Two-year English-language
Master’s Degree Program in International Relations


MA International Relations

Program profile

M.A. program «International Relations» provides Russian and international students with necessary skills required for employment in international organizations. The curriculum best serves those students who are willing to become directly involved in politics, government or political organizations. Courses are designed to help graduates embrace their role as global citizens who are able and willing to be part of an international, multicultural environment. The program provides students with profound knowledge about contemporary politics, international diplomacy, governmental and legal systems, economics and international relations and security with focus on Russia.

Academic advisor of the program:
Vice-rector for Science Affairs, Dr. Andrey Baykov

Basic course structure

The curriculum of the program «International Relations» consists of core disciplines and elective courses. That allows each student to make an individual schedule appropriate to his professional interests and personal inclinations.

The work is divided among lectures, seminars and workshops based on field research, participation by visiting experts, and group reports. For successful graduation, students need to pass final exams and defend the Master’s thesis.

Academic Calendar

Fall semester

  • September 1st — December 31st
  • January 10th — January 25th examination session
  • January 26th — February 6th vacation

Spring Semester

  • February 7th — May 30th
  • June 1st — June 25th examination session
  • June 26th — August 31st vacation

Timetable at Master’s Programs*

Monday-Saturday

  • 1st class: 14:30-15:50
  • 2nd class: 16:00-17:20
  • 3rd class: 17:30-18:50
  • 4th class: 19:00-20:20

* Intensive modules by Visiting Professors can be out of Schedule

Final Grading

  • EXAM — held during the examination session
  • ZACHET — held during the last week of study

Classes’ attendance is obligatory. Absence from 30 academic hours leads to expulsion.

Total 120 ECTS Credits

1 Year / 1 Semester

Subject

Faculty

ECTS Credits

Obligatory

Regional Subsystems of International Relations

T.A. Shakleina, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

2

Foreign Language

4

Megatrends and Global Issues

I.V. Bolgova, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

4

Historical Foundations of Russia’s Foreign Policy

S.M. Markedonov, Institute of International Studies

4

Research work on Master thesis

6

Electives

Strategic Intelligence

А.О. Bezrukov, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

2

Doing Business in Russia: Economic Aspects

D.A. Degteryov, Department of World Economics

2

Foreign Direct Investments in Eurasia

A.V. Kuznetsov, Department of Integration Studies

2

Economic Strategy of Modern Russia

E.B. Zavialova, Department of Economic Policy and Public-Private Partnership,

O.B. Pichkov, Department of International Economic Relations

2

Governance of the International Migration

M.Y. Apanovich, Department of Demography and Migration Policy

2

Political Process of Modern Russia

*major for IR in Eurasia students

Y.I. Vaslavskiy, Department of Political Theory

4

UNITAR module 1

*major for Multilateral Diplomacy students

Ph. Auber, UNITAR, UN

4

Global Security and International Conflicts

*major for GGA and LUISS students

Y.A. Nikitina, Department of World Politics,

M.Y. Apanovich Department of Demography and Migration Policy

4

1 YEAR / 2 SEMESTER

Subject

Faculty

ECTS Credits

Obligatory

Foreign Language

4

World Order and Instruments of Global Governance

A.A. Baykov, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

4

Russia’s Foreign Policy Strategy

A.V. Khudaikulova, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

4

Research work on Master thesis

6

International Relations in the Post-Bipolar World

Y.A. Dubinin, Department of International Relations and Foreign Policy of Russia

2

Electives

Energy Diplomacy

I.V. Bolgova, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

2

Human capital research in the IR

M.Y. Apanovich Department of Demography and Migration Policy

2

Country Risk Assessment Analysis

V.V. Shapovalov, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

2

Russian Politics in Questions and Answers

B.I. Ananiev, Department of Political Theory

2

Political Systems and Political Process in Small – and Middle-ranged Countries of Eurasia

