Open Enrolment Semester Programmes
Humanities & Social Sciences in Europe In 1992 the Maastricht Treaty led to the creation of the European Union (EU) with its motto “Unity in Diversity”, but what is European identity? How do the shared lessons of the past teach us about the continent’s contemporary challenges and future direction? These questions are at the heart of European culture and society and demand consensus and collaboration, born out of centuries of division and conflict. Founded by the Romans, controlled by the Spanish, besieged by the French, and occupied by the Germans, the picturesque city of Maastricht personifies how Europe’s history has served as a prologue to the present. At the crossroads of three borders and cultures, it is the perfect setting for students to examine socioeconomic, cultural, environmental and political perspectives and consider how they shape debates about human behaviour, shared values and belonging in today’s Europe.
Investigate the roots of European identity and culture Students are directly enrolled at Maastricht University (UM). They can take classes at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASoS) - awarded the Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence for outstanding education and research on European integration, the Center for European Studies (CES) and the highly selective Liberal Arts and Sciences programme at University College Maastricht (UCM).
Courses Students can choose from more than 400 bachelor-level courses taught in English at UM. At least half of the courses should be selected from the programme-related majors below.
Every student enrols in a CES core course, which combines strong academics, integrated field trips and unique hands-on experiences. During this course, students can undertake an Independent Study Project (ISP). A complete course overview can be found on the CES website.
Integrated academic and cultural experiences Introduction The programme starts with a two-week introduction, which includes CES services, the Dutch Discovery Trip, a tour of Maastricht and the surrounding area, UM orientation, a ProblemBased Learning (PBL) workshop, a cultural awareness lecture and integration into Dutch student life. Dutch Discovery Trip Our Dutch Discovery Trip is an exciting journey through the Netherlands, where students will immerse themselves in culture, history and unique experiences at iconic sites such as Kinderdijk. Paris Cultural Weekend Students will discover the grand boulevards and renowned architecture of the City of Light, and experience its rich history, artistic beauty and cuisine. Belgian Day Trip This trip is filled with exploration and charm. After witnessing some of nature’s most stunning underground treasures at the Caves of Han, students will travel to the rolling countryside for a guided tour of the historic Val-Dieu Abbey.
Majors • Anthropology
• Cultural Studies
• Environmental &
Sustainability Studies
• European Studies
• Gender Studies • Global Studies • History
• Literature
• Philosophy & Ethics • Sociology
• Urban Studies
• Media Studies
CES coordinators help students select courses to suit their academic goals. They guide them through the academic process and work with them to build a personalised curriculum. “ This programme was everything I wanted and more! I connected with incredible people, experienced new cultures and always felt supported by the staff. It’s an experience I’ll cherish forever and highly recommend to others!” Katherine Ekman, Beloit College