Programme Information

The end of the Cold War has resulted in dramatic changes in the form and substance of transatlantic relations. The main organization symbolizing transatlantic relations is NATO. Though NATO has survived as a political and military alliance, its goals have been transformed in line with new challenges and threats to peace and stability in the world.  The impact of the end of the Cold War on political, cultural, and economic relations has been substantial. In fact, as many questions have been raised as problems solved. What is the goal of NATO now? Has eastern expansion of the alliance been successful and productive? How have the mutual perceptions of North Americans and Europeans of the other changed?

Transatlantic Studies is a two-year Master’s programme that is fully accredited by the Ministry of Education of the Czech Republic. The English-language audience can appreciate the Central European perspectives on transatlantic relations. The course can challenge the individual student to consider the political, social, cultural, and economic changes associated with the new global reality. Students will gain an overview of the history and the current state of transatlantic relations. Prague and the Czech Republic provide a perfect example of post-Cold War Europe.

Students will take a number of core courses designed to provide them with a general understanding of the issues involved. However, the generous selection of elective courses should help each individual student gain an area of specialization, which, in turn, will result in a scholarly Master’s thesis, which can then be published if it meets the standards of our institute. Opportunities will be provided for students to make brief research trips to research centers in Europe and North America if their thesis topic warrants it. Successful graduates of the programme might like to consider a number of the doctoral programmes offered by the Faculty of Social Sciences.

After completion of the Transatlantic Studies programme, students will have a number of career options open to them. Some might like to pursue a doctorate and an academic career, but others will surely wish to enter employment straight away. Opportunities include diplomacy or civil service in their home country, employment at international organizations, the private sector, and, of course, the growing NGO (non-governmental organization) sector.