E.V. Koldunova, Department of Oriental Studies, ASEAN Centre

I.V. Kudriashova, Department of Comparative Political Studies

2

World Economics

*major for GGA and LUISS students

A.S. Bulatov, Department of World Economics

4

Eurasia Transregional System

*major for IR in Eurasia students

T.A. Shakleina, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

4

UNITAR module 2

*only for Multilateral Diplomacy students

Ph. Auber, UNITAR, UN

4

2 YEAR / 3 SEMESTER

Subject

Faculty

ECTS Credits

OBLIGATORY

Foreign Language

6

Methodology of International Political Research

I.A. Istomin, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

4

ELECTIVES

Modern Network Diplomacy

V.M. Morozov, Department of Diplomacy

2

Global Financial Markets

V.N. Tkachyov, Department of Global Finances,

I.B. Turuev, Department of Banks, Currency and Credits

2

Doing Business in Russia: Legal Aspects

I.V. Bunick, Department of Legal Regulation in Fuel and Energy Industry

2

Spatial Analysis of International Relations

I.Y. Okunev, Center for Spatial Analysis in International Relations

2

Russia’s Public Diplomacy

Visiting Professor

2

Non-traditional security threats

*major for GGA and LUISS students

S.S. Veselovskiy, Department of Applied Analysis of International Problems

4

Integration process in Eurasia

*major for IR in Eurasia students

A.N.Tsibulina, Department of Integration Process

4

UNITAR module 2

*only for Multilateral Diplomacy students

Ph. Auber, UNITAR, UN

4

2 YEAR / 4 SEMESTER

Subject

ECTS Credits

Obligatory

Internship

21
Final State exams and Master Thesis`s Defense

9

Total

120

* For full MGIMO degree

Admissions information and requirements

  • Candidates should initially apply for a double degree or single MGIMO degree and indicate their preference in the application forms
  • Applicants must have a bachelor`s degree or equivalent, relevant to the chosen field of study
  • All courses are taught in English
  • At least some command of Russian is recommended but not required. Students from countries other than Russia will attend courses in the Russian language – 6 academic hours per week in MGIMO
  • If candidates» command of Russian is adequate, during the M.A. academic year they can select additional courses from the courses available to the Russian students of Master»s Program in International Relations and Political Science taught in Russian in MGIMO
  • The admission to the program is carried on the basis of student»s portfolio that should be sent to masters@inno.mgimo.ru

Application deadline: July 1st

Required documents

  • Online application
  • CV/Resume that includes professional experience, educational background, and other relevant experience
  • Application essay (motivation letter)
  • Two letters of recommendation (professional/academic)
  • Copy of official transcript from each college and graduate school attended
  • Copy of language certificates: IELTS (6,5), TOEFL, CAE, CPE (for non-native English speakers)
  • Passport copy with a notarized translation
  • Apostilled Diploma

Program modules

Governance and Global Affairs

Module «Governance and Global Affairs» includes double degree modules with Reading University (Great Britain), LUISS University (Italy), and Marbella International University Center (MIUC) (Spain). It offers the advantageous chance to study at two universities and get a master’s degree from both. For successful graduation, students need to take three-months internship and defend the Master’s thesis that will meet both Universities requirements. Upon graduation, students are awarded two Master’s degrees.

The Agreement on the Double Master’s Degree Program was signed between MGIMO and the University of Reading in April 2013, with the first intake in 2013-2014 academic year. The module is suitable for students with an interest in international relations and contemporary issues of international security.

The first year at MGIMO students follow the curriculum of the Master’s Program «International Relations» (Module «Governance and Global Affairs») taught entirely in English.

The second year students study at Reading, M.A. Program «International Security Studies», which is designed to enhance research skills in the area of security studies. The course explores theories and concepts relating to international and global security, peace and strategic studies, and conflict resolution.

The University of Reading is a global university that enjoys a world-class reputation for teaching, research and enterprise. The University was established in 1892 as the Christchurch College of the University of Oxford and since then it has developed into a leading force in British and international higher education. It delivers a world-class student experience, research – led teaching and its graduate employability record is excellent.

Students will enjoy the beautiful views of the surroundings of the main campus, which has received several awards in the nomination of the British ‘greenest’ university. Reading is ideal for those who plan to travel around Great Britain as it is located at the hub of road network and not far from London.

The Joint Module is a part of the complex partnership between MGIMO and MIUC.

The first year students spend in Spain in MIUC, following the curriculum taught entirely in English.

The second year at MGIMO students follow the curriculum of the Master»s Program «International Relations».

One of the strongest points of the module is the discussion of International Relations approaches within a multicultural classroom environment, given the global background of our students. Indeed, some of these debates are currently reproduced in numerous international organizations and negotiations worldwide. MGIMO-MIUC trains the next generation of policy leaders to tackle the complex issues of a globalizing world.

The first year at MGIMO students follow the curriculum of the Master's Program «International Relations» (Module «Governance and Global Affairs») taught entirely in English. The MGIMO year begins with an intensive program in politics, international relations, security and economics.

The second year is spent at the International Relations program offered by one of the finest European liberal arts Universities – LUISS. Students follow one of the chosen tracks:

  • European Studies as well as «Relazioni Internazionali» (in the Italian language) provide tools for understanding European social phenomena and the progressive growth of the role of supranational European organizations.
  • Global Studies focuses on global issues that are markedly reshaping the international political landscape.

