Master

European Studies

The master's programme in European Studies focuses on the international dimensions of European Union policies, governance and administration. It trains you to explore complex questions with a focus on understanding Europe’s place in the wider world. Trade, energy, climate change, migration, and conflict – some issues are just too big for any single state to tackle alone. You will look at how different European countries, with their own histories, interests, institutions, and political structures, come together to deal with common challenges. This student-centred, multi-disciplinary programme has been running for over 15 years. It is among the largest and most international in Europe and has an excellent reputation. We have a yearly intake of approximately 80-90 students and can provide you with small-scale lectures, tutorial groups and skills training seminars consisting of a maximum of 15 students.

Fast facts

Truly international: students from more than 20 countries
Learn from expert lecturers and professionals in the field
Small study groups of max 15 students
1-year, full-time master’s, taught in English
Starts in September
Weekly: 10 contact hrs, 30 hrs group & independent study
You will get an MA in European Studies

Want to know more about this programme? Request a brochure

Miguel Serrano Ascandoni, Student ambassador MA European Studies 2023-2024

Why Miguel decided to choose this programme:
“I have chosen the European Studies Master’s programme, specialising in European Public Policy, Institutions and Governance, to deepen my understanding of EU politics, policymaking, and to develop skills in analysis, research, negotiation, and public speaking. Prior to the master’s programme, I completed a bachelor’s degree in International Studies at the Autonomous University of Madrid. This comprehensive programme exposed me to various disciplines, including geography, history, politics, economics, law, anthropology, and international relations, providing me with a broad understanding of the world. And I also did one-year Erasmus at the University of Helsinki, where my interest in European Union and geopolitical topics increased.”

Why he chose to study in Maastricht:
“I chose this master programme for several reasons. Firstly, it’s one of the best universities for European studies. Also, the UM is known for its PBL-system and international orientation, it’s the most international university of Netherlands. On top of that, the fact that it ranks in top 10 best young universities in the world and the job opportunities that it offers. I believe that Maastricht is the perfect location to practice and improve my English level and immerse myself in an international and multicultural environment.”

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”With the European Studies Master’s programme, I aim to gain the knowledge and skills required to address international and geopolitical issues, particularly within the European Union context. I also believe that this master's degree will enable me to advance both academically and professionally.”

UM Campus Tour

Are you interested in or about to start a Master's programme at Maastricht University? Our interactive UM Campus Tour offers you the opportunity to navigate through our faculty and facilities. Discover and learn what it is like to live and study in our vibrant city. Watch the video or take the UM Campus tour.

Kickstart your career at our Master's Open Day

Experience Maastricht University: find out more about one of the most international universities in Europe, immerse yourself in your programme of choice, and explore our beautiful city. The next Master’s Open Day is on Saturday 23 March 2024.

Q&A sessions

We regularly offer Instagram Live Q&A sessions for students who are interested in our master's programmes. Our student ambassadors will answer all your questions about the programme of your choice and studying in Maastricht. For more information and registration, take a look at our Master events page.

UM Campus Tour - Register now!

Interactive UM Campus tour

Pre-master's programme

If you do not satisfy the admission requirements of this Master's programme you may be able to enrol in a Pre-master's course year. Check out the Pre-master information and learn more about the programme, the courses and the requirements.

Pre-master European Studies

Student testimonials

The combination of theory and practice makes learning much more effective and prepares me better for the working environment.

Lucia Arroyo Carriedo

I’m inspired by the dynamics of the international economic systems, therefore, my goal is to work in an international environment focusing on trade policies.

Bianca Moldovan

I want to contribute to a European perspective on new technologies and their relation to EU politics and society.

John van den Berg

The programme allows you to evaluate the underlying reasons of your own viewpoints, questioning your beliefs and discovering the structures and processes that have an impact on the way the international order is designed.

Nicolò Pantaleo