UM’s partnerships

As the European university of the Netherlands, Maastricht University places great importance on international partnerships. Collaborating with universities and institutions worldwide enriches our education and research by bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise. 

Aligned with our global outlook and commitment to international engagement, we actively participate in leading university networks and collaborate with universities and institutions at national, European and global levels. Our partnerships also extend to other networks, NGOs, private companies and our extensive alumni community. 
 
In addition, each of our six faculties collaborates with partners across Europe and worldwide to facilitate student exchanges at both the bachelor's and master's levels. These numerous exchange agreements offer significant benefits, creating opportunities for international cooperation and enhancing global citizenship.

International university networks

In order to stimulate collaboration, we are committed to developing and strengthening our role in four key international university networks. 
 

1. Worldwide University Network (WUN) 

The WUN is a leading global higher education and research network of 25 universities across six continents. Membership adds a global dimension to UM's collaborations, focusing on global development challenges and enhancing UM's visibility. It also supports the acquisition of external research funding. UM aims to engage key academics in WUN research teams and create mobility opportunities for early and mid-career researchers, focusing on Global Challenges to foster collaboration and innovation. 

Read more about WUN and how you can benefit from UM’s membership.
 

2. Young European Research Universities (YERUN) 

As a leading young university, UM co-founded YERUN, a network that fosters collaboration among Europe’s young universities in research, education and societal impact.  

YERUN members share values like high-impact research and a strong commitment to internationalisation. The network is an important voice in EU higher education and research policy and offers opportunities for topical cooperation ranging from research mobility and open science to sustainability.  

Read more on YERUN and how you can benefit from UM’s membership.  
 

3. Young Universities for the Future of Europe alliance (YUFE) 

UM coordinates the YUFE alliance, which includes ten young and dynamic, student-centred universities and two non-academic partners. YUFE aims to establish a truly European University and is driven by a shared dedication to the European spirit and a commitment to a competitive, innovative, and united Europe.  

YUFE offers students the chance to create a European curriculum leading to a European degree, with opportunities to learn languages, engage in mobility, develop careers, and perform community service. 

Read more about YUFE and how you can benefit from UM’s membership.
 

4. European Alliance for Social Sciences and Humanities (EASSH)

UM is a member of EASSH, the largest advocacy and science policy organisation for social sciences and humanities in Europe. This alliance leverages its members' expertise to influence European policy and decision-making. Its working groups bring social sciences and humanities research into public debate and strengthen European research and cooperation among public and private partners. 

EASSH includes over 70 member organisations and represents more than 100,000 researchers across Europe.

Read more on EASSH and how you can benefit from UM’s membership.

Check out our other partnerships and collaborations.