is a prerequisite.

Accepted English Language Tests:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • Minimum overall score: 6.5
  • No individual component score lower than 6.0.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):

  • Internet-based test (iBT): Minimum score of 90
  • Sub-scores (reading, listening, writing, speaking): At least 20 in each section.

• Cambridge English Qualifications:

  • C1 Advanced (CAE) or C2 Proficiency (CPE): Minimum score of 180.

Exemptions from English Tests:

• Students who completed their previous education in a country where English is the primary language of instruction (such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc.).
• Students who have completed an English-taught bachelor’s or master’s degree at a recognized institution.

2. Dutch-Taught Programs

For programs conducted in Dutch, non-native Dutch speakers must demonstrate proficiency in the Dutch language.

Accepted Dutch Language Tests:

• NT2-II (Dutch as a Second Language State Examination):
  • Required level: B2 or higher.

3. Language Preparatory Courses

The University of Groningen offers preparatory language courses for students who do not meet the language requirements:

• English language courses: To help students improve their English proficiency.
• Dutch language courses: For students planning to enroll in Dutch-taught programs.

Program-Specific Requirements

Some programs, especially at the master's and PhD levels, may have additional or higher language requirements. It is advisable for applicants to check the specific program’s admission page for detailed language requirements.

Application process

The University of Groningen offers a wide variety of specialized courses and programs across numerous disciplines. Below are some of the key course specialities for which the university is particularly well-known:

1. Humanities

• Linguistics: Specializations in language acquisition, psycholinguistics, and computational linguistics.
• History: Focus on European and global history, cultural history, and historical research methods.
• Philosophy: Areas include ethics, epistemology, and the philosophy of science.
• Arts and Culture: Studies in musicology, art history, and cultural studies.

2. Social Sciences

• Psychology: Specializations in clinical psychology, developmental psychology, and neuropsychology.
• Sociology: Focus on social theory, research methods, and topics like migration and integration.
• Political Science: Areas include international relations, comparative politics, and public policy.

3. Natural Sciences

• Physics: Specialties in theoretical physics, astrophysics, and condensed matter physics.
• Chemistry: Research in organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and materials science.
• Biology: Focus on molecular biology, ecology, and biodiversity.

4. Health Sciences

• Medicine: Programs in human medicine, clinical skills, and public health.
• Dentistry: Specialized training in dental care and oral health.
• Health Sciences: Research on healthcare systems, public health policies, and health behavior.

5. Economics and Business

• Economics: Specializations in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.
• Business Administration: Areas include strategic management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
• International Business: Focus on global business strategies, trade, and international finance.

6. Law

• International and European Law: Specialties in human rights law, environmental law, and trade law.
• Corporate Law: Focus on business law, tax law, and corporate governance.
• Public Law: Areas include constitutional law, administrative law, and criminal law.

7. Interdisciplinary Programs

• Liberal Arts and Sciences: An interdisciplinary program that combines courses from humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, allowing students to tailor their education according to their interests.
• Cognitive Neuroscience: A joint program combining psychology and neuroscience, focusing on brain function and behavior.
• Environmental and Energy Management: Interdisciplinary studies focusing on sustainable energy solutions and environmental policies.

8. Engineering and Technology

• Engineering: Programs in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and industrial engineering.
• Data Science: Focus on data analysis, machine learning, and big data applications.
• Mathematics: Specialties in pure mathematics, applied mathematics, and statistics.

Research | University of Groningen

Bachelor's degree programmes in English

Master's degree programmes in English

Scholarship information

International student help

Job opportunities at the university

The University of Groningen is home to many distinguished professors who are recognized for their contributions to research and education across various fields. Here are some of the top professors associated with the university:

1. Prof. Dr. Frits Zernike

• Field: Physics
• Notable Contribution: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1953 for his invention of the phase contrast microscope, which transformed biological and medical research.

2. Prof. Dr. Bernard L. Feringa

• Field: Chemistry
• Current Role: Professor of Organic Chemistry
• Notable Contribution: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016 for his work on the design and synthesis of molecular machines. Feringa is known for his groundbreaking research in organic chemistry and nanotechnology.

3. Prof. Dr. Henk Volberda

• Field: Business and Management
• Current Role: Professor of Strategic Management
• Expertise: Renowned for his research on strategic management, innovation, and organizational change. He has published extensively and is influential in the field of management studies.

4. Prof. Dr. Marjolein de Jong

• Field: Sociology
• Current Role: Professor of Sociology
• Expertise: Known for her research in social inequality, social networks, and the impact of social policies on various demographics.

5. Prof. Dr. Hans de Vries

• Field: Health Sciences
• Current Role: Professor of Health Sciences
• Expertise: Focuses on public health, healthcare systems, and health policy, contributing to research that addresses global health challenges.

6. Prof. Dr. Jaap Murre

• Field: Psychology
• Current Role: Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience
• Expertise: Specializes in memory, learning, and the neural basis of cognitive processes. His research combines psychology with neuroscience.

7. Prof. Dr. Laura de Vries

• Field: Earth Sciences
• Current Role: Professor of Earth and Environmental Sciences
• Expertise: Known for her research in geology, environmental science, and the impact of climate change on natural systems.

8. Prof. Dr. Ed Brinksma

• Field: Computer Science
• Current Role: Professor of Software Engineering
• Expertise: His work focuses on software engineering, system architecture, and the development of software systems.

The University of Groningen has a rich history of academic excellence and has been associated with several notable Nobel Prize winners. Here are some key points regarding its connections to the Nobel Prize:

1. Notable Nobel Laureates

• Frits Zernike: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1953 for his invention of the phase contrast microscope, which has greatly advanced the field of biology and medicine.
• Johan Huizinga: Although not a Nobel Laureate himself, Huizinga was a prominent historian and cultural theorist affiliated with the university, influencing many fields that have seen Nobel recognition.
• Bernard L. Feringa: Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016 for his work on the design and synthesis of molecular machines. He is currently a professor at the University of Groningen and is known for his contributions to organic chemistry and nanotechnology.

2. Influence on Research

• The university is known for its strong research programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and health sciences, which contribute to various fields recognized by the Nobel Committee.
• Its contributions to economics, medicine, and environmental sciences also align with areas that have produced Nobel laureates.

3. Interdisciplinary Focus

• The University of Groningen emphasizes interdisciplinary research, which encourages collaboration across fields. This approach often leads to significant breakthroughs that can attract Nobel recognition.