About MAS

About MAS

Master in Area Studies (MAS) is a two-year English-taught interdisciplinary programme that focuses on modern history and current developments in Europe, Eurasia, and North America. The programme provides students with tools for social science analysis. It allows them to build their individual thematic and territorial profile or to choose one of the study tracks according to their individual needs and future career plans. The optional study tracks are: The US and Global Affairs, Transition and Integration in Europe and Israel and the Middle East.

 

Why should you study the MAS programme?

Here are the key aspects of the programme that will help you develop and prepare for your future career:

 

1. Understanding the world in the context

The interdisciplinary programme will teach you how to grasp everyday problems in their context. You will understand the social, institutional and historical underpinnings of current issues and be able to recognise what is and what is not relevant for finding a working solution. You will also get the opportunity to study the Central European point of view on European and US dealings in the global field.

 

2. Focused specialised tracks

The MAS students have the option to choose one of three specialised tracks – The US and Global Affairs, Transition and Integration in Europe, and Israel and the Middle East. They will allow you to create a thematic focus and expertise that increases your value on the labour market in future. The study track The US and Global Affairs focuses on US politics and society with emphasis on its global impact. The Transition and Integration in Europe get you a broader understanding of the European context and decision-making of its states. 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.

After completion of the study track, in addition to the diploma, students receive the Certificate of Completion of the Study Track. 

For more information see this website

 

3. Flexible curriculum

You will have great flexibility to adapt the curriculum to your specific needs and interests. The compulsory core courses focus on methods, languages, and academic writing. This allows you to build your own personal academic and professional profile that helps you find an appropriate job in future.

 

4. 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 convenient university for you through its various international connections.

 

5. Internship

An internship, which could be an integral part of the curriculum, related to the track as well as your own research for the master thesis will ensure that you will be able to use your knowledge and skills in both academic and practical contexts. The Institute of International Studies could connect you with its partners and institutions which provide you with inestimable experiences.

 

6. Institute of International Studies

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.

 

7. Friendly group and extensive social programme

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 organises 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 programmes.

 

8. Access to a wide range of professions

After completion of MAS, you can become a highly skilled employee in the civil service or diplomacy, in NGOs or international institutions as well as in private companies or mass 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.

 

STUDENT MOBILITY

As a student of Charles University, you can take advantage of a wide range of student mobility opportunities. The international activities available to you include study periods abroad lasting one semester or a whole academic year, practical placements, summer schools, and research trips abroad. The University is continuously striving to broaden the range of international activities on offer to students.

You can find all information about the student mobility opportunities here.