Student testimonial
Matteo Generale - MSc Economics of Sustainability
“After completing a competitive master’s in pure economics at Warwick, I sought a program that would allow me to specialise in applied economics while working towards a PhD in the field. Wageningen’s program offered a balance between rigorous research opportunities and a supportive environment, which allowed for both professional growth and personal well-being—a combination that resonated with me.”
Job prospects are promising, and I see interesting internship opportunities.
“The interdisciplinary nature of Wageningen’s curriculum has been a major advantage. The program allows students to specialise in different economics branches; I chose development economics, which includes hands-on, practice-oriented courses ideal for a career in academia. For students without a strong foundation in economics, however, the interdisciplinary focus might be more challenging since the job market often prioritises robust theoretical knowledge. Personally, I found the courses mostly valuable, though I did not find the MOS (Management of Organisations and Systems) course particularly beneficial in terms of depth or applicability. The inclusion of the WASS (Wageningen School of Social Sciences) Graduate Programme is a valuable addition for anyone considering a PhD.”
Faculty
“The economics department at Wageningen has been welcoming and supportive. Professors are approachable, and the environment encourages collaborative learning. I worked as a student assistant for Professor Gehrke, an experience that helped me build confidence and practical skills. The faculty members’ openness and the possibility of working within the department add significant value to the program.”
Research Opportunities
“Research opportunities are available, although they could be better advertised. Currently, I am in Sierra Leone conducting data collection for my thesis under Professor Voors, an opportunity I secured by actively engaging within the department. While this proactive approach worked for me, other programs may offer more straightforward access to similar opportunities.”
Career Prospects
“Job prospects are promising, and I see interesting internship opportunities in both development organisations and research roles. Student career services provide support, though more structured access to research roles could be beneficial.”
Student Life
“Although I haven’t engaged much with student organisations, Wageningen offers a vibrant campus culture with diverse, interesting people. I’ve made a solid group of friends and found Wageningen’s small-city atmosphere conducive to a focused master’s experience. However, the university’s recent handling of the pro-Palestine protest felt contradictory to its branding as an open and inclusive institution. While the student body and faculty are generally welcoming, there seems to be a disconnect at the institutional level regarding openness to criticism, which is something I think the university could work on to truly reflect its inclusive ideals.”