UCM follows the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system, which is characteristic of Maastricht University. In this model, students learn through solving complex problems collaboratively in small tutorial groups. This method encourages active participation, enhances understanding, and develops critical thinking skills.
The college offers a flexible and interdisciplinary curriculum where students can create their own academic programs. They are required to choose courses from three main areas:
Humanities
Sciences
Social Sciences
Students at UCM graduate with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, depending on their chosen area of concentration.
Admission to UCM is competitive and considers the holistic profile of applicants. Prospective students must demonstrate academic excellence, motivation, and a strong command of English. The application process typically involves submitting academic records, motivation letters, and sometimes an interview.
The college is located in Maastricht, a vibrant and historic city in the southeastern part of the Netherlands. It boasts a diverse student community, with many international students contributing to a multicultural atmosphere. The intimate campus environment promotes close interactions among students and faculty, fostering a strong sense of community.
Graduates of UCM are well-prepared for further studies in master's programs or for entering the workforce. The broad and flexible education equips students with a wide range of skills adaptable to various professional fields or academic paths.
1. Humanities - Including subjects like history, art history, philosophy, literature, and cultural studies.
2. Sciences - Covering biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and environmental science.
3. Social Sciences - Encompassing psychology, sociology, political science, public policy, and economics.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Liberal Arts and Sciences |
3 years |
EU/EEA: $4,500 |
|
|
|
Non-EU/EEA: $12,600 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MSc in Artificial Intelligence |
1 year |
Non-EU: $20,000 |
|
|
|
EU/EEA: $4,500 |
|
MA in Media Studies |
1 year |
Non-EU: $20,000 |
|
|
|
EU/EEA: $4,500 |
|
MSc in Global Health |
1 year |
Non-EU: $20,000 |
|
|
|
EU/EEA: $4,500 |
|
MSc in Sustainability Science, Policy and Society |
1 year |
Non-EU: $20,000 |
|
|
|
EU/EEA: $4,500 |
Liberal Arts and Sciences Program: UCM offers a broad, interdisciplinary program where students can choose courses from humanities, sciences, and social sciences. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.
Problem-Based Learning (PBL): UCM employs the PBL approach, where small groups of students work together to solve complex problems. This method promotes active learning and enhances critical thinking skills.
Academic Records: High school diploma equivalent to the Dutch pre-university diploma (e.g., A-levels, IB diploma).
Language Proficiency: Since the program is taught in English, non-native speakers are required to demonstrate proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or similar.
Motivation Letter: Applicants need to submit a motivation letter explaining why they wish to join UCM.
Interview: An interview may be part of the admission process, conducted to assess the candidate’s motivation and suitability for the college’s interactive and intensive study environment.
EU/EEA Students: Approximately €4,500 per year (about $4,900 USD).
Non-EU/EEA Students: Approximately €12,600 per year (about $13,800 USD).
UCM offers various scholarships and financial aid options for international students. These can cover partial to full tuition and sometimes living expenses. It's crucial for prospective students to apply early for scholarships and to seek external funding opportunities as well.
Housing: Maastricht University helps international students find accommodation through its Guesthouse or other student housing platforms.
Student Services: The university provides comprehensive support services including a visa and residence permit assistance, an introduction program, and ongoing support to help international students adjust to life in the Netherlands.
Community: The student body at UCM is very international, with students from over 50 countries, providing a rich, multicultural environment.
Graduates of UCM are well-prepared for advanced studies and careers in a wide range of fields. Many proceed to master’s programs at prestigious universities worldwide. The skills learned at UCM, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, are highly valued in various professional settings.
Applicants must have a secondary school diploma that is equivalent to the Dutch pre-university diploma, such as the International Baccalaureate, A-levels, or a U.S. high school diploma with a combination of Advanced Placement tests. They should also ensure they meet the language requirements, typically demonstrated through proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS if their native language is not English.
Required documents typically include:
Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from secondary school and any post-secondary institutions attended.
Motivation Letter: A letter explaining why the applicant wants to join UCM, focusing on their academic interests and how they align with the program.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): An overview of the applicant’s educational background, extracurricular activities, and any work experience.
Proof of English Proficiency: Scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent tests.
Passport Copy: For identity verification.
UCM applications are submitted through the Maastricht University online application portal, Studielink. After registering on Studielink, applicants complete their application on the MyUM Portal, where they can upload their documents and track their application status.
