Why this programme
We live in a highly complex, interdependent world, and the number of decisions we need to make is growing exponentially. Due to increasing knowledge and scientific progress, we have a lot more information at our disposal that can be used to make these decisions. At the same time, we face growing uncertainties like financial crises, climate change, migration and international terrorism on the one hand, and more individual freedom and autonomy on the other.
Under these circumstances it is increasingly difficult – yet also increasingly important – to understand how to make smart individual and strategic decisions. Such decisions form the cornerstone of the proper functioning of institutions, organisations and markets, on which our very wellbeing depends. This programme gives you a thorough understanding of the cognitive and social aspects of human decision-making so you have better knowledge of what good decisions are and how we can make them.

Economics and psychology: The best of both worlds
Jointly offered by the School of Business and Economics and the Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience, Human Decision Science combines the best of both worlds. It uses a genuinely interdisciplinary approach to understanding human decisions that combines economics and psychology in all their different facets.
What will you learn?
During this programme, you will learn:
- to analyse decision situations using the appropriate theoretical and empirical strategies
- to address the design of institutions, procedures and protocols, such that you and the parties involved can make good decisions
- about the tools needed to improve the decision-making processes in your chosen field of application, in line with your interests and career goals
Education Oppertunities
International experience
Enhance your degree with global perspectives through study abroad opportunities.
- Study abroad: Spend a semester at one of our 92 partner universities worldwide
- Dual Degree Programmes: Earn two diplomas in less time through select master programmes

Professional experience
Enrich your curriculum by gaining professional experience during your studies!
- Thesis-Internship Programme (TIP): Write your thesis on a topic relevant to a company or organisation during a part-time internship
- Extracurricular Internship: Gain experience through an internship lasting 3 to 6 months
- Excellence Programmes: Apply for one of our Excellence Programmes to work on real projects with partner companies

Get ready to launch your career
Boost your personal and professional development while expanding your network at events hosted in collaboration with partners and alumni:
- Career and Development Days : Participate in workshops and events focused on personal and career growth
Maastricht Business Days by SCOPE: Network with employers and alumni at our prestigious recruitment event
- UM Career Services and Advisors: Receive personalised support trough training or individual guidance.
