ICIS - Graduate School of Sustainability Science. Master of Science Programme Sustainability Science and Policy. Language of instruction: English

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1 ICIS - Graduate School of Sustainability Science Master of Science Programme Sustainability Science and Policy Language of instruction: English

2 Why study at Maastricht University? Established in 1976, Maastricht University (UM) is the most international university in the Netherlands. With over 16,000 students and 4,000 staff, UM is renowned for excellence and innovation in learning. High rankings in Dutch and international publications attest to our focus on quality. UM graduates are highly appreciated on the international labour market and can be found all over the globe. International orientation A bilingual (Dutch & English) university, UM offers Europe-focused and internationally-oriented master's and PhD programmes. About half of the students and one-third of the academic staff are non-dutch, representing over 114 nationalities. This cultural diversity greatly contributes to establishing our international classroom. Innovating in Education Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a hallmark of UM s innovative character. This student-centred educational model is about analysing real-life problems and exchanging knowledge in a challenging and effective way. Multidisciplinary research Research at UM is based on socially relevant themes and focuses on multidisciplinary research in: Learning and Innovation, Quality of Life, and Europe in a Globalising World. We have an ingrained culture of collaboration within and between departments, as well as with external institutes, businesses and organisations in the Netherlands and abroad. Research plays an integral role in the majority of our master's programmes. Kennis-As Limburg Through the Kennis-As programme, UM, the Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+) and Zuyd University of Applied Sciences aim to play a leading role in the sustainable economic development of Limburg. Focusing on the fields of biomaterials and innovative healthcare, Kennis-As revolves around five campuses: the Maastricht Health Campus, the Maastricht inner city campus, the Chemelot Campus in Geleen, Campus Venlo and the Smart Services Hub in Parkstad. The programme will result in new jobs, a broader range of study programmes, international networks and easier access to academic knowledge for small and medium-sized enterprises. UM alumni go places Reports of the Maastricht University Research Centre for Education (ROA) show that our alumni are doing well in their careers ( Many of them stay in contact with their alma mater through alumni circles. The city of Maastricht Maastricht is one of the oldest and most charming cities in the Netherlands, with a truly international feel. It is centrally located between eight airports and is well served by international trains.

3 Contents Word of welcome 4 Master of Science in Sustainability Science and Policy 5 Interdisciplinary project 6 Programme structure 7 Admission requirements 8 Testimonials 9 All programmes in this brochure are accredited by the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders (NVAO). For more information on NVAO, please visit- Maastricht University is a signatory of the Code of conduct with respect to international students in Dutch higher education. More information about this code of conduct is available at 3

4 Word of welcome Dear student, Welcome to our Master of Science programme Sustainability Science and Policy (SSP). The Master SSP is offered under the umbrella of the Maastricht University Graduate School of Sustainability Science (MUST) and based at the International Centre for Integrated assessment and Sustainable development (ICIS), Maastricht University. ICIS is an international, multidisciplinary community Since its foundation in 1998 ICIS has become well-known for its integrative approaches of sustainable development issues. ICIS is an international research institute and a real academic community of Master students and PhD candidates, experienced teachers and well-known researchers. At ICIS researchers from different nationalities and various disciplinary backgrounds work closely together to examine sustainability problems, and help to shape the direction of policy trajectories in pursuit of sustainable development. We cross boundaries The complexity of sustainable development asks for sustainability experts and professionals who are able to cross boundaries between the different worlds of science, policy and society, between scientific and practical knowledge, between local and global perspectives, and between short-term and long-term views. In our Master SSP programme students will become acquainted with various disciplines and perspectives. The Master is taught entirely in English and students from abroad outnumber Dutch students. As a student you will be involved in a small-scale student oriented Master programme, which is embedded in the academic world but with close contacts to policy and society. In this environment we educate students to become sustainability professionals who make a difference! Ron Cörvers Director ICIS Graduate School of Sustainability Science Our sustainability research counts Research within ICIS is conducted at an international level, especially with respect to governance for sustainable development, transition management, social innovation, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary projects, and applying methods and tools of sustainability assessment. We also carry out research in specific sustainability topics such as water, energy, climate, carbon capture and storage, biodiversity, health, lifestyles, mobility, agricultural commodities, the needs of future generations, and ecological civilization. Our research is not only of interest for science, but also relevant for different actors in society and policy. 4 Master of Science Programme in Sustainability Science and Policy

