Learning Process

The International Relations and Global Studies programme offers a structured and flexible learning process designed to combine strong academic foundations with practical, career-oriented training.

The curriculum includes:

• Core curriculum courses that provide fundamental knowledge in international relations, global politics, economics, and social sciences.

• Specialisations in Public Policy,  International Business and Finance, and  Strategic Communications and Management, allowing students to focus on their chosen professional pathway.

• Study of a second foreign language (European or Asian), selected freely from a list of ten languages.

• A wide range of elective courses, including the option to study a third foreign language.

• Exclusive, tailor-made courses delivered by leading researchers and experienced practitioners from academia, government, and the private sector.

The programme lasts four years. Upon successful completion of all course requirements and final examinations, graduates are awarded an HSE University diploma in two majors: International Relations and Public Policy and Social Sciences.

In the first year, students choose a second foreign language in addition to English. They may select from a diverse range of European and Asian languages. More information on language instruction can be found in the Foreign Languages section.

A key component of the programme is the system of specialisation disciplines, through which students develop applied skills relevant to international studies and their future careers in international relations, with a particular emphasis on the corporate and professional sectors. Students choose their specialisation after completing the first year of study. Detailed information is available in the Specialisations section.