European cultural identities

Culture is at the heart of the challenges that Europe and the EU currently face. The complexities of Brexit, populism, migration and multiculturalism cannot be properly understood without considering the pivotal importance of identity issues at the local, national and transnational level, and taking into account Europe’s cultural and historical transformations.

In the Master’s in Identity and Integration, you will approach the study of European identity and cultural diversity within the disciplines of historiography, and cultural and literary studies. You will gain the in-depth theoretical knowledge on European history and culture necessary to study tensions and conflicts in Europe, and to understand contemporary debates about European integration and identity. You will explore intersections of culture and politics by focusing mainly on four topics: nationalism and national identities, transnational manifestations of European culture, the changing idea of Europe and European identity, and the employment of culture in community-building policies and practices in the EU.

Develop your academic skills

You will further develop your writing, presentation and research skills, and you will train your organisational skills in the preparation and execution of a study trip to a European Capital of Culture. As part of an international classroom, you will be trained in intercultural and interlingual skills. With these skills and the knowledge and approach you learn during the programme, you will build a unique expertise in European culture and history that is highly relevant to many parts of Europe’s work environment, whether in the field of culture, politics, media or business.

Why study Identity and Integration at the University of Amsterdam?

• Contemporary culture and politics
  The Master’s offers students a strong focus on the intersection of culture and politics in contemporary Europe.
• Choose your interest
  This programme offers you a broad range of electives that will enable you to tailor your programme according to your personal interests and career goals.
• International classroom
  Students and lecturers come from all over Europe and beyond.
• Small-scale education
  The programme is small-scaled and includes individual coaching.
• Study trip abroad
  Part of the programme is a seminar and study trip to a European cultural capital which offers opportunities to engage with professional experts from the field.

After graduation

The Master's programme Identity and Integration prepares you for a broad range of career opportunities.  After graduating you can be employed in positions requiring in-depth knowledge of this area. You can also find your way into other jobs requiring a range of academic skills. Alumni often find employment in the media, in policy and research positions in European or international organisations and institutions, in national, regional or local governments and in NGO's. 

Degree certificate

Identity and Integration is an accredited degree programme of European Studies. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a legally accredited Master’s degree in European Studies and the title Master of Arts (MA).