Sociology – Management of Organizations, Human Resources and Knowledge

The Sociology – Management of Organizations, Human Resources and Knowledge program at the University of Ljubljana offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to equip students with a deep understanding of social structures, organizational dynamics, and the strategic management of human resources and knowledge within various institutions. This program integrates core sociological theories with practical management skills, preparing graduates to effectively analyze, design, and implement organizational processes across diverse sectors such as business, public administration, non-governmental organizations, and international institutions.

Students will explore fundamental sociological concepts, including social inequality, organizational culture, and change management, alongside specialized topics like human resource development, talent management, and knowledge management. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to identify social and organizational challenges and develop innovative solutions grounded in sociological insight. A strong focus on communication, leadership, and ethical considerations ensures that graduates are well-prepared to assume responsible roles in managing organizational change and fostering a positive, inclusive workplace environment.

Throughout the program, students engage in practical training through case studies, internships, and project work, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. The interdisciplinary approach bridges sociology with economics, political science, and management, providing a holistic perspective that is essential for understanding and influencing complex organizational systems in a globalized world. Graduates will be equipped with the competencies necessary for careers in human resource management, consultancy, organizational development, policy analysis, and research, among other fields.

The program is delivered by experienced academic staff dedicated to fostering an innovative learning environment that encourages critical inquiry, teamwork, and professional growth. With a strong emphasis on international perspectives and intercultural understanding, students are prepared to operate effectively in diverse and dynamic organizational settings. Upon completion, graduates will have developed both theoretical expertise and practical skills, positioning them as capable professionals and researchers who can contribute to the development of organizations and society at large.

The academic year of the European Masters Programme in Human Rights and Democratisation is divided into two semesters:

* First Semester: September to January in Venice, Italy
* Second Semester: February to July in one of the 41 E.MA participating universities located throughout the European Union

The first semester curriculum consists of:
* A core programme (the first stream) aimed at the plenary group of students and assessed for the purposes of the degree
* A series of second stream activities consisting of specialised units devised for smaller groups
* A field trip

First stream courses are organised in five Thematic Sections (subject to modification):

* TS1: Human Rights Institutions, Mechanisms and Standards (United Nations; Council of Europe; EU; OSCE; Organisation of American States; African System; perspectives on Asia)
* TS2: Human Rights in Context: History, Philosophy, Religion and Anthropology of Human Rights;
* TS3: Democratisation (Transition and Transformation Processes; Political Participation; Electoral Processes)
* TS4: Human Rights and Globalisation (Stakeholders in Economic Globalisation: States, International Economic Organisations, Companies, NGOs; Human Rights and Development; Business and Human Rights; Corporate Social Responsibility)
* TS5: Human Rights and Security (Humanitarian Law; International Criminal Law; Human Security, Vulnerability and Human Rights; Field Missions; Fact-finding in the field)

Some distinctive features of the first stream include:

* Focused lectures on EU legislation and policies regarding human rights and democratisation
* Special classes on human rights and democratisation in specific countries or regions (China, Russia, MENA Region)
* Mock elections: the whole cohort of students is involved in simulating the preparation, running, monitoring and evaluation of an election in a country in transition to democracy
* Project week: students work in groups and learn how to manage a project aimed at researching, analysing and reporting, both in writing and orally, on the human rights situation of a specific country

Second stream courses consist of different components tailored to students academic background, capabilities and interests:

* Workshops and skill classes aimed at deepening some aspects of the first stream courses
* Rolling seminars aimed at reinforcing the foundations of law, philosophy, international relations and research methods
* Semester-long special projects involving students in the production of a collective event
* Advanced Cluster classes that foster specialised knowledge of specific human rights issues

Highlights of the second stream include:

* The Moot Court: small groups of interested students are divided in two teams and act as the State and the defendant simulating a case in front of the European Court of Human Rights
* The E.MA Human Rights Film Festival: organized every year by a group of students together with the Municipality of Venice and local organisations on the occasion of Human Rights Day
* Workshops and skill classes where students learn about UN human rights mandates, develop their skills to write a funding proposal or practice how to conduct interviews in the field

Field Trip
The field trip is a trademark of E.MA and has been organized for years, first in Bosnia and Herzegovina (1998-2003) and then in Kosovo since 2004. This field training aims at providing deeper insights into the practical tasks, difficulties, and expectations with which human rights officers in the field are faced, and to get a better understanding of the real situation in a post-conflict country.

The field trip usually takes place in Mid-January and comprises visits to international organisations and institutions and to local and regional non-governmental organizations working on the most essential human rights issues, such as property claims, torture related questions, legal advice, womens rights, democratic elections, free media and childrens rights. Students usually stay with host families and are required to participate in all activities and events organised by the E.MA academic staff, external facilitators from the EU and other experts.

2nd Semester
During the E.MA second semester students relocate to one of the 41 participating universities to follow courses in an area of specialisation of their own choice and to undertake personal supervised research finalised to the writing of their Masters thesis.

This part of the programme is conceived as a European exchange which implies that students will be hosted for the second semester activities in a university located in a country other than their own. The process of defining individual thesis topics and identifying suitable E.MA Universities to host these studies is undertaken with the assistance of the E.MA Academic Team in the course of the first semester from September to December, according to an established format. The maximum number of students that can be hosted by each participating University is three. Students may be allocated to any E.MA University on the basis of both the student and the universitys interest, the fittingness of the thesis topic in the respective department and the quality of the thesis proposal. The decision is made by the E.MA Council and is final and binding.

