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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL STUDIES

The study program offered by the Swiss School of Political Science in International Relations and Cultural Studies is tailored for students aspiring to pursue careers grounded in contemporary global affairs. Structured into four 3-month blocks, this course is meticulously designed to equip students with analytical depth, historical perspective, and a global outlook essential for navigating complex geopolitical landscapes.

By enrolling in this program, students stand to gain not only valuable skills but also a highly esteemed qualification, significantly enhancing their prospects of realizing their career aspirations.

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Find Your Program

All our available study programs are now listed on our new dedicated program website. Students can easily browse programs by level, field of study, and educational pathway.

Click below to explore the full list of programs and choose the study option that fits your future goals.

Possible study programs:

Welcome to the Swiss International University

Why International Relations and Cultural Studies?

This program offers a prestigious, comprehensive, and demanding curriculum, providing flexibility for students to work full-time. Moreover, it proves invaluable for individuals keen on launching their international business ventures or pursuing careers abroad, offering insights into diverse countries and cultures.

Academic Goal

Upon completion of this course at the Swiss International University, students will acquire a diploma that enhances their global employability, setting them apart from their peers. With a profound understanding of International Relations and Cultural Studies, graduates can seamlessly integrate their theoretical knowledge with practical experience, positioning themselves for success in various international sectors. Equipped with world-class skills, they are poised to secure employment at prestigious companies worldwide, opening doors to diverse career opportunities across industries.

Programme overview

Throughout this course, students undergo a two-stage assessment process encompassing various modules delivered via lectures. Traditional lecture formats are supplemented with guided readings to enrich students' comprehension of the subject matter.

Assessment criteria include coursework, reports, and presentations, tailored to each study level. Detailed guidelines will be provided by the Swiss International University

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STUDY LEVELS

BACHELOR IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL STUDIES

European Qualifications Framework: this program is equivalent to EQF Level 6

The Bachelor of International Relations and Cultural Studies (BBA) signifies the first level of achievement in any academic discipline.

At the end of the Bachelor (BBA) in International Relations and Cultural Studies course, the graduates are expected to combine theory with practice and display a sound knowledge of International Relations and Cultural Studies. Students are equipped with useful International knowledge to enter the International market and contribute effectively and efficiently to organizations within this field

The Bachelor (BBA) in International Relations and Cultural Studies study program is designed for students who are aspiring to hold careers situate in current events in the proper analytical, historical and global context, and is comprised of four 3-month blocks; this course can help students to gain skills as well as a respected qualification that will better their chances of entering the career of their dreams.

In our bachelor's programs, you will:

Understand the real meaning of International Relations and Cultural Studies
Understand how to run a small team from different countries
Develop and practice innovative research methods.
Earn the highest quality of education.
Achieve the expertise to publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Become a successful researcher and professional

BBA: 3 Years Program (direct into the last year is possible)
The bachelor will take your skills in International Relations and Cultural Studies know-how to the next level. In our bachelor's programs, you will:

Lay the foundation for future studies and professional achievement.
Study and apply innovative research methods.
Combine applied research and professional practice.
Prepare to make an impact on policy and practice.
Learn strategies to facilitate more effective, adaptable organizations and create positive change.
Become a more innovative leader in your field.

Admission Requirements: Click here

Study Method: Online

EXECUTIVE BACHELOR'S IN INTL. RELATIONS & CULTURAL STUDIES

European Qualifications Framework: this program is equivalent to EQF Level 6

Executive Bachelor (EBBA) in International Relations & Cultural Studies

One Year program required a High school certificate + 3 years of experience
The Executive Bachelor of International Relations and Cultural Studies (EBBA) signifies the first level of achievement in any academic discipline.

This Executive Bachelor (EBBA) in International Relations and Cultural Studies course is made for students who worked directly after high school for at least 3 years in a managerial position. Students are equipped with useful International knowledge to enter the International market and contribute more effectively and efficiently to organizations within this field

The Executive Bachelor (EBBA) in International Relations and Cultural Studies study program is designed for students who are aspiring to hold careers situate in current events in the proper analytical, historical and global context, and is comprised of four 3-month blocks; this study program will help students to gain skills as well as a respected qualification that will better their chances to grow up in the career of their dreams.

