This MSc program focuses on the interactions between economic actors and the natural environment. Students are trained as quantitative economists, able to analyze real-world problems in food systems, natural resources and the living environment, and to provide economic solutions that promote transitions to a sustainable future. Besides a strong training in quantitative economic techniques, students are confronted with a wide variety of relevant economic theories at micro, behavioral, and institutional level to help understand the nature of sustainability problems and to propose solutions. \n\nThe first year of the program starts with an overview of traditional neoclassical economic theories and alternative heterodox theories in order to broaden the theoretical window on real world sustainability issues. Theoretical knowledge can be deepened by choosing either a short course on Behavioral Economics or Political Economy. In the courses Advanced Econometrics and Modeling Sustainability Challenges students develop the necessary methodological expertise for quantitative economic analysis of sustainability issues. Then, a specific thesis trajectory is chosen via one of the three available thesis preparing courses. In the first year students also work on an interdisciplinary project in the Academic Master Cluster and engage with philosophy of science and ethics. Finally, there is space for 18 elective credits in the first year to deepen and broaden the knowledge in specific topics or areas, to prepare for a desired labour market and academic profile. \n\nThe second year is filled with the master thesis project and an internship with an external company or organization to prepare for a future job at an academic level (either in the Netherlands or abroad).