5 Master of Science in Sustainability Science and Policy Unique programme The one-year MSc programme in Sustainability Science and Policy has a unique character. It has an integrative and interdisciplinary approach which is embedded in an international context. It focuses on methods and tools for integrated knowledge production and sustainability assessment for policy making. The Master SSP is an intensive programme where students acquire knowledge and skills to deal with one of the world s most relevant and complex questions: how can we balance ecological, economic, and social developments for our present and future well-being? The ambition of this Master programme is that students learn to cope with sustainability challenges from an integrated perspective. Purpose of the programme The aim of the Master SSP is to ensure that students become sustainability professionals, who: have the competences to recognise, analyse, and respond to sustainability challenges can design, conduct and evaluate sustainability assessments in collaboration with other disciplines and stakeholders and understand how it is/can be used in policy-making operate at the interface of science, policy and society and provide others with expertise on how to go forward in a sustainable manner Fast facts 1 year (12 months), 60 ECTS International classroom Starts once a year, in September Tutorials, problem-based learning, lectures, workshops, and projects Written and oral exams, final papers, presentations, and thesis Average study load per week is 40 hours The program brings together lecturers and students with various educational, work, and cultural backgrounds. Due to a limited number of students in each year, there is a lot of interaction between lecturers and students. All of this greatly contributes to the acquisition of competences (knowledge, skills, and attitudes) to function as well-qualified, interdisciplinary professionals in the field of sustainable development, both at theoretical level and practical level. Career perspectives The Master graduates will be able to fulfill a coordinating and integrating role in the analysis of sustainability issues, by crossing boundaries and building bridges between disciplines, domains, sectors and actors. Graduates find positions in governmental, non-governmental, and business organizations, and they can fulfill such diverse functions as policy-maker, sustainability coordinator, analyst of strategic policy and strategies, and sustainability consultant. Some graduates might also consider a scientific career at a research institute or university, through a PhD-track. 5

6 Interdisciplinary project Sustainability Assessment Project The Sustainability Assessment Project (one of the Master SSP courses) involves students in a real-life case study. Student teams develop and carry out a research plan in which they compare, combine and integrate different theories, methods and tools. The aim of the project is to bridge the gap between science, policy, and society and prepares students for the labour market by having them work on an actual case for a client. Leudal During the Sustainability Assessment Project a group of four students developed a strategy for sustainable tourism for the municipality of Leudal. The Dutch municipality Leudal, located in Central Limburg, is confronted with many challenges such as negative side-effects of intensive animal farming and an economic challenge to boost tourism in the region. The students developed an integrated problem description including key drivers and uncertainties, as well as the presentation of the key stakeholders and their perspectives. They organized a local visioning workshop in which 15 stakeholders (including entrepreneurs, farmers, camping owners, citizens, and policymakers) participated. Finally a strategy for sustainable tourism was developed by combining the hitherto separate local policies for sustainable development and tourism development. One of the policymakers at Leudal (Robert Wilms) described the result of the project as: an excellent basis for further policy development. The project won the first prize in the Maastricht student competition on sustainability projects. 6 Master of Science Programme in Sustainability Science and Policy

7 Programme structure Master programme structure Scientific Base Four courses provide the scientific base in sustainable development and policy-making: Fundamentals of Sustainable Development Global Dynamics of Sustainable Development Governance for Sustainable Development Sustainability, Law and the Environment Sustainability Assessment Subsequently, the programme focuses on Sustainability Assessment. This means that students learn to design, conduct, and evaluate sustainability assessments for policy-making in pursuit of sustainable development. For this, four courses are central: Knowledge Production for Sustainable Development Methodology of Sustainability Assessment Sustainability Assessment Project Sustainability Assesment Skills Master Thesis Additional skills training and the Master thesis complete the programme. Through their Master thesis, students will make use of knowledge, methods and tools acquired during the programme, especially in the field of integrated sustainability assessment. The thesis will focus on a real-world sustainability issue, where a sustainability assessment might contribute to a more integrated approach for policy-making in the pursuit of sustainable development. Problem Based Learning In our Problem-Based Learning (PBL) system students work in small groups of people, with staff, complementary lectures and teaching material close at hand to help them. PBL is very well-suited for teaching courses on sustainable development, as it is problem-driven rather than theory-driven, and requires students to be active and participatory rather than passive. It implies small-scale teaching and intensive group work. As the Master SSP attracts students from different nationalities and disciplines, the resulting international, multidisciplinary learning environment enriches the discussions between students and staff and fosters social learning. The PBL format also stimulates the development of personal characteristics such as: a sense of responsibility, a critical attitude, and integrated problem handling. Programme Core Courses (35 ECTS) Understanding Sustainability Fundamentals of Sustainable Development (5 ECTS) Global Dynamics of Sustainable Development (5 ECTS) Policy for Sustainability Governance for Sustainable Development (5 ECTS) Sustainability, Law and the Environment (5 ECTS) Skills courses (7 ECTS) Problem-based learning (1 ECTS) Scientific Writing & Presentation (1 ECTS) Seminar Series (1 ECTS) Assessing Sustainability Knowledge Production for Sustainable Development (5 ECTS) Methodology for Sustainability Assessment (5 ECTS) Sustainability Assessment Project (5 ECTS) Sustainability Assessment Skills (4 ECTS) Thesis (18 ECTS) Thesis research proposal (3 ECTS) Thesis research and writing (15 ECTS) 7

