American University in Bulgaria
1 Georgi Izmirliev Square, Blagoevgrad, 2700, Bulgaria
American University in Bulgaria
Globalization, liberalization, migration, regionalization, integration, revolution, digitalization, climate change, demographic change, interdependence… We may hear these words and may find it difficult to make sense of them. Yet, they affect us.
In our world of continuous change, we need to understand the forces and actors that affect how we think, how we work, how we live and how we live with others. The major in Political Science and International Relations prepares and encourages you to recognize, analyze, evaluate the role of major actors, structures and processes in our world.
A more developed understanding of the world allows you, the citizen, to choose and advocate better public policies on the local, national, and global levels. It allows you, the person, to approach problems from other viewpoints and develop different solutions that others may not see.
The POS program seeks to help you achieve the following learning outcomes over the course of your studies:
*understand political processes and institutions at the local, national, regional and global levels;
*appreciate other viewpoints, cultures and identities;
*consider the ethical implications of political issues, institutions and processes;
*research political issues and policy problems using appropriate methodologies;
*identify relevant information gathered from reliable sources;
*communicate clearly in a variety of formats;
*interact with others effectively to organize and complete projects.
The Political Science and International Relations major is traditionally considered excellent training for careers in government and diplomatic service, law, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and businesses that work with the public sector as well as for further education in graduate programs.
Graduates of the Political Science and International Relations program have gone on to complete graduate programs in Politics and other fields at prestigious universities such as the College of Europe, Harvard University, the London School of Economics and Political Science, Oxford University, Princeton University, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania. Graduates have gone on to careers in European and North American universities, non-governmental organizations, national ministries, European Union institutions, corporations and private companies.
Class schedule may change depending on availability and season.
Maximum | 40 students |
Age range | 16 years old and older |
The American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) offers excellent U.S. education at a very competitive price, with outstanding alumni success worldwide. AUBG is accredited both in the United States and in Bulgaria resulting in dual diploma - American and European. It offers 10+ BA programs, an Executive MBA program, and a joint venture Executive Master in Finance, Banking & Real Estate with SDA Bocconi. The university has about 1,000 students from 40+ countries and 70+ faculty members from 20 countries, and it provides the best student facilities in the region. Warm climate, clean air, mountains, rivers, and walking parks are just a few of the benefits of the home of AUBG - town of Blagoevgrad. Undisputed education leader, according to a national university ranking, AUBG is proud of graduates who top global success rankings with 99.8% employment rate.
The nationality and age mix at American University in Bulgaria varies over different time periods, courses and levels.
AUBG teaches students from all over the world, including:
AUBG does not hold classes on the holiday dates below. The school does not compensate for these holidays, so make sure to choose your start date accordingly.
Life in Blagoevgrad
If you’ve never heard of Blagoevgrad, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The Rough Guide to Bulgaria named the town the ‘coolest place in southwest Bulgaria,’ and with good reason.
It’s a small, vibrant university town (20,000 of the 80,000 residents are students!) within easy reach of the capital Sofia (a 1hr drive or easy bus ride away.)
There’s something for everyone in Blagoevgrad; the restored old quarter bustles with cafes and bars in a lively cultural scene set against beautiful architecture.
In town, you’ll be spoilt with 2.5km of leafy park alley for strolling, a fascinating historical museum and a rich program of events. Nightclubs, opera, restaurants and over 100 theater performances per year keep the lively population entertained.
It’s easy to get away and experience some of Bulgaria’s most stunning natural attractions too: the spa town of Sandanski, the Seven Lakes of Rila and two world-class ski resorts are close by. There are biking adventures to be had around town, and fans of hiking can take in some breathtaking views on foot.
For those seeking adventures further afield, you’ll be happy to find Macedonia on the doorstep (30km) and the delights of Greece only an hour’s drive away.
Student residences are more suitable for an independent student, who is looking for clean, basic accommodation at an economic price. All students must be 18+. Your housing starts on the Sunday before your first day of class and ends on the Saturday after your last day of class, unless otherwise noted. Student residences often do not include any meal plan. Learn more about student residence accommodation
We cannot apply for visas on behalf of students. However, the school can supply you with all the documentation you need to support your visa application.
Your letter of acceptance will be sent to your home address by regular mail at no charge to you.
Please note that we do not book flights for our students. If you are researching airfare costs, we recommend using Kayak.com, a search engine that lets you compare flight options from your home country to Blagoevgrad based on your budget, schedule and preferences.
Study abroad worry-free with Language International's health and personal effects insurance coverage. When you book a course with us, you can opt to purchase an international insurance plan that covers not only your health care cost but also loss of your personal belongings. You must book your insurance in advance when you register.
Have questions? Get answers from American University in Bulgaria staff, Language International student advisors, and past students.
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