Selected candidates are invited for an interview, which can be conducted online. This interview is crucial as it assesses the applicant's motivation, enthusiasm, and suitability for the PBL method and the interdisciplinary nature of the UCM curriculum.
After the interview, the admissions committee will make a decision based on the complete application package. If admitted, students will receive an offer, which they must accept formally by following the instructions provided in the offer letter.
International students from outside the EU/EEA will need to arrange for:
Visa/Residence Permit: The university provides assistance with the visa application process.
Housing: Maastricht University offers help with finding accommodation, often through its Guesthouse or other student housing options.
Once the offer is accepted, and visa and housing arrangements are made, students must finalize their enrollment and attend an orientation program designed to introduce them to the university, the city of Maastricht, and the PBL system.
UCM primarily has one major intake per year, which starts in the fall semester:
Fall Semester: The academic year begins in September. The application period typically opens around October of the previous year and runs until mid-January for non-EU/EEA students and until May 1st for EU/EEA students. It’s important to check the specific deadlines for each academic year on UCM’s website as these can vary slightly.
To be eligible to apply to UCM, prospective students must meet certain academic and language requirements:
Educational Background:
Applicants need to have completed secondary education that qualifies them for higher education in their home country, equivalent to the Dutch VWO diploma. Common examples include the International Baccalaureate (IB), British A-Levels, Advanced Placement (AP) tests in combination with a US High School Diploma, German Abitur, etc.
A strong academic record is essential, with particular attention given to grades relevant to the intended area of study.
English Language Proficiency:
Since the program is entirely in English, non-native speakers must demonstrate proficiency through standardized English language tests. The typical requirements are:
TOEFL iBT: a minimum score of 90
IELTS: a minimum score of 6.5 overall
Cambridge: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a minimum score of 176
Some students may be exempt from providing English proficiency test scores if they have completed their education in English or are native speakers.
Motivation and Suitability:
Applicants must submit a motivation letter explaining why they wish to study at UCM, their academic interests, and how they believe the program will help them achieve their goals.
A CV or resume is also required, detailing educational background, extracurricular activities, and any relevant work experience.
Interview:
Based on their application, candidates may be invited for an interview, which is an integral part of the selection process. The interview can be conducted online and is used to assess the candidate’s motivation, their understanding of the UCM approach to learning, and their readiness for an active and engaging academic environment.
Ranking Organization |
Ranking of Maastricht University |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Top 300 |
|
US News & World Report Global Universities |
Top 150 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Coverage |
Description |
|---|---|---|---|
|
UCM Scholarship |
Non-EU/EEA students |
Tuition fee, visa costs, insurance |
Aimed at talented students from outside the EU/EEA who require financial support. |
|
Holland Scholarship |
Non-EU/EEA students |
€5,000 for the first year of study |
Intended for students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who wish to study in the Netherlands. |
|
Maastricht University High Potential Scholarship |
Non-EU/EEA students |
Tuition fee, living expenses, visa costs, insurance |
Covers tuition fees plus a monthly stipend for living expenses, visa costs, and insurance. |
Facility |
Description |
Cost of Accommodation (per month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Located in the historical city center of Maastricht, within easy walking distance to most university buildings. |
N/A |
|
Classrooms and Libraries |
UCM classes are typically small, fostering a close-knit, seminar-style learning environment. The university libraries offer extensive resources and study spaces. |
N/A |
|
Accommodation |
Maastricht University provides assistance with finding housing, primarily through its Guesthouse UM. Accommodations are generally well-furnished and include utilities. |
Approximately €400 to €800 |
|
Dining and Social Areas |
There are various dining facilities around the campus and numerous cafes and eateries in Maastricht city center. UCM also has common areas for student activities. |
N/A |
|
Sports Facilities |
Students have access to a wide range of sports facilities through the UM SPORTS membership, including gyms, classes, and sports clubs. |
N/A |
|
Transportation |
Maastricht is compact and bike-friendly. Public transport options are excellent for regional travel. UM provides bike sheds and there are plenty of bike lanes. |
N/A |
Interactive Learning: UCM employs a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach, which promotes active student participation in small groups. This fosters a close-knit community among students and faculty, enhancing both academic and personal growth.
Interdisciplinary Studies: Students can tailor their education to their interests, choosing courses across humanities, sciences, and social sciences, which encourages a holistic educational experience.
International Atmosphere: With a significant percentage of international students from various countries, UCM offers a multicultural environment where students can gain global perspectives and learn from diverse cultures.
