These are some of the burning social and political issues that light up social media and parliamentary debate across Europe. Amsterdam sociologists stand at the forefront of social scientific analysis of such topics, and many more besides. As sociologists, we apply critical theories and fine-grained empirical research to deconstruct and challenge common understandings of these problems, so enabling innovative, effective insights and solutions.

Previous education Students will need to have completed their secondary school diploma before the start of the BSc in Political Science. The diploma (to be) obtained should be equivalent to a Dutch VWO diploma with mathematics and English taken as subjects on upper secondary / university preparatory education level. Both subjects should be included in the final secondary school or university entry examinations. Also, students are expected to have a basic knowledge of modern history. Please see the list of approved qualifications for an overview on diplomas that are considered equivalent to the Dutch VWO-diploma. (The list is far from exhaustive, will be updated on a regular basis and is meant for general guidance only. No rights can be derived from it.). All applications will be evaluated on an individual basis by professional diploma evaluators. If your qualification is not on the list, it does not necessarily mean you cannot be admitted and you are invited and encouraged to apply. Mathematics In general, mathematics has to be included in the upper secondary education curriculum up until the final year and final examinations. The level of mathematics should be equivalent to at least the Dutch level of VWO mathematics. There are no further minimum grade requirements. An alternative route to meet the mathematics entry requirement may be to complete one of the English taught mathematics courses and exams offered by the James Boswell institute in The Netherlands. We will accept VWO certificates in mathematics A, B and C. Another alternative route may be to submit a SAT subject test Mathematics Level 1 score of at least 610 or an ACT Mathematics score of at least 27. Language proficiency All students must be able to read textbooks, understand lectures, take part in classroom discussions and write extensive academic papers. A high level of language proficiency is expected of all applicants. The programme is fully taught in English supplemented by Dutch-language tutorial groups and elective courses for those who wish. In any case, a good command of the English language is essential and needs to be supported by a sufficient test or school examination score as stipulated below. English test scores Non-native speakers of English are required to submit a valid English test score which is not more than 2 years old. TOEFL Internet-based test: minimum total score 92; minimum score on each component 22 TOEFL Paper-based test: minimum score on each component 22; there is no minimum total score IELTS test: minimum score 6.5, with at least 6 for each individual test component Cambridge International Examinations: minimum scores C (CAE), C (CPE)