Master of Science Programme
Public Policy and Human Development
Education and examination regulations (EER)
September 2014 – August 2015
Table of contents
Part I
General terms
Part II
Structure of the programme
Part III
Examinations
Part IV
Admission
Part V
Final rules
Appendices
PART I
GENERAL TERMS
Article I.1 | Applicability of the rules |
These regulations apply to the curriculum and the exams of the Master of Science Programme
in Public Policy and Human Development (MPP), hereinafter called: the programme.
The programme is offered by the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance.
These regulations will take effect on 1 September 2014 for the students joining the
programme during the 2014/15 academic year. The education and examination regulations
are determined by the Board of the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences after the advice
and/or approval of the Faculty Council.
Article I.2 | Definition of terms |
In these rules the following terms and definitions are used:
1. Act: refers to the Dutch Higher Education and Research Act (Dutch statute book 1992,
593). In Dutch: Wet op Hoger onderwijs en Wetenschappelijk onderzoek (WHW).
2. Board of Admission: the committee that, in accordance with the admission requirements,
decides which students are to be admitted to the programme.
3. Board of Appeal for Examinations: the board as referred to in article 7.60 of the Act.
4. Capstone project: a combination of internship and Master thesis supervision arranged by
the school.
5. Course: a part of the programme.
6. Course coordinator: person assigned by the School to coordinate a course.
7. Credit(s): refers to ECTS credits.
8. ECTS: a number of points, fixed per examination as referred to in article 7.4 of the Act;
ECTS = European Credit Transfer System.
9. Education Director: person who is responsible for the academic content of the programme
and its implementation.
10. EleUM: the electronic learning environment of Maastricht University.
11. Exam: the Master’s exam of a study programme as required by article 7.3 of the Act.
12. Examination: a part of the exam as referred to in article 7.10 of the Act.
13. Examination Committee: the committee designated by the Dean of the Faculty of
Humanities and Sciences to deal with examination matters in accordance with article 7.12
of the Act.
14. Examiner: a staff member designated by the Examination Committee who is in charge of
the examination and assessment of the students.
15. Internship: a non-academic activity that provides the student with real-world experience
by embedding her/him in an organization, working on topics close to the MPP.
16. Programme: the Master of Science programme in Public Policy and Human Development.
17. Semester: one half of an academic year.
18. School: the Maastricht Graduate School of Governance.
19. Student: person who is enrolled in the programme and who is entitled to attend
educational activities and/or to take examinations of the programme.
20. Student Affairs Office: a team of administrative staff providing services relating to
admission, enrolment, education and general assistance.
All other terms are defined according to the Act.
Article I.3 | Objectives of the programme |
The programme intends to:
1.
provide academic education within the specific educational concept and profile of
Maastricht University;
2.
provide specialized knowledge, skills, and insights in the field of public policy and
human development and test students on their knowledge, understanding, and
participation by means of the exams;
3.
prepare students for professional and/or scientific work in the field of public policy and
human development.
2
Article I.4 | Programme form |
The programme is a one-year fulltime programme. The programme has an intake in
September each year.
3
PART II
STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME
Article II.1 | Study load |
The study load of the programme is 60 ECTS credits.
Article II.2 | Structure of the programme |
The programme is composed of two semesters, running September-January and FebruaryAugust, respectively. The study load is divided as follows:
First semester:
- Two core courses of 4 ECTS each
- One core course of 8 ECTS
- Two skills courses of 6 ECTS each
Second semester:
- Four specialisation courses of 4 ECTS each
The master’s exam is completed with a master thesis of 16 ECTS.
Article II.3 | Course choice |
In the first semester all students share the same set of courses and may be invited for
optional courses in the first semester as described in Article II.5. In the second semester
students are required to choose their own courses as described in Articles II.5 and II.6.
Students will be informed in advance about each choice, and are required to submit a choice
by the deadline indicated below. Course choices are binding after the deadline has passed.
Article II.4 | First semester: Joint programme |
All students share the same set of standardized courses in the first semester. Appendix 1
specifies the required courses and ECTS.
During the first semester, the course Econometrics offers an optional side course,
Econometrics plus for additional credit. This course can be offered to students showing good
performance. Participation is voluntary and exclusively on invitation.
