Central and South-East European Studies

The MSc in Central and South-East European Studies at University College London offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the historical, political, economic, and cultural developments of this dynamic region. Designed for students with a keen interest in Central and South-East Europe, the programme provides an in-depth understanding of the complex socio-political landscapes, historical transformations, and contemporary issues facing countries such as Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Romania, Bulgaria, and the former Yugoslav states. Throughout the course, students engage with a diverse array of academic disciplines, including history, political science, international relations, economics, and cultural studies, to develop a nuanced perspective on the region’s significance within European and global contexts.

The programme combines rigorous theoretical frameworks with practical analysis, encouraging students to critically examine regional identities, governance structures, conflicts, integration processes, and economic development. Students benefit from a rich array of teaching methods, including lectures by leading academics, seminars, case studies, and guest lectures from policymakers and regional experts. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and regional expertise, preparing graduates for careers in international organizations, diplomatic service, policy analysis, journalism, academia, and regional development agencies.

Students have access to a vibrant academic community and numerous resources, including archives, research centers, and language training opportunities. The course also offers optional modules allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether focusing on political transitions, ethnic conflicts, economic integration or cultural interactions within the region. By the end of the programme, students will be equipped with a comprehensive knowledge of Central and South-East European issues, analytical skills to assess regional developments, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. This programme is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of a strategically important part of Europe and to develop the skills necessary for impactful careers in academia, policy-making, or international relations related to this vibrant region.

Students develop an advanced knowledge of central and south-eastern Europe from a multidisciplinary perspective, focusing on aspects of history, politics and culture. They develop generic research skills, interdisciplinary and discipline specific research skills, area specific research skills and language skills oriented towards carrying out research in the region.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of a choice of one of three compulsory modules (30 credits), and a research dissertation (60 credits). 90 credits can then be selected from a range of options across SSEES.

Core modules

This is a multi-disciplinary programme. Nevertheless, students are required to gain a thorough methodological and theoretical grounding in disciplinary study and hence must choose between one of the following three courses:

• Literary and Cultural Theory
• Historical Methods and Approaches
• Political Analysis AND Political Sociology

Optional modules

Total of 90 credits from options below. Subject to approval, optional courses up to the value of 30 credits may be taken from another SSEES MA programme or from another MA programme within UCL (Anthropology, History, European Studies, Comparative Literature etc.).

• All Quiet on the Eastern Front: Culture, Politics and Everyday Life in Central & Eastern Europe from Stalin to Present
• Little Hitlers? Right Radicalism in Central and Eastern Europe, 1900-1945
• Introduction to Discourse Analysis
• Beyond Stereotypes: The Jews in Polish Culture
• Cities in Eastern Europe
• Contemporary Cultural Studies: Between Post-Communism and Post-Modernism
• The Crisis Zone: Central Europe 1900-1990
• How to Read/Interpret Texts: Introduction to Hermeneutics
• 'Metropolis': History of Berlin, 1871-1990
• Nation, Identity and Power in Central and Eastern Europe
• Baltic Politics and Society
• Making of the Modern Ukraine
• Security, Identity, Polarity
• The Self and the World: Theoretical Approaches to Travel Writing
• Language Module
• Ethno-Political Conflict in Central and Eastern Europe
• Informal Practices in Post-Communist Societies
• Directed Reading Module

Dissertation/report

All MA students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000-12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions and workshops. Students are assessed by a variety of methods: including unseen examinations, long essays, course work and the research dissertation.

Normally an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Applicants with a good lower second-class Bachelor's degree (pass of 55% or better) or equivalent may also be considered on their individual merits.

The financing for the Central and South-East European Studies program at University College London primarily comprises tuition fees, which vary depending on the student's domicile status. For home (UK) students, the tuition fee is set in accordance with government regulations and is typically lower than international student fees. International students are subject to higher tuition rates reflective of non-UK residency status, which contribute significantly to the program’s funding. Additional financial resources are available through scholarships and bursaries offered by UCL, aimed at supporting outstanding students or those demonstrating financial need. These awards may cover partial or full tuition fees, providing crucial financial assistance to eligible applicants. Students are also encouraged to seek external funding sources, including government scholarships, private scholarships, and international aid programs specific to their home countries. The program's budget also benefits from research grants and partnerships, which support curriculum development and faculty expertise, thereby enhancing the program's educational quality. Students enrolled in the program can access student loans available through the UK government, such as the Student Loans Company, which provides loans for tuition and living expenses, subject to eligibility criteria. Furthermore, some students may obtain part-time employment opportunities within UCL or through accredited external organizations, aiding in the financing of their studies. The program encourages prospective students to carefully plan their finances and explore all available funding avenues. UCL's financial support services offer guidance on application procedures for various grants and loans, ensuring students are well-informed about their options. Overall, the program's funding scheme combines institutional financial aid, government support, external scholarships, and personal funding, creating a comprehensive financial ecosystem designed to facilitate access to higher education in Central and South-East European Studies at UCL.

The Central and South-East European Studies program at University College London offers students an in-depth understanding of the history, politics, culture, and societies of the Central and South-East European region. This programme is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of a diverse and historically complex area that includes countries such as Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria, the Baltic States, and others. Students engaging with this course explore the region’s historical development from medieval times through modern periods, paying particular attention to the impacts of imperialism, nationalism, communism, and the post-communist transition. The curriculum combines interdisciplinary approaches, integrating history, political science, cultural studies, and international relations to foster a multidimensional understanding of the region.

The programme often includes a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, enabling students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and regional expertise. It may offer opportunities for fieldwork, language learning, and internships, contributing to practical experience and cultural immersion. The programme prepares students for careers in international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, journalism, academia, and diplomatic service, particularly those focusing on Eastern Europe, Southeast Europe, and the broader European context.

Students can expect to study key themes such as European integration, ethnic and national identities, conflict resolution, economic transformation, and external influences including the European Union and NATO. The programme also emphasizes understanding contemporary issues facing the region, such as post-socialist economic reforms, minority rights, and security concerns. Through close engagement with primary sources, academic literature, and regional experts, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights necessary for informed engagement with Central and South-East Europe. The programme is suitable for students interested in regional studies, international relations, history, and cultural analysis, providing a solid foundation for further academic or professional pursuits related to the region.