8 Admission requirements Academic background A relevant bachelor degree, preferably a university degree in disciplines such as: biology, ecology, agricultural sciences, earth sciences, environmental sciences, health sciences, geography, planning, sociology, modern history, law, policy sciences, public administration, economics, (international) business, organization and management, science and technology, architecture, design, communication, psychology, behavioral studies, anthropology, cultural studies, philosophy and liberal arts. You may still be eligible for admission if you have a degree other than those listed above. A bridging programme may be proposed to compensate for deficiencies in your previous education. The bridging programme may consist of one or more courses for self-study. The costs for the bridging programme are not included in the tuition fee. Proof of proficiency in the English language Language tests, obtained within the last two years, are required for applicants. Native English speakers and students who had English as the language of instruction for their bachelor or master degree are exempted. Applicants need to prove their English proficiency by submitting one of the following language tests: IELTS score of 7.0 TOEFL score of 100 (internet-based) or 600 (paper-based) Cambridge Proficiency Certificate (grade A, B, C); or Cambridge Advanced Certificate (grade A,B+). General background We have a preference for highly motivated students with a minimum grade point average of a B (US system), or a 7.0 (Dutch system). We are looking for students who have basic proficiency in research skills and a general insight in the field of sustainable development. Admission decision The admission decision is based on your whole application file. The bachelor degree and English language requirements are strictly applied, but in case you do not fulfill all other preferences you may still be eligible for admission. Motivation plays an important role in the admission decision. Other considerations are your prior education, grade point average, and basis research skills and general insight in the field of sustainable development. No one will be admitted to this programme directly. A decision will always be made on a case-by-case basis to determine whether there are sufficient grounds for admission. Required documents: application form bachelor degree copy bachelor transcript copy a motivation letter an essay two reference letters a CV a copy of an identity card a passport picture Application deadlines Early application deadlines February 1st March 1st May 1st Final application deadlines June 1st (for students requiring a visa) July 1st (for students who do not require a visa) You will hear back from us with a decision on your application within four weeks of the deadline you submitted your application for. 8 Master of Science Programme in Sustainability Science and Policy

9 Testimonials The well balanced mix of theory and practical methodology combined with the pro-active problem-based learning approach makes the Master very unique. It mirrors very well what is needed in the professional work environment of sustainable development. It not only addresses critical topics and concepts of sustainability but moreover provides inspiration on analysing and approaching complex issues at the intersection of practice, policy and science. The extra-curricular honours PREMIUM programme finally gave me the opportunity to reflect and enhance my professional competencies. However, what made the Master particularly enjoyable were the dedication, exchange and excellent support received by staff and fellow students. Hendrik Smid, Germany, Alumnus "The master's programme seemed to be a good choice - Maastricht University has a high global ranking and the degree seemed attractive in terms of opening up future employment opportunities. It looked like it would be a challenge and I was initially hesitant to pursue the degree, since I have little experience in the sustainable development field. However, I am now convinced that my decision to partake in the programme was the best choice I could make - I have learnt more than I ever have before and have also worked harder than ever before, but I nevertheless feel stimulated, happy and convinced that this is the field in which I want to continue to work. Lize Swartz, South Africa, Student 9

