BSc Econometrics and Data Science

NA On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Amsterdam

Program Overview

The Bachelor's in Econometrics and Data Science at the University of Amsterdam gives you powerful mathematical and statistical tools to analyze real-world data, predict risks, and drive decisions in economics, business, and society—from forecasting housing prices to tackling climate impacts. It's ideal if you love math, enjoy programming, and want to solve big societal problems analytically, building skills in a small, supportive group that blends theory with hands-on coding in R and Python.

Curriculum structure
Year 1 lays a strong foundation by diving into core math, probability, statistics, and economics, so you can start applying these to real scenarios right away. You'll tackle Macroeconomics to understand broad economic systems, Microeconomics for consumer and firm behavior in markets, and Finance for business investment decisions, while getting your first taste of data handling in Introduction to Data Science—cleaning large datasets, spotting key features, and using tools like those behind YouTube or TikTok. By year's end, you'll use R and Python for predictions in Mathematical Economics and Econometrics 1 & 2, bridging stats to economic models.

Year 2 builds your confidence with deeper stats and econometrics, sharpening your ability to test hypotheses and interpret data outputs for economic insights. Courses like Econometrics introduce models such as linear regression, logit, and probit to analyze real data and answer questions like policy impacts, while you expand into programming and large-scale prediction tools. You'll also explore specializations, ramping up machine learning basics and applying them to economic challenges, all in a proactive, team-based environment.

Year 3 lets you specialize and shine, focusing on advanced prediction, automation, and causal analysis with massive datasets. In the Data Science track, you'll master machine learning and AI for business edges, programming complex models to unlock insights from big data, and preparing econometric tools for policy or market forecasts. Culminating projects tie everything together, giving you portfolio-ready experience in real applications like risk assessment or optimization.

Focus areas
Prediction and automation via machine learning/AI (Data Science track); causal modeling for micro/macroeconomic policy (Econometrics track); programming in R/Python; big data handling and economic applications.

Learning outcomes
Program and apply statistical/econometric models to real data; make data-driven predictions and decisions; analyze economic phenomena like market behavior, finance, and societal risks; communicate results effectively for business/policy impact.

Professional alignment (accreditation)
This BSc (180 ECTS, English-taught) provides direct entry to UvA Master's like Econometrics, Business Economics, or Data Science and Business Analytics (with extra prep), all accredited under Dutch standards for rigorous quantitative economics training.

Reputation (employability rankings)
UvA Economics and Business grads are highly sought for data roles, with direct paths to top Master's and careers in consulting, finance, and tech—students praise the practical math-economics blend and small-group support for real-world readiness.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Bachelor's in Econometrics and Data Science at the University of Amsterdam, you'll dive right into practical skills from day one, building hands-on expertise with real-world data analysis and programming that employers love. Right from the first year, you'll use tools like R and Python in courses such as Introduction to Econometrics and Actuarial Science and Introduction to Data Science, where you'll make predictions, handle large datasets, clean and structure data, and even explore compression techniques like those powering platforms such as YouTube and TikTok. Tutorials in small groups (just 6 hours a week) let you apply theory through exercises, practice assignments, and problem-solving, often working individually, in pairs, or collaboratively to deepen your skills.

Here are some standout ways you'll gain that real-world edge::
- Programming with R and Python: Core to courses like Programming and Numerical Analysis, where you'll develop algorithmic thinking, design algorithms, and translate them into code for econometrics and data science applications—essential for predictions and models.
- Hands-on data projects: In Introduction to Data Science, tackle large datasets with modern software for structuring, cleaning, feature identification, and analysis, directly applying tools to economic and societal problems.
- Small-group tutorials and seminars: Work in compact teams or pairs on advanced exercises from lectures, building problem-solving skills through plenary sessions and targeted practice—plus plenty of one-on-one lecturer interaction in our small cohorts.
- Model-building in econometrics courses: Courses like Econometrics 1 & 2 and Mathematical Economics focus on creating and using statistical models with real observed data for predictions, supported by tools like R and Python.

This practical focus at our Roeterseiland campus sets you up perfectly for internships, master's programs, and data-driven careers—imagine analyzing housing prices or traffic solutions with skills you build here.

Progression & Future Opportunities

In the Bachelor's in Econometrics and Data Science at the University of Amsterdam, you'll dive right into practical skills through hands-on courses that teach you to analyze real data, build models, and make predictions—right from year one. You'll use industry-standard tools like R and Python to tackle exercises, clean large datasets (think techniques behind apps like YouTube and TikTok), and develop algorithmic thinking for programming economic models. Smaller group tutorials and seminars let you apply theory directly, working individually or in pairs on advanced problem-solving, all at the vibrant Roeterseiland campus.

Here's what makes the experiential learning so engaging and career-ready:
- Programming with R and Python: Core courses like Introduction to Econometrics and Actuarial Science, Introduction to Data Science, and Programming and Numerical Analysis have you coding algorithms, handling big data, and running predictions from day one.
- Group and paired work in tutorials/seminars: Spend 6 hours weekly in small groups discussing lectures, solving exercises, and diving deeper into topics like probability theory and statistics—perfect for building teamwork and analytical skills.
- Hands-on data projects: Practice data structuring, cleaning, feature identification, and compression on real-world datasets, plus apply econometric models in mandatory courses like Econometrics 1 & 2 and Mathematical Economics.
- Small class interactions: Enjoy plenty of one-on-one time with lecturers in a close-knit group, plus spacious classrooms at Roeterseiland (though grab computer spots early!).

This is your chance to turn math and curiosity into real impact—apply now and let's chat about getting you started! For the full facilities list, check [UvA Facilities](https://www.uva.nl/en/about-the-uva/organisation/facilities/facilities.html).