International Relations and Regional Studies

The International Relations and Regional Studies programme at the University of Tartu offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in understanding the complex dynamics of global and regional affairs. This programme is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, in-depth knowledge of international politics, economics, law, and regional integration processes. Throughout their studies, students explore the multifaceted nature of international relations, including diplomacy, security, human rights, and environmental issues, preparing them for diverse careers in governmental, non-governmental, and international organizations.

The programme emphasizes the development of practical skills such as policy analysis, diplomatic communication, research methodologies, and cross-cultural understanding. Students have opportunities to specialize in specific regions of interest, such as Europe, Asia, Africa, or the Americas, gaining region-specific insights and language competencies. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, including case studies, simulations, internships, and collaborative projects with international partners.

Students benefit from the university’s international focus and its vibrant academic community, fostering a global perspective and intercultural competencies essential in today’s interconnected world. The programme also encourages critical thinking, ethical considerations, and innovative problem-solving skills, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to international policy development and regional cooperation. Upon completion, graduates will be well-prepared for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, research institutes, journalism, or further academic pursuits in the field of international relations and regional studies. The University of Tartu's International Relations and Regional Studies programme thus offers a rigorous and enriching educational experience that prepares students to become knowledgeable and responsible global citizens.

The international dimension of the programme is enhanced by wide-ranging study-abroad opportunities, study-trips, and the availability of tuition-waivers and scholarships to international students.

The learning outcomes of the IRRS programme include:

- comprehensive understanding of core IR concepts, approaches, and practices, including familiarity with international law, the global economy, and international security arrangements; 
- detailed knoweldge of a specific geographical region (European Union, Russia and Eurasia, Baltic Sea Region); 
- ability to identify and formulate meaningful research problems and/or questions in the field of International Relations, and the theoretical, analytical and methodological competencies to effectively address these; 
- specific knowledge, skills and norms relevant to the practice of international relations (e.g. conflict mediation, negotiations, - skills relevant to foreign and security policy formulation and implementation); 
- a range of general-purpose skills (e.g. effective oral and written communication skills, critical thinking, responsibility, initiative, leadership and teamwork skills); 
- an international perspective that will enrich career prospects both at home and globally.

DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED:

-  Online application;

- Motivation letter;

- Official copy of the Bachelor’s Diploma or its equivalent and Diploma Supplement (transcript/grade list) in the original language*

- Official, certified translation of the Bachelor’s Diploma and Diploma Supplement into English;

- Proof of English language proficiency (ut.ee/requirements, e.g. TOEFL iBT 75, IELTS 5.5, exceptions listed on web);

- Copy of the passport page stating the applicant’s personal details.

*All copies of education documents must bear an original seal and a signature of an authorized official of the issuing school or be certified with an apostille.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

- Submit the online application (relevant link available at a programme’s website);

- Mail the required and carefully prepared documents by the deadline to: International Student Service, University of Tartu, Ülikooli 18, Tartu 50090, Estonia

APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 16

Applicants who graduate or have their diplomas issued later than the application deadline (in July, for example) must send an application form and their most recent official transcript of records by the required deadline. 

Tuition fee is 3200 EUR/per year. The tuition-waiver scholarships are available for the best applicants.

The International Relations and Regional Studies undergraduate program at the University of Tartu offers students a comprehensive education in the fields of international politics, global and regional issues, and the functioning of international organizations. Designed to develop a deep understanding of international affairs, the program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, NGOs, journalism, and public policy analysis. Throughout the course, students explore key topics such as international security, economic development, human rights, environmental sustainability, and regional cooperation, with an emphasis on both European and global perspectives. The curriculum includes a mix of lectures, seminars, and project work, encouraging critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication. Students also have opportunities to participate in internships, exchange programs, and research projects, fostering real-world experience and cross-cultural understanding. The program benefits from the expertise of leading faculty members in international relations and regional studies, as well as partnerships with various institutions worldwide. Graduates of the program are equipped to analyze complex global issues, understand regional dynamics, and contribute to policy-making processes in diverse international contexts. The University of Tartu's strategic location in Estonia, a country at the crossroads of East and West, offers unique insights into regional cooperation and international integration. The program emphasizes multilingualism and intercultural competence, preparing students for the globalized world. Overall, the International Relations and Regional Studies program aims to cultivate informed, responsible, and skilled professionals committed to addressing global challenges through research, dialogue, and sustainable development practices.