East European Studies

East European Studies at University College London offers an interdisciplinary and comprehensive exploration of the history, politics, culture, languages, and societies of Eastern Europe. This program is designed for students interested in gaining a deep understanding of the diverse nations and communities within this region, from the pre-modern period to contemporary times. Students will examine the social, economic, and political transformations that have shaped Eastern Europe, including the impacts of major historical events such as the Cold War, the fall of communism, and European integration. The curriculum combines expertise from history, politics, anthropology, and language studies, fostering a multidimensional perspective on the region. Throughout the course, students develop critical analytical skills, research competencies, and language abilities pertinent to Eastern European languages. The programme offers opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and collaborations with institutions working on Eastern European issues, enhancing practical experience and employability prospects. Graduates will be equipped to pursue careers in academia, journalism, international organizations, diplomacy, and cultural sectors, where understanding of Eastern Europe's complex landscape is vital. The programme encourages international dialogue and cross-cultural understanding, preparing students to engage confidently with issues related to Eastern Europe in a global context. With access to UCL’s extensive resources, libraries, and research centers, students gain access to a wealth of primary and secondary sources, facilitating rigorous research projects. Upon graduation, students will be well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to discussions and policymaking concerning Eastern European affairs, armed with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills rooted in a multidisciplinary approach.

The MSc in East European Studies at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the historical, political, economic, and cultural developments of Eastern Europe from the early modern period to the present day. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse societies that comprise the East European region, including countries such as Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, the Baltic states, Bulgaria, and the former Yugoslav republics. Through a combination of core modules and electives, students develop analytical skills essential for examining contemporary issues, historical transformations, and regional dynamics.

The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including the political histories of communist and post-communist transitions, national identities, geopolitical strategies, and economic reforms. Students will engage with primary sources, scholarly texts, and case studies to critically assess regional developments and their implications within a global context. The programme emphasizes both academic research skills and practical analysis, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, international organizations, journalism, and diplomatic service.

Participants will benefit from the expertise of leading scholars specializing in East European history, politics, and culture. They will have opportunities to undertake research projects, participate in seminars, and potentially undertake placements in relevant organizations. The programme’s location within UCL’s strategic academic environment fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration and access to extensive resource collections, including archives, libraries, and online databases.

Graduates of the MSc in East European Studies will emerge as well-informed experts with a nuanced understanding of the region’s complexities. They will be equipped to analyze current issues such as NATO and EU expansion, regional conflicts, economic development, and social change. Overall, this programme aims to cultivate critical thinking, rigorous research abilities, and a deep appreciation of the East European region’s vibrant history and dynamic present.

Students 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. The programme produces multidisciplinary researchers specialised in Eastern Europe and the Former Soviet Union, with language proficiency and cultural, historical and institutional awareness.

Students undertake modules to the value of 330 credits over two years: 150 credits are taken in year one and 180 in year two. Two pathways are available: social sciences, and arts and humanities.

The first year of the programme consists of a core language module (30 credits), optional modules (75 credits) and electives (30 credits). The second year consists of core modules, including language (45 credits), electives (30 credits) and dissertation (105 credits).

Core modules

• Year One:
• Beginner's New Language MA module offered at SSEES
• Year Two:
• Intermediate Language MA module offered at SSEES
• Interdisciplinary Area Studies II

Optional modules

• Social Science Pathway Year One
• A choice of 75 credits from:
• Quantitative Methods (15)
• Advanced Quantitative Methods (15)
• Qualitative Methods (15)
• Political Analysis (15)
• Political Sociology (15)
• Comparative Analysis in Social and Political Research (15)
• Understanding and Analysing Data (15)
• Arts & Humanities Pathway Year One
• Literary and Cultural Theory (30)
• Political Analysis (15)
• Political Sociology (15)
• Comparative Analysis in Social and Political Research (15)
• Historical Methods and Approaches (30)
• Qualitative Methods (15)
• Understanding and Analysing Data (15)
• Both pathways take electives in years one and two and 30 credits of compulsory language in each year

Dissertation/report

All MRes students undertake an independent research project in the second year which culminates in a dissertation of 20,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, seminars and language classes. Students will be assessed by unseen and written examinations, coursework assignments, essays 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.

The MSc in East European Studies at University College London offers a comprehensive exploration of the political, historical, cultural, and economic developments in Eastern Europe. The program is designed for students who aim to develop a nuanced understanding of the region's complex dynamics and contemporary issues. Through a diverse curriculum, students engage with topics such as post-communist transformations, regional conflicts, identity politics, and economic integration within the context of post-Cold War Europe. The program combines interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating history, politics, sociology, and international relations, to provide a well-rounded perspective on East European affairs.

Students have access to a wide range of modules, including regional history, contemporary politics, security studies, and cultural analysis, allowing them to tailor their studies according to their interests. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to analyze regional developments within broader European and global contexts. Coursework includes lectures, seminars, and research projects, culminating in a dissertation that encourages in-depth investigation of a specific aspect of East European Studies.

The program also benefits from UCL's extensive academic resources and connections with regional experts and institutions. Students can participate in seminars, guest lectures, and field trips that enhance their understanding of the region. Practical skills such as language proficiency, policy analysis, and strategic planning are also integrated into the curriculum, preparing graduates for careers in academia, government, diplomacy, international organizations, media, and think tanks.

Graduates of the MSc in East European Studies acquire an in-depth regional expertise complemented by transferable skills in research, analysis, and communication. The program's location at UCL offers an ideal environment for regional and international networking, fostering collaborations and professional development opportunities. Overall, the program aims to produce well-informed, critically engaged scholars and practitioners equipped to address the complex issues facing East Europe today and in the future.