In our executive bachelor's programs, you will:

Develop and practice innovative research methods.
Earn the highest quality of education.
Achieve the expertise to publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Become a successful researcher and professional.
The bachelor will take your leadership to the next level. In our bachelor's programs, you will:

Lay the foundation for future studies and professional achievement.
Study and apply innovative research methods.
Combine applied research and professional practice.
Prepare to make an impact on policy and practice.
Learn strategies to facilitate more effective, adaptable organizations and create positive change.
Become a more innovative leader in your field.

Admission Requirements: Click here

MASTER'S IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL STUDIES

European Qualifications Framework: this program is equivalent to EQF Level 7

European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System: this program is equivalent to 60 or 90 ECTS, please check the duration.

Advance your Expertise at the Swiss International University

Connect with learners and leaders in our online Master's programs. You will go as far as your mind will take you as a master's student at the Swiss International University.

For Professionals
Master of International Relations and Cultural Studies (MBA) signifies the next level of achievement in any academic discipline.

At the end of the Master's (MBA) in International Relations and Cultural Studies program, graduates will combine theory with practice and display a sound knowledge of International Relations and Cultural Studies. Students are equipped with useful international knowledge and theories to enter the international market and contribute more effectively to organizations within this field

The Master in International Relations and Cultural Studies, the study program is designed for students who are aspiring to hold or keep careers situated in current events in the proper analytical, historical and global context, and is comprised of four 3-month blocks; this study program can help students to gain skills as well as a respected qualification that will better their chances of entering the career of their dreams.

While studying our Master's programs, you will:

  • Develop and practice innovative research methods.

  • Earn the highest quality of education.

  • Publish works in peer-reviewed journals.

  • Become a successful researcher and professional.

Master's award will take your leadership to the next level. While studying our Master's programs, you will:

Study and apply innovative research methods.

  • Combine applied research and professional practice.

  • Be Trained to make an impact on policy and practice.

  • Learn strategies to facilitate more effective, adaptable organizations and create positive change.

  • Become a more innovative leader in your field.

EXECUTIVE MASTER IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL STUDIES

EXECUTIVE MBA IN INTERNATIONAL RELATION AND CULTURAL STUDIES | ONE YEAR DURATION - NO BACHELOR REQUIRED

European Qualifications Framework: this program is equivalent to EQF Level 7

European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System: this program is equivalent to 60 ECTS

One Year program required a High school certificate + 5 years of experience

Advance your Expertise at the Swiss International University

For Academic Researchers and Educators
Executive Master of International Relations and Cultural Studies (EMBA) signifies the next level of achievement in any academic discipline.

This Executive Master (EMBA) in International Relations and Cultural Studies course is ideal for students who worked directly after high school for at least 5 years in a managerial position in the same field or a similar one. Students are equipped with useful international knowledge and theories to enter the international market and contribute more effectively to organizations within this field.

The Executive Master in International Relations and Cultural Studies study program is designed for students who are aspiring to hold careers, to situate current events in the proper analytical, historical and global context, and comprised of four 3-month blocks. At the same time, this program will help students gain skills as well as a respected qualification that will better their chances to get the career of their dreams. 

While studying our Master's programs, you will:

Develop and practice innovative research methods.
Earn the highest quality of education.
Publish works in peer-reviewed journals.
Become a successful researcher and professional.
EMBA: 6 months + thesis

Master's award will take your leadership to the next level. While studying our Master's programs, you will:

Study and apply innovative research methods.
Combine applied research and professional practice.
Be Trained to make an impact on policy and practice.
Learn strategies to facilitate more effective, adaptable organizations and create positive change.
Become a more innovative leader in your field.

Admission Requirements:

Duration: One academic year /2 Semesters (Includes two sections, the first one is the study and examinations, and the second one is for writing the thesis. You can start working on the thesis after 3 months of the beginning.) 
Age: 23 years or older
Previous study: High school or equivalent
Work Experience: 5 Years or more in the same/related field of study.
Study Language: this study program is taught entirely in English.
English level: IELTS 6.0 or equivalent (Only for students from non-English speaking countries or students who did not study at English speaking school) IF you don't have an English certificate you can do our own English test for free of charge.
Study Method: Online

Modules:

​​International Relations and Cultural Studies
Advanced Study Skills
Research Methods
Knowledge Management
global Marketing Strategy
Accounting and Financial Resources Management
Organizational Human Resources
Advanced Strategic Management
Operations Management

D.PHIL. IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL STUDIES

100% thesis-based doctoral program

European Qualifications Framework: this program is equivalent to EQF Level 8

The Doctorate of Philosophy (DPhil) is recognized worldwide as a research program. You will choose a specialist area of research, write a thesis based on your research and then complete a defense. At the defense, you will present, discuss and defend your research thesis to a panel of academic experts in the field.