Recognized for its academic excellence, quality control of its academic standards and international dimension of studies, LUISS University aims to achieve the high levels of distinction in transmission of scientific, technological, and classical knowledge. It is committed to promoting and arranging research activities, educating both professionally and culturally with a strong bias of innovation. Moreover living and studying in the heart of Rome will put students in touch with a centuries-long history and intellectual creativity.

Students can also apply for a full MGIMO degree.

International Relations in Eurasia: Politics, Economics and Ideologies

Module «International Relations in Eurasia: Politics, Economics and Ideologies» is designed to meet the needs of rising leaders in the public service professions, including domestic and international government agencies and non-profit organizations by providing up-to-date, firsthand information about Russia and Eurasia from a Russian view point. The module provides rigorous on-campus training in political science and policy analysis, preparing degree candidates to successful careers and supplying intellectual breadth, organizational skills, and self-confidence necessary to assume leadership positions in an increasingly complex public service environment.

Dr. Tatiana Shakleina

The module comprises a compulsory twelve-week internship period during the fourth semester. Internship helps considerably to broaden the range of contacts and find employment upon graduation. Students take internship in such organizations: diplomatic representative offices, Eurasian Economic Union, UN bodies, EU bodies, RIAC, Rosneft, Lukoil, trade chambers, media, etc.

Module «International Relations in Eurasia: Politics, Economics and Ideologies» includes the double degree module with Far Eastern Federal University. FEFU is a leader in education, science, and technology in the Far East of Russia. Today it is a main point of attraction for talented students and academics from all parts of the world, the center of international dialogue and promotion of Russian development to the markets of the Asia-Pacific region.

The unique geopolitical location of FEFU has determined its research priorities: World Ocean Resources, Biomedicine, and Integration in the Asia-Pacific region. Flagship projects, participation in the National Technological Initiative and the World Skills movement, cooperation with world-class companies: all this allows FEFU to respond to global challenges and to address the issues of advanced development of the Far East.

Multilateral Diplomacy

The module comprises a compulsory twelve-week internship period during the fourth semester. Internship helps considerably to broaden the range of contacts and find employment upon graduation. Students take internship in such organizations of UNITAR of UN:

The internship and UNITAR educational module is to be the subject of the extra contract with UNITAR organization.

Career opportunities

Program graduates have employment opportunities in private and state companies, international organizations and NGOs, media companies, diplomatic service and academia, think tanks, universities and research centers. MGIMO graduates are in high demand by employers in business and industry.

Alumni

Ana Georgieva Pirinska
Expert «International relations and project management»
Bulgarian Construction chamber
Member of the National Council of the Bulgarian Socialist Party
Class 2011-2013, Politics and Economics in Eurasia

The 2-year master’s program in MGIMO was interesting, challenging and exciting both academically and personally. I had the great pleasure and honor to learn from some of the best professors and experts in the Russian Federation. Meanwhile I was able to share this unique experience with many different people from all around the world. And I am proud to say that some of them are still one of my closest friends!

Umut M. Aslan
Department of Corporate Business, Sberbank International
Class 2014-2016, Politics and Economics in Eurasia

MGIMO was built on the solid academic foundations of educational institutions the history of which date back to the previous centuries, and for decades it raised countless public servants ranging from ambassadors, ministers, heads of states to directors of international organizations.

Today the institute has evolved into an academic hub for not only native students, but also students from all over the world that wish to pursue higher education in diplomacy, political sciences, international law, journalism and all other branches of international relations including training in over 50 languages. Having successfully preserved the higher educational standards of the USSR, MGIMO today has evolved into the best diplomatic school on continental Eurasia.

Students from all over Russia and other countries of the world will find in MGIMO everything they require and more, if they are determined to develop their careers in the branches of diplomacy, economy and international affairs. The institute offers a rich library, friendly environment, historical campus and exceptional academic staff that is dedicated to supporting the students at every step.

Graduates of MGIMO will discover that their skills are in high demand in the world of the 21st century. Having received higher education in MGIMO, I am presently engaged in putting the skills learned in our institution to good use within the Sberbank Group of Companies, and in business life one can immediately realize the difference that is made after undergoing education in such a university. This is just one of many examples, as graduates of MGIMO are offered opportunities by top global employers from all over the world, and the Career Center of MGIMO assists its students with such efforts by constantly organizing career days and other seminars that bring together the employers and skilled students, paving the way for internships and other opportunities.

