The training programme for students with the specialization in International Relations at Lviv Polytechnic National University foresees both theoretical and practical training of highly qualified specialists with the profound knowledge in the field of international relations, country study, political science, foreign languages (including theory and practice of translation) and etc., but mainly, the knowledge in current problems of foreign policy of Ukraine, countries of Western, Central and Eastern Europe. This will improve the establishment of bi- and multilateral partnership; European integration practice adoption in order to successfully implement sociopolitical and economic reforms in Ukraine; realization of Ukraine’s European integration policy. The characteristic feature of the programme is its orientation on the establishment of the cross-boundary cooperation; promoting cultural interchange; formation of Ukraine’s positive image and its spreading in the system of international relations.
The Department of Political Science and International Relations trains Bachelors and Masters majoring in International Relations. After four years of studies students obtain a Specialist in International Relations qualification, having thoroughly mastered disciplines of the three training modules: natural sciences, humanities and socioeconomics, professional and practical training. Bachelor graduates may continue their education and do the MA in International Relations (18 months) to gain the Political Analyst on International Affairs, Translator qualification.
The priority of specialist training lies in practical training at specialized Ukrainian and foreign state institutions and civil society organizations that contributes to the development of practical skills in the field of International Relations. During the training an even attention is paid to both theoretical and applied training components, especially the issues related to international and regional relations in politics and economics. Therefore a student has a possibility to effectively apply theoretical knowledge in practice while performing professional duties.
Bachelor graduates may continue their education and do the MA in International Relations (18 months) to gain the Political Analyst on International Affairs, Translator qualification.
While taking the Master’s degree students are thoroughly studying profession oriented disciplines, including Urgent Problems of the Ukrainian Foreign Policy and International Relations, International and European Security, Foreign Policy Analysis and Forecasting, Regional Policy and Integration, CBC (Cross-border Cooperation) and others. While writing a master's thesis students are undertaking different types of internship such as assistance internship and pre-graduation practical training according to the topic of the master's thesis.
Master graduates may continue their education and study for a Doctoral and Ph.D. degree in Political Institutions and Processes (the code of the major - 23.00.02) and publish their scientific achievements in research periodicals «The Ukrainian National Idea: Realities and Prospects» and «The Humanitarian Visions».
International Relations students have the further opportunities:
- to study foreign languages electively;
- to acquire practical analytical skills at the Scientific Analytical Center for Political Studies «The Vector»;
- to participate in the activity of the International Institute of Education, Culture and Diaspora Relations at Lviv Polytechnic National University.
- to develop creativity in the hearth of The Prosvita Society («Enlightenment», a society for preserving and developing Ukrainian culture and education among population) and to participate in the Student Council;
to participate in the political science circle «The Student Film Society» that sees its main task in creative and professional development of students majoring in International Relations. The programme of the political science circle «The Student Film Society» provides demonstration of films that help to broaden students’ horizon and enrich knowledge system of specialists in International Relations.
Lviv Polytechnic National University pays an even attention to both theoretical and applied principles of professional and practical training for International Relations students, focusing on applied problems of both international and regional relations of foreign policy and economics, modeling and application of modern information and communication technologies in forecasting other states foreign policy that will enable graduates to effectively apply theoretical knowledge in practice while performing specific employer’s tasks.
Experts in International Relations are able to ensure the efficient work of embassies, missions and Departments of Foreign Affairs, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine and visa centers; to consult representatives of central and local government on issues related to international relations and foreign policy; to establish cooperation in multilateral relationships (social, political, economic and socio-cultural areas); to establish an information exchange between the diplomatic missions of Ukraine and the government central bodies; to improve the cooperation efficiency in the field of international relations through public relations, advertising and information activity; to give advice on social and political issues (e.g., political parties, public organizations and associations); to provide professional translation of scientific and journalistic literature as well as information materials in the field of International Relations; to advise on issues related to various aspects of international activity.