Study Comparative Politics in Europe

This master's program combines methodological training with thematic specialization. Students begin with a solid foundation in qualitative and quantitative research methods (18 ECTS), followed by core competencies in either politics (covering political theory, elections, and comparative politics) or governance (focusing on e-governance, public administration, and democracy). Elective options (30 ECTS) span topics like EU policy, cyber defense, global governance, policy writing, and internships. A study abroad module and optional cross-disciplinary courses enhance practical experience. The program concludes with a master’s thesis (30 ECTS).

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent and meet English language proficiency requirements. Admission is based on a motivation letter (50%) and an interview (50%). The letter (max 5000 characters) should explain the applicant’s motivation, background, and research interests related to digital-era politics and governance. To be invited to the interview, a minimum of 51 points is required on the letter. The interview further explores motivation, research interests, and readiness to adapt academically and culturally. A minimum combined score of 66 out of 100 is needed for admission.

Thought process
Thought process
Program summary: This bachelor's program is designed for students who want to drive meaningful change within the public sector, combining political science with public administration to build the skills needed to analyze complex societal challenges and support evidence-based decision-making at national and international levels. Strong emphasis is placed on research training, including quantitative and qualitative methods, data analysis, and the use of modern technological tools for information retrieval and analysis.

The first year introduces academic literacy, the fundamentals of political science and public administration, introductory informatics, and an overview of public policy and administration studies. This continues into administrative law, introductory data analysis, and political theory, alongside an elective in media philosophy or sustainable development and a foreign-language elective at an advanced level.

The second year covers comparative politics, international relations, quantitative social research methods, strategic planning in public sector organizations, and theories of public governance, followed by democratic transitions, digital transformation in the public sector, ethics and corruption prevention, European Union policy and governance, and qualitative social research methods.

The third year explores civil service, civil society and volunteering, multi-level public governance, political developments in Eastern Europe and the Baltic region, and public finance management, then moves into a substantial product development project, public policy analysis, and risk and crisis management in the public sector, alongside an elective focused on local governance, local economic development, or urban and regional development.

The fourth year covers evidence-based public policy and data analysis, innovation management in public governance, public programs and projects, and public services administration, together with an elective in political communication in the media, public information governance, or public relations management. The program concludes with a bachelor's degree final project and a professional internship.

Across the program, students learn to analyze how politics works in practice, apply administrative law and public governance theories to real decisions, and design and conduct both quantitative and qualitative social research, including with modern, AI-based tools. Later coursework builds skills in evaluating public policy, managing risk and crisis situations, applying evidence-based approaches to public problems, and developing new products or services that meet societal and public sector needs by working in interdisciplinary teams from concept through implementation.

Students who choose a local and regional government option study the fundamentals of local government, urban and regional development, and local economic growth.

Those who choose a political communication and technology option instead build expertise in political communication in the media, public relations management, and public information.

Students may also pursue an innovation development path, creating real innovations in the form of products or services in partnership with outside organizations.

Graduates go on to work as public policy analysts, evaluating public programs, preparing policy briefs and impact assessments, and supporting evidence-based decisions across government institutions, NGOs, and international organizations; as project managers, planning and delivering major initiatives in the public sector while coordinating teams, resources, and stakeholders; or as civil servants, implementing public policy and administrative procedures while ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards and helping improve public services.

Applicants must hold a high school certificate obtained no more than three years before applying, with a minimum average grade of above 60% in each relevant entry subject, and must demonstrate English proficiency through an IELTS score of at least 5.5, a TOEFL score of at least 75, a CEFR level of at least B2, or an equivalent qualification. A school transcript must be submitted in English, accompanied by official translations and certified copies where the original is unavailable, and all documents must be legalized with an apostille from the issuing country's foreign affairs ministry, except for documents issued within the EU or in Belarus and Ukraine.

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.

This bachelor's program offers comprehensive training in political science, public administration, and international relations. Students take core courses in political sociology, EU and international organizations, welfare states, and policy design. Methodological training includes both quantitative and qualitative research, preparing students for analytical work. Electives allow deeper focus on topics like political ideologies, public policy, and e-governance. A traineeship and final thesis round out the program, ensuring practical experience and research skills. The curriculum supports future careers in public, private, and non-profit sectors or further graduate study.

Applicants must have completed secondary education and provide proof of English proficiency at B2 level. Admission is based on two stages: a written assignment (motivation letter + article analysis, 750–850 words) and an interview, each carrying 50% of the final score. A minimum of 30 points is required per stage, and 65 out of 100 points overall to be admitted. The written assignment must address program motivation, prior experience, and critical analysis of one chosen article. The interview evaluates motivation, political awareness, and discussion skills. Required documents include the motivation letter, CV, transcripts, passport copy, and proof of English proficiency.

This undergraduate liberal arts program offers a broad, interdisciplinary foundation in the humanities and social sciences, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and real-world impact. Students learn to evaluate information critically, draw connections across disciplines, and express ideas using data and digital tools. The curriculum begins with foundational courses exploring major global themes, followed by flexible pathways to major and minor in areas such as political studies, cultural heritage, visual theory, environmental studies, and philosophy. Designed for globally minded students, the program fosters civic engagement, cultural awareness, and the ability to tackle complex global issues through informed, independent thought.

To apply for this undergraduate program, candidates must hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. English proficiency is required, demonstrated through standardized tests such as TOEFL (88+), IELTS (6.5+), or Duolingo (120+), unless eligible for exemption. Applicants must submit transcripts, a motivation letter, a CV, a recommendation letter, and an academic essay discussing a major global challenge and how this program can help address it. The essay should reflect critical thinking and personal engagement. Finalists are invited for interviews before decisions are made.

This interdisciplinary bachelor's program offers a deep exploration of philosophy, politics, and economics, encouraging students to critically examine the structures and ideas shaping society. Students begin with a core foundation in all three areas, then choose two to focus on, allowing for tailored academic paths. The curriculum combines both qualitative and quantitative research methods, fostering the ability to analyze complex arguments, ideologies, and real-world issues. Electives in related fields such as environmental science, human rights, or sociology expand the program’s scope. The goal is to develop well-rounded thinkers ready to tackle global challenges with informed perspectives and practical skills.

Applicants for this bachelor's program must have completed or be finishing secondary education and demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL (88+), IELTS (6.5+), or Duolingo (120+), unless eligible for exemption. Required application materials include transcripts, a CV, one academic recommendation letter, a motivation letter, and an original essay reflecting on a philosophical, political, or economic question of personal interest. The essay should show critical thinking, engagement, and clarity of thought. Selected candidates are invited to interviews before final decisions are made.