Article II.5 | Second semester: Specialisation tracks |
During the second semester, the following specialisations can be offered:
- Social Protection Policy Design and Financing
- Migration Studies
- Trade and Development
- Risk and Vulnerability
- Regional Integration and Multi-Level Governance
- Innovation, Institutions and Development
Further details on the specialisations and ECTS credits can be found in Appendix 1.
All students are required to choose a specialization track during period 2a of the programme,
until November 28, 2014, 12:00 noon, even if they want to apply for a free elective track.
The Education Director will decide every year on the basis of the students’ choices which
specialisations will be offered. The minimum number of participants for a specialization track
is 8 students, not counting short course participants and free elective students.
Article II.6 | Second semester: Free elective track |
Students are allowed to submit their own combination of courses (the so-called Free Elective
Track) to replace the standard specialisation tracks. In this case, students must choose
courses offered in the regular specialisation tracks that are not running in parallel, amount to
a study load of 16 ECTS, and together form a relevant and consistent combination.
A well-reasoned request for a free-elective track must be submitted at the same time as the
specialization track choice, during period 2a of the programme, until November 28, 2014,
12:00 noon. The Education Director will decide whether the combination of courses fulfils the
above requirements and approves or rejects the request in writing. In case of a rejected
request, the student is enrolled in the specialization chosen according to article II.5.
4
Article II.7 | Internships |
1.
The student needs to inform Student Affairs at least one month before the start of the
internship.
2.
Internship shall not exceed a maximum of six months.
3.
No ECTS are awarded for an internship. An internship can therefore not replace courses.
4.
Students are not allowed to miss any courses due to an internship.
5.
Students shall stay enrolled in the programme and pay tuition during their internship.
Article II.8 | Capstone projects |
1.
The student needs to inform Student Affairs of participation in the capstone no later
than (a) the end of the capstone, or (b) four weeks prior to graduation, whichever
comes earlier.
2.
No ECTS can be awarded for a Capstone project in itself. The ECTS awarded to the
master thesis component of the program remain unchanged.
3.
The Capstone project will be mentioned on the student’s final transcript.
Article II.9 | Master’s exam |
The master’s exam consists of the following parts:
The examinations of the courses and skills trainings, and
The master thesis and the student’s defence thereof
Article II.10 | Language of instruction |
The language of instruction of the programme is English. In exceptional cases a student can
hand in a well-reasoned request to the Examination Committee to write their thesis in Dutch.
5
PART III
EXAMINATIONS
Article III.1 | Examination |
1.
Each examination, examination component or part thereof is an assessment of the
student’s knowledge, insights and/or skills, to be carried out by the Examination
Committee or examiner(s) (appointed by the Examination Committee as its
representative(s)).
2.
Examinations of the courses of the programme are taken in written and/or oral form.
3.
The student has to pass each course from the programme and a Master thesis, as
mentioned in articles II.2, II.9 and Appendix 1.
4.
Only students who are admitted to the programme or parts thereof are allowed to sit for
examinations.
Article III.2 | Examination periods and examination dates |
1.
Each course provides two exam opportunities per academic year at a date and time
determined by the Examination Committee: the first opportunity is during or
immediately after the course period; the re-examination takes place during the regular
re-examination periods indicated in the academic calendar.
2.
When registered for a course, a student is automatically registered for the examination
of that course.
3.
Students have to manually register for re-examinations if they did not pass the first
examination.
4.
There are two options for re-examinations. By default, one re-examination is offered for
each part of the assessment, excluding participation requirements. Students are entitled
to register for the re-examination of all components which they have failed.
Alternatively, one combined re-examination for all components may be offered,
provided that this is specifically noted in the course manual of that course. In this case,
any student who has failed the course is allowed to participate.
5.
The course coordinator decides upon the way in which a course is examined. This will be
announced in the course manual of the course in question.
6.
Students who have completed the graduation requirements with the exception of one
course may request an early re-examination if the next regularly scheduled
examination for this subject will take place over three months after the student has
completed all other requirements. This extra-ordinary re-examination can only be
requested once per student.
Article III.3 | Oral examinations |
1.
Only one person at a time may be tested orally.
2.
Oral tests are administered by two examiners.
3.
At the well-reasoned request of the examiner, the Examination Committee can decide
to deviate from Sect. 2.
4.
The student to be tested has the right to bring a witness, who may not be a student to
undergo the same examination.
