Why this programme

This interdisciplinary master programme provides students with state-of-the-art knowledge of the causes and consequences of international migration. Moreover, the programme examines what governments at various levels can and cannot do to steer international migration and its effects on sending and receiving countries. The master programme will equip social sciences students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a professional in the field of migration and diversity.

In my previous work, I met people from all over the world who - for various reasons - decided to move to Germany. It was through these interactions that I understood the different challenges people face throughout their migration experience - from overcoming borders to settling down in a new environment, often having to fight for their right to stay.

Which global dynamics cause people to leave and what is the impact on countries of origin and residence as well on migrants themselves? How can social cohesion in highly diverse societies be created? Considering recent political changes in Europe and worldwide, I believe these are some of the most pressing questions in our globalized world and brought me to the Master programme Governance of Migration and Diversity.

The GMD Master allowed me to seek answers to multiple questions and challenged me to engage with the complexity of migration and diversity in new ways. For example through discussions with students from different disciplinary backgrounds or during a mini-conference where we had to present our own policy ideas for current migration and diversity related issues. Also during site visits in Brussels, Leiden and Rotterdam we were given the opportunity to exchange ideas with governance actors on the international, national and local level.

I also appreciated the staff’s approachability and their excellence in teaching and up-to-date research with a focus on macro- and micro-level processes. Due to the GMD Master I am now able to analyse broader structural developments, such as the ‘crimmigration’ and ‘securitization’ of international migration, but also shed light on migrants’ everyday lived experiences. The multidisciplinary perspectives will help me in the future to critically assess existing migration policies and develop concepts that take greater account of migrants’ needs and aspirations.

A nice ‘side effect’ of the Master programme is the possibility to explore the Netherlands since courses take place in four Dutch cities: Rotterdam, Leiden, Delft and The Hague. 

GMD master offers a unique learning experience by bringing together knowledge from various disciplines (sociology, history, politics), enabling a comprehensive understanding of migration and diversity dynamics. Thanks to its multidimensional approach, it empowers students to critically analyze the same phenomenon from different perspectives. As I completed the joint courses, my enthusiasm for the program grew even stronger during the specific sociology course modules. Migration in a Globalized World stood out as my favorite course in my academic journey, igniting a deep curiosity to seek further knowledge about the complex and ever-evolving contemporary migration challenges on a global scale. Undoubtedly, this program has significantly enhanced my critical thinking abilities and sharpened my problem-solving skills, equipping me to confidently embrace future challenges that lie ahead.

When I first came across the master’s programme Governance of Migration and Diversity, I immediately became enthusiastic. With a deep interest in migration, diversity, and human rights issues since a young age, I engaged in various volunteering activities in the Netherlands within these fields. However, I felt the need to expand my theoretical knowledge through an academic programme which would give me more understanding about the sociological theories and the complexities surrounding these topics. And I am so happy I made this choice! The several interesting courses taught by knowledgeable and passionate professors, the theory-meets-practice sessions to for example Brussels and to NGOs, and the inspiring guest lectures, underscored my passion. Despite the occasional high workload, it really provided me with the motivation to pursue a career in this field.

But above all, a great thing I take away from this master's programme, and hold dear in my heart, are the people and the connections I have made. Being part of the student board and organizing, as well as attending, many academic and social activities with my fellow students, felt as such a big part of the programme for me. I had the privilege of meeting likeminded people from countries all over the world, while exchanging experiences and insights regarding the disciplines from the different tracks. Altogether, if you are passionate about migration and diversity and seek a programme that encourages personal and academic growth while fostering a close-knit community, this master’s programme is the perfect fit for you!