Your fast track to a career in International Relations
Get a world-class Master’s degree from SOAS University of London and NU. Two prestigious names on one diploma

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MA in Global Affairs and Eurasian Studies
The Joint MA in Global Affairs and Eurasian Studies is a collaborative master’s programme from leading experts in international relations, security, energy, culture, and politics at Nazarbayev University and SOAS University of London.
You will study how global and regional powers interact — from diplomacy and security to energy, ecology, trade, and culture.

This programme is for students who want to:
  • work in diplomacy, international organisations, foundations, think tanks, and academia;
  • develop critical thinking, analyse political risks, and distinguish facts from disinformation;
  • build an international career connected to Eurasia.
Language of instruction: English.
Duration: 1 year, full‑time.

Format:
  • Semester 1 — in London, at SOAS University of London;
  • Semester 2 — in Astana, at Nazarbayev University, Department of Political Science and International Relations.
Start date: September 2026 (first cohort).


Tuition Fees: £15,000 per year
An investment in globally aligned education and long-term career growth

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Benefits of the NU–SOAS format

  • Two universities, two capitals:

    • London — a global hub for diplomacy and international relations;
    • Astana — a central Eurasian capital with direct access to government, diplomacy, and regional institutions.

  • Joint supervision and support:

    • Academic guidance from both NU and SOAS supervisors;
    • Unified support services for students.

  • Single‑fee structure:

    • One tuition mechanism for the whole programme;
    • Support with visas, accommodation, and logistics.

  • Institutional brands:

    • SOAS — leading global centre for research on Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Eurasia;
    • NU — the leading university in Central Asia, with international academic standards.
Programme structure (1 year, full‑time)
  • Semester 1
    SOAS, London
    • Core module: “Central Asia and the Caucasus” — a mandatory course that offers deep regional expertise.
    • Three optional modules on topics such as:
    • International relations, security, and diplomacy;
    • Political economy, energy, and environment;
    • Culture, history, and societies in Eurasia.
  • Semester 2
    NU, Astana
    • One additional core module in Politics and Eurasian Studies.
    • Specialised NU modules in:
    • Politics of Eurasia;
    • International relations;
    • Geopolitics, energy, and security.
    • Mandatory internship (credit‑bearing): in diplomatic missions, foundations, NGOs, or international organisations in Astana.
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Admission Requirements

  • Academic Background

    Bachelor (honours) degree or international equivalent

  • English Requirements

    IELTS: minimum 6.5 (typical requirement for graduate programs)

    TOEFL of 95 (23 in writing and 20 in other subscores)

  • Additional Requirements

    • Motivation letter;
    • CV;
    • Academic transcripts and diplomas;
    • Motivation clearly linked to global affairs, Eurasia, and your future career goals (To be clarified during the application process)

  • Important Dates

    Kazakhstan applicants:

    July 24, 2026


    International applicants:

    June 1, 2026

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