- I cannot sign up to the full (14-week) programme, what are my alternatives?
It is possible to sign up for individual modules within the programme. This is referred to as the modular approach, and participants can choose to start with the individual modules that best suit their needs, as long as the order of modules is followed. Completion of all modules in 3 years is required to obtain the EPRM programme certification, but upon completion of a module you will obtain that module certification.
- I am a working professional. Will I be able to complete the EPRM programme while working?
The EPRM is designed for working professionals. Only Module 1 and Module 5 will require your full-time participation in Maastricht (see next question for details). All other modules require an estimated workload of 10-15 hours per week and can be done during evenings and weekends. Previous participants have successfully completed the programme while working full-time.
- I understand that the EPRM programme is offered as a blended programme, i.e. a mix of on-site and online coursemodules. How much time do I need to spend in Maastricht?
If you sign up for the full programme (14 weeks), you will be required to spend one week in Maastricht for Module 1 (Research Design). Modules 2-3-4 are online. Module 5 can be done on-site in Maastricht, or online.
- Are there any rules on the order in which course modules are taken in the modular approach?
Yes. Module 1 must be completed before the subsequent modules (Modules 2 to 4). Modules 1-4 must be completed before Module 5. Although Modules 2-4 can be completed in any order, it is recommended that they are taken sequentially.
- What if I cannot take all the modules in one run but still want to complete the entire programme and receive the certificate?
You have the option to start the programme in one run cohort (e.g. fall 2025) (e.g. autumn 2023) and complete the remaining modules later (e.g. autumn 2024spring 2026). You will receive modular certificates, and if you complete all course modules included in the programme within a 3-year period, you will be awarded the programme certificate.
- At what level (Master’s/PhD) are the courses offered in EPRM? Can I transfer the courses to a PhD programme?
EPRM is a post-graduate training programme and is not linked to a Master’s or PhD programme. It is a programme jointly offered by Maastricht University and UNU-MERIT, and upon successful completion, you will obtain a certificate with European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) credit equivalence. The university where you aim to pursue your Master’s or PhD studies will decide whether transfer of ECTS equivalence credits earned in EPRM will be accepted.
- Will completing the EPRM programme enhance my chances of being accepted to UNU-MERIT’s PhD programme on Innovation, Governance and Sustainable Development (IEGSD) or another PhD programme?
Completion of the EPRM programme does not guarantee entrance to IEGSD or any other PhD programme. The objective, however, is that after successful completion of the EPRM programme, participants will be more informed on what research is and have worked on the skills needed to undertake effective and credible research, including how to draft a strong research proposal. After completion of the course, we can advise you on undertaking IEGSD with us. One major goal of the EPRM programme is to enhance your chances of admission to a PhD programme. However, completing EPRM does not guarantee entrance into IEGSD.