Open Enrolment Semester Programmes
Politics, Law & International Relations in Europe Human rights, democracy and the rule of law are the core values of the European Union (EU). Yet in light of geopolitical challenges such as migration and societal integration, Brexit and the rise of Euro-scepticism, the future of the EU is far from certain. In a world of converging cultures and differing political and legal systems, Politics, Law & International Relations in Europe students explore how policy-makers negotiate between member states with a wide range of nationalities, languages and agendas.
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.
The Netherlands holds an unparalleled position in the international legal field and is at the forefront of civil liberties and human rights. Maastricht is a stone’s throw away from the International Criminal Court in The Hague, as well as the European Parliament in Brussels, the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg and the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg. At these institutions, students can examine national agendas, opposition to political union and the roles of international actors such as NATO and the UN.
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.
Classes with a distinct European focus 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 internationally renowned European Law School (ELS), the Center for European Studies (CES) and the highly selective Liberal Arts and Sciences programme at University College Maastricht (UCM).
Courses
Integrated academic and cultural experiences
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.
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. Majors • European Law
• Human Rights
• International Law
• International Relations
• Legal Studies
• Public Policy
• Political Science
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.
“ The Politics, Law & International Relations in Europe programme helped me widen my perspective from national to global, gaining insight into European policy and its role across global markets, cultures and politics.” Marcel Candelariorivera, University of Southern California