International Relations
The program prepares specialists, analysts, and individuals equipped to serve in expert roles, capable of navigating the complex environment of global political, economic, and social interconnections. The goal of second-cycle education is to deepen knowledge and develop skills in analyzing and planning actions in an international environment. Students learn not only to describe reality, but above all to interpret it and forecast phenomena influencing regional and global processes.
During the master’s program, students develop competencies in the following areas:
- Geopolitics and strategy: analysis of power dynamics, armed conflicts, and integration processes, with a particular focus on international security.
- Diplomacy and negotiations: development of skills in diplomatic techniques, protocol, and mediation used in work at international and non-governmental organizations.
- Data analysis and forecasting: use of analytical tools to develop scenario analyses and assess political risk.
- Intercultural communication: preparation for functioning in a diverse cultural environment, essential in the context of international cooperation and cross-sectoral projects.
Graduates are prepared to work in public institutions, including government administration, European Union structures, and international organizations, as well as in businesses and analytical centers. Their analytical and strategic competencies enable them to undertake tasks that require the interpretation of complex phenomena and the integration of information from various fields.
General academic profile.
Information
- Second degree studies (2 years)
- full-time studies
- degree obtained: master
- language of study: english
- planed number of places: 20
- Faculty of Social and Technical Sciences
- STUDY PROGRAMME
- Tuition fee: 6000 PLN /semester
Educational requirements
Diploma requirements
The candidates with the following diploma can apply:
graduates of bachelor’s degree programs in international relations;
graduates of bachelor’s degree programs in other fields of the social sciences, including: administration, internal security, journalism and mass communication, economics, European studies, finance and accounting, logistics, pedagogy, political science, psychology, law, sociology, and management;
graduates of bachelor’s degree programs in other fields within the humanities and philology.
Legalization/recognition of educational documents issued abroad
Required documents
In addition to a Bachelor Diploma a candidate is also required to submit:
* the written part of Polish matura examination in English language at the advanced level with the result 60% or higher is tantamount to a certificate confirming English language proficiency at level B2
Score convertion rules
Admissions Office KUL will convert your results into Polish grading system according to the score convertion rules
Why International Relations at KUL?
Strongest arguments
- Diverse curriculum: The program covers, among other topics, transatlantic relations and European Union policy, intercultural communication, migration, threats to the international system, and contemporary diplomacy, as well as elements of diplomatic protocol and etiquette.
- Development of language skills: The university places great emphasis on foreign language learning (including less common languages such as Chinese), with a focus on specialized vocabulary (Business/International English), which enables students to obtain recognized language certificates.
- Internship opportunities: Students have the opportunity to complete internships at public and international institutions, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomatic missions, offices of Members of the European Parliament, and non-governmental organizations.
Competitive Advantages: Niche Focus and Modernity
The program stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, combining classical international relations with elements of cybersecurity and data analysis (including the use of Big Data in political analysis).
- Collaboration with the socio-economic environment: The program is developed in consultation with the program’s academic board, which helps ensure that the curriculum is aligned with current labor market needs.
- International exchange (Erasmus+): A broad network of partner universities (including in Italy, Spain, Germany, and Georgia) allows students to gain experience in diverse cultural environments while still in school.
- Regional context: Lublin’s location facilitates the development of knowledge regarding relations with Eastern Partnership countries and issues of cross-border cooperation.
Career prospects and labor market demand
According to data from PARP and GUS, the labor market is seeking individuals who combine humanities knowledge with analytical skills.
- Political risk analyst: Assessing the impact of the political situation on corporate investment activities and identifying potential risks.
- EU Funds and International Cooperation Specialist: One of the most common career paths for graduates, particularly in the public and local government sectors.
- Public Relations and Intercultural Communication Specialist: Preparation for work in an international environment that requires an understanding of cultural differences and effective communication.
Faculty: Theory and Practice
The faculty combines academic expertise with professional experience. Classes are taught by both academic staff and professionals with experience in public administration, international organizations, and the business sector.
Studies prepare for:
What will you learn? Scope of the program
The Master’s program in International Relations in Lublin focuses on training analysts who can recognize the connections between global processes and the local economic reality. The program develops critical thinking skills, with a particular emphasis on the ability to select information and analyze disinformation mechanisms. The program emphasizes forecasting methodology, through which students learn to develop scenario analyses and assess political and economic risks.
The program is based on independent analysis and synthesis of data from various fields—ranging from economics and law to social psychology and cultural factors. Students develop skills in preparing reports and analyses that are applicable in public institutions, non-governmental organizations, and companies operating in international markets. Classes are taught by both faculty members and practitioners, including individuals with experience in diplomacy, EU projects, and market analysis.
Given the region’s location, the program addresses issues of cross-border cooperation and regional security. The program prepares graduates for careers in the business services sector and logistics, as well as in other fields requiring the analysis of international processes. The curriculum is designed to develop competencies useful for functioning in a complex international environment.
Our Graduates:
What will graduates be qualified to do after completing their studies?
Completing a second-cycle degree in International Relations in Lublin grants full master’s qualifications, which serve as the formal basis for applying for academic degrees and positions requiring a full higher education. Within selected educational tracks, graduates can gain the substantive preparation required for certification in EU project management or security auditing, and—if they complete the pedagogical module—obtain the qualifications to teach social studies and civic education in secondary schools.
Graduates are prepared to take on specific positions listed in official occupational classifications
Graduates are prepared to take on specific positions listed in official occupational classifications (KZiS and ZSK), which ensures high eligibility for recruitment processes in government and business.
Key professions include:
International Relations Specialist (KZiS: 242223) – prepared to work in diplomatic and consular missions.
Public Administration Specialist (KZiS: 242202) – in the field of foreign cooperation at provincial and marshal’s offices.
Market Analyst (KZiS: 242104) – with a particular focus on political and economic risk analysis for export companies.
EU Funds Specialist (KZiS: 242224) – prepared to secure and manage grants within the framework of cross-border cooperation.
PR and Public Communication Specialist (KZiS: 243203) – in the context of building an organization’s image on the international stage.
The Master’s degree program emphasizes the development of analytical and communication skills, which are key to employment in the modern business services sector.
1.Business and Corporate Sector (Largest Employer)
Many global companies seek out IR graduates due to their knowledge of foreign markets and cultural differences.
- Political Risk Analyst: Assessing the impact of a country’s political situation on the company’s investments (e.g., changes in legislation, risk of sanctions).
- Foreign Trade Specialist / Export Manager: Managing relationships with foreign business partners and ensuring compliance with international customs regulations.
- Public Affairs Specialist: Building the company’s relationships with government agencies and international organizations (so-called ethical lobbying).
- Market Data Analyst (OSINT): Using open-sources intelligence to monitor competitors and global trends.
2. Public Administration and Diplomacy
For those aiming for the public sector, a bachelor’s degree is the first step, though it often needs to be supplemented with specialized courses.
- Civil Servant at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA): Administrative support for territorial and substantive departments.
- Diplomatic and Consular Trainee: Eligibility to apply for a trainee position
- European Funds Specialist: Work in marshal’s offices or ministries on the implementation of EU projects.
3. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and International Organizations
A career path for those interested in humanitarian aid and human rights.
- International Project Coordinator: Managing grants and development projects in countries of the Global South.
- Intercultural Communication Specialist: Working at organizations focused on the integration of migrants and refugees.
- Think Tank Researcher: Preparing reports and analyses on security, human rights, politics, business or environmental issues for research centers.
Student Life
KUL International Relations Club
As part of the Erasmus+ program, students participated in a student exchange program in Spain.