Program spotlight: Master in Area Studies
Do you believe it is crucial to understand global issues beyond news headlines? The Master in Area Studies (MAS) program offers a profound and comprehensive knowledge of the political, social, and cultural forces shaping the regions that matter in world affairs. By providing an interdisciplinary and immersive approach to the study of crucial regions, the program enables students to develop firsthand expertise that is highly valued by employers.
Master in Area Studies (MAS) is an interdisciplinary two-year master’s degree program focusing on the modern history and current affairs in Europe, Eurasia, and North America. The MAS program provides a detailed and systematic understanding of the area’s current challenges. Through its curriculum, MAS supports future area studies specialists in building the skills to navigate multicultural and interdisciplinary contexts. The program equips you with tools for social science analysis. You will have the opportunity to compile your own curriculum that reflects your personal interests and future career plans. You may either build an individualized thematic and territorial profile or choose from three study tracks.
Three study tracks
Apart from building an individual thematic and territorial profile, students can follow one of three regionally focused study tracks. They will allow you to develop an official focus and expertise that might strengthen your future position on the labor market.
The US and Global Affairs track introduces students to knowledge and skills essential for the analysis of US foreign policy, its structural underpinnings, and their impact across the globe and in various policy fields.
Transition and Integration in Europe track focuses on the study of the latest development of the post-Communist European countries with respect to the transition from the Communist society and integration into the Euro-Atlantic structures.
Israel and the Middle East track helps students understand the politics and societies in Israel and the Middle East, with a focus on the pressing conflicts and disputes in the region.
The study track requires at least 30 ECTS credits obtained from the elective courses flagged for the specific study track. You also must submit a Master’s thesis that falls within the scope of the chosen study track. After completion of the study track, in addition to the diploma, you will receive the Certificate of Completion of the Study Track.
Why should you choose MAS?
Here are the key aspects of the program that will help you develop and prepare for your future career:
1. Understanding the world in the context
Through this interdisciplinary program, you’ll develop the tools to analyze global and regional challenges in their full context. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the social, institutional, and historical underpinnings of current issues and learn to identify what truly matters when addressing the kinds of questions posed by international organizations, diplomats, government agencies, NGOs, academics, media, and the business sector. Moreover, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Central European perspective on European and US engagement in global affairs.
2. Flexible curriculum
You will have a high degree of flexibility to adapt the curriculum to your specific needs and interests. Core compulsory courses focus on methods, languages, and academic writing, while elective courses allow you to shape your own academic and professional profile. Throughout your studies, you will enjoy the advantages of small study groups and an individualized approach. Additionally, if you complete an internship during your studies that aligns with your academic focus, you may even earn credits for it within your elective courses. Your education will thus be aligned with your individual career plans and aspirations.
3. Tailored curriculum: From free choice to specialization options
You may either build an individualized thematic and territorial profile or choose one of three specialized study tracks: US and Global Affairs, Transition and Integration in Europe, or Israel and the Middle East. Upon completion of a study track, you will receive a Certificate of Completion in addition to your diploma. You also have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Digital Humanities alongside your degree by completing four specialized courses that provide essential data literacy and digital competencies.
4. Outstanding academic institution
MAS is delivered by the dedicated and friendly Institute of International Studies. The Institute provides a broad spectrum of disciplinary and territorial knowledge that ensures that you make as much as possible from your studies. Members of our Institute are experts in their field, advising public institutions, participating in international research consortia, and regularly appearing in the media.
5. Friendly group of students and a lot of social activities
You will become a member of a cohesive body of students from around the world. The multicultural environment allows students to live and study alongside different cultures and world views. In addition, the Institute organizes social activities throughout the year, including trips outside of Prague, for all international students. Therefore, you will be able to establish long-lasting ties with fellow students from other programs. Moreover, you’ll have the chance to meet Czech students during seminars, social events, or even language tandems.
6. Study abroad opportunities
What would it be to study Area Studies without spending some time in the chosen region? As a MAS student, you can take advantage of a wide range of student mobility opportunities and scholarships. The international activities available to you will include study periods abroad lasting one semester or a whole academic year, practical placements, summer schools, and research trips abroad. The Institute of International Studies will help you find the most suitable international experience through its various international connections.
7. Access to a wide range of professions
After completion of MAS, you will be equipped to pursue a career in the civil service or diplomacy, in NGOs or international institutions as well as in private companies or media. You will also be well prepared for a variety of academic pursuits and will possess a wide range of knowledge and skills required in various social science fields.
As a MAS graduate, you will:
- have completed coursework and specializations aligned with your individual interests and career aspirations
- understand and be able to comment on the interplay between politics, society, culture and economy in the studied regions
- develop the ability to apply interdisciplinary methods and perspectives across history, social and political sciences, and international relations
- gain expertise in a country or a region close to your heart
- have a solid foundation in foreign languages, being able to use them effectively in academic and professional contexts
- benefit from our contacts with prestigious universities, think-tanks and international organizations
- build friendships and connections with people from around the world who share your academic and professional focus
Whether your ambitions lie in diplomacy, journalism, public service, international business, or academia, the MAS program offers the flexibility and intellectual foundation to help you achieve your goals. With its strong academic environment, diverse student body, and emphasis on both theory and practice, MAS provides a pathway to understanding and engaging with the region of your choice.
