Internship component of MA Global Affairs and Eurasian Studies
Internship overview
As part of the MA programme, students will have the opportunity to complete a professional internship during their second semester in Astana.
The internship component is designed to bridge academic learning and professional practice by allowing students to apply their training in international relations, global political economy, and Eurasian studies within real-world institutional settings.
When does the internship take place?
During the Spring semester.
Placement opportunities and assessment
Students may undertake placements in institutions such as:
- embassies and diplomatic missions
- international organisations
- non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- think tanks and research centres
- international development agencies
- policy and consulting organisations
- selected private sector organisations
As part of the internship requirement, students will complete a policy-oriented written assignment under the supervision of both a faculty member and, where applicable, a professional mentor from the host organisation. The aim is to encourage students to connect theoretical knowledge with practical policy challenges.
The internship carries 6 ECTS credits.
Why do an internship?
The internship component is intended to help students:
- Gain professional experience in international and regional affairs.
- Develop policy analysis and communication skills.
- Build professional networks in Kazakhstan and beyond.
- Strengthen career readiness for work in diplomacy, international organisations, public policy, research, and related sectors.
- Apply academic knowledge to contemporary global and regional challenges.
The programme team at both universities will work with students to identify suitable placement opportunities aligned with their professional goals.
While we cannot guarantee placements in a specific organisation, the programme is actively developing partnerships with embassies, international organizations, NGOs, and other institutions in Astana. Students will study global affairs not only in the classroom, but also through direct interaction with institutions shaping policy and regional transformation across Eurasia.