International Master in Affective Neuroscience

The International Master in Affective Neuroscience at Maastricht University offers a cutting-edge interdisciplinary education designed to explore the complex mechanisms underlying human emotions and affective processes. This unique programme combines insights from neuroscience, psychology, and psychiatry to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how affect influences behavior, decision-making, and mental health. Throughout the two-year curriculum, students engage with advanced topics such as emotion regulation, social cognition, neurobiology of affect, and the neural correlates of affective disorders. The programme emphasizes research-based learning, encouraging students to develop critical thinking skills and apply scientific methods to investigate affective phenomena. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, enabling hands-on experience with neuroimaging techniques, behavioral assessments, and physiological measurement tools. The programme attracts students from diverse backgrounds, including neuroscience, psychology, medicine, and related disciplines, fostering an international and multidisciplinary learning environment. Collaboration with leading research institutes and opportunities for internships and thesis projects equip graduates with valuable practical skills and research experience. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in academia, clinical research, or applied fields such as mental health and wellbeing, where understanding affective processes is crucial. The programme's international outlook, combined with the faculty's expertise and a curriculum grounded in the latest scientific advances, makes it an ideal choice for students passionate about unraveling the mysteries of human emotion and applying this knowledge to improve mental health outcomes worldwide.

The International Master in Affective Neuroscience at Maastricht University offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive curriculum designed to explore the complex mechanisms underlying emotions, feelings, and affective processes in the human brain. This innovative program combines insights from psychology, neuroscience, and clinical sciences to provide students with a deep understanding of affective states and their influence on behaviour and mental health. Throughout the program, students will engage with cutting-edge research methodologies, including neuroimaging techniques, experimental design, and data analysis, enabling them to investigate the neural substrates of emotions and affective disorders.

The core courses cover essential topics such as emotional regulation, social affect, neurobiology of affective disorders, and the cognitive mechanisms that modulate emotional responses. Students will also explore the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of affective processes, gaining practical skills in applying neuroimaging tools like fMRI and EEG. The program emphasizes experiential learning through laboratory work, case studies, and research projects, allowing students to develop hands-on expertise and critical thinking skills necessary for academic, clinical, or industry careers.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the curriculum promotes the development of research competencies, including experimental design, data collection, statistical analysis, and scientific communication. Students will have opportunities to collaborate with faculty on ongoing research projects, fostering a stimulating academic environment conducive to innovation and discovery. The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths, such as clinical neuroscience, mental health research, neurotechnology development, and roles within healthcare industries that focus on emotional and cognitive health.

The International Master in Affective Neuroscience also emphasizes internationalization by encouraging students to participate in exchange programs, international conferences, and collaborative research initiatives. The program's location within Maastricht University provides a multicultural and dynamic setting that enriches the learning experience. Ultimately, this master’s program aims to cultivate highly skilled professionals who can advance scientific understanding and develop interventions to improve mental health and emotional well-being worldwide.

Admission requirements

Graduate degree in medicine, psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience, behavioural sciences, or a related discipline.

Other requirements

1. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Graduate degree in medicine, psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience, behavioural sciences, or a related discipline.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The International Master in Affective Neuroscience at Maastricht University offers various financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees are established annually and vary depending on the student’s nationality—EU/EEA students benefit from lower fees compared to non-EU/EEA students. For the current academic year, the tuition fee for EU/EEA students is approximately €2,200 per year, whereas non-EU/EEA students pay around €16,800 per year. These fees cover instruction, course materials, access to university facilities, and participation in research activities.

Students are encouraged to explore a range of funding opportunities to support their studies. Maastricht University participates in several scholarship programs aimed at attracting talented international students. The UM Holland Scholarship is available for international students applying from outside the Netherlands and offers a one-time grant of €5,000 towards the first year of studies. Additionally, students can apply for the Maastricht University Scholarships, which may include partial or full tuition waivers, subject to specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

Apart from university-specific scholarships, students can seek funding through national and international scholarship programs such as Erasmus+, which supports student mobility within Europe and offers grants for studying abroad. These grants aim to cover part of the living costs or travel expenses. Furthermore, students are advised to investigate external funding options, including grants from governmental agencies, foundations, and private organizations in their home countries.

Many students also finance their studies through student loans, which are available in various countries and may be applicable to international students depending on bilateral agreements and local regulations. Part-time work opportunities are generally available on or near campus, allowing students to offset some living expenses while pursuing their degree. Maastricht University provides support services and information sessions on financing options, including budgeting advice and guidance on scholarship applications.

In conclusion, while studying the International Master in Affective Neuroscience, students should plan their finances carefully by considering tuition fees, application for scholarships, potential external funding, and personal savings. Engaging early with university financial aid offices and scholarship programs enhances the likelihood of securing funding. Overall, a combination of scholarships, personal resources, and part-time employment can make international study in this field feasible and accessible.

The International Master in Affective Neuroscience at Maastricht University is a multidisciplinary program designed to explore the biological and psychological mechanisms underlying emotions, mood, and social behavior. The curriculum integrates perspectives from neuroscience, psychology, and related fields to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how affective processes influence human behavior and mental health. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical research skills, preparing graduates for careers in academic research, clinical settings, and industry sectors related to mental health and neurotechnology. Students acquire proficiency in neuroimaging techniques, experimental design, data analysis, and the ethical considerations of neuroscience research. The program typically spans two years, during which students engage in coursework, laboratory work, and a master's thesis project. The learning environment fosters critical thinking and collaborative research, often involving partnerships with research institutes and hospitals. Graduates of the program are equipped to contribute meaningfully to advancing knowledge in affective neuroscience and applying this knowledge to improve mental health treatments. The program attracts international students, fostering a diverse academic community committed to innovative research and interdisciplinary collaboration.