Maastricht University

At Maastricht University (UM), students get the opportunity to develop themselves as global citizens—individuals who can make a positive contribution to society, both locally and globally. We offer a culturally diverse, inclusive learning environment where differences in ideas, perspectives and backgrounds enrich the learning process.

In our international classroom, over 50% of our students and 40% of our academic staff come from abroad, representing more than 100 countries. Additionally, we welcome more than 1,000 international exchange students each year, and around 40% of our students gain international experience through study abroad programmes. This makes us the most international university in the Netherlands.

PBL in an international context

With our Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, students to work together in small groups to solve real-world problems. Since our groups often include members from all over the world, a vast array of perspectives is introduced in the discussions. 

Our students challenge each other to look at their perceptions from different angles, recognise and question their assumptions, and explore a variety of approaches to each problem. This leads to increased cultural awareness, enhanced creative thinking and the development of innovative solutions. 

Fast facts

• over 50% of students & 40% of staff from 100+ countries
• the most international university in the Netherlands
• 1,000+ incoming exchange students each year
• culturally diverse education groups
• many programmes offered in English, often with a distinctive international focus

Global Citizenship Education

At Maastricht University, we integrate Global Citizenship Education (GCEd) into the curriculum, encouraging students to reflect on their social responsibility and consider how they can address societal challenges. 

GCEd, Problem-Based Learning and our international classroom complement each other and create a learning environment where students develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to collaborate effectively in international teams and compete in local, regional or global labour markets. Students become critical thinkers who can make meaningful contributions to solving the complex problems we are facing in the world. 

We know what we stand for

At Maastricht University, we pride ourselves on being an open and inclusive academic community dedicated to creating a social, safe and sustainable learning and working environment. Our education and research programmes address regional, national, European, and global issues.

Research at Maastricht University

We address today’s key challenges, such as sustainability, migration, and technological innovation, and swiftly turn our research into real-world solutions.