International Master in European Studies : Policy Advisor and Project Consultant

The main course aims for the International Master in European Studies: Policy Advisor and Project Consultant are:

1. Comprehensive Understanding: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the institutional framework, operational mechanisms, and fundamental policies of the European Union.
2. Policy Analysis: Develop the skills to analyze and evaluate European policies across various sectors.
3. Project Management: Master the tools and techniques of project management within the context of European Union-funded projects, including project planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
4. Funding Methodologies: Explore and understand the diverse funding methodologies of the European Union, including grants, subsidies, and structural funds.
5. Project Cycle Management: Acquire proficiency in project cycle management, from project identification and formulation to project closure, ensuring alignment with European Commission guidelines.
6. Practical Application: Apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios through case studies, simulations, and real-world projects, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
7. Networking: Develop a strong professional network within the European Union institutions, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector entities involved in European affairs.
8. Career Development: Prepare for diverse career paths in European policymaking, consulting, advocacy, research, and project management, equipped with specialized knowledge and practical experience in European studies.

English language certificate or a language knowledge self-statement.

Structured for optimal learning, this course unfolds in three distinct modules:

Initially, immerse yourself in an academic exploration laying the foundation for the practical application awaiting in the subsequent module.

Seamlessly transitioning, the second module equips you with hands-on experience in navigating European projects and tenders, aligning perfectly with the theoretical groundwork established earlier.

Furthermore, this program boasts a third section featuring exclusive sessions led by expert consultants, policy advisors, and EU officials, offering invaluable insights into the policies and regulations governing the EU's prominent funding programs.

Complementing our academic curriculum is a three-month guaranteed (but not mandatory) internship component, where each student is immersed in a real-world setting within our esteemed partner enterprises. Here, they translate theoretical knowledge into practical expertise, forge connections within the EU expert network and private sector, and emerge primed for success in the competitive job market with invaluable hands-on experience.

By the culmination of the program, participants emerge empowered to effortlessly align project concepts with available EU funding streams. They gain proficiency in crafting, coordinating, and overseeing European projects and tenders in strict adherence to European Commission guidelines. Moreover, they benefit from networking opportunities with seasoned professionals entrenched in this dynamic domain.

A maximum of 25 candidates will be admitted to the program. Only candidates responding to the following admission criteria will be accepted:

• To have a university degree of at least 3 years
• To be currently employed or professionally active OR to be unemployed but unable to attend a full-time IMES program
• To have good knowledge of English (listen, written, and oral)

Graduates of the International Master in European Studies: Policy Advisor and Project Consultant can pursue various career paths in both the public and private sectors, as well as in international organizations. Some potential career paths include:

1. Policy Advisor: Graduates can work as policy advisors for government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), think tanks, and advocacy groups, providing expertise on European Union policies and regulations.
2. Project Manager: Graduates can work as project managers for international development projects funded by the European Union, managing projects in areas such as economic development, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability.
3. European Affairs Specialist: Graduates can work as European affairs specialists for multinational corporations, trade associations, and consulting firms, providing strategic advice on navigating EU regulations and policies.
4. Diplomat: Graduates can pursue careers in diplomacy, representing their home countries or international organizations in negotiations with EU institutions and member states.
5. Researcher: Graduates can work as researchers for academic institutions, think tanks, and research organizations, conducting research on European integration, EU policies, and governance structures.
6. International Relations Officer: Graduates can work as international relations officers for government agencies, embassies, and international organizations, promoting cooperation and dialogue between the European Union and other countries or regions.
7. European Union Official: Graduates can pursue careers as officials within the European Union institutions, working for the European Commission, European Parliament, European Council, or other EU bodies, shaping and implementing EU policies and programs.

The program will be conducted online. However, students will have a unique opportunity for guided learning visits to the European institutions in Brussels during the final week of the program. Following these visits, they will be invited to attend the diploma award ceremony. Please note that participation in the final week guided learning visits and attending the award ceremony is optional and requires prior registration.

To apply, candidates should submit an online application and the following documents must be attached:

• a copy of the university diploma or equivalent degree.
• a CV in English.
• a cover letter in English, stating the motivation to attend the Master.
• English language certificate or a language knowledge self-statement.
• one passport-size photograph.
• a copy of passport or another identification document
• proof of payment of the first instalment of tuition fees of 500 € (candidates that will not be admitted will be totally reimbursed the first instalment of tuition fees within 5 working days)

Diplomas will be awarded to students that successfully pass the evaluation process, consisting of:

• • One final exam
  • One project work on EU grants
  •  The individual learning journal

Students will also receive a Transcript Certificate with the transcript of courses and the final grade obtained.

Tuition fees : 3200 Euros

The payment of the fees is divided into two instalments; the first instalment of 500 € is to be paid in the application phase and proof of payment shall be attached to the application. The other instalment must be paid by the end of March 2024. The payment can be done by credit card (PayPal) or by bank transfer

• IBAN: BE22 7340 6465 4347
• BIC: KREDBEBB
• Bank: KBC
• Account holder: Chambre de Commerce Belgo-Italienne – Av. H. Jaspar 113, Brussels
• Description: IMES Evening & Weekend + name surname
• Amount: €3.200

Please note that these fees do not include accommodation, transportation, or potential visa costs to attend the final week guided learning visits or the internship period.