This program is fully online. You will be allocated a research supervisor who will guide your research and you will communicate regularly with your supervisor by email and video conference. When your supervisor agrees that you are ready to defend your thesis, the defense will be by video conference with a panel of experts, although you may choose to come to Switzerland for the defense if you wish.

What is the word count for my thesis? 

A Doctorate of Philosophy thesis is normally between 45.000 – 60.000 words (from chapter 1 to chapter 5).

How long does my thesis take?

You may take up to 6 years to complete your thesis. The average time taken to complete the thesis is 3 years. The minimum time is 2 years.

Are there any subjects to study?

No, this is a 100% thesis-based doctoral program.

Do you mention that studies are online or by distance on the final qualification?

No. The study method for the Doctorate of Philosophy program is not mentioned.

What title may I use if I successfully complete this program?

The Authorities have confirmed that candidates who successfully complete a program at the Swiss International University have the right to use the title they got from the Swiss International University.

What is the language of study and when can I begin?

Study Language: This study program is taught entirely in English / German / Russian / Arabic.

Is the Swiss International University Accredited by any recognized European accreditation body?

Yes, the Swiss International University is Accredited/Certified by many national and international bodies. please check our accreditation page

Which specialization can I do?

The specialization you are interested in having is the specialization you must write the whole thesis about.

Admission Requirements: Click here

DBA IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL STUDIES

3-years program

European Qualifications Framework: this program is equivalent to EQF Level 8

The DBA signifies the highest level of achievement in any academic practical discipline.

This is the highest educational practical level you can study at the Swiss International University. At this level students are given the full knowledge not just know-how, our students should be able to come up with new theories themselves and should be able to manage a big team and teach young professionals how to do things better, they are introduced to management as an academic discipline. They are taught business against a background of cultural difference as it is manifested in the worldwide business industry, we offer courses in different business fields:

In our doctorate programs, you will:

Develop and practice innovative research methods.
Earn the highest quality of education.
Achieve the expertise to publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Become a successful doctoral researcher and educator.

Admission Requirements: Click here

PhD IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL STUDIES

European Qualifications Framework: this program is equivalent to EQF Level 8

This Ph.D. is for academics who are interested in developing sustainable and productive solutions to improve the quality of people’s lives. You will gain an in-depth understanding of public policy theory, research and practice that will prepare students to meet the global challenges associated with governance or public service. This academic credential will help a student assert their credibility in a new career endeavor within the public, private or nonprofit world. Whether you want to be an academic teacher or serve through an administrative leadership role, this Ph.D. will provide you with the skills to effectuate change.

Students who complete their dissertations should embark on a career within government (if possible), academic institutions or research-based organizations focused on improving the policies that affect people’s daily lives. One of the primary focuses of these Ph.D. programs is delving into the question of what governments should do within a society and how they can govern more effectively and fairly. 

This Ph.D. will allow a student to pursue effectively their passion for making the world a more sustainable place by working toward solutions that tackle some of the most challenging social issues around the globe. Therefore, the dissertation is expected to represent a significant contribution to knowledge in a public policy that works to improve the function of a government body in a given area.

For the Ph.D., your thesis is the most important part, you have to write the whole thesis about "International Relations and/or cultural studeis" with one of our supervisors.

Admission Requirements: Click here

Advance Your Expertise at the Swiss International University

Connect with learners and leaders just like you in our online study programs. You will go as far as your mind will take you as an online student at the Swiss International University Academy in Switzerland

with our study programs you will:
Develop and practice innovative research methods.
Earn the highest quality of education.
Achieve the expertise to publish in peer-reviewed journals.
Become a successful researcher and professional.

