Institute of International Studies - Prague Area Studies

The Institute of International studies is an organizational part of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Charles University in Prague. The Institute offers bachelor‘s, master‘s and doctoral degree programmes in area studies and modern history. It concentrates its activities on four primary regions: the countries of the former Soviet Union and East-Central Europe, the German-speaking countries of Central Europe, Western Europe and North America. Each of the region is covered by one department of the Institute, which runs an English language Master's Degree program. The four English language Master's Degree programmes offered by the Institute of International Studies are coordinated under the label "Prague Area Studies" (PRAREAS).

Department of German and Austrian Studies

The Department of German and Austrian Studies focuses on the area of Germany, Austria and a broadly-conceived Central Europe with respect to political, historical, cultural and economic developments from the end of the 19th century until the present time. The main field of research and lectures is on the post-1990 regional environment and on how states have attempted to come to terms with sensitive 20th century issues in the history of Central Europe, Germany and Austria included, that have affected and indeed still affect the fostering of bilateral relationships. The Department runs the English-language Master Programme “Central European Comparative Studies”

Department of Russian and East European Studies

The curriculum covered by the Department stretches from the political and economic development of Central and Eastern Europe to cultural studies. The main focus of interest is Russia, but special attention is also paid to Poland, Hungary, the Baltic states, Ukraine and Belarus. Most research is devoted to the analysis of the transformation process and the re-emergence of civil society in Central and Eastern Europe from a historical perspective; and the process of integration into Europe as it affects Central and Eastern Europe. The Department runs the English-language Master Programme “Balkan, Eurasian and Central European Studies”.

Department of West European Studies

The Department was established at the Faculty of Social Sciences in 1997. In 1999 it was awarded the title of Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence in European studies as the first academic institution in Central and Eastern Europe. The Department focuses on the political, economic, legal, historical and cultural development of the EU countries. Research is concentrated on recent developments in political and judicial systems, and on the attitude of member states towards the EU, with a special emphasis on the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Belgium and Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, and Southern Europe. Particular attention is paid to the development of the EU itself. The Department runs the English-language Master Programme “European Studies”.

Department of American Studies

The Department of American Studies focuses in its research on American history, as well as on contemporary political, economic, social and cultural issues relevant in American context. Geographically, the primary attention is on the North American region, with emphasis on the United States. The Department runs the English-language Master Programme “Transatlantic Studies”.

For detailed information on study programmes, admissions, how to apply, etc., please refer to the webpage of the specific programme of interest at the Faculty's website