Student Organizations: UCM supports a variety of student organizations and clubs, including academic clubs, cultural societies, sports teams, and volunteer groups. These clubs are great for networking, building friendships, and developing new skills.
Historic City: Maastricht is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike or on foot, offering a charming blend of historical architecture and modern amenities.
Cultural Activities: The city is known for its lively cultural scene, including festivals, museums, theaters, and concerts. Students can immerse themselves in local Dutch culture as well as enjoy the offerings from various international communities.
Accessibility: Located near the borders of Belgium and Germany, Maastricht is well-placed for international travel, making it easy for students to explore Europe.
Housing: While UCM does not have traditional on-campus dormitories, Maastricht University assists students in finding suitable accommodations, often in student guesthouses that help foster a community spirit.
Guidance and Counseling: UCM provides ample support services, including academic advising, psychological counseling, and career services to help students navigate their studies and plan for the future.
Sports and Recreation: Students have access to various sports facilities through Maastricht University, offering team sports, fitness classes, and personal training.
Events and Traditions: UCM and the broader university community host numerous events throughout the year, from welcome weeks and cultural nights to guest lectures and workshops.
Nightlife: Maastricht has a vibrant nightlife with cafes, bars, and clubs, many of which are popular with students. The city also has a range of dining options that cater to diverse international tastes.
Career Guidance: Maastricht University’s Career Services offers various support services to UCM students, including workshops, individual counseling, and events that help students build their CVs, improve interview skills, and develop job search strategies.
Networking Events: The university frequently organizes career fairs and networking events where students can meet potential employers and learn about different career opportunities. These events are also a great way for students to secure internships or graduate job offers.
Alumni Network: Students have access to a robust alumni network, which can provide valuable connections and insights into various industries. Alumni often participate in guest lectures and networking events, offering current students guidance and mentorship.
Internship Support: While internships are not a mandatory part of the UCM curriculum, many students choose to undertake internships during their studies. The Career Services center provides resources and guidance to help students find internship opportunities that align with their academic and career goals.
Practical Experience: Internships are highly valued as they provide practical experience and enhance employability skills. They also allow students to apply their interdisciplinary knowledge in real-world settings, which is particularly beneficial for students in liberal arts and sciences.
Graduate School Preparation: A significant number of UCM graduates go on to pursue postgraduate studies at top universities worldwide. The academic rigor and the research skills acquired at UCM prepare students well for the demands of master’s and PhD programs.
Preparation for Diverse Fields: The broad curriculum allows students to explore various fields before specializing, which is a significant advantage when applying to graduate schools, especially for programs that value a well-rounded academic background.
Versatile Careers: Graduates of UCM find themselves well-prepared for a diverse range of careers. Alumni have pursued successful careers in sectors such as business, academia, government, non-profits, and beyond. The skills learned at UCM, such as adaptability, analytical thinking, and effective communication, are highly valued across various industries.
Workshops and Seminars: Regularly scheduled career development workshops and seminars help students acquire additional skills that are not covered in academic classes but are crucial for professional success.
Academic Records: High academic standards are a must, with attention paid to grades in relevant subjects.
Motivation Letter: A well-articulated motivation letter is crucial to demonstrate the applicant's interest and fit for UCM’s liberal arts program.
Interview: An interview may be part of the application process, serving to further gauge the candidate’s readiness and suitability for the program's demands.
Extracurricular Activities: Active involvement in extracurricular activities can enhance an application, showing a well-rounded character and alignment with UCM’s values of community engagement and personal development.
Address: University College Maastricht is situated at Zwingelput 4, 6211 KH Maastricht, Netherlands.
Historic Setting: The UCM buildings are located in a charming part of Maastricht, characterized by historic architecture and cobbled streets, reflecting the city’s rich history which dates back to Roman times.
Compact and Walkable: The city of Maastricht is relatively small and highly walkable, making it easy for students to navigate between different university buildings, accommodations, and city amenities. The campus itself is compact, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere among students and faculty.
Accessibility: Maastricht is well-connected by public transportation, with good train and bus services linking it to major cities in the Netherlands and across Europe, such as Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris. This makes it convenient for international travel, an appealing aspect for the university’s large international student population.
Academic and Study Areas: UCM’s facilities are designed to support its Problem-Based Learning curriculum, featuring seminar rooms, study spaces, and common areas that encourage collaborative learning and interaction.
Library Services: Students have access to extensive library resources within the university system, including specialized collections and study facilities.
IT Infrastructure: The campus is equipped with modern IT resources, providing students with the necessary tools and access to digital learning platforms.
