Master in Area Studies
Master in Area Studies
The Master in Area Studies (MAS) programme is an interdisciplinary English-taught two- year master’s degree focusing on modern history and current developments in Europe, Eurasia, and North America. Through its interdisciplinary approach, it covers a broad range of topics – from politics, security, and international relations to economic, social, and cultural developments, including legal and environmental issues. The programme equips students with essential tools for social science analysis, fostering critical thinking and intercultural competence, while developing a blend of specialist area knowledge, analytical expertise, and language skills tailored to students’ personal interests and future career plans.
The MAS programme is highly flexible. Core compulsory courses focus on methods, languages, and academic writing, while elective courses allow students to shape their own academic and professional profiles. To build an individualised thematic and regional focus in line with their interests and career goals, students may either design their own curriculum or choose one of the predefined regionally oriented study tracks: The US and Global Affairs, Transition and Integration in Europe, or Israel and the Middle East. 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.
Moreover, MAS 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 MAS programme are well prepared for careers in national, regional, and European administration and governance, diplomacy, international organisations, NGOs and think tanks, the media, or the private 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.
WHAT THE PROGRAMME OFFERS
- Innovative and engaging courses
- Curriculum tailored to individual interests
- Supportive and international study environment
- Diverse student community from across the globe
- Small seminar groups and personalised academic guidance
- Opportunities for study abroad and internships
- Extracurricular activities and student-led initiatives
OPTIONAL REGIONALLY FOCUSED STUDY TRACKS
Students may either build their own thematic and regional profile or follow one of three predefined regionally focused study tracks:
- The US and Global Affairs introduces students to knowledge and skills essential for analysing US foreign policy, its structural underpinnings, and its impact across the globe and in various policy fields.
- Transition and Integration in Europe focuses on the recent developments in post- Communist European countries with respect to their transition from Communist societies and their integration into Euro-Atlantic structures.
- Israel and the Middle East helps students understand the politics and societies in Israel and the Middle East, with an emphasis on the region’s pressing conflicts and disputes.
Completing any of the three listed study tracks requires at least 30 ECTS credits obtained from the elective courses flagged for the specific study track. Furthermore, students must submit a master’s thesis that falls within the scope of the chosen study track. Upon successful completion of the study track, students receive a Certificate of Completion of the Study Track in addition to their diploma.
Certificate in Digital Humanities
Students enrolled in the MAS programme have the opportunity to earn a Certificate in Digital Humanities alongside their degree. This certificate comprises four specialised courses and provides students with essential data literacy and digital competencies that are increasingly valued across disciplines in both academic research and professional practice.
Further information regarding this offer is available here.
