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Study Politics & International Studies in Europe

Study global power where so much of it is actually decided — across Europe's institutions and courts.

77
Politics & International Studies programs in Europe from 29 universities · updated for 2026
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Policy at the Center Home to many of the world's major political institutions — the continent where global governance is headquartered
Diplomatic Culture European universities are embedded in a region where multilateral diplomacy is a daily reality, not an abstraction
Research Excellence Top European IR faculties lead in security studies, development economics, and European integration theory
Methods & Data Quantitative and qualitative political science methods are equally emphasized in European research programs

There are few better places to study politics and international relations than the continent where so much of global governance is actually headquartered. The EU institutions, NATO, the international courts and agencies, and a dense network of think tanks and diplomatic missions mean that European programs teach world politics from inside the machinery, not at a distance. That proximity shapes the experience: students engage with practitioners and policymakers, and many programs build in access to internships at international organizations that would be far harder to reach elsewhere. Europe's own patchwork of political systems — parliamentary and presidential, large states and small, old democracies and newer ones — also makes it an ideal setting for comparative politics. English-taught master's degrees are widespread, and the discipline has become noticeably more rigorous on methods and data. Specializations span international relations, European studies, security studies, diplomacy, political economy, and human-rights politics. Graduates move into diplomacy and the civil service, the EU and international organizations, NGOs and advocacy, political risk and consulting, journalism, and the policy and public-affairs teams that now shape decisions across the private sector.

Featured Politics & International Studies Programs in Europe

A selection of programs available across Europe — explore details, fees, and requirements.

Economic Diplomacy and Statecraft

Krakow University of Economics Krakow, Poland

Master's English 1,5 years
EU: €1,400 Per semester Non-EU: €1,400
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Economic Diplomacy and Statecraft Krakow University of Economics

This master’s program explores international political economy, diplomatic strategy, and global economic relations. Students gain practical skills through workshops on East–West diplomacy, negotiations, and policy analysis, along with theoretical foundations in economic statecraft. The curriculum includes electives, language training, a research seminar, and a professional internship. Graduates are prepared for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, and economic policy institutions.
To apply for a Master's program, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s, Engineer, or equivalent degree that is legalized and valid for graduate admission in the country of issue. Admission is based on the GPA from the diploma supplement or an official GPA notification. Applicants may choose up to three programs but will be admitted to only one, based on their priority ranking. Proof of English proficiency is required, but applicants without a certificate may take an internal English exam.
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International Relations

ELTE – Eötvös Loránd University Budapest, Hungary

Bachelor's English 3 years
EU: €1,200 Per semester Non-EU: €2,700
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International Relations ELTE – Eötvös Loránd University

This bachelor's program develops specialized knowledge in international politics, security studies, EU politics, ethnic conflict, global justice, and human rights, building the ability to understand and analyze political and social dynamics that cross state borders and cultural boundaries. It is well suited to students interested in social sciences and politics who want to understand how the modern world works and how globalization has reshaped societies. It is delivered over three years in English.

The first semester introduces political science, law, economics, international law, the history of European integration, and the history of international relations, alongside academic skills training in reading academic texts and general awareness training.

The second semester covers the history and theory of international society, constitutionalism, academic writing, theories of international relations, a human rights seminar, decision-making in the European Union, an international relations seminar, comparative politics, and the political philosophy of international relations.

The third semester covers security studies, the policies and policy areas of the European Union, foreign policy analysis paired with a seminar on foreign policy and security issues, and research methodology.

The fourth semester covers globalization and the information society, citizenship and nationalism, European law and legal harmonization, political economy, and migration.

Alongside a compulsory internship and coursework in international economics spread across the later years, students choose regional studies coursework focused on a world region, such as Africa and the Middle East, Asia, the Americas, or Europe, along with further thematic coursework and a set of compulsory elective courses drawn from subjects such as economics, sociology, social history, cultural anthropology, philosophy, and the external action of the European Union. A dedicated mobility window for study abroad through the Erasmus program is built into the fifth semester. The program concludes with a thesis, supported by a dedicated consultation course and a thesis seminar.

