Work, Health and Career

Work, Health and Career is a comprehensive Master’s program offered by Maastricht University that is designed to prepare students for meaningful careers in the fields of occupational health, human resource development, and work psychology. This program focuses on understanding the complex interactions between work environments, employee health, and career development, providing students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to improve organizational well-being and individual resilience. Throughout the program, students explore topics such as work engagement, burnout, work-life balance, organizational psychology, and human resource management, emphasizing evidence-based practices and innovative solutions to contemporary work-related issues.

The curriculum combines core courses, elective modules, and practical assignments, encouraging students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in real-world contexts. Students learn to diagnose work-related health problems, design interventions, and evaluate their effectiveness within various organizational settings. The program also emphasizes the importance of sustainable work practices and promotes a holistic view of employee well-being, integrating insights from psychology, public health, and management sciences. Collaboration with industry partners, internships, and case studies form an essential part of the educational experience, enabling students to apply their knowledge in professional environments.

Graduates of the Work, Health and Career program are well-equipped for careers in occupational health services, human resource departments, consultancy firms, or research institutions. They can work as occupational health specialists, consultants, HR managers, or policy advisors, contributing to healthier workplaces and fostering organizational success. The program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing further academic research or a PhD in related fields. With its interdisciplinary approach, innovative teaching methods, and international orientation, the MSc in Work, Health and Career at Maastricht University offers an exceptional opportunity to develop specialized expertise and advance your professional journey in creating healthier and more productive workplaces worldwide.

The Master’s programme in Work, Health and Career at Maastricht University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the various factors that influence the well-being, productivity, and career development of individuals in the workplace. This innovative programme is designed for students who are interested in exploring the complex interactions between work environments, health outcomes, and career trajectories, with the aim of improving workforce sustainability and individual quality of life.

Throughout the programme, students will engage with a wide range of topics, including occupational health psychology, labor economics, human resource management, and organizational behavior. The curriculum emphasizes a scientific foundation, combining theory with practical application to prepare graduates for careers in policy-making, consultancy, research, human resources, and organizational development. Students will learn to analyze work-related stressors, design interventions to promote employee health, and develop strategies to support career transitions and lifelong learning.

The programme further explores contemporary issues such as work-life balance, the impacts of digitalization on employment, and the challenges posed by demographic changes in the workforce. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based decision making, data analysis, and the ethical considerations involved in workplace interventions. Students are encouraged to develop a critical perspective on existing practices and to innovate new solutions that enhance both individual well-being and organizational effectiveness.

Study methods include a mix of lectures, seminars, case studies, and hands-on projects, often involving collaborations with organizations and stakeholders in the field. The programme offers opportunities for international exchange and internships, enabling students to gain practical experience and expand their professional networks globally. With a strong focus on research, students are also trained to conduct independent investigations, contributing valuable insights to the fields of occupational health and career development.

Graduates of the Master’s in Work, Health and Career are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to influence policies and practices that foster healthier and more sustainable workplaces. They will be well-prepared to take on roles in consultancy firms, public institutions, multinational corporations, and research organizations. The programme’s interdisciplinary nature ensures that graduates understand the multi-faceted aspects of work and health, positioning them as leaders and innovators in creating healthier work environments and supporting lifelong career development.

Admission requirements

the admissions questionnaire

Other requirements

1. ingangstoets Toelatings questionnaire
2. ingangstoets the admissions questionnaire
3. cijferlijst a certified copy of your bachelor certificate and list of grades
4. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) een relevant vakgebied, bij voorkeur geschiedenis, kunstgeschiedenis, archeologie of cultuurwetenschappen. Als je een graad in de sociale wetenschappen, rechten of economie, of een ander bachelordiploma hebt, kun je je eveneens aanmelden.
5. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in a relevant field
6. werkervaring (ISPAC: vereiste werkervaring) Relevante werkervaring is een pré
7. werkervaring (ISPAC: vereiste werkervaring) student needs to include a CV indicating relevant working experience

The financing options for the Work, Health and Career master's program at Maastricht University are designed to accommodate a diverse range of students, ensuring accessibility and financial support throughout their studies. Maastricht University offers various scholarships and grants specifically for international students, including partial and full tuition fee waivers, which are awarded based on academic excellence, socio-economic background, and demographic criteria. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore government-sponsored loans and funding programs available in their home countries, which can assist in covering tuition fees and living expenses during the duration of the program.

International students may also consider applying for Erasmus+ funding, which provides mobility and exchange grants for students participating in European higher education programs, if applicable. Some students finance their studies through part-time work; Maastricht University and the surrounding city of Maastricht offer opportunities for students to work on a limited basis, balancing employment with their academic commitments. It is recommended that students contact the university's financial aid office early in the application process to obtain detailed information about available scholarships, grants, and other financial resources.

Moreover, the university provides guidance on applying for external funding sources, including private foundations and organizations that support international education. Students are also advised to consider savings, family contributions, or sponsorship from employers, especially for those who are already employed or sponsored by their organizations. Overall, financing a master's degree at Maastricht University requires careful planning and utilization of various financial aid options, ensuring that students can focus on their academic and career development without undue financial burden.

Work, Health and Career at Maastricht University is an interdisciplinary master's program that focuses on understanding the complex relationships between work environments, health outcomes, and career development. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and improve occupational health policies, workplace well-being, and career trajectories in diverse professional contexts. Students explore topics such as occupational health psychology, organizational behavior, health promotion strategies, and the impact of work on mental and physical health. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, including case studies, research projects, and internships. Graduates are prepared to work in various sectors, including healthcare organizations, governmental agencies, and private companies, where they can contribute to developing healthier work environments and supporting employees' well-being. The program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices and encourages critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and intercultural communication. Throughout their studies, students have access to multidisciplinary expertise, real-world data, and opportunities for international collaboration. The program's diverse faculty includes researchers and practitioners specialized in occupational health, psychology, labor studies, and public health. Career prospects after completing the program include roles such as occupational health adviser, workplace wellness coordinator, organizational psychologist, policy advisor, and researcher. Maastricht University’s international orientation and strong connections with industry and health organizations offer students valuable networking opportunities and practical experience. The program also promotes lifelong learning and professional development, ensuring graduates are well-positioned to adapt to emerging challenges in the fields of work, health, and career management.