Study Fee: Click here to view the t(/study-fee)uition and subscription options.(/study-fee)(/study-fee) Monthly study plans start from €499 per month, depending on the program and level of academic support selected.

Study Method: This program is delivered 100% online, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world with flexible scheduling. Students may also have the option to attend the graduation ceremony in Switzerland, subject to visa approval and travel regulations.

Study Language: The program is delivered in English. Students are expected to have sufficient English language proficiency to complete the coursework and academic requirements.

Applications can be submitted online through our admission portal.(/apply)(/apply) Applicants may also contact or visit our offices in different regions, including: • Europe: Switzerland • GCC: Dubai (UAE) • Asia: Bishkek Our admissions team will guide you through the application and enrollment process.

Programs are offered through a flexible monthly subscription system, allowing students to progress at their own pace while maintaining access to academic resources and support services.

This program has a minimum study period depending on the academic level and program structure. Students may complete the program at their own pace while maintaining an active monthly subscription.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic entry requirements for the respective program level. Typical requirements may include: • A previous academic qualification relevant to the program level • A copy of passport or national ID • Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume • Completed online application form Additional documents may be requested depending on the program and the institution delivering the program.

Certification / Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of all academic requirements, students will receive the corresponding certificate or academic degree issued by the responsible institution within the VBNN Smart Education Group network.

Doctorate in International Relations

Feb 23
2 min read

This doctorate study program is a 100% research-based academic pathway designed for experienced professionals, policy analysts, diplomats, and scholars seeking to advance high-level expertise in global affairs and strategic international analysis. Positioned at a study level equal to EQF Level 8 and aligned with the Third European Cycle, the program emphasizes independent research, critical theory, and original contribution to the field of International Relations.

With a minimum duration of 18 months, the program offers flexibility for candidates who wish to extend their research timeline in accordance with professional or academic commitments. It is structured to support rigorous intellectual inquiry while enabling participants to explore complex global challenges in depth.

The academic framework consists of seven modules, designed to ensure methodological excellence and advanced specialization:

Four research-focused modules covering advanced research design, qualitative and quantitative methodologies, geopolitical risk analysis, comparative political systems, and academic publication strategies.
Two general modules that enhance interdisciplinary thinking, global governance perspectives, ethics in international policy, and strategic leadership in international contexts.
One specialized module in International Relations, concentrating on global diplomacy, international security architecture, multilateral institutions, international political economy, conflict resolution, and transnational cooperation.
In addition, participants engage in thesis and research activities, contributing original scholarship that addresses contemporary international dynamics and global policy challenges.

This doctorate study program is tailored for individuals aiming to operate at the highest analytical and strategic levels within international organizations, governmental institutions, global think tanks, diplomatic missions, multinational corporations, or academic research environments. It cultivates the capacity to interpret global transformations, assess geopolitical developments, and formulate evidence-based international policy recommendations.

Graduates of this program develop the ability to:

Produce original and impactful research in International Relations
Critically evaluate global governance systems and international institutions
Analyze geopolitical trends and international security developments
Design strategic frameworks for diplomacy, negotiation, and global cooperation
Contribute to academic discourse and high-level policy formulation

By combining theoretical depth with applied global relevance, this doctorate study program prepares participants to shape international dialogue and influence decision-making processes in an increasingly interconnected world.