Netherlands: Maastricht University (USAC)

MU's academics are uniquely structured to allow for more field trips and experiential learning to be integrated into student's studies. Students will choose from one of five programmatic themes, and at least half of their courses must relate to this theme. The other half of courses can either fall within this theme, or be chosen from over 400 elective course offerings in a wide variety of academic departments. Courses are taught in English, but introductory Dutch language courses are also available. The five themes students must choose from are listed below:

• Business and Economics
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Politics, Law, and International Relations
• Psychology and Neuroscience
• Public Health and Medicine

Some elective course subjects are listed below:

• History
• Culture and Identity
• Dutch Language
• Human Rights and Ethics
• Environment and Sustainability

Students will be placed in The Guesthouse, which is an off-campus apartment complex located within walking distance of downtown Maastricht. Each student will receive a private bedroom, and share a bathroom, kitchen and living areas with the other student residents. The Guesthouse is within biking distance of campus, but their are also several bus routes nearby that will take students to and from campus.

All students are responsible for arranging their own meals during their time in the Netherlands. A fully equipped communal kitchen is available for student use, and their are many grocery stores located nearby. The Guesthouse is also located nearby many restaurants, cafes, and the city's vibrant nightlife. 

Health Preparation for Studying Abroad

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to your health. To ensure a safe and successful experience, we strongly recommend the following steps:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider Early
At the time you are selecting your study abroad program, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or specialist to discuss:

• Medication Legality: Some prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legal in the U.S. may be restricted or illegal in other countries. Your provider can help you determine if your medications are permitted in your destination and suggest alternatives if needed.
• Chronic Conditions or Health Concerns: Discuss how your health needs might be affected by travel, climate, time zone changes, or access to care abroad.
• Mental Health Support: If you are currently receiving mental health care, talk with your provider about how to maintain support while abroad.

2. Schedule a Travel Health Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before Departure)
A separate travel health consultation is essential and should be held at least 6–8 weeks before your departure. During this appointment, a travel medicine specialist can:

• Review your destination-specific health risks
• Recommend or administer necessary vaccines
• Provide guidance on food and water safety
• Prescribe medications for travel-related illnesses (e.g., malaria, traveler’s diarrhea)
• Offer tips for managing jet lag, altitude, and other travel-related challenges

These appointments can be held at the UNI Student Health Clinic. For more information on their services, please visit their website.

Accessibility and Study Abroad: Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

If you are a student with a disability or accessibility concern—whether related to mobility, learning, mental health, chronic health conditions, or other needs—we encourage you to connect with Student Accessibility Services (SAS) as early as possible, ideally during the program selection process. Early communication allows our team to understand your specific needs and preferences and explore available accommodations in your host country.

Accessibility resources and standards can vary widely by country, so advance planning is essential to help us advocate for your needs and create a positive, inclusive experience abroad.

Reach out to Student Accessibility Services to start a conversation. The sooner we know, the more we can do to support you.

Study abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be challenged by new experiences in new environments and cultures. UNI study abroad programs are designed to prioritize educational opportunities for students. Students are encouraged to embrace the adventure of exploring how housing, meals, and daily routines differ abroad.

Meet your Advisor:

Stephanie is a full time study abroad advisor who will help you throughout the application process to the Netherlands, including documentation, finances, scholarships, and more.  From the application process to financial assistance to preparing for your journey abroad, Stephanie will be with you every step of the way providing guidance and reassurance.

Identities Abroad

The Study Abroad Center (SAC) wants to support you as you prepare for your study abroad experience. In addition to course planning and arranging accommodations, it is also important to engage in personal reflection before your departure. There may be certain aspects of your identity that could potentially impact your international experience in ways that you have not faced or thought about previously. As we are here to help guide you, you may want to consider meeting with the SAC staff to discuss this as you plan your abroad experience. Please visit our Identities Abroad page for more information and help.

Entry and Exit Requirements 

Review and follow the travel recommendations of the U.S. State Department for travel to the Netherlands.

Immigration Information

Students going to the Netherlands for more than 90 days will need to apply for a student visa.

Your Study Abroad Advisor and USAC will help you through this process but it is the student's responsibility to stay on top of the visa application process and to review the latest updates related to their destination country.

UM also offers a 6-week summer school program from mid-June through the beginning of August. The program is split into 2 three-week blocks, where students will take one course during each block, earning them a total of 6 U.S. credits over the entirely of the program. All courses are taught in English and include exciting hands-on experiences such as field trips, museum visits, seminars on locations and more. Some of the course subjects offered are listed below:

• Economics
• Law and Politics
• Business
• Psychology
• Art History
• Journalism
• Communications
• Health and Science