The European Union (EU) was created in the wake of the Second World War, largely to prevent further mass conflict by focusing on economic and political integration.
Beginning in 1951 with six members, the EU has grown to a current membership of 27 nations, with almost half a billion citizens, covering most of the European continent. It is the first time in history that so many nations have been willing to sacrifice aspects of national sovereignty to achieve not just peace and stability but also economic and social justice. The ‘European Experiment’ is now an established reality. However, Europe’s future is far from certain. With Brexit, immigration challenges and the rise of the political far-right, it is poised between protecting national interests and further integration.
True to the tradition of applied learning, this program is not confined to the classroom. During field trips to The Hague and Brussels, students’ understanding of the EU and its political and legal processes will be deepened through visits to key institutions.
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Updated Jun 16, 2026
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The vineyard, the bikes, the snow, the new friends that you still talk to 4 months after, the beauty of Maastricht, the Treaty on Function of the European Union, the things that make you wish 3 weeks weren't so quick. For me, it was the most memorable experience, and I would do it again and again if given the chance!
My academic program allows your mind to open up and discuss wordily topics and learn more about the world in whole. The professors are helpful and wonderful and want you to grow your knowledge also PBL is such fun and makes it easy to discuss. My academic program has allowed me to understand the world much more while discussing controversial topics. It has led me to understand that most of the world has the same issues they are trying to face but we need people to step up and take initiative to help solve these issues. The CES staff is a fun and engaging staff that want to make your time here at Maastricht the best time possible. They are like the protectors of you and help you to succeed here. Study abroad is an eye-opening experience that allows you to understand that the world is such a small place with people who have good hearts. Studying abroad has allowed me to find beauty in everyday things and allow myself to take one day at a time and enjoy every second of it because your time here is so short.
The course itself was thorough and engaging, the study tours aligned perfectly with a balance of educational and recreational. I felt more engaged and willing to participate in-class here than back home at university and my knowledge taken away from the program reflects this. We were assessed by two in-class tests and a final paper on a topic of our own choosing which was well received by the whole class
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Get answers to all the most common questions about CES Maastricht.
The International Relations & Politics in the EU winter program lasts about 3 weeks. Please visit our website for the exact dates.
CES students stay at the International Student Guesthouse of Maastricht University (UM), where they can choose between a single and a double room, with a shared bathroom and a private kitchen or communal cooking facilities.
This winter study abroad program includes registration at UM, 1 course, CES course materials, an introduction to Maastricht and the University, course-related field trips, and CES services (e.g., 24/7 emergency assistance).
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