Throughout the program, students are encouraged to work independently and in teams, supported by modern teaching methods including simulations, with an emphasis on adaptability and self-reflection.

Graduates go on to work in financial and commercial institutions, the public sector, state and municipal administration, and the non-profit and non-governmental sector, in roles such as foreign policy analyst, lobbyist, project coordinator, political advisor, or development worker, along with various administrative roles in government and private enterprise. The program also prepares students to continue into a master's degree in international relations or another social science field.
Applicants must submit their secondary school certificate, records from their final two years of secondary school, a motivation letter in English, and a valid passport copy.

English proficiency must be demonstrated at B2 level, through an IELTS score of at least 5.5, a TOEFL iBT score between 46 and 59, a Cambridge English Scale score of at least 162, or another recognized certification; if no certificate has been obtained, proficiency will instead be assessed during the oral admission interview. Applicants who completed their prior education entirely in English are exempt from this requirement if they submit a notarized attestation and a detailed academic transcript confirming this.

Admission is decided through a live online oral interview, which assesses the applicant's general and professional knowledge and interest in the field; passing this interview is required for admission. Applicants preparing for the interview are encouraged to read "The Globalization of World Politics: An Introduction to International Relations" by John Baylis, Steve Smith, and Patricia Owens. Final admission is based on a combined evaluation of academic performance, as reflected in the submitted documents, and the results of the interview.
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Master's Degree in International Relations

UCAM – Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia Murcia

Master's English 1 year
EU: €5,300 Total Non-EU: €5,300
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Master's Degree in International Relations UCAM – Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia

This master's program provides an in-depth understanding of global politics, international law, diplomacy, and economic development. It covers key regions including Europe, the Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa. Students explore peace and security, global governance, and strategic relations. The program concludes with a research-based final project.
Applicants must be enrolled in or have completed university studies. Additional requirements include a scanned copy of a valid passport, bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript, a statement of purpose/motivational letter, and a curriculum vitae (CV).
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Master's Degree in European Union Studies and Human Rights

UCAM – Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia Murcia

Master's English 1 year
EU: €6,300 Total Non-EU: €6,300
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Master's Degree in European Union Studies and Human Rights UCAM – Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia

This program covers subjects such as EU Institutions and Policies, Fundamental Rights in the EU, International Human Rights Protection, and International Organizations. It also includes modules on Migration and Asylum Policies, EU Foreign Policy, and a final Master’s Thesis or Internship.
Applicants must be enrolled in or have completed a university degree. Additional requirements include a scanned copy of a valid passport, academic transcript and degree certificate, a statement of purpose or motivational letter, and a curriculum vitae (CV).
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Why Study Politics & International Studies in Europe?

1

EU institutions and international organizations based in Europe

2

NATO and international organizations

3

Diverse political systems to study

4

Strong political science tradition

5

Access to practitioners and policymakers

Popular Specializations

Focus areas within Politics & International Studies

Admission Requirements

What you'll need to apply

BSc/BA

Bachelor's Programs

  • High school diploma
  • Interest in politics and current affairs
  • English proficiency
  • Strong analytical skills

What You'll Study

Typical curriculum and coursework

Political theory

International relations

Research methods

Regional specializations

Policy analysis

Language training

Thesis or capstone

How to Prepare

Tips to strengthen your application

1

Follow international news closely

2

Develop analytical and writing skills

3

Learn additional languages

4

Gain experience through internships or Model UN

5

Understand different political perspectives

6

Build knowledge of specific regions

Career Paths

Where a Politics & International Studies degree can take you

€40,000 - €90,000 Typical Salary Range
Competitive but opportunities at international organizations

Diplomat

Represent your country abroad

Policy Analyst

Analyze and advise on policy

EU Official

Work at EU institutions

NGO Program Manager

Lead NGO programs

Political Journalist

Report on political affairs

International Organization Officer

Work at UN, NATO, etc.

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