10 Master s programmes overview 2015/16 Arts & Culture * Master in Arts & Culture, with the following programmes: - Arts and Heritage: Policy, Management and Education / Kunst, cultuur en erfgoed (MA) 3 - Art, Literature and Society / Kunst, literatuur en samenleving (MA) 3 - Politics and Society / Politiek en Samenleving (MA) 3 Master in Arts & Culture (research), with the following programme: - Research Master in Culture of Arts, Science and Technology (MSc) 1 Master in European Studies, with the following programme: - European Studies on Society, Science and Technology (MA) 1 Master in Media Studies, with the following programme : - Media Culture, 1 specialisation (MA) 1 Behavioural & Political Sciences European Public Affairs (MA) 1 European Studies, 3 specialisations (MA) 1 Forensic Psychology (MSc) 1 Globalisation and Development Studies (MA) 1 Psychology, 6 specialisations (MSc) 1 Public Policy and Human Development, 4 specialisations in Behavioural & Political Sciences (MSc) 1** Research Master in European Studies (MSc) 1 Sustainability Science and Policy (MSc) 1 Business & Economics (All programmes are Triple Crown accredited: AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA) Econometrics and Operations Research, 4 specialisations (MSc) 1 Financial Economics, 3 specialisations (MSc) 1 Fiscale Economie / Fiscal Economics (MSc) 2 Global Supply Chain Management and Change (MSc) 1 Human Decision Science (MSc) 1 Information and Network Economics (MSc) 1 International Business, 11 full-time and 1 part-time specialisations (MSc) 1 Economics, 6 specialisations (MSc) 1 Management of Learning (MSc) 1 Public Policy and Human Development, 3 specialisations in Business & Economics (MSc) 1 ** Research Master in Business Research, 2 specialisations (MSc) 1 Research Master in Economic and Financial Research, 2 specialisations (MSc) 1 Graduate programmes for professionals Executive Master of Finance and Control (EMFC/MSc/RC) 1 International Executive Master of Auditing 1 International Executive Master of Finance and Control (part-time EMFC/MSc/RC) 1 Maastricht University opleiding tot Register Accountant (MURA) 4 MBA (International Executive Modular, Dutch Executive Modular and Euro) 3 Education Graduate programmes for professionals Master of Evidence Based Innovation in Teaching (MSc) 4 Health & Life Sciences Arts-Klinisch Onderzoeker / Physician-Clinical Investigator (MSc, MD) 4 Epidemiology (MSc) 1 European Public Health (MSc) 1 Geneeskunde / Medicine (MSc, MD) 4 Global Health (MSc) 1 Healthcare Policy, Innovation and Management (MSc) 1 Health Education and Promotion (MSc) 1 Health Food Innovation Management (MSc) 1 Human Movement Sciences / Bewegingswetenschappen (MSc) 1 Mental Health (MSc) 2 Research Master in Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, 5 specialisations (MSc) 1 Research Master in Health Sciences (MSc) 1 Work, Health and Career (MSc) 1

11 Graduate programmes for professionals Affective Neuroscience (MSc) 1 Health Professions Education (MSc) 1 International Master of Science in Medicine (MSc) 1 Executive Master in MRI Principles and Application (MSc) 1 Law European Law School, 3 specialisations (LLM) 1 Fiscaal Recht / Tax Law, 2 specialisations (LLM) 3 Forensica, Criminologie en Rechtspleging / Forensics, Criminology and Law (LLM) 3 Globalisation and Law, 4 specialisations (LLM) 1 International and European Tax Law (LLM) 1 International Laws (LLM) 1 Nederlands Recht / Dutch Law, 5 specialisations (LLM) 4 Public Policy and Human Development, 1 specialisation in Law (MSc) 1** Recht en Arbeid / Law and Labour, 2 specialisations (LLM) 4 Graduate programmes for professionals Advanced Master in Intellectual Property Law and Knowledge Management (LLM, MSc) 1 European Master in Human Rights and Democratisation 1 New initiatives at UM Master in Biobased Materials (expected start date: 1 September 2015) Master in Systems Biology (expected start date: 1 September 2015) The programmes under New initiatives at UM are currently in the process of accreditation. For more information about these programmes and their expected starting dates, please consult * Due to a national restructuring operation in the Humanities field, some changes have occurred in our Arts & Culture sector. If you wish to apply for one of the above master s programmes, you will have to select its overarching master s title in Studielink. For more information, please visit **This programme is offered as a double degree in collaboration with United Nations University. Language of instruction: 1 Only in English 2 Part Dutch, part English 3 Available in both English and Dutch 4 Only in Dutch Sciences (within transnational University Limburg,tUL) Artificial Intelligence (MSc) 1 Operations Research (MSc) 1 Biomedical Sciences, 5 specialisations (MSc) 1 11

12 Contact information ICIS - Graduate School of Sustainability Science (MUST) Maastricht University P.O. Box MD Maastricht, The Netherlands Phone: master-ssp@maastrichtuniversity.nl Master's Open Days Every year in February/March and October. For more information, please visit: You are welcome to make an appointment to visit us anytime. If the travelling distance is too far we can set up a meeting via Skype. 2015, Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, International Centre for Integrated assesment and Sustainable development, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, The Netherlands. Photography: Joey Roberts, Sacha Ruland Fotografie, Gemeente Leudal, and Grafisch ontwerpburo Emilio Perez. Concept and design template: Vormgeversassociatie BV, Hoog-Keppel Layout and production: Marketing & Communications, Maastricht University. Although this brochure was made with the utmost care, no rights can be attained from it. BE Based in Europe, focused on the world. Maastricht University is a stimulating environment. Where research and teaching are complementary. Where innovation is our focus. Where talent can flourish. A truly student oriented research university. UM en-GB