European Studies

The Bachelor’s programme in European Studies at Maastricht University was founded on a core principle: understanding modern-day Europe and European integration requires a multidisciplinary perspective. Consider the war in Ukraine or the challenges posed by Covid-19. These crises cannot be fully comprehended from just an economic, political, or financial standpoint. To understand these events and the European Union’s responses, one must also analyse the historical developments and the diverse political and cultural backgrounds of the European countries involved.

Societal and political challenges must be viewed within broader socio-cultural contexts. Politics, law, or economics alone cannot solve the European 'puzzle'. Hence, European Studies adopts an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights and methods from political science, history, international relations, law, economics, philosophy, and sociology.

This three-year programme is taught in English and has a distinctly international character, with 76% of students and 42% of staff coming from abroad. The Bachelor’s programme in European Studies is ideal for students with a broad interest in the political, historical, social, and cultural aspects of the ongoing process of European integration.