European Studies - Transnational and Global Perspectives KU Leuven

Overview

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This program invites ambitious and talented students from all over the world and various disciplinary backgrounds to study present and past Europe and analyse Europe's role in a global context. Our research-­driven education enables you to anticipate and find solutions for complex global challenges that transcend national and disciplinary boundaries. Interaction with staff members from various disciplines and faculties (Social Sciences, Arts, Law, Economics, ...) exposes you to a wide range of theoretical approaches and allows you to acquire crucial methodological skills.

All courses are taught in English and complemented by many guest lectures delivered by internationally renowned scholars and high-ranked European diplomats and officials. Our students also benefit from their interactions within a highly international group of nearly 40 nationalities. 

Extracurricular activities

The MAES programme offers excursions to the European and transatlantic institutions in Brussels, Strasbourg and Luxembourg, as well as to the World War I battle fields around the historical city of Ypres (Flanders Fields). Moreover, we organize internship and job information sessions. During these sessions, our students meet alumni who work for European institutions, non-governmental organisations, lobby groups and private companies. The MAES annually runs a poster conference and a student conference during which students receive feedback from professors and peers on their ongoing master thesis research.

This master programme is linked to the Jean Monet network of European Transoceanic Encounters and Exchanges (ETEE). It aims to enhance the understanding and teaching about Europe’s role in today’s world.

Career Perspectives

Graduates of the Master of European Studies (MAES) are equipped for a variety of career paths. The programme not only provides students with an in-depth understanding of European politics, law, history and culture but also trains them in different research methodologies and teaches them how to communicate their findings to various audiences. Hence, graduates are equipped for various professional careers.

Many MAES alumni work for the European institutions, consult national, regional or local administrations and governments on European affairs or represent the interests of corporations and non-governmental organisations in Brussels. Others become diplomats, academics or journalists all over the world. Many alumni have embarked on impressive careers and refer to the MAES programme as a decisive factor in achieving their professional objectives. As a MAES student, you have the chance to meet several of them in a variety of settings and benefit from their experiences.