| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded by George Soros in 1991.
Aimed at promoting open societies and democracy through education and research.
Specializes in social sciences, humanities, law, public policy, and business.
Offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Known for interdisciplinary research and international collaboration.
Originally located in Budapest, Hungary.
Due to legal and political challenges, the university relocated most of its operations to Vienna, Austria, starting in 2019.
Maintains a presence in Budapest for some programs and administrative functions.
Accredited in the United States and Hungary, and now also in Austria.
Recognized for high academic standards and rigorous research output.
Attracts a diverse student body from around the world.
Hosts numerous research centers and institutes.
Publishes scholarly work in various fields, contributing significantly to academic discourse and public policy debates.
Known for its vibrant international community of students, faculty, and staff.
Alumni network includes leaders in academia, government, and various industries worldwide.
Faced political pressure from the Hungarian government, leading to the decision to move to Vienna.
The move was a significant moment in the university’s history, reflecting broader concerns about academic freedom in Hungary.
Strong emphasis on critical thinking, open debate, and research excellence.
Collaborates with various international institutions and participates in global academic networks.
CEU recently expanded to include undergraduate education, providing a broad liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and interdisciplinary study. Some of the undergraduate programs include:
BA in Culture, Politics and Society
BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics
BA in Quantitative Social Sciences
CEU is well-known for its graduate programs, which include master's and doctoral degrees. The programs are designed to foster a deep understanding of the subjects, promote research, and prepare students for careers in academia, public policy, law, and various industries.
Master of Arts (MA) Programs:
MA in Political Science
MA in International Relations
MA in Nationalism Studies
MA in Gender Studies
MA in Philosophy
MA in Medieval Studies
MA in Sociology and Social Anthropology
MA in Human Rights
MA in Economic Policy in Global Markets
MA in Public Policy
MA in Environmental Sciences and Policy
MA in Comparative History
Master of Science (MSc) Programs:
MSc in Environmental Sciences and Policy
MSc in Finance
MSc in Business Analytics
Master of Laws (LLM) Programs:
LLM in International Business Law
LLM in Human Rights
MBA Programs:
Executive MBA
CEU offers PhD programs across various disciplines, encouraging original research and academic scholarship:
PhD in Political Science
PhD in International Relations
PhD in Philosophy
PhD in Comparative Gender Studies
PhD in Cognitive Science
PhD in Sociology and Social Anthropology
PhD in Economics
PhD in Network Science
PhD in Environmental Sciences and Policy
PhD in Legal Studies
PhD in Medieval Studies
PhD in History
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
BA in Culture, Politics, and Society |
3 years |
$15,000 |
|
BA in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics |
3 years |
$15,000 |
|
BA in Quantitative Social Sciences |
3 years |
$15,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MA in Political Science |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in International Relations |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Nationalism Studies |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Gender Studies |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Philosophy |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Medieval Studies |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Sociology and Social Anthropology |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Human Rights |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Economic Policy in Global Markets |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Public Policy |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Environmental Sciences and Policy |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MA in Comparative History |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MSc in Environmental Sciences and Policy |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MSc in Finance |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
MSc in Business Analytics |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
LLM in International Business Law |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
LLM in Human Rights |
1 year |
$15,000 |
|
Executive MBA |
2 years |
$40,000 (total) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Political Science |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in International Relations |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Philosophy |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Comparative Gender Studies |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Cognitive Science |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Sociology and Social Anthropology |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Economics |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Network Science |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Sciences and Policy |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Legal Studies |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in Medieval Studies |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
|
PhD in History |
3-6 years |
$15,000 |
CEU offers a wide range of graduate-level programs, including:
Master's and PhD programs in the social sciences, humanities, law, public policy, and business.
Interdisciplinary programs that encourage cross-departmental collaboration and research.
CEU is known for its strong support system for international students:
Orientation Programs: To help new students acclimate to the university and the city.
Advising Services: Academic advisors assist with course selection, research opportunities, and career planning.
Language Support: English is the primary language of instruction, but the university offers language courses and support for non-native speakers.
CEU is committed to making education accessible to talented students regardless of their financial background:
CEU Master's Scholarships: Cover tuition, housing, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.
Doctoral Scholarships: Provide full tuition, a generous stipend, and additional research funds.
External Scholarships: CEU supports applications for external funding and scholarships.
CEU promotes a robust research environment:
Research Centers and Institutes: Offer opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research projects.
Grants and Fellowships: Available for student-led research and participation in international conferences.
CEU fosters a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for engagement:
Student Clubs and Organizations: Cover a wide range of interests from academic, cultural, to recreational activities.
Cultural Events and Workshops: Regularly held to enhance student life and promote intercultural exchange.
Sports and Recreation: Facilities and programs available to keep students active and healthy.
CEU's Career Services Office supports students in preparing for their professional careers:
Career Counseling: Individual sessions to help with career planning and job search strategies.
Internships and Job Placements: Assistance with finding internships and employment opportunities.
Alumni Network: A strong network of alumni providing mentorship and networking opportunities.
