The English-taught MA Preparatory Programme is aimed at students who already hold an undergraduate university degree, have conditional acceptance into a Masters’ programme, but lack the general academic requirements. This programme provides the best possible academic and practical preparation for a subsequent Masters’ programme or an international working environment.

This bridge programme further supports second language users of English to ensure their advancement into a university graduate programme, such as the MA programmes at the Brussels School of Governance, the VUB, and other Belgian universities. It provides a framework of selected courses consisting of research methodological and academic writing courses, as well as academic foundation courses to assist in building a knowledge framework for your future Masters’ programme. For instance, a student may hold a diploma in International Affairs but does not have enough working knowledge of the European institutions.

To ensure the best possible academic performance, students will benefit from small classes, dedicated professors, and career advice services. Further, students will be assigned an academic advisor who will closely monitor their learning process and provide support in academic and administrative matters. The curriculum gives students a combination of theoretical and practical skills, in line with our STEP approach to teaching and learning excellence.

The Brussels School of Governance is an alliance between the Institute for European Studies (Vrije Universiteit Brussel) and Vesalius College. This MA Preparatory Programme is organised by Vesalius College.

Studying this MA Prep programme was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The courses have really helped me to build the foundations for enrolling in the Master's programme. The professors were approachable and always ready to help with whatever question I had. What made all the difference to me is the encouragement of critical and analytical thinking. I also very much appreciated the combined help of all the staff and the amazing learning facilities on campus.
Yen Hai Nguyen
MA Preparatory Programme alumnus

Learning objectives

  • Gain the subject-specific knowledge and skills required to embark onto graduate studies
  • To strengthen academic English writing and reading skills
  • To acquire understandings of methods for collecting and analyzing data
  • To acquire core organizational skills on how to study effectively
  • Enhance ability to work in a multinational environment and diverse teams