In this video the teacher and students of the programme explain how this programme is structured and what the unique aspects are.
In case you have missed the Meet & Ask session, you can watch the recording of this session here.
In this Skills Seminar you will investigate the whole process by which European cities compete for the title of Cultural Capital. How do they represent themselves? How do they reframe their local cultural heritage and political antagonisms in the larger framework of EU identity politics? You are asked to organise both a symposium with relevant speakers and a study trip. Finally, you carry out your own individual research project, resulting in a journalistic reportage, based on your research before and during the study trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
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About application and admission
Can I enrol in the Pre-master’s programme or Master’s programme on 1 February, in the second semester of the academic year?
No, you can only start the Pre-master’s and Master’s programmes in the first semester of the academic year.
Can I apply for the Master’s programme even though I do not fully meet the requirement of 30 ECTS in coursework related to the concerning programme?
If you do not meet the requirement of 30 ECTS in coursework related to the Master’s programme of your choice, you are not eligible to apply. However, if you can give proof of relevant knowledge and skills that you, for example, gained through a summer school or work experience, you may be able to compensate for the lack of 30 ECTS. We recommend you to do two things: a) contact the programme coordinator and enquire about your options b) explain in your motivation on the application form how you think you meet the concerning requirement and supply evidence, such as a summer school certificate, an internship report, etc.
Do I need to have a grade average above 7 to be able to start the Master European Studies?
No, an average grade above 7 is not required for enrolment.
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About the programme
When does the programme start?
Just like all of the other Graduate School of Humanities programmes, this programme will start in September. It is not possible to start at a different time.
How does this Master’s programme differ from European Studies programmes at other universities?
European studies at the UvA stands out for two reasons. First of all, this Master takes a multidisciplinary approach to studying Europe. In comparison to many other programmes in European studies which mainly focus on EU-politics, we try to render justice to Europe’s complexity – its multi-layered governance, its cultural diversity etc. – by combining perspectives from politics, economics, law, history, culture, anthropology and geography. Secondly, as European studies at the UvA is embedded in the humanities, we explore how history and culture in particular contribute to the understanding of Europe and its (dis)contents.
Can I do this Master’s part time and take two years to accomplish the programme?
The programme is designed as a one-year programme and is not meant for part time studying. Nevertheless, it is possible to extend the programme over a two-year period. You can best contact the track coordinator in order to discuss and organize your study schedule.
I hesitate between two tracks (e.g. East European Studies and Identity & Integration): can I do a mixture of both?
You need to register for one of the tracks, which both have their own core programmes. It is nevertheless possible to study at the cross-roads of two tracks, because many electives are open for students from all three Master tracks. This means that you can practically tailor your programme to your own interests.
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About electives and internship
Can I do an internship as part of my programme?
Yes, it is possible to do an internship. Basically, there are two options: 1) You can do an internship as part of your programme for 6 to max. 12 ECT, under the condition that your internship comprises an academic component; 2) You can do a non-academic internship as additional to your programme, which will not be credited.
Can I take courses from other MA programmes and departments in addition to the core MA programme in European Studies?
Yes, the programme allows you to choose (at least) two restricted-choice electives and two free-choice electives. It is required to do two programme-bound electives, but you are allowed to supplement these with courses from other MA programmes and departments.
Can I take language courses?
Yes, it is possible to take language courses offered by the language departments of the UvA. However, you will not get academic credits for these courses.
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Other questions
How do I go about finding housing in Amsterdam?
Finding housing in Amsterdam is often difficult because of the high demand with regard to student accommodation, but by starting your search on time and putting in some effort, students usually succeed at finding something. Many students find accommodation by word of mouth or social media. Please check out the page below for all of our information related to finding housing.
Would you like to find out more about Identity and Integration? Download our flyer or leave us your details and we will keep you informed on future events.
Meet Sjors Roeters. He studied European Studies and Literary Studies at the UvA. After graduation he became a journalist and is now writing his own book. Check out his inspiring story about graduating and looking for a job.
Are you studying European Studies and do you want to get inspired about your career prospects? This is Charley Spaan. After graduation she worked for several organisations in the cultural sector. Check out her story and career path!

Our students particularly appreciate the study trip to one of the European Cultural Capitals like Matera, Rijeka and Novi Sad. This provides the unique opportunity to meet policy makers, artists and city administrators, and to study how culture in European cities intersects with issues of identity, social cohesion, sustainability and the economy.Dr Marleen Rensen