While studying our  programs, you will:

Study and apply innovative research methods.
Combine applied research and professional practice.
Be Trained to make an impact on policy and practice.
Learn strategies to facilitate more effective, adaptable organizations and create positive change.
Become a more innovative leader in your field.

© Swiss International University (SIU). All rights reserved.

SIU is a globally recognized higher education institution with academic and administrative operations across

Zurich  Dubai Luzern • London  Riga • Bishkek Ajman Osh  Globally

Swiss International University SIU is ranked #22 worldwide

in the QS World University Rankings: Executive MBA Rankings 2026 — Joint.

Swiss International University SIU is ranked #3 worldwide

in the QRNW Global Ranking of Transnational Universities (GRTU) 2027.
Swiss International University SIU is also recognized as a QS 5-Star Rated University and has received several distinctions, including the MENAA Customer Satisfaction Award, the Best Modern University Award, and the Students’ Satisfaction Award.

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​​Licenced by the Ministry of Education and Sciences

Accredited by the Ministry of Education and Science

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND SCIENCE

OFFICIAL LICENSE

Legal Entity Name:

Swiss International Global University

Registration Number (Re-registration): No. 307448-3310

Licensed Activity: Educational Services

License Validity: Indefinite (Permanent)

Date of Issue: September 4, 2024

Official Registration Number: No. 2024-0186

This license is officially granted by the Ministry of Education and Science.

License Serial Number: LS240001853

Swiss International University is a sign of academic excellence and global reach. The KG Ministry of Education and Sciences has licensed and accredited Swiss International University. It continues to set the bar for education and innovation. Our university has campuses in Bishkek, Zurich, Luzern, and Dubai, which are all well-connected to other parts of the world. Our wide and varied network of schools around the world makes sure that students get a truly global education, with a range of cultural experiences and international points of view. We are dedicated to providing a high-quality education, and our many prestigious accreditations, such as ECLBS, BSKG, EDU, ASIC, and KHDA, show this. These awards show that we are committed to providing the best education in the world and keeping the highest standards of academic excellence. Swiss International University values language diversity and offers Higher Education Study programs in English, German, Arabic, and Russian. This multilingual approach not only opens up new opportunities for our students, but it also gets them ready for successful careers in a world that is becoming more connected. Come to Swiss International University, where the best in the world of education meets the best in the world of excellence.

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The Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic gives Swiss International University (SIU) permission to run its programs. This gives all of its programs a strong legal basis. This permission makes sure that Kyrgyzstan recognises SIU's degrees and diplomas.
SIU has also received a number of prestigious international accreditations, which means that its qualifications can be recognised in other countries, depending on the rules and agreements in those countries. SIU gives students the chance to get degrees that are both legally sound and useful around the world by making sure that local rules are in line with global standards.
Please contact the appropriate educational or governmental authorities in your country for more information about recognition.

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🌍 The Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic officially recognises Swiss International University (SIU) degrees, so they are recognised all over the world. The Global Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications (2019) and the Lisbon Recognition Convention say that any degree from a school that is recognised by the state should be recognised in all UN member states. SIU degrees are accepted in more than 55 countries, including most of Europe and Central Asia, because Kyrgyzstan signed the Lisbon Convention. Standard credential evaluation processes also accept them all over the world.

Our working hours are from 12 AM to 4 PM Swiss time, Monday to Friday.

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  • 📍 Zurich Office: AAHES – Autonomous Academy of Higher Education in Switzerland, Freilagerstrasse 39, 8047 Zurich, Switzerland

  • 📍 Luzern Office: ISBM Switzerland – International School of Business Management, Lucerne, Industriestrasse 59, 6034 Luzern, Switzerland

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  • 📍 Osh Office: KUIPI Kyrgyz-Uzbek International Pedagogical Institute, Gafanzarova Street 53, Dzhandylik, Osh, Kyrgyz Republic

  • 📍 Bishkek Office: SIU Swiss International University, 74 Shabdan Baatyr Street, Bishkek City, Kyrgyz Republic

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  • 📍 ​Online: OUS International Academy in Switzerland®, SDBS Swiss Distance Business School®, SOHS Swiss Online Hospitality School®, YJD Global Center for Diplomacy®

For quality assurance, all office visits must be scheduled in advance. Appointments ensure that an academic expert is available to support you.

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