MA in International relations with a focus on East-Asia

The application for self-financed students for the 2026/2027 academic year will be open from 1 February 2026 until 30 April 2026.

A full time, one-year masters programme in the heart of Central-Europe at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of Károli Gáspár University of the Reformed Church in Hungary, Budapest.

Duration: one academic year (from September to June)
Teaching location: Budapest, Hungary (EU)
Language of instruction: English

Programme Structure

By offering in-depth knowledge of the economies, nation-building processes, political traditions, foreign and security policies, legal systems, and technological innovations of China, Japan, and South Korea, our one-year English-language MA programme (60 ECTS) prepares students to navigate a future world where East Asia is a crucial player. Students will also develop their diplomatic and negotiation skills, along with the ability to communicate effectively in political decision-making contexts.

The curriculum addresses contemporary and often contested issues, encouraging discussion and critical debate. Our goal is not only to broaden students’ perspectives but also to inspire active engagement with East Asia—whether in diplomacy, media, policymaking, or research. Graduates will be well prepared for careers in international business, government institutions, and both intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations.

Main subject areas

• Europe – East Asia Relations
• Political Systems and Political Theories in East Asia
• East Asia and the Global South
• East Asian Economies and Trade
• Twin transition in East Asia - Sustainability and Digital Transformation)
• Eurasian Security
• Great Power Politics and International Institutions
• Chinese Law in Transformation and Regional Comparisons
• Practical Skills: Academic and Policy Research & Writing, Negotiation and Diplomacy, Survey Design and Implementation

The relevant curriculum can be found here.

Admission Criteria and Application Process

Entry requirements:

• First degree (BA or LLB) in all areas of humanities, social sciences, economics or law
• Minimum CEFR B2 level (internationally recognized language exam certificate, for example: TOEFL, IELTS, Pearson, Cambridge Proficiency; or a CEFR B2 level certificate recognized by state authorities in the applicant’s country).
• Application form.You can access the application form by clicking here.
• Motivation letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Payment of the application fee (non-refundable cost): 50 EUR/programme paid in 10 working days after filling in the application form. 

Bank account details
Name of the recepient: Karoli Gaspar Egyetem
Account number: 10404089-00033906-00000001
IBAN: HU03 1040 4089 0003 3906 0000 0001
SWIFT code: OKHBHUHB
Description: Full name_IR_GLEA

Fee-paying students

Self-financing applicants
The programme starts in September.
Tuition fee: 2,750 EUR/semester (for non-EEA citizens); 1,400 EUR/semester (for EEA citizens)
Self-funding applicants shall submit their documentation via our Online Application Platform.

Contact Information

Contact person: Agota Revesz
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Address:
Károli Gáspár University of the Reformed Church
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Registrar’s Office
1088 Budapest, Reviczky u. 4., Hungary