Humanities Research - Environmental Humanities
The Master of Arts in Humanities Research – Environmental Humanities at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) is a two-year, full-time on-campus program that focuses on the intersection of environmental issues and the humanities. The program explores how literature, philosophy, history, and cultural studies shape our understanding of environmental change, sustainability, and human-nature relationships. Students critically examine environmental challenges through ethical, cultural, and historical perspectives, combining interdisciplinary research with advanced theoretical approaches.
Graduates of Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) are well-prepared for careers in academic research, environmental policy advisory roles, cultural institutions, NGOs, and PhD programs in the humanities or environmental studies. Through a curriculum focused on environmental humanities, cultural analysis, and interdisciplinary research methods, students develop the critical and analytical skills needed to address complex environmental issues from a humanistic perspective.
Key Facts
Key Facts
- Program Title: Humanities Research - Environmental Humanities
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Location: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), Netherlands
- Field of Study: Environmental Economics & Policy
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Environmental Humanities
- Introduction to Environmental Humanities
- Interdisciplinary Approaches to Environmental Studies
- Research Methods in Environmental Humanities
Semester 2 – Advanced Environmental Humanities
- Environmental Ethics and Philosophy
- Environmental Justice and Sustainability
- Seminar: Environmental Humanities and Social Change
Semester 3 – Specialization in Environmental Humanities
- Literature and Environmental Activism
- Global Environmental Movements
- Independent Research Project
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Research Project
- Independent Research / Thesis
- Data Analysis in Environmental Humanities
- Final Presentation & Research Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Humanities Research – Environmental Humanities Master’s program are highly sought after in environmental policy, sustainability research, and cultural heritage preservation. With expertise in the intersection of environmental issues and human culture, graduates are well-prepared for roles as environmental consultants, policy analysts, or cultural heritage specialists. The growing importance of integrating environmental studies with cultural understanding ensures strong career opportunities in governmental organizations, NGOs, and academic research.
Why Choose This Program
The Humanities Research – Environmental Humanities Master’s program provides students with a unique opportunity to explore environmental issues through the lens of humanities. Students engage in interdisciplinary research that bridges environmental science with history, philosophy, and cultural studies. With a focus on both research and practical applications, the program equips graduates with the tools needed to address environmental challenges, contribute to policy development, and promote sustainable cultural practices across various sectors.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +31 20 598 5555
Email: internationalstudents@vu.nl
Address: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, Netherlands
