International Sociology BSc
The Bachelor's program in International Sociology focuses on the dynamics between human and society. You study social themes such as migration, cultural differences, and poverty and inequality, while connecting these themes to politics and policy. Depending on your ambitions and interests, you choose one of two specializations: 'Culture in comparative perspective' or 'Social risks in a changing world' in your second year. International Sociology uses a comparative perspective on the Western world.
Education and COVID-19
All education takes place on campus again, now that the coronavirus measures have been scaled back. Of course, we will always maintain a safe environment for our students and staff. Therefore, a few basic measures still apply. For the latest updates on the COVID-19 situation, see our FAQs for prospective students.
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Short overview of BSc International Sociology
Program and courses
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.
Why this Bachelor's program in Tilburg?
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
After your Bachelor's
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..
Extracurricular Activities
- 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!
Application and admission
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.
Tuition fees and monthly cost of living
Tuition fees
When you wish to study at Tilburg University, you must pay a tuition fee.
- Tuition fees cover the cost of lectures and facilities provided by the university, such as the extensive university library, Wi-Fi on campus, and symposia and other meetings.
- Tuition fees at Tilburg University are always for one full academic year.
More information on the tuition fees and rates
Estimated monthly costs of living
Besides the tuition fees, you will have living costs and other expenses. You will find life in Tilburg relatively inexpensive compared to life in other Dutch university cities, such as Amsterdam and Utrecht. The approximate cost of living is between € 925 and € 1.125 per month.
(Furnished) accommodation | Starting from € 550 per month |
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Foods & Drinks | € 200 per month |
Books & Readers | € 65 per month |
Insurance | € 100 per month |
Sport membership | + € 139.95 per year |
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Do you want more information on this Bachelor's program?
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Subeh Chowdhury
Bachelor's student"About a year ago, I didn’t even know about Tilburg University but now I feel like I couldn’t be in a better place. Tilburg is the next best thing to being home!"
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Tea Kiphidze
Bachelor's student"A university is a place to discover the truth, and armed with that you can improve society."
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Xinyawen Yang
Bachelor's student"The study constantly challenges me to understand social phenomena from different perspectives. The group is small, and it allows us to get to know each other and to have interesting in-depth discussions in class for most of the time."
Study choice activities
Throughout the year you have the opportunity to meet us and learn more about Tilburg University and the programs that we offer. You can take part in various types of events: on-campus, abroad or online.
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10:00 - 11:00
Get to know Tilburg University - Orientation Webinar for Bachelor's programs
The Get to know Tilburg University Webinar is your one-hour introduction to studying in the Netherlands, the city of Tilburg, Tilburg University and our offer of international Bachelor’s programs.
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13:30 - 15:30
Campus Experience
Are you curious about life as a student at Tilburg University, or not sure which university you want to attend? Discover our compact and green campus during the Campus Experience and find out if Tilburg University is your future home.
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08:45 - 17:00
Student for a day Bachelor's programs
Do you have a specific study program in mind or are you still considering various options? Join one or more of our Student for a day event(s) from April 12 till April 20, 2023. Together with our students you can attend a variety of mini-lectures and discover whether the study program suits you.
All information in one brochure
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Are you and International Sociology a match? If you...
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are interested in people and society, and social issues
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analytical with a broad interest
Then this is the program for you!