Identify your desired program: CEU offers various undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. Ensure you meet the specific requirements of the program you are interested in.
Check the academic prerequisites: Each program has specific academic requirements. For undergraduate programs, you usually need a high school diploma. For graduate programs, you typically need a relevant bachelor’s degree.
English language proficiency: Since CEU's courses are taught in English, you must provide proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).
Application form: Complete the online application form available on the CEU website.
Transcripts and diplomas: Provide official transcripts from all previously attended educational institutions.
CV/Resume: A detailed CV or resume highlighting your academic and professional experiences.
Statement of Purpose: An essay outlining your academic and career goals, and why you wish to study at CEU.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters from academic or professional references.
Standardized test scores: Some programs may require GRE or GMAT scores.
Online submission: Applications are usually submitted through CEU’s online application portal.
Application fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee, if applicable.
Interview process: Some programs may require an interview, either in person or via video call. This is to assess your suitability for the program and your English proficiency.
Evaluation: The admissions committee reviews all applications. This process may take several weeks.
Notification: You will be notified of the admission decision via email.
Acceptance: If admitted, you will receive an acceptance letter with details on the next steps.
Enrollment: Follow the instructions for enrollment, which typically includes confirming your acceptance, paying a deposit, and preparing for your arrival at CEU.
Apply for scholarships: CEU offers various scholarships and financial aid options. Ensure you apply for these as per the deadlines.
External funding: Look for additional funding opportunities outside CEU if needed.
Student visa: International students will need to apply for a student visa to study in Hungary.
Housing: Arrange for accommodation, either through CEU housing services or independently.
CEU generally has the following intake periods for its programs:
Application deadlines: Typically in January and March for the Fall intake.
Program start: Most undergraduate programs begin in September.
Master’s Programs:
Application deadlines: Usually in January and February for the Fall intake.
Program start: Most master’s programs start in September.
Doctoral Programs:
Application deadlines: Typically in January and February.
Program start: Doctoral programs generally begin in September.
Eligibility criteria vary by program level (undergraduate, master’s, doctoral) and specific program requirements. Here are the general eligibility criteria:
Academic Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent.
English Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS). Specific score requirements vary by program.
Entrance Exam/Interview: Some programs may require an entrance exam or an interview.
Academic Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS). Specific score requirements vary by program.
Standardized Tests: Some programs may require GRE or GMAT scores.
Professional Experience: Certain programs may prefer or require relevant professional experience.
Additional Requirements: Some programs might ask for a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a CV/resume.
Academic Qualifications: A master’s degree or equivalent in a related field from a recognized institution.
English Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS). Specific score requirements vary by program.
Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal outlining your intended research topic.
Standardized Tests: Some programs may require GRE scores.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually two to three academic or professional references.
Professional Experience: Relevant research or professional experience may be required.
Ranking Source |
Global Ranking |
Subject-specific Ranking |
Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
651-700 |
Politics & International Studies: 37 |
4.0 (out of 5.0) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
445 |
Best Global Universities in Europe: 186 |
61.4 (out of 100) |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Coverage |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CEU Master's Scholarship |
All applicants to CEU Master’s programs |
Tuition, health insurance, monthly stipend, housing |
Apply through CEU’s online application portal |
|
CEU Doctoral Scholarship |
All applicants to CEU Doctoral programs |
Tuition, health insurance, monthly stipend, housing |
Apply through CEU’s online application portal |
|
CEU Alumni Scholarship |
Outstanding Master’s applicants with financial need |
Partial tuition waiver |
Submit separate alumni scholarship application form |
|
Erasmus+ Mobility Grants |
Enrolled CEU students participating in Erasmus programs |
Travel and living expenses |
Apply through CEU’s Erasmus office |
|
External Scholarships |
Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus Mundus |
Tuition, travel, living expenses |
Apply through the respective external scholarship websites |
|
Country-specific Scholarships |
Applicants from specific countries |
N/A |
Information provided on CEU’s financial aid webpage |
|
Research Grants and Fellowships |
Doctoral and postdoctoral researchers |
Research expenses, travel, stipends |
Apply through CEU’s research support office |
Facility |
Description |
Cost |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Central European University, Budapest, Hungary |
- |
|
Main Campus |
Modern academic buildings with classrooms, labs, and libraries |
- |
|
Library |
Extensive collections, study spaces, and digital resources |
- |
|
Computer Labs |
State-of-the-art technology and software |
- |
|
Research Facilities |
Specialized research centers and labs |
- |
|
Student Lounge and Cafeteria |
Social spaces and dining facilities |
- |
|
Sports Facilities |
Gym, sports courts, and fitness programs |
- |
|
Student Accommodation |
CEU Residence Center |
- |
|
Single Room |
Private room with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities |
Approx. €200-€350 per month (depending on room type and amenities) |
|
Double Room |
Shared room with shared bathroom and kitchen facilities |
Approx. €150-€250 per month (depending on room type and amenities) |
|
Shared Apartments |
Apartments with shared living spaces |
Approx. €250-€400 per month (depending on room type and amenities) |
|
Utilities and Internet |
Included in accommodation cost |
- |
|
Cleaning Services |
Regular cleaning of common areas |
Included in accommodation cost |
|
Laundry Facilities |
On-site laundry services |
Pay-per-use basis |
|
Security |
24/7 security and surveillance |
- |
|
Off-campus Housing Assistance |
Support for finding private accommodation |
Dependent on the market rate |
Interdisciplinary Programs: CEU offers a wide range of interdisciplinary programs in the social sciences, humanities, law, public policy, business, and environmental sciences. The university emphasizes critical thinking, research, and academic excellence.
