Migration, Ethnic Relations and Multiculturalism: Utrecht University

About the programme

The programme in Migration, Ethnic Relations and Multiculturalism (MERM) allows students to develop the necessary knowledge, attitude and skills for evaluating and conducting premiere research in the fields of migration, ethnic relations and multiculturalism.

The programme focuses on the analysis of different phases and aspects of migration flows and the integration of ethnic minorities in European societies. Migration theories, trends and policies are analysed from a comparative perspective, providing insight into the characteristics of migrant groups and factors involved in migration.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the programme are highly trained researchers, well qualified for a career in policy and in scientific research in the social sciences in companies and governmental and non-governmental organizations, in research institutes such as the Social and Cultural Planning Office and Statistics Netherlands (CBS), and particularly in universities. The Master’s programme is an excellent preparation for PhD studies.

Entrance Requirements

Applicants must hold an academic bachelor’s degree in Social or Behavioural Sciences (for instance Interdisciplinary Social Science, Sociology, Cultural Anthropology, or Psychology).

Students who meet the admission requirements and have a GPA of 3.3 (or the Dutch equivalent of 7.5) or higher will be accepted.

Methodology and Statistics Requirement

This research master programme of the Graduate School of Social and Behavioural Sciences has a statistical entrance requirement, which entails the following:

• a basic course in introductory statistics including topics such: univariate descriptive statistics, correlation, univariate regression, one-way analysis of variance (both descriptive and inferential) and a basic course in the methodology of behavioural and/or social science research (experimentation, surveys, observational studies);
• knowledge of multivariate analysis tools such as factor analysis, reliability, multiple regression, analysis of variance, dummy variables;
• hands on experience with the tools just mentioned (for example, experience with SPSS).

English Language Requirement

All courses are taught in English, therefore all students are required to provide proof of their English language proficiency. Accepted minimum English language test scores are:

• TOEFL internet: 93
• IELTS: 6.5 (and 6.0 for written part)
• Cambridge EFL Advanced English: B
• Cambridge EFL Proficiency in English: C