All in all, by choosing to pursue their education in MGIMO University, students will find themselves in a highly sophisticated academic environment that challenges their skills and pushes their development to the edge, at the same time offering a fun journey of science and a new family of caring academicians.

Fahad Mohammed Al-Faihani
Diplomat, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain
Class 2013-2015, Politics and Economics in Eurasia

I would always remember my years at MGIMO with great pleasure and gratitude, as it was a life changing and very interesting experience, I have enjoyed each class at the university, also I have met really good professors there, which they really enriched both my academic and knowledge abilities. It was a great chance for me as a Bahraini diplomat and a student to study and learn the Russian point of view of the world politics and global affairs, which really differs from ours in the Middle East and sometimes really close to ours, a thing I consider as very unique and a mile stone in my academic progression, and it did help me during my mission in the Kingdom of Bahrain Embassy in Moscow.

Dominique Chevolet
Desk officer at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Luxembourg – Directorate for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs
Class 2011-2013, Politics and Economics in Eurasia

Interested in Russian culture and history, I had the intimate conviction that I would end up studying or working in Russia at one point. This perspective became reality when I learned about a new Master’s Programme, taught in English, which had been launched by MGIMO University in 2010. One year later, I took the decision to sign up and embarked on this thrilling endeavor in Moscow (from 2011 to 2013).

During two years, I got the occasion to make numerous new friends, Russian and from all over the word, whilst also learning the Russian language and study modern Russia’s role in the world. The various courses we were taught allowed us to get a first glimpse into different aspects of the Russian Federation, its domestic political dynamics and, primarily, its foreign policy. Moscow was a city undergoing numerous transformations and the country was at the center of various international hotspots, and against this background, MGIMO University turned out to be a great institution to foster my understanding of current events and strengthen the academic knowledge necessary for making sense of it all in a structured and coherent manner.

The experience at MGIMO University, both academically and humanely, has been very enriching and remains valuable to me to this day. After graduating, I joined the Embassy of Luxembourg in Moscow where my two previous years at MGIMO University helped me tremendously in my daily work. Beyond this, I keep numerous good memories and lasting friendships from my time at Prospect Vernadskogo, 76.

David Kelm
Foreign Service Officer, U.S. Department of State
Governance and Global Affairs
Class 2013-2015

I chose MGIMO for a true education – for the opportunity to think differently, to challenge my opinions, and to get outside of my comfort zone. I received exactly that from MGIMO, an experience for which I am grateful. Two years at MGIMO immersed me in a wide range of perspectives, from faculty and students alike.

Top Russian academics perform most full-time instruction, but guest lecturers included European parliamentarians, American businessmen, former Russian intelligence officers, consultants for McKinsey & Company, and more. Our students came from Europe, the Near East, East Asia, and the Americas. This diverse group of instructors and peers forced me – one of the only Americans in my program – to defend my points of view or rethink my previous conceptions. Passive participation was not an option!

Moscow also offers the chance for foreign affairs-minded students to begin their careers – an opportunity rendered more accessible thanks to the master’s programs’ requirement to perform an internship during the final semester of studies. My peers and I found work in think tanks, foreign embassies, the Russian government, inter- and non-governmental organizations, and throughout the private sector.

Beyond your studies, Moscow has limitless opportunities to enjoy yourself: it truly ranks as one of the world’s top cities. From world class museums to shopping, beautiful parks to concerts and nightlife, it is impossible not to have a great time. For those who like to travel, getting around the country and the region is quick, reliable, and affordable.

If you want to think critically, be exposed to hands-on work in your academic field, and spend two years in one of the most amazing places on the planet, consider MGIMO.

Andrew Korybko
Political analyst and program host, Sputnik HQ in Moscow;
expert on Hybrid Warfare; regular invitee to Pakistani-based security conferences
Governance and Global Affairs
Class 2013-2015

MGIMO played an important role in the early stages of my career simply by virtue of those five letters opening up so many doors for me in Russia. The university’s reputation is universally known and deeply respected here, which in turn enables ambitious students to leverage its name to their advantage if they’re professionally inclined to do so.

Russians are well aware that some of their country’s most prominent political figures, including Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, graduated from this institution, as did leaders in the post-Soviet space such as Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, so they hold it in the highest of regards. That’s why companies in Moscow are inclined to positively review MGIMO alumni’s internship and employment applications, thus boosting the applicant’s chances of successfully being hired and given the chance that they’re looking for to begin their career.

Contacts

+7 495 229-54-35
masters@inno.mgimo.ru