International Faculty: Students learn from a diverse faculty, many of whom are leaders in their fields, providing a global perspective on various subjects.
Research Opportunities: There are ample opportunities for students to engage in research projects, often collaborating with faculty members on cutting-edge topics.
Modern Facilities: The Budapest campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including a library, computer labs, and comfortable study areas.
Student Residences: CEU provides housing options that are well-integrated with the campus life, fostering a close-knit community.
Cultural Hub: Being located in Budapest, students have access to a rich cultural scene, including theaters, museums, and historical sites.
Student Organizations: There are numerous student clubs and organizations covering interests such as debating, environmental activism, sports, and cultural activities.
Events and Festivals: CEU hosts various events, including academic conferences, cultural festivals, and social gatherings, enhancing the overall student experience.
Sports and Recreation: The university offers various sports facilities and fitness programs, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Diverse Community: CEU's student body is highly international, with students from over 100 countries, creating a multicultural environment.
Networking Opportunities: The university regularly hosts networking events, career fairs, and alumni meet-ups, providing students with opportunities to build professional connections.
City Life: Budapest is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous cafes, bars, and clubs where students can relax and socialize.
Academic Support: CEU offers academic advising, writing centers, and tutoring services to help students succeed academically.
Mental Health and Well-being: The university provides counseling services, workshops, and wellness programs to support students' mental health.
Career Services: CEU has a dedicated career services office that offers career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities.
Volunteer Programs: Students can participate in various volunteer programs and community service projects, contributing to the local community.
Public Lectures and Seminars: CEU regularly organizes public lectures, seminars, and workshops, often featuring prominent figures from academia, politics, and industry.
Career Counseling: CEU provides personalized career counseling to help students identify their career goals and develop a strategic plan to achieve them.
Workshops and Training: Regular workshops and training sessions are held on topics such as resume writing, interview skills, networking strategies, and job search techniques.
Job Portals and Listings: The university maintains job portals and regularly updates job listings from a wide range of industries.
Internship Placements: CEU has partnerships with numerous organizations and companies, facilitating internship placements that offer practical experience and networking opportunities.
Summer Internships: Many students take advantage of summer internships to gain hands-on experience in their field of study.
Mentorship Programs: Alumni often participate in mentorship programs, providing guidance and insights to current students about career paths and opportunities.
Networking Events: The university organizes networking events where students can connect with alumni and other professionals in their field.
Recruitment Fairs: CEU hosts recruitment fairs, bringing together potential employers and students. These events are great opportunities for students to learn about different companies and job openings.
Company Presentations: Companies frequently visit CEU to give presentations, meet students, and discuss potential career opportunities within their organizations.
Public Policy and International Affairs: For students in public policy and international affairs, CEU offers specialized support to help secure positions in government agencies, NGOs, international organizations, and think tanks.
Business and Economics: Business students benefit from CEU’s strong connections with the corporate world, including multinational corporations, consulting firms, and financial institutions.
Legal Careers: Law students receive support for placements in international law firms, legal departments of corporations, and public sector legal positions.
International Placements: CEU's strong international reputation helps students secure placements not just in Hungary, but across Europe, North America, and other regions.
Global Network: The university’s extensive global network facilitates job placements worldwide, leveraging connections with institutions and organizations across various continents.
High Placement Rates: CEU graduates enjoy high placement rates, with many securing positions in top-tier companies, international organizations, and prestigious academic institutions.
Diverse Career Paths: CEU alumni work in diverse fields such as academia, corporate business, finance, public policy, law, technology, and more.
Main Campus: The primary operations of CEU are now based in Vienna, where most academic programs are conducted. The Vienna campus offers state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic environment.
Facilities: The Vienna campus features modern classrooms, advanced research facilities, a comprehensive library, and student accommodation, designed to provide an optimal learning and living environment for students and faculty.
Historical Campus: The Budapest campus, located in the heart of the city, still houses some academic and administrative functions. It remains a significant cultural and historical part of CEU.
Facilities: While many operations have shifted to Vienna, the Budapest campus still offers access to its renowned library, some classrooms, and other resources.
Address: Quellenstraße 51, 1100 Vienna, Austria
Key Features: The Vienna campus is designed to support CEU's commitment to academic excellence, with advanced facilities and infrastructure.
Address: Nádor utca 9, 1051 Budapest, Hungary
Key Features: Located in the historic center of Budapest, the campus is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. It continues to be a hub for various events and activities.
