International Politics and Development Studies Vytautas Magnus University

Overview

We offer a bachelor degree in International Politics and Development Studies at the Vytautas Magnus University. 

With the global demand for development specialists, the International Politics and Development Studies program, being one of the rare BA level programs of its kind in Europe (and practically sole in Eastern Europe) is unique in that it, in addition to providing classical Political Science education, lays fundamentals of development and international relations theories and practice, all this with a focus on one of the developing regions. 

Currently, the Program covers the Middle East and former Soviet Union but is foreseen to expand to include East Asia and Latin America. In connection with this, students are given the opportunity to study one of the area languages (such as Arabic, French, Turkish and Russian) for four semesters. During their studies, students are required to do internship at relevant institutions, something that enhances their practical skills and ability to put theory into practice.

Competencies acquired

Upon the completion of the International Politics and Development Studies program, graduates shall be able to:

• explain the historical and international contexts of developing countries and regions and predict their development prospects;

• critically assess mutual relations between political actors, economic and business structures and the media in the political systems of developing countries;

• compare socio-political processes in developing countries and regions;

• analyze legal and programmatic aspects of the EU and other international system participants in providing assistance to countries and regions in the developing world;

• consider the practical tasks and problems of developing countries and regional policies, suggesting ways they may be resolved in local and international contexts;

• initiate, prepare and execute various political, social, economic and information projects;