International and Diplomatic Studies (IDS) master’s degree program

The Faculty of International Relations of the University of Economics, Prague offers a two-year International and Diplomatic Studies (IDS) master’s degree program taught in English.

The objective of the IDS program is to educate specialists in the fields of international politics, economics, and diplomacy, equipped with advanced theoretical knowledge of international relations, international and diplomatic law, and strategic decision-making skills in foreign service or public diplomacy.

To complete the program, students must pass a study load of 120 European Credits (ECTS). The IDS program offers courses focused on international relations (great powers, Europe/EU, or Asia in international relations), economics (international economic relations), international and diplomatic law, international and political theory (comparative politics, IR theory, and globalization), diplomatic practice (foreign policy making and analysis, contemporary diplomatic practice), etc.

Great advantage of the program is a 3rd semester spent abroad at a partner university, that comes in a form of a Minor Field: Analysis of International Relations. Students do not pay extra on top of their regular tuition fee for this semester. Students also receive partial financial assistance for living expenses while at a partner university. Or students can select other, English-taught minor fields offered by the University of Economics, Prague.

According to IDS alumni, there are various reasons to study the program. Ljuba from Italy: “The IDS programme is an excellent experience. It offers interesting courses taught by qualified teachers. The administrative staff is always available, and the facilities are very well equipped. Last but not least, it is located in a great city, very easy to live in.” Prague was also in focus for Alicia from USA: “Prague is a great city for students: cheap rent, food, health care and 3 Euros tickets to the opera. … The University of Economics is the gateway between the East and West.” Arun from India appreciated being “able to network with like-minded people of different nationalities as well as learn the dynamics of IR from a different perspective.”

With regard to the IDS admission procedure, the program is designed for students from all over the world who have completed their bachelor’s education. Previous education in social sciences is an advantage.

The application deadline for the 2018/2019 academic year is April 30, 2018.

Applicants complete a long-distance admission exam held on May 4, 2018 – they are required to email an essay in English on a given international relations issue.

The tuition fee is 3 600 EUR per academic year.

For more details on the IDS program and contacts, visit http://ids.vse.cz/.