Human Movement Sciences

Human Movement Sciences at Maastricht University offers a comprehensive and innovative education aimed at understanding the complex interplay between the human body, mind, and environment. This program integrates concepts from biomechanics, physiology, psychology, and neuroscience to explore how humans move and how movement influences health, performance, and well-being. Throughout the course of the program, students gain a solid foundation in the scientific principles underlying human movement, including motor control, sensorimotor integration, and the biomechanics of movement. They also develop practical skills through research projects, internships, and hands-on training, preparing them for careers in healthcare, sports, rehabilitation, ergonomics, and human performance optimization.

The curriculum is designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application, emphasizing evidence-based practice and critical thinking. Students learn to analyze movement patterns, assess physical performance, and develop interventions to improve movement and function in diverse populations. The program also emphasizes the importance of innovation and technological advances, such as motion analysis systems, wearable sensors, and computer modeling, to enhance understanding and treatment of movement-related issues. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, students are encouraged to work across fields such as medicine, psychology, engineering, and sports science, making them versatile professionals capable of tackling complex movement-related challenges.

Human Movement Sciences at Maastricht University places strong emphasis on internationalization and research. Students engage with cutting-edge research topics and participate in projects that address real-world problems, contributing to advancements in health sciences and human performance. The program prepares graduates not only to excel in clinical, academic, or sport settings but also to become leaders in developing innovative solutions that improve movement health and quality of life. With its focus on applying scientific insights to practical problems, this program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary for a successful career in the dynamic and expanding field of human movement sciences.

The Master's program in Human Movement Sciences at Maastricht University offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding human movement and physical activity. Designed for students passionate about health, sports, rehabilitation, and related fields, this program provides a solid foundation in the biological, psychological, and social aspects of human movement. Throughout the program, students will explore the mechanisms underlying movement, integrate knowledge from various disciplines, and develop practical skills to apply their expertise in real-world settings.

The curriculum covers a range of topics including motor control and learning, biomechanics, physical activity and health, rehabilitation sciences, and sports performance. Students will engage in advanced coursework that combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling them to analyze movement patterns, design intervention programs, and assess the effectiveness of different approaches. An emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, fostering critical thinking and innovative research skills. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborative work with professionals in healthcare, sports organizations, and research institutes.

Apart from the theoretical knowledge, the program emphasizes hands-on training through laboratory experiments, movement analysis, and fieldwork. This practical focus prepares graduates to work as movement scientists, rehabilitation specialists, sports coaches, and health consultants. The program also encourages students to develop their own research question, design a study, and contribute to the scientific community with their findings. With a strong international orientation, students from diverse backgrounds collaborate and learn in an inclusive environment, gaining insights into global health and movement challenges.

Graduates of this master's program are equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in academia, healthcare, sports organizations, or government agencies. They are prepared to contribute to the promotion of health and well-being through improved understanding of human movement. The program’s blend of theoretical and practical training ensures that students are well-prepared for further academic research or professional practice in various sectors related to human movement sciences.

Admission requirements

Admissions: 1. a bachelor's degree issued by a university in a relevant domain 2. a bachelor's degree issued by a University of Applied Sciences in a relevant domain. For these students additional requirements may apply.

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Admissions: 1. a bachelor's degree issued by a university in a relevant domain 2. a bachelor's degree issued by a University of Applied Sciences in a relevant domain. For these students additional requirements may apply.

The financing of the Human Movement Sciences program at Maastricht University is primarily structured around a combination of government funding, individual tuition fees, and additional financial support options. Tuition fees for European Union students are set according to the regulations of the Dutch government and are generally lower than for international students from outside the EU. Dutch and EU students typically pay a statutory fee, which is annually determined by the Dutch government and subsidized to make higher education accessible. For non-EU international students, tuition fees are usually higher and are determined by the university's policy for international programs.

In addition to tuition fees, students may benefit from various scholarships and bursaries offered either by Maastricht University or external organizations. The university participates in national scholarship programs aimed at attracting talented international students. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden for high-achieving students and are typically awarded based on academic excellence, motivation, or financial need. Maastricht University also offers a limited number of grants and financial aid options specifically for students enrolled in Human Movement Sciences, facilitating access for students from diverse backgrounds.

Students are encouraged to explore financial planning and funding options prior to enrollment. Maastricht University’s website provides detailed information on the application procedures for scholarships, as well as guidance on student loans and part-time work opportunities that can help finance their studies. The Dutch government also provides student loan systems for both Dutch and international students, which can be used to cover tuition fees and living expenses during the course of study.

Living costs in Maastricht, including accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses, should also be taken into consideration when planning finances. The university provides resources to assist students in budgeting and finding affordable housing options in the city. Many students supplement their income through part-time jobs, which are often available within the university or in the local community, subject to visa regulations for international students.

Overall, the financing of the Human Movement Sciences program involves a combination of public subsidies, tuition fees, scholarships, student loans, and personal savings. Maastricht University emphasizes accessibility and supports students through various financial aid programs, ensuring that a broad demographic can pursue their educational aspirations in the field of human movement sciences.

Human Movement Sciences at Maastricht University is a multidisciplinary program focused on understanding the complex mechanics, biology, and psychology of human movement. The curriculum integrates knowledge from physiology, biomechanics, motor control, psychology, and nutrition to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how humans move, perform, and recover. The program emphasizes a scientific approach, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application through laboratory sessions, internships, and project-based learning. Students explore various topics such as musculoskeletal functioning, neuromuscular control, motor learning, sports performance, rehabilitation, and injury prevention. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in healthcare, sports, or research by equipping them with analytical skills, scientific reasoning abilities, and practical expertise. Maastricht University’s unique problem-based learning methodology encourages active student participation and autonomy, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for scientific and applied roles in the field of human movement. The program collaborates with hospitals, sports clubs, and research institutions, providing diverse opportunities for internships and collaborative projects. Language of instruction is primarily English, catering to international students. Career prospects include roles such as physiotherapist, sports scientist, rehabilitation specialist, research scientist, ergonomist, or clinical practitioner. The university’s facilities support advanced research and training, including motion analysis labs, biomechanics laboratories, and rehabilitation centers. The program is designed for students passionate about health, exercise, sports, and human physiology, offering a challenging curriculum supported by expert faculty with extensive research experience. Graduates are well-positioned to contribute to improving human health and performance through scientific insight and innovative practices.