Assessment and Thesis
Assessment
First semester assessment is made by written and oral assignments and exams. Only successful students are allowed to proceed to second semester courses. During the second semester, students will attend further specialised courses for which they will be assessed according to the hosting universitys practices. The Masters thesis is assessed with regard to both the written work and the oral defence.

Thesis
The thesis consists of an academic piece of work, between 20.000 and 30.000 words, written individually and independently by the student under the supervision of the E.MA Director or another expert academic of the second semester university. The thesis shall be written in English. However, students may write the thesis in French upon prior approval of the E.MA Director of the second semester University. The thesis defence is in English.

Each academic year the E.MA Council selects 5 theses to be published on the E.MA website and 3 theses to be published on the website of the Regional Masters in Human Rights and Democratisation. The selection of these outstanding theses is based on academic quality, originality, and contribution to the promotion and implementation of human rights and democratic values. Further publication opportunities may arise in the framework of EIUC/E.MAs collaboration with the European Yearbook on Human Rights and The Vienna Journal on International Constitutional Law.

The Sociology – Management of Organizations, Human Resources and Knowledge program at the University of Ljubljana requires prospective students to hold a recognized secondary school diploma or equivalent qualification that enables university entrance in their home country. Applicants must submit completed application forms along with certified copies of their diplomas and transcripts, translated into English if necessary. In addition, a motivation letter outlining their interest in sociology and management studies, relevant experience, and career objectives is typically recommended. Some programs may require proof of language proficiency in English, such as recognized tests like TOEFL or IELTS, demonstrating sufficient command of academic English, commonly a minimum score of 80 on the TOEFL iBT or 6.0 on the IELTS.

Applicants may also need to provide a CV or résumé detailing their academic, extracurricular, or work experience related to social sciences, management, or human resources fields. The university may consider additional criteria, such as participation in relevant projects, internships, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate an applicant's interest and motivation for the field of study. In some cases, an interview might be part of the admission process to assess candidates' motivation, communication skills, and suitability for the program. The selection process aims to identify students with strong academic potential, relevant interests, and a commitment to advancing their knowledge in sociology, management of organizations, human resources, and knowledge management. The program is designed to equip students with both theoretical understanding and practical skills necessary for careers in organizational management, human resource development, knowledge sharing, and policies in diverse social and business environments.

The Financing of the Sociology – Management of Organizations, Human Resources and Knowledge program at the University of Ljubljana is primarily funded through a combination of national and European sources. Tuition fees constitute a significant part of the financing, especially for non-European Union students, whose fees are set according to the university's regulations. For Slovenian and EU students, the program might be partly or fully funded by the Slovenian state, especially if they qualify under the public support schemes for higher education. Additionally, students may access various scholarships and grants provided by the Slovenian government, the European Union, and international organizations to support their studies. These financial aids aim to promote equal access to higher education and support students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

The university also collaborates with various industry partners and organizations, which sometimes contribute to research projects or provide financial support for specific modules or internships within the program. The program's research activities and partnerships may generate additional funding, which helps sustain the academic infrastructure and development activities. Moreover, the program may benefit from the university's broader funding mechanisms, including national research grants, European structural funds, and Erasmus+ programs, which enable student and staff exchanges, joint research projects, and curriculum development.

Tuition and other fees collected from students are allocated towards curriculum development, faculty salaries, research activities, student services, and infrastructural improvements. The university prioritizes maintaining high-quality education and research environments, which requires ongoing investment. The program’s financing strategy aligns with the university’s overall goals for academic excellence, internationalization, and innovation in higher education.

In summary, the program’s financing is diversified, relying on student fees, government support, scholarships, research grants, and external partnerships. This multi-source funding approach ensures the sustainability of the program, its capacity to offer modern and relevant education, and the continuous improvement of its academic standards, thus providing students with valuable skills and knowledge needed for careers in management, human resources, and knowledge sectors.

The Sociology – Management of Organizations, Human Resources and Knowledge program at the University of Ljubljana offers an in-depth exploration of the social and organizational aspects of modern enterprises. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how organizations function within complex societal contexts, emphasizing the development of managerial skills, human resource management, and knowledge administration. Throughout the coursework, students examine the social dynamics that influence organizational behavior, leadership, and decision-making processes.

The program combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling students to analyze organizational structures, manage human resources effectively, and foster innovative knowledge management strategies. It prepares graduates for careers in various sectors, including private companies, public administration, and non-governmental organizations, where they can apply their skills to improve organizational efficiency and foster positive work environments. The program also emphasizes the development of communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills essential for leadership roles.

Students of the program have opportunities for internships, project work, and collaborations with industry partners, which facilitate real-world experience and networking. The multidisciplinary nature of the program allows students to understand the interconnectedness of social, economic, and organizational factors and how they influence organizational success. Graduates can pursue careers as HR managers, organizational consultants, business analysts, or further academic research.

The program is structured to span over a standard undergraduate duration, typically three years, and offers students a chance to specialize in areas of management, human resources, or organizational knowledge. The faculty members are experienced scholars and practitioners dedicated to fostering a dynamic learning environment. Upon completion, students are awarded a bachelor’s degree, equipping them with the essential skills and knowledge to excel in the rapidly evolving world of organizational management and human resources.