International Relations and Political Science (Double Degree)

The Double Degree Programme in International Relations and Political Science at the National Research University Higher School of Economics offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education that prepares them for a wide range of careers in diplomacy, international organizations, governmental agencies, think tanks, and academia. The programme is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of global political dynamics, diplomatic practices, international law, and the theoretical foundations of political science, combined with practical skills necessary for analyzing, interpreting, and influencing international affairs.

Students enrolled in this programme benefit from a unique academic structure that allows them to study at two distinguished universities, gaining diverse perspectives and expertise in both domestic and international contexts. The curriculum covers core themes such as comparative politics, international security, economic diplomacy, regional studies, and contemporary global challenges. Additionally, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills through a variety of seminars, workshops, and real-world projects.

The programme places a strong emphasis on language proficiency and intercultural competence, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to operate effectively in multicultural environments. Students have opportunities for internships, participation in international conferences, and collaboration with academic and professional experts in the fields of political science and international relations.

Graduates of the Double Degree Programme leave with a solid academic foundation and practical experience, enabling them to pursue careers in policy analysis, international negotiation, research, or further academic study. The programme’s international orientation and rigorous academic standards prepare students to become active and responsible global citizens capable of addressing complex international issues with professionalism and insight.

The Double Degree Programme in International Relations and Political Science at the National Research University Higher School of Economics offers students a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education designed to prepare them for a global career in diplomacy, policy analysis, international organizations, and research. This programme provides students with in-depth knowledge of international politics, foreign policy, comparative politics, and global governance, combined with critical analytical skills, research competencies, and practical experience.

Throughout the course of their studies, students will engage with core disciplines such as international law, security studies, human rights, economic diplomacy, and regional studies, gaining a nuanced understanding of global issues and the complex interactions between states, international institutions, and non-state actors. The curriculum emphasizes not only theory but also practical skills, including policy analysis, negotiation, intercultural communication, and public speaking, preparing graduates to operate effectively in diverse international environments.

Students are encouraged to participate in internships, joint research projects, and seminars with leading academics and practitioners in the field of international relations and political science. The programme also benefits from its double degree structure, providing students with the opportunity to study at partner universities abroad, thereby gaining international exposure and multilingual proficiencies.

The teaching staff comprises experienced faculty members with extensive academic and practical expertise, who foster an interactive and engaging learning environment. By the end of the programme, students will be equipped with a solid theoretical foundation, research skills, and practical experience necessary for careers in government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, and the private sector. Graduates will be well-prepared to contribute to resolving complex global challenges and to advance their careers in an increasingly interconnected world.

The International Relations and Political Science (Double Degree) programme at the National Research University Higher School of Economics requires students to successfully complete a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses core discipline-specific courses, elective modules, and practical training components. Students must acquire a solid foundation in international relations theory, comparative politics, political economy, and international law, complemented by language proficiency in at least one foreign language. The programme emphasizes analytical skills, research methodology, and critical thinking through methodology courses and thesis work. Students are expected to participate in internships, research projects, and seminars designed to enhance their understanding of global political processes and diplomatic practices. To graduate, students typically need to earn a specified number of credits, meet GPA requirements, and defend a final thesis that demonstrates their ability to conduct independent research. Additionally, there is an emphasis on intercultural competencies and familiarity with international institutions. The double degree aspect entails studying at partner universities abroad, where students undertake coursework equivalent to the home university's requirements, often in specialized areas such as security studies or regional politics. Language requirements usually include achieving a certain level of proficiency in English and, depending on the partner university, in other languages. Regular assessments, including exams, essays, presentations, and project work, are conducted to ensure ongoing proficiency and knowledge acquisition. Attendance at seminars and participation in conference activities are also mandatory. Students must adhere to university academic regulations, including code of conduct and integrity policies, to successfully complete the programme and qualify for graduation. The duration of the programme is typically four to five years, with students expected to develop both academic expertise and professional skills suitable for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, policy analysis, or further academic research.

The International Relations and Political Science (Double Degree) programme at the National Research University Higher School of Economics offers various financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees for this programme are established annually and are comparable to those of similar international relations programmes at the university. Students have the opportunity to apply for a range of scholarships and financial aid programs designed to support both domestic and international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, research potential, and sometimes financial need. The university also collaborates with international partner institutions to facilitate joint funding opportunities and mobility grants. Additionally, students may seek external funding sources, such as government scholarship programmes, international organizations, or private foundations that support students pursuing studies in political science and international relations. The university provides detailed information about the application procedures for these scholarships and advises students to prepare comprehensive academic portfolios and motivation letters. Furthermore, some students opt to combine part-time work with their studies; the university's Career Services department offers assistance in finding relevant employment opportunities and internships that can help finance their education while gaining practical experience. Many students also benefit from the university's fee reduction schemes for outstanding applicants or those enrolled in research projects. It is recommended that prospective students thoroughly explore the university’s official website and contact the admissions office directly to receive updated information on current financial aid options, deadlines, and application procedures. Overall, the university's comprehensive support system aims to make international relations and political science education accessible to students from diverse financial backgrounds, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder talented individuals from pursuing their academic and professional goals in this field.

In the International Relations and Political Science (Double Degree) program at the National Research University Higher School of Economics, students have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of global politics, international organizations, diplomatic practices, and comparative politics. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in international diplomacy, governmental and non-governmental organizations, international business, and academia. Students typically undertake coursework in political theory, international law, foreign policy analysis, security studies, and regional studies, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills such as negotiation, strategic analysis, and intercultural communication. The double degree structure allows students to study at HSE as well as partner universities abroad, fostering a truly international educational experience and exposing students to diverse political environments and methodological approaches. Throughout the program, students engage in internships, research projects, and seminars that enhance their analytical and critical thinking abilities. Graduates of this program are equipped to understand complex international issues, navigate intercultural differences, and contribute effectively to the development of policies and strategies at national and international levels. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, economics, law, and history to provide a well-rounded perspective on international relations. Fluency in multiple languages, including the core European languages and possibly additional languages depending on the partner university, is encouraged and often required, further enhancing students’ employability and global competence. The program duration is typically four to five years, including the period of study abroad. Upon completion, students receive diplomas from both HSE and the partner university, validating their qualifications and increasing their competitiveness in the global job market. The program also promotes academic mobility, cultural exchange, and research collaborations, preparing students for advanced study or diplomatic service worldwide.