Article III.4 | Assessment and publication of examination results |
1.
The examiner will mark the written test, paper, oral examination or assignment and
provide the administration of the School with the necessary information, after which the
marks will be published on My UM.
2.
Examination results will be published on My UM within fifteen working days after the
examination date.
3.
Grades are given between 1 and 10. The final course grade will be rounded off to one
decimal place. Only the final course grade is rounded off.
4.
A course is passed successfully when all course requirements have been met and the
final grade is 5.5 or higher. Final course grades above 5.4 and below 5.5 are always
rounded down to 5.4.
5.
None of the partial grades are transferrable to the next academic year.
6.
Examination results remain valid for a period of two years. At the well-reasoned request
of a student, the Examination Committee can extend the period of validity.
6
Article III.5 | Thesis regulations |
The Examination Committee lays down the rules and guidelines regarding the Master’s thesis
as part of the Master’s exam, including non-compliance with these rules. The thesis
regulations will be handed out to the students during the first semester.
Article III.6 | Right of inspection |
1.
The right of inspection comprises that, within 10 working days after the publication
date of the grade, students will be given the opportunity to inspect at a Maastricht
University location:
- their assessed written examination or written part of an examination;
- the questions and assignments posed and given within the framework thereof;
- the norms applicable to the assessment thereof.
2.
The announcement of a written (including computer-based) examination’s results will
specify how the right of inspection can be obtained.
3.
The student is not allowed to make any copies of their assessed examination or remove
it from Maastricht University premises.
Article III.7 | Complaints, applications and special requests |
When a complaint, application, or special request arises, a first step is a discussion with the
concerned examiner. When no agreement is met or the examiner has no authority in the
concerned matter, a well-reasoned request must be sent to the Examination Committee both
via email and in hard copy. The student will receive an email notification that the document
has been received. The second, hard copy of the request must be signed, dated, include the
name and address of the student and submitted to Maastricht University, Maastricht School of
Governance attn Examination Committee, P.O. box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht.
Article III.8 | Right of appeal |
When a decision by the Examination Committee is announced to a student, the student will
also be notified of the right to file an appeal within six weeks after the decision is announced.
The appeal can be submitted to Maastricht University, Student Service Centre, attn
Complaints Service Point, P.O. box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht. The appeal must be signed,
dated and include the name and address of the petitioner. It should also include the grounds
on which the appeal is based and, if possible, a copy of the decision being appealed.
Article III.9 | Awarding credits |
Credits for a course will be awarded only if all requirements of that course have been fulfilled.
A course is passed successfully when all course requirements have been met and the final
grade is 5.5 or higher.
Article III.10 | Study progress and advising |
1.
The School is responsible for the accurate registration of examination results, in order to
give students a transcript of their study achievements.
2.
The School is responsible for the guidance of enrolled students, also in order to inform
them about possible study options within the programme.
Article III.11 | Exemptions |
1.
The Examination Committee may, at a student’s request, grant the student an
exemption for a course if he/she provides sufficient evidence that he/she has
successfully completed a course or courses of equivalent content, study load and level
in another programme of higher education.
2.
An exemption can only be requested for the first semester courses.
3.
An exemption has to be requested at least four weeks before the start of the
course. An exemption cannot be granted after the course has started. An exception is
made for period one, in which an exemption can be requested until the end of the first
week of education, 5 September 2014.
4.
The Examination Committee will not grant any exemption based on exams passed by a
student outside the programme during the period in which the student was barred from
taking exams for the programme by the Examination Committee because of fraud.
5.
The Examination Committee may ask the examiner(s) concerned for advice before
making a decision.
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Article III.12 | Special examinations for disabled students |
1.
The Examination Committee may decide to apply special examination regulations for
disabled students. Such students will be given the opportunity to take the examinations
in a way that is adapted to their individual situation within the limits of the School’s
logistic means.
2.
The student has to submit a written, well-reasoned request to the Examination
Committee at least four weeks in advance of the examination.
3.
The Examination Committee will base their decision on the advice of an expert and
therefore will first refer the student to a student dean or an expert.
Article III.13 | Obtaining the Master Degree |
The Examination Committee will decide whether a student has fulfilled all requirements of the
Master of Science Degree.
Article III.14 | Degree and diploma |
1.
