The Arqus Joint Programme "Small States Security"
How can small states ensure their security and resilience in the face of limited resources, geopolitical tensions and an increasingly diverse range of threats? This programme invites you to explore less conventional security issues: how algorithms determine what information we see, why alarming messages affect us, how the brain reacts to threats, and how propaganda exploits this. During your studies, you will learn to analyse data and open-source information, develop future scenarios, assess risks and test solutions through simulations. This is an opportunity for those who wish not only to follow world events, but also to understand their causes and help organisations prepare for what may happen in the future.
Programme plan
Programme plan
In the first semester, you will analyse the architecture of global power and the strategic dilemmas faced by small states; you will familiarise yourself with classical and critical theories in security studies; and you will acquire core competencies in social science research methods. The second semester focuses on contemporary transformations in security and analytical tools. Students examine forms of sub-conventional confrontation, transformations in technological power, and cognitive security, and learn to apply methods of strategic foresight, scenario modelling and artificial intelligence-assisted modelling. The third semester is devoted to independent research and the preparation of the Master’s thesis.
Admission requirements
Admission Requirements
Key Admission Requirements:
- Admission requires a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent EQF6-level qualification in the humanities or social sciences; applicants with degrees in life or natural sciences are also eligible if they provide a convincing motivation. Applicants must have fluent English at no lower than C1 level, demonstrated through relevant certificates and assessed during the interview. Selection is based on thematic and methodological fit and previous academic results (40%), motivation (15%), language competence and performance during the interview (30%), and extra-curricular activities and/or additional languages (15%).
Admission steps
1
Learning outcomes
- You will be able to critically analyse the contemporary security environment, the position of small states and their strategic choices.
- You will be able to analyse new and unconventional threats, as well as the impact of technology, cyberspace and artificial intelligence on security.
- You will be familiar with the main areas of research on the security of small states and will apply them when assessing security policy and possible responses.
- You will be able to conduct academic and applied research independently, apply quantitative, qualitative and advanced methods of security analysis, critically evaluate information, and draw evidence-based conclusions and recommendations.
- You will be able to conduct academic and applied research independently, apply quantitative, qualitative and advanced methods of security analysis, critically evaluate information, and draw evidence-based conclusions and recommendations.
Financing
- 4 690 EUR
Career prospects
What's next?
Chat with VU students
If you need more information or personalised advice, choose a VU Ambassador from your home country or the desired study programme and submit your question using the form below. You can expect to hear back from us within 2–3 working days.
