Apply for TAU-SAIS Collaborative Degrees and Expand Your Horizons

The collaborative degree program with the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), first launched two years ago, has quickly become popular with TAU Social Science MA students. The program is currently accepting applications for the 2024-25 academic year. TAU graduate students can apply before January 31, 2024, to earn a second MA degree in Bologna, Italy. 

Graduate students majoring in Cyber Politics & Government, Conflict Resolution & Mediation, Sustainable Development, and Security & Diplomacy have an excellent opportunity to expand their academic horizons by tapping into the expertise of academic research and policy-making giants like TAU and Johns Hopkins and combining theoretical insights with practical applications.

Moreover, students will immerse themselves in the distinct cultures and charms of two diverse cities, Tel Aviv and Bologna.

As TAU Social Sciences Faculty Dean, Prof. Itai Sened, emphasizes, the program's mission is to equip students with in-depth knowledge and experience, empowering them to contribute to societal improvement and a better world.

Successful applicants will be able to spend a year in Bologna working towards their Master of Arts in International Affairs. Over two semesters, they can choose six to eight courses from a pool of over 75 English-taught courses and take part in academic writing sessions. There is also an option of writing a thesis.

In addition to academic subjects, the curriculum includes one-on-one career coaching, professional skills workshops, and a variety of career-centered events. 

Photo courtesy of Petr Pesov

Petr Pesov, one of the recent graduates, shares his impressions:

"I completed the MA in Conflict Resolution and Mediation, which was really helpful in enhancing my understanding of wars and armed disputes. My coursework at TAU focused on social psychology and political science, but I wanted to deepen my understanding of security and strategic affairs when it comes to war and that is something I was able to delve into at SAIS.

The program is designed in a way where you get general knowledge and are then able to choose where you want to dig deeper and fill in the missing pieces of the puzzle.

Furthermore, living in Tel Aviv and Bologna, two cities with a big student population, makes it easier to communicate with peers and discuss ideas, thus continuing to learn outside the classroom. 

During my time at SAIS, I was truly amazed by the level of experts I was able to interact with on a daily basis and their involvement both in theory and practice.

Some of my professors were involved in dealing with the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, others with transatlantic security and EU affairs. Sitting at the same table with them outside of class and even keeping in touch after graduation has helped me tremendously from a professional standpoint.

On top of world-class knowledge, one of the biggest benefits of the program is the network of alumni that both universities have. 

I now have friends all over the globe, working in so many industries, all of whom are in some way connected to what I do.  Being able to work together and discuss new ideas after school makes it an even better experience with an impact that stays forever. 

I am certain that these connections will be even more valuable in the future because everyone who goes through this type of collaborative programs between two renowned universities is destined to be successful in their respective field of expertise."

Photo courtesy of SAIS Europe

How to Apply

To apply, current TAU students need to submit a CV, TAU academic transcripts, recommendation letters, your statement of purpose, and a personal essay. GRE or GMAT results are optional. Non-native English speakers are required to provide proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge certificate scores). Successful applicants will be invited for an interview.

International students are invited to apply to TAU Social Science programs, which will enable them to join the collaborative degree track next year.

Download the presentation for more information.

Watch student testimonials.

Contact program coordinators for Cyber Politics, Conflict Resolution, Sustainable Development, and Security & Diplomacy at TAU to embark on a new academic journey.

Don't miss the chance to make the most of your graduate studies and become a true leader in policy-making and global development.