MA/MS in International Institution and NGO Leadership

Objective(s) of a study programme: This Master of Arts program prepares students to become critical thinkers, ethical leaders, and skilled researchers in the fields of international institutions, civil society, and public policy. Grounded in advanced theoretical knowledge and interdisciplinary methodologies, the program equips graduates to analyze complex global, national, and local challenges. Through a blend of coursework, residencies, and research, students gain practical experience in program design, policy development, and organizational strategy. Emphasizing management skills, cultural competence, civic responsibility, and ethical engagement, the curriculum equips students to address pressing issues such as peacebuilding, development, and human rights from diverse evidence-based perspectives. Graduates are well-prepared for impactful careers in transnational institutions, NGOs, public service, or further academic research. Learning outcomes: Program Aim 1: 1. Equip students with advanced theoretical knowledge in the field of political science (particularly international relations) and critical thinking skills to analyze and assess local, national, and global events and challenges, focusing on the role of international institutions and non-governmental organizations in fostering international cooperation, civil society, peace, good governance, and development.   SLO 1.1 Understand the main theories of international relations. SLO 1.2 Understand the main theories, issues, and trends in transnational (international institutions) and civil society sectors (including NGOs). SLO 1.3 Able to assess current opportunities and challenges related to international institutions and non-governmental organizations. SLO 1.4 Understand the main theories and approaches to development and conflict resolution. SLO 1.5 Able to explain and critically evaluate the links between political science and fields close to or related to them, such as economics, law, management, sociology, anthropology, history, philosophy and others. Program Aim 2. Train students to conduct rigorous, independent research using a wide array of quantitative and qualitative methodologies, and prepare them to develop their own research and professional competencies. SLO 2.1 Able to critically evaluate quantitative and qualitative academic research—literature review, methodology, primary source data, interpretation of results, and implications of findings. SLO 2.2 Able to design and conduct independent original research, including selecting appropriate theories, identifying and collecting relevant primary source data, selecting and employing relevant research methodologies, reaching warranted conclusions, making evidence-based recommendations, and identifying research limitations. SLO 2.3 Able to communicate clearly and effectively in written and spoken form, including presentation of research results to diverse audiences. SLO 2.4 Able to plan further learning processes, choose the direction of improvement, develop their professional competencies, reflect and critically evaluate their profession and its challenges. Program Aim 3. Prepare students to create public policy, design and operate transnational and international non-governmental projects. SLO 3.1 Able to understand and operate effectively in complex systems in changing environments, and to apply best practices and research-based solutions to transnational and civil-society challenges and opportunities. SLO 3.2 Able to plan and organize activities of international institutions and non-governmental. Program Aim 4. Foster global competence by enhancing students' ability to evaluate transnational, civil society, development, and conflict transformation issues from diverse cultural and ideological perspectives. SLO 4.1 Understands the impact of the international environment and international relations on local, regional, national or global policies. SLO 4.2 Understands cross-cultural theory and best practices and able to communicate and relate in a professional and culturally sensitive manner in diverse contexts. SLO 4.3 Possess the skills to collaborate and facilitate dialogue among diverse actors in international institutions and non-governmental organizations. Program Aim 5. Cultivate ethically responsible and civically engaged graduates who are committed to promoting greater human flourishing in the global community. SLO 5.1 Understands the inherent worth and dignity of each human being. SLO 5.2 Understand the societal and ethical consequences of their activities, realizing the moral responsibility of their activities and the results. SLO 5.3 Respects intellectual property rights and avoids plagiarism. Activities of teaching and learning: An interactive student-centered learning environment based on the latest teaching methodologies and technologies is being created. Students actively participate in lectures, work in groups and individually (literature review and analysis, various written works, report preparation, project management, exercises, discussions, public speeches, presentation of work to the audience, self-analysis, creative and scientific activities, practice). MAIINGOL students are particularly interested in practical learnings and assignments that equip them for leadership in international institutions and NGOs. Therefore, many of the classes involve learning and practicing vocational skills such as financial management, program design, project management, grant applications, and policy analysis. In addition, MAIINGOL classes will incorporate case-studies and research papers on real-world phenomena related to international institutions and NGOs. Methods of assessment of learning achievements: To ensure that students successfully achieve the intended results of the subjects and study program, MAIINGOL will utilize intermediate and summative assessments. Intermediate assessment is applied to various tasks during lectures or individual tasks, for example: presentations, written and research papers, article summaries, tests, group projects. Summative assessment is applied to assess the final works of the subject and program (exams, practice portfolio, final thesis). A 10-point scale is applied, and the final assessment is determined based on the percentages collected throughout the semester. The evaluation committee also applies a mixed intermediate – summative assessment (the “crit” - critique, jury, and review) to final project works. Framework: Study subjects (modules), practical training: The program consists of 90 ECTS credits. 18 ECTS credits out of 90 are dedicated to thesis. Specialisations: International institution leadership, public policy analysis, NGO program and project management, diplomacy, relief and development, dialogue and conflict transformation. Optional courses: Students have possibility to choose one elective: Public Policy Analysis (6 ECTS) or Intercultural and Contextual Analysis (6 ECTS) Distinctive features of a study programme: A relatively unique curriculum mixing the study of international institutions and non-governmental organizations. The program is interdisciplinary- it has political science heart with the elements of managerial science, development studies, peace studies, organizational behavior, etc. Learning a mix of theory, vocational skills/knowledge, and independent research. Access to professional activity or further study: Access to professional activity: MAIINGOL graduates will be qualified for a variety of professional specializations - non-profit management, monitoring and evaluation, public policy analysis, civil society consultation, project management, diplomacy, monitoring and evaluation, etc. Graduates will be well-prepared to hold positions at all levels in international institutions, non-governmental organizations, and state/public institutions. Access to further study: MAIINGOL graduates will be well-prepared to undertake doctoral studies, become lecturers and scientists at higher education institutions, or participate directly in political processes through civic associations, political organizations, and political parties.