European and International Studies (MEIS) University of Trento

Overview

Introduction

The Master’s degree (Laurea Magistrale) in European and International Studies (MEIS) at the School of International Studies (SIS) is the fruit of a close collaboration between the Departments of Economics and Management, Sociology and Social Research, Humanities and the Faculty of Law. The multidisciplinary organization of MEIS enables students to develop a deeper and broader understanding of the transformations taking place in the European and international contexts. MEIS is based on a mixture of teaching methods, which is believed to be the best balance to merge a thorough understanding of theoretical issues with the ability to apply them in real-life situations.

The international environment of the University of Trento fosters a stimulating learning environment. The School regularly organizes conferences, debates, careers talks, and fairs, along with a lively series of guest lectures and seminars held by academics of international standing and professionals working in distinguished international organizations.

About MEIS

The first year of the Master’s Degree (Laurea Magistrale) in European and International Studies (MEIS) includes courses in the academic disciplines of economics, history, law, political science, and sociology. However, the hallmark of the MEIS is its multi- and interdisciplinary approach, which encourages students to venture beyond the confines of individual academic disciplines. The second year, therefore, offers students a choice of advanced courses that allow them to focus on some of the specific issues, institutions, processes and developments which shape our world.

The teaching approach, which aims to marry theory with real-world application, fosters the interactive participation of students. Particular attention is paid to developing those skills necessary to analyze the economic, legal, political and social systems and the transformations in systems of European and international governance.

Teaching takes place entirely in English. Taught courses, language workshops, and tutoring activities contribute to developing advanced English language communication skills, necessary for entry into an international work and research environment. Graduates also have a working knowledge of at least one additional foreign language in addition to a basic knowledge of Italian (in the case of international students).

All students receive individual supervision by a faculty member for their final dissertations, which students write and defend to complete the Masters’ Degree.

Admissions

How to Apply

• Access the online application form

• Upload the required documents

• Submit your online application by the deadline

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) including at least 60 ECTS from at least two of the following discipline areas: Economics, History, Philosophy, Law, Political Science, Sociology or Foreign Languages;

• English at B2 levelof the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages;

Selection Criteria

• Assessment of previous studies and their coherence with the MSc

• Academic curriculum

• Statement of purpose

• References

Curriculum

The MEIS programme aims to provide students with those multidisciplinary tools and competences indispensable for a broad-based understanding of economic, legal, political and social transformations in the European and international contexts.

Particular emphasis is given to teaching the tools and skills necessary for the analysis of:

• the interaction of individual and collective actors both within European and international institutions;

• the functioning of European and international economic, legal, political and social systems;

• European and international systems of governance.

The MEIS programme attaches great importance to foreign languages which are an essential prerequisite for the development of effective communication skills. Taught courses, language workshops and tutoring activities contribute to developing advanced English language communication skills and develop a working knowledge of at least one additional foreign language (in addition to a basic knowledge of Italian).

Alongside the taught courses the School runs a rich series of guest lectures, seminars and talks held by professors of international standing and by professional practitioners working in distinguished international organizations. MEIS students are encouraged to participate in these and the many events organized at the School, including conferences, debates, careers talks and fairs and workshops held by practitioners.

Career Opportunities

The Master’s Degree in European and International Studies (MEIS) prepares students for careers both in the public and the private sectors.

Graduates will be qualified:

• To hold positions of responsibility within national and international institutions engaged in European and international affairs and private enterprises operating in international markets;

• To work for governmental and non-governmental organizations engaged in areas such as human rights, environmental protection, institution-building, project management, etc.;

• To hold positions as analysts, advisors, and consultants in private and public companies;

• To enter diplomatic service.

For those intending to continue their studies, the MEIS provides a solid basis for admission to PhD programs in International Studies in disciplines relating to economics, history, law, and political and social sciences.

Former MEIS students have gone on to rewarding careers as young diplomats, policy advisors, consultants, project coordinators, researchers, and the like, or have been admitted to prestigious PhD and Advanced Master’s programs in Europe and North America. The Alumni of the MEIS and of the PhD Program in International Studies constitute a dynamic network of professional contacts.