Master

Globalisation and Development Studies

Do you have a passion for research and work in the field of globalisation and development, rooted in undergraduate studies or experience in the field? Are you interested in individuals and communities, as well as in the broader relations between the Global North and South? Do you have the ambition to develop your academic research skills and to use academic insights to make a positive impact in the world? If so, this may be the right programme for you. The master’s in Globalisation & Development Studies is a social science programme that focuses on how the dynamics of globalisation affect developing areas. You will develop the theoretical, analytical and practical skills that are essential for either an academic or professional career in globalisation and development.

Fast facts

A highly international student body & teaching staff
Choose an internship, desk study or fieldwork for your thesis
1-year, full-time master's, taught in English
Starts in September
Weekly: 12 contact hrs, 30 hrs group work/independent study
You will get an MA in Globalisation and Development Studies

Want to know more about this programme? Request a brochure

Aarya Prabhu, Student Ambassador Globalisation and Development Studies 2024-2025

Why Aarya decided to choose this programme:
“I had a few friends who studied here and did the same programme. They told me Maastricht University is very international, which really appealed to me. I also wanted to broaden my horizons after doing my bachelor’s in sociology in India, so Maastricht felt like the right place for both academic and personal growth. Another big advantage was that all the courses are taught in English, unlike in some other countries.”

Where does she see herself in five years:“In five years, I hope to be working for an international NGO, preferably back in India. I want to use the knowledge and skills I’ve gained here to make a real difference in my country, especially in areas like child labour. I’m particularly interested in organisations that work to combat child labour in Mica mines, where children are often exploited.”

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"I would like to work for an international NGO that can actually make a change in the world."

UM and FASoS Campus Tour

At FASoS, we offer our prospective students the opportunity to join a campus tour on 7 May 2025. During this campus tour, one of our student ambassadors will show you our faculty, inner city and all important UM buildings. Are you not able to come one of the aforementioned dates? Don't worry! We also offer campus tours during our Open Days, Experience Days and Introduction Days.

Online Campus Tour

Are you not able to come from abroad for a campus tour? We also offer a virtual campus tour! Check it out through the interactive video on the left.

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 15 November 2025.

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.

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 Globalisation and Development Studies

UM is the 10th best Young University in the world

Times Higher Education 2024 Young Universities Ranking

Student testimonials

The programme exposes us to enough critical unbiased literature to the whole notion of globalisation and development.

Ali Juma Taqavi

After doing field work with refugees, I’m passionate about projects for women who face gender-based violence.

Mar Coll Planell

This master’s programme teaches me the skills and knowledge to help improve conditions in developing countries.

Valery Samantha Bermúdez García

In the future I see myself working in the field for an NGO like Unicef, to reach children and their families and develop projects towards their well-being.

Kimberly Ricaurte Davila