International Sociology BSc

Program content

International Sociology uses a comparative perspective on the Western world. This means that your personal background and experiences are of great value in our international classroom. During the program, you put into practice what you have learned in order to prepare for your career.

• In the first year, you lay the foundation for your further studies in International Sociology. Besides introductory courses in sociology, you follow introductory courses in other disciplines that have common ground with sociology: political science, psychology and economics. You also learn more about academic skills and research methods.
• After choosing a specialization (Culture in comparative perspective or Social risks in a changing world) in the second year, you follow courses related to either culture or social risks. In addition, you take several classes in the field of methods and research, and you dive into the philosophy of science. At the end of the second year you participate in a sociological research project in the field of your specialization.  
• The third year offers even more opportunity to personalize your studies. You have the opportunity to shape your program by choosing minor courses and electives, which further deepen your knowledge of sociology. This is also the perfect time to study abroad without study delay, or do an internship. To conclude your studies, you will write  your Bachelor's thesis in the field of your specialization. 

Typical courses are:

• Introduction to Sociology
  This course gives an introduction to Sociology based on its most important questions about social inequality, social cohesion and rationalization.
• Social problems
  In this course, you discuss and approach social problems in a scientific way.
• Sociological Themes
  This course covers the most important sociological theories and approaches, as well as contemporary tendencies that belong to a specific theme.

More on the program and courses

Study International Sociology in Tilburg

• This flexible program offers you the chance to self-direct your education by choosing one of two specializations: ‘Culture in comparative perspective’ or ‘Social risks in a changing world’. 
• If you choose International Sociology in Tilburg, you not only pick a quality academic program, but you also learn how to put your knowledge into practice. You will learn how to deal with current and relevant issues and how to work on these issues during and after your studies. This program offers a comparative, international perspective on the Western world.
• In this small-scale, international program you will quickly get to know your fellow students and easily contact lecturers. One of the lecturers will become your personal study mentor, whom you will meet regularly throughout your studies to discuss your study progress, interests, ambitions and career opportunities.
• In this program, you will pay a lot of attention to your personal and professional growth, preparing for your career. You will have the opportunity to do an internship in the third year, and through PASS, the program also pays attention to professional skills. Watch a short video about our Program for Academic Study Success (PASS) (2:21 min).

A short impression of International Sociology (video - 2:58 min)

What to expect when coming to Tilburg

• Why study at Tilburg University?
• International student support
• Study in Holland

Careers and subsequent Master’s programs

After obtaining your Bachelor's degree in International Sociology, you can choose to do a Master's program. After you have completed a Master's program, you will have favorable career prospects as a sociology teacher or journalist.

Alumni found work at, for example, Ministry of Public Health, Welfare and Sport, Aarhus University,  the Dutch Labor Inspectorate, newspaper NRC, Research agency IPSOS, ING,  Philips  and Ahold N.V..

Discover what you can do after your Bachelor’s

• Join a student/study association. Versot aims to make student life challenging (symposia, conferences) and fun (drinks, parties, study trips). The international student association, I*ESN organizes events for international students.
• Join Faculty Association IDEA.
• Challenge yourself by joining one of our advanced programs such as the Outreaching Honors Program and Excellence Program TSB 
• Broaden your horizons by studying abroad for a semester. The experience of a lifetime! 

Please follow the national application and admission procedure (in Dutch) if you are applying based on a Dutch vwo or hbo-p diploma, regardless of your nationality. A general description of the national application procedure is also available in English.

Admission requirements

• To be eligible for admission to a research university such as Tilburg University, you must have a high school diploma equal to the highest level of secondary education in the Netherlands (the Dutch vwo diploma).
• As this Bachelor’s program is taught entirely in English, you must prove your English language proficiency. 
• A good knowledge of mathematics is important for being successful in this Bachelor’s program. In order to be admitted, you must therefore prove that you have sufficient knowledge of mathematics.

You can find more detailed information about the admission requirements on this program's 'Application and admission' page.

Go to application and admission

Related Bachelor's programs

• Global Management of Social Issues
• Human Resource Studies: People Management
• Liberal Arts and Sciences
• Psychology
• Sociologie (in Dutch)