The Examination Committee awards a Master of Science Degree to students who have
fulfilled all requirements of the programme.
2.
The diploma will state:
- the name of the university;
- the name of the Master of Science Programme;
- the date of the most recent accreditation;
- the degree granted.
3.
Together with the diploma, a diploma supplement and a transcript of the student’s list
of grades is issued on which all programme modules, courses, marks and credits are
mentioned.
4.
The Examination Committee can award the degree classification “cum laude” according
to the conditions stated in article III.16.
5.
The Education Director of the programme and the Chair of the Examination Committee
will sign the certificate.
Article III.15 | Certificates |
When a student has not fulfilled all requirements of the programme, she/he can request the
Examination Committee to issue a certificate for each course successfully completed. These
certificates are issued by the School on the well-reasoned request of the student. Upon
receiving certificates, the student is not awarded the Master of Science Degree.
Article III.16 | Cum Laude |
1.
When the candidate has given evidence of exceptional skills during the programme,
such will be indicated on the diploma with the words “cum laude”.
2.
The Master of Science Degree is awarded “cum laude” if the candidate has obtained a
weighted average score of 8.0 (including the thesis), on the condition that no reexamination have been taken and none of the marks obtained is below 7. Weighting is
based on ECTS credits.
3.
Courses that have a pass/fail assessment are not included in the calculation.
4.
Only courses offered within the MPP are included in the calculation.
5.
Any exemptions granted are not taken into account when calculating if a student is
passed “cum laude”.
8
Article III.17 | Fraud |
1.
‘Fraud’, including ‘plagiarism’, means actions or omissions by a student which make it
impossible in whole or in part to properly evaluate his/her knowledge, understanding
and skills.
2.
‘Plagiarism’ means the presentation of ideas or words from one’s own or someone else’s
sources without proper acknowledgment of sources.
3.
Examiners are required to report any cases of fraud encountered as part of their duties
to the Examination Committee. The Examination Committee will inform the concerned
student(s) of this fact.
4.
If the Examination Committee determines that a student has engaged in fraud with
respect to an exam or exam component, the Examination Committee can take
appropriate measures as described in Appendix 2 of this document.
5.
In serious cases of fraud, the Examination Committee can propose to UM’s Executive
Board that the student(s) concerned be permanently deregistered from the programme.
6.
The Rules and Regulations in Appendix 2 include further provisions about what
constitutes fraud and which disciplinary measures the Examination Committee can
impose.
9
PART IV
ADMISSION
Article IV.1 | Eligibility |
Qualified for admission to the programme are the applicants who met all the requirements
mentioned in article IV.2 and have been issued a letter of acceptance.
Article IV.2 | Letter of acceptance |
The letter of acceptance may be issued if the applicant has handed in the required documents
listed below and has been positively assessed by the Board of Admissions:
1.
A bachelor’s or master’s degree from a relevant academic field such as economics,
international relations, political science, law, social sciences, business administration,
health sciences or public health.
2.
Basic knowledge of statistics and mathematics.
3.
Basic knowledge of economics, social sciences, political science and/or law.
4.
A certified list of grades of bachelor’s or master’s degree.
5.
A certified copy of the bachelor’s and/or master’s diploma, or, if the diploma has not
yet been issued, a certified graduation statement.
6.
An essay (400 words) related to a topic of one of the programme’s specialisations.
7.
Proof of sufficient proficiency in English. This must be presented by submitting the
results from either a TOEFL test (with a minimum score of 600pbt, 240cbt or 100ibt),
or IELTS test (minimum score 7). Exempted from this requirement are: a. those
whose mother tongue is English and b. those who received their bachelor’s or master’s
education in English in a country where English is an official language.
8.
A letter of motivation (400-500 words) which explains the reason(s) why the
candidate chooses the programme and in which the candidate convinces the
Admission Board that he or she has the intellectual capacities and personal skills to
complete the programme successfully.
9.
Two letters of recommendation by current/former professors or employers.
Article IV.3 | Board of Admission |
On behalf of the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, the Board of Admission of
the School is responsible for assessing the applicants’ eligibility and issuing the letters of
acceptance.
10
PART V
FINAL RULES
Article V.1 | Unforeseen cases |
In cases not provided for by these regulations, the Examination Committee will decide. The
Board will provide its decision and reasoning in writing.
