MA of EU Policy

The Master of European Union Policy (MA EUP) is an advanced academic and highly policy-focused graduate programme that provides a comprehensive understanding of all of the major aspects and processes of EU policymaking. Combining theory and research with practical implementation, it is valuable for students who are interested in a career in the European policy sphere, as well as those interested in pursuing more advanced studies in this field.

The MA EUP is a one-year, full-time programme that leads to a Master degree accredited by the Dutch-Flemish Accreditation Organization (NVAO). It offers students a wide range of tools for analysing the political, economic and judicial aspects of the EU as a regional and global actor.

EU policy in the Capital of Europe

The programme fully utilises Vesalius College’s location in Brussels, ‘Capital of Europe’, by connecting students to Brussels’ political environment. Due to this exposure to European policymaking, graduate students have the opportunity to gain invaluable professional experience and transferrable networks within the EU policy field.

Putting theory into practice

Students can attend practice-oriented laboratories in relevant fields (such as Negotiation, Policy Writing and Lobbying) which are taught by policymakers and senior analysts from Brussels-based think tanks. Furthermore, students have the opportunity to complete a 225-hour internship either within an EU institution or with an organisation that works directly with the EU institutions. Students will also participate in the Institute for European Studies (IES) lecture series, which invites leading diplomats and policymakers to share their insights on the EU’s ability to operate as an actor in the world.

Career perspectives

The programme is strongly oriented towards a research-oriented career with EU institutions, and the coursework can serve as preparation for the EU entrance exam (the ‘Concours’). The programme also prepares students interested in a career in other organisations active within the EU policy sphere, such as think tanks and advocacy and interest groups closely involved with the EU. However, the research, writing and communication skills developed in the programme also prepare students for a career outside the EU sphere or Brussels, where such skills are equally valued. For example, the programme particularly prepares students to work within their national diplomatic services and in those positions in the national administration that require high-level knowledge of, and experience with, European institutions.