European Studies
AdobeStock Maksim Pasko
European Studies
Master's Program
Institutions, Economy and Social Dynamics
Europe shapes political decision-making, economic structures, cultural dynamics and social change far beyond institutional borders. This postgraduate master’s program approaches Europe as a space of ongoing transformation, integration and debate. You examine current and historical developments of European integration and analyze how legal, political, economic and socio-cultural processes interact across regions and governance levels.
The master´s program combines academic depth with strong practical relevance. You acquire structured knowledge of the European Union’s institutional architecture, its legal foundations, political processes and economic frameworks. Cultural and social science perspectives support critical reflection on Europeanization, diversity and societal change.
AdobeStock ArtJazz
-
Postgraduate Center Universität WienCritical thinking, knowledge of social change and interdisciplinary understanding of the historic and thus economic, political and legal conditions of the Europeanisation are in demand, now more than ever.
Univ.-Prof. i.R. Mag. Dr. Christoph Reinprecht, Academic Director
News
Events
Here you can find all upcoming events of the program. Feel free to check back regularly for the latest updates.
Occupational Fields and Careers
As a graduate of this master´s program you pursue Europe-related professional activities that require analytical skills, interdisciplinary knowledge and intercultural competence. Typical fields include public administrations, European and international organizations, NGOs, media institutions and private companies with a European or international focus. Many graduates integrate European Studies expertise into their existing professional roles and expand their scope of responsibility.
The qualification profile reflects a future-oriented understanding of Europe. You develop strong subject expertise alongside excellent communication and teamwork skills. You act with intercultural competence, adopt multi-perspective approaches, and develop solution-oriented responses to current European challenges.
Der Knopfdrücker
Modules
The curriculum is structured into seven thematic modules and the master’s thesis. Each module builds specific academic and practical competences and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of Europe as a legal, political, social, and cultural space.
The video has been loaded and can be found below on the page.
This module introduces the European Union as a legal system and examines its foundations, structures and instruments. You analyze how EU law shapes policy fields and interacts with national legal orders.
Courses:
- Introduction to European Union Law
- EU Anti-Discrimination Law
- EU Institutions
- EU Legislation
The second module focuses on political processes and governance structures within the European Union. You examine institutions, actors, and decision-making mechanisms across different policy areas.
Courses:
- Governance in the EU
- EU Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy
- European Integration since 1945
- European Security Policy
This module explores Europe’s role in a globalized world. You analyze economic, political and social interdependencies and assess Europe’s position in global and regional contexts.
Courses:
- Fundamentals of European Economic Policy
- Selected Topics and Current Developments in European Economic Policy
- Legal Aspects of Globalisation of World Trade
- International Relations after 1945 Part I
- International Relations after 1945 Part II
Covering cultural, social, and symbolic dimensions of Europe, this module provides insight into how identities, boundaries, and forms of belonging are constructed and contested.
Courses:
- Migration: Boundaries, Borders, Barriers
- Human Rights in Europe
- Multilingualism in Europe
- Inequalities in Europe
This module analyzes social transformation processes in Europe. You explore historical and contemporary changes and compare societal developments across regions.
Courses:
- Structure and Change of European Societies
- Plans for Europe and their Historical Context before 1945
- Current and Future Challenges for the EU
- Current Topics in Europe
- Communication in and about Europe
Linking academic knowledge with applied skills, this modules allows you to work on concrete European topics and strengthen professional orientation for European contexts.
Courses:
- Excursion
- EU Working Language Course: French
- EU Working Language Course: English
- EU Working Language Course: German
- EU funding possibilities and EU projects
- Career Perspectives in the EU Institutions
This module prepares you for independent academic work. You develop research questions, apply appropriate methods, and strengthen academic writing skills.
Courses:
- Academic Writing
- Research and Academic Methods
- Presentation Skills and Use of Media
You develop a practice-oriented topic for your master’s thesis in European Studies and produce a rigorous, well-founded analysis. The master’s thesis allows you to set individual areas of focus that reflect your personal interests and career goals.
What our Graduates say
Insights
-
The video has been loaded and can be found below on the page. -
The video has been loaded and can be found below on the page. -
The video has been loaded and can be found below on the page.
Admission Process
-
Requirements
A completed bachelor’s, master’s, diploma, or doctoral degree, along with relevant work experience, is required. The program is taught exclusively in English. If English ist not your first language, you have to provide proof of English proficiency at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference.
-
Application
Please submit the following documents via the registration form:
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Copy of university diploma
- Proof of several years of work experience
- Proof of English sufficiency (min. B2)
- Photo-I.D.
-
Further Procedure
Applications are reviewed on a regular basis and you will be informed on your application status in a timely manner. Admission is determined by the Academic Director, taking into account available study places and individual qualifications.
Ready for your next step?
Funding and Financing
Your continuing education is an investment in your future. The Postgraduate Center supports you in finding the right funding opportunities. Find out about educational grants, tax deductions, and financial support options: Funding and Financing
Take the opportunity to find out about state grants, scholarships, and employer subsidies – there are many paths to continuing education.
Der Knopfdrücker
Living in Vienna and Visa Matters
Vienna offers an international academic environment, a high quality of life and excellent infrastructure for students from around the world. As a central european metropolis, the city combines cultural diversity, political relevance and strong connections to european and international institutions. Participants benefit from short distances, efficient public transport and a wide range of cultural and social opportunities alongside their studies.
Find out more about residence permits, visa requirements, entry regulations, accommodation, health insurance, registration procedures, and everyday life in Vienna here.
Please note that it is your responsibility to take care of matters such as visa applications, funding, and finding accommodation. As these processes can take several months, we recommend starting them well in advance to ensure a smooth start to your studies.
FAQs
The program starts every second year in October. The next starting date is listed in the short facts section on top of this page.
A completed bachelor’s, master’s, diploma or doctoral degree is required for admission.
English language skills at level B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference are required.
Courses take place on Thursday and Friday in the late afternoon and on Saturday throughout the day. Mandatory in-person days are announced in advance.
The program follows a hybrid format, with in-person participation preferred. Digital participation is always available. Please note that 1–3 sessions per semester take place on campus only; information about these dates is provided well in advance to allow for proper planning.
The program structure supports professional and personal responsibilities through fixed teaching times and hybrid participation options.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact our Program Management.
Academic Director
Postgraduate Center Universität Wien
Univ.-Prof. i.R. Mag. Dr.
Christoph Reinprecht
Academic Director
Contact
Postgraduate Center Universität Wien
Annleena Backhaus
MA
Program Management
Postgraduate Center
Campus of the University of Vienna
Spitalgasse 2, Court 1
Entrance 1.14.1
1090 Vienna
+43-1-4277-10865
Follow Us - Postgraduate Center
We accompany prospective students and participants of our continuing education programs on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, providing up-to-date insights into our courses, events, and campus life. For those who want to dive even deeper, our YouTube channel offers exciting video formats and behind-the-scenes features.
Ian Ehm
Member of
