The Balkan, Eurasian and Central European Studies (BECES) programme is an interdisciplinary English-taught two-year master’s degree focusing on modern history, politics, and diplomacy, as well as the social, cultural, and economic issues of Central Europe, the Balkans, and the post-Soviet area (including the Caucasus and Central Asia). The programme equips students with essential tools for social science analysis, fostering critical thinking and intercultural competence.

BECES examines the unique and challenging political and social environment of the region. To enrich their curriculum, students choose between two regionally focused specialisations: Balkan and Central European Studies, and Russian and Eurasian Studies. Both specialisations analyse and integrate the political, social, economic, and cultural developments in the region, addressing broad thematic issues such as governance, security, nationalism, and ethnopolitical conflicts. They enable students to develop a blend of specialist area knowledge, analytical expertise, and language skills tailored to their personal interests and future career plans.

The BECES programme is highly flexible. Core compulsory courses focus on methods, languages, academic writing, and the main political and societal developments of the region, while elective courses allow students to shape their own academic and professional profile. Students may concentrate on a single country or a wider region from a thematic perspective, such as history, culture, political development, or environmental issues. They can study many languages connected to the region, including Czech, Russian, Polish, and Greek, among others, to gain a deeper understanding of local and regional debates and perspectives.

In addition, students have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Digital Humanities alongside their degree by completing four specialised courses that provide essential data literacy and digital competencies. Another special option is the Certificate on Ukraine, awarded for completing specific courses on Ukraine, the Ukrainian language, and for engaging in closer cooperation with partner institutions in Ukraine.

The programme is delivered in an international environment, bringing together students and lecturers from a wide range of countries. Moreover, BECES students are encouraged to take advantage of a wide range of student mobility opportunities. Charles University continually strives to expand the range of international activities available to students, including study periods abroad lasting one semester or a full academic year, practical placements, summer schools, research trips abroad, and other opportunities.

Graduates of the BECES programme are well prepared for careers in international organisations, diplomacy, state administration, NGOs, think tanks, media, or the business sector. They are also well qualified to pursue opportunities in academia and research, possessing a broad range of knowledge and skills relevant to various fields within the social sciences.

Prospective students are welcome to explore the Admissions section of this site, as well as the dedicated Admissions website of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University, for further information. Please note that the information below is primarily intended for current students on this programme.