Article V.2 | Hardship clause |
In exceptional and individual cases, the Examination Committee is authorized to deviate from
these regulations if unimpaired application will lead to serious injustices to the students.
Article V.3 | Commencement |
These regulations come into force on 1 September 2014.
11
Appendix 1. Programme structure and ECTS
The first semester consists of:
o Core course: Introduction to Public Policy (4 ECTS)
o Core course: Public Economics (4 ECTS)
o Core course: Public Policy Analysis (8 ECTS)
o Skills training: Introduction to Statistics (6 ECTS)
o Skills training: Econometrics (6 ECTS) or Econometrics Plus (optional replacement with
prerequisites, 8 ECTS)
In the second semester, the student will choose a specialisation.
Specialisation 1: Social Protection Policy Design and Financing
o The Global Social Challenge: Beyond Poverty and Inequality (4 ECTS)
o Understanding Social Protection (4 ECTS)
o Quantitative Techniques for Social Protection Policy Design (4 ECTS)
o Financing Social Protection (4 ECTS)
Specialisation 2: Trade and Development
o International Economics (4 ECTS)
o The Law and Policy of the World Trade Organization (4 ECTS)
o International Intellectual Property Law and Policy (4 ECTS)
o International Development Law (4 ECTS)
Specialisation 3: Migration studies
o Introduction to Migration Studies (4 ECTS)
o Migration and Remittances Effects (4 ECTS)
o Data Collection and Analysis for Migration Studies (4 ECTS)
o Comparative Migration Policy (4 ECTS)
Specialisation 4: Risk and Vulnerability
o Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (4 ECTS)
o Building Resilience and Adaptive Governance (4 ECTS)
o Risk Management in Crisis Situations (4 ECTS)
o Risk Communication (4 ECTS)
Specialisation 5: Regional Integration & Multi-Level Governance
o Introduction to Regions (4 ECTS)
o Comparative Regionalism (4 ECTS)
o Regional Integration and Multi-Level Governance (4 ECTS)
o Research Seminar: Topical Issues in Comparative Regionalism (4 ECTS)
Specialisation 6: Innovation, Institutions & Development
o Innovation and the Global Income Distribution (4 ECTS)
o Innovation and Development Patterns around the Globe (4 ECTS)
o Innovation Systems in the Global Economy (4 ECTS)
o Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (4 ECTS)
Free elective track:
See Article II.6.
Other:
o Master thesis (16 ECTS)
12
Appendix 2. Further provisions regarding fraud, including plagiarism, and
disciplinary measures in the event of fraud
1.
2.
3.
4.
4a.
5.
6.
7.
8.
If the Examination Committee determines that, with respect to an examination or
examination component, a student:
a.
has possessed impermissible resources, texts or notes or has utilised
impermissible electronic resources and/or communications;
b.
has communicated or attempted to communicate with another student verbally or
through gestures without permission from an invigilator, examiner or Examination
Committee member;
c.
has copied or attempted to copy from another student, or has provided the
opportunity to copy;
d.
has posed as someone else or allowed this to occur;
e.
has deliberately misled, or at least attempted to mislead or provided the
opportunity to mislead, the Examination Committee, marker, examiner or
invigilator with respect to the examination,
the Examination Committee may impose one of the disciplinary measures referred to in
paragraph 4 of this Appendix.
If the Examination Committee determines that a student has engaged in plagiarism with
respect to an examination or examination component, including if the student:
a.
has used or copied from his/her own or someone else’s texts, information, ideas
or thoughts without proper acknowledgment of sources;
b.
has presented the structure or main ideas from third-party sources as his/her own
work or ideas;
c.
has not clearly indicated in the text, for example, through quotation marks or a
specific design, that verbatim or nearly verbatim quotes have been used;
d.
has paraphrased the substance of his/her own or someone else’s texts without
proper acknowledgment of sources;
e.
has copied visual, sound or test materials, software or program codes from others
without proper acknowledgment of sources, thereby giving the impression that
these are his/her own work;
f.
has copied work from other students and passed this off as his/her own work;
g.
has submitted work or papers which have been obtained from third parties or
which have been written – for payment or not – by someone else, and has passed
these off as his/her own work,
the Examination Committee may impose one of the disciplinary measures referred to in
paragraph 4 of this Appendix.
If the Examination Committee determines that a student has otherwise committed fraud
with respect to an exam or exam component, the Examination Committee may impose
one of the disciplinary measures referred to in paragraph 4 of this Appendix.
In the cases referred to under paragraphs 1, 2 and/or 3, the Examination Committee
will grade the examination in question as failed, as well as impose the following
disciplinary measures:
a reprimand;
barring the student from sitting for one or more examinations for the programme
for a period of at most one year.
In serious cases of fraud, the Examination Committee can propose to the Executive
Board of the university that the student(s) concerned be permanently deregistered from
the programme.
Before imposing an appropriate disciplinary measure, or making a proposal to the
Executive Board, the Examination Committee will give the student in question the
opportunity to be heard.
If fraud is found, this will be noted in the student’s concerned dossier.
If, after investigation, it is ultimately determined that the student concerned did not
commit fraud, the names will be removed from the correspondence about the alleged
fraud and the correspondence will not be included in the student’s concerned dossier.
The Examination Committee does not grant any exemption based on study results
attained outside the student’s own programme which were obtained during the period in
which the student was barred from sitting for exams for the programme on account of
the fraud committed.
13
Rules Governing the
United Nations University
Master of Science Double Degree
in Public Policy and Human
Development
SUMMARY SHEET
REFERENCE ID:
UNU/RUL/RO/OAA/006
POLICY GROUP
Office of the Rector
POLICY SUB GROUP
Office of Academic Affairs
NAME OF POLICY
Rules Governing the United Nations University Master of Science
Double Degree in Public Policy and Human Development
ISSUED BY
David M. Malone, Rector
DATE OF FIRST ISSUE
1 September 2013
REVISION #
--
REVISION HISTORY
--
APPLICABILITY
These Rules are applicable to students enrolled in the United
Nations University Master of Science Double Degree in Public
Policy and Human Development
OFFICE RESPONSIBLE FOR
MAINTAINING THIS DOCUMENT
Office of Academic Affairs
United Nations University
53-70, Jingumae 5-chome
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Japan 150-8925
Tel: +81-3-5467-1212
Fax +81-3-3499-2810
Email: academicaffairs@unu.edu
PERSONS CONSULTED IN DEVELOPING
POLICY
UNU-MERIT
DETAIL OF DISSEMINATION
Matriculated students of the Double Degree programme
UNU Institute and Programme Directors and Academic
Programme Directors
Table of Contents
I.
Citation .................................................................................................................... 1
II. Definitions............................................................................................................... 1
III. Applicability ........................................................................................................... 2
IV. Aims of the Programme of Study ......................................................................... 2
V. Admissions .............................................................................................................. 3
Responsibilities............................................................................................................................. 3
Notification of Decision ................................................................................................................ 3
Programme Enrolment Procedures ............................................................................................ 3
Deferral of Admission................................................................................................................... 4
VI. Minimum Admissions Requirements ................................................................... 4
Language Requirements .............................................................................................................. 4
Admissions Essay ......................................................................................................................... 4
Submission of Official Transcripts .............................................................................................. 4
Letters of Recommendation......................................................................................................... 4
Submission of the Résumé ........................................................................................................... 5
Additional Requirements ............................................................................................................. 5
VII. Structure of the Programme of Study ................................................................. 5
Language of Study ........................................................................................................................ 5
Academic Adviser ......................................................................................................................... 5
Full-time Study ............................................................................................................................. 5
Course Registration ...................................................................................................................... 5
Tuition and Other Fees ................................................................................................................. 6
Tuition Refunds ............................................................................................................................ 6
Equivalency and Transfer of Credit ............................................................................................. 6
Leave of Absence from the Degree Programme ......................................................................... 6
Withdrawal from the Degree Programme .................................................................................. 7
VIII. Course Requirements and Examinations ....................................................... 7
Consultation of Experts ................................................................................................................ 7
Rules for Academic Examinations ............................................................................................... 7
Examination Periods and Publication of Results ....................................................................... 8
Right of Inspection........................................................................................................................ 8
IX. Repetition of Examinations and Courses ............................................................ 8
X. Grading Scales ....................................................................................................... 9
Designators and Other Non-grade Symbols Approved for Use in Reporting Course
Results ......................................................................................................................................... 10
Awarding Credits ........................................................................................................................ 10
Graