Why should you study the Balkan, Eurasian and Central European Studies (BECES) programme? Here are the key aspects of the programme that will help you develop and prepare for your future career:

1. Understanding the region in the context

The interdisciplinary programme will teach you how to grasp regional problems in their context. You will understand the social, institutional and historical underpinnings of the “East” and be able to recognise what is and what is not relevant for finding a working solution. Your language skills will provide you with an insider’s perspective into local and regional debates.

2. Flexible curriculum

You will have large flexibility to adapt the curriculum to your specific needs and interests. The core compulsory courses focus on methods, languages, academic writing, and on the main political and societal development of the region, while the elective courses allow you to build your own personal academic and professional profile that helps you find an appropriate job in future.

3. Focused specialised tracks

The two specialisations of BECES – Balkan and Central European Studies and Russian and Eurasian Studies – will allow you to create a territorial and thematic focus and expertise that increases your value on the labour market in the future. 

4. Internship

An internship, which is an integral part of the curriculum, related to the track as well as own research for the master thesis will ensure that you will be able to use your knowledge and skills in a both academic and practical context.

5. Study abroad opportunities

What would it be like to study Area Studies without spending some time in the chosen region? As a BECES student, you can take advantage of a wide range of student mobility opportunities. 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. 

6. Institute of International Studies

BECES 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 BECES, 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.