Master

Cultures of Arts, Science and Technology (Research)

The 2-year research Master CAST (Cultures of Arts, Science and Technology) is a broad, interdisciplinary programme that starts from the claim that studying the roles of the arts, science and technology is indispensable for understanding modern cultures. Today’s societal issues and challenges, such as the COVID-crisis and climate change, are deeply intertwined with developments in arts, science and technology. Furthermore, there are interesting similarities between the three domains. Both arts, science and technology “imagine” our culture’s future, and are considered as innovative, creative practices. Moreover, it is possible to study the arts, science and technology in similar ways, as practices of modern culture. These practices are imbued with meanings, values, materialities and skills. In sum, CAST studies:

the roles of arts, science, and technology in modern culture, including their similarities and differences
the interactions between and intersections of arts, science and technology
arts, science and technology as practices of modern culture

Fast facts

You can choose your own topics to focus on what’s going on in modern culture
You will be prepared for high-level research positions in academia and the professional world
2-year, full-time master's, taught in English
Starts in September
Weekly: seminars, lectures and workshops, 120 ECTS
You will get an MSc in Arts and Culture with a specialisation in Cultures of Arts, Science and Technology

Want to know more about this programme? Request a brochure

Isabel Bruijstens, Student Ambassador Research Master Cultures of Arts, Science and Technology 2023-2024

Why Isabel decided to choose this master’s programme:
“I chose this master's programme because of my academic background. I completed my bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences at Erasmus College in Rotterdam, which provided a broad and interdisciplinary education, with courses in sociology, business, and philosophy. For my Master's, I sought a programme that allowed for specialisation and exploration across various research areas within Arts and Sciences. The Cultures of Arts, Sciences, and Technology programme was the perfect fit for me. What particularly appeals to me is the programmes approach, which starts by addressing societal urgencies and then delves into these topics from various disciplinary perspectives, including philosophy, history, and sociology.”

What she hopes to get out of this programme:
“This programme places significant emphasis on philosophy, which equips students with critical thinking skills and tools for engaging with disciplines like sociology. My goal is to develop a strong set of research and communication skills that are valuable in the Arts and Culture sector. Additionally, I aim to expand my network within the societal research field, as it will be helpful in launching my career in a professional way.”

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“I appreciate the freedom granted in the research projects within each course in the CAST master’s programme. It allows me to pursue my individual interests and select my topics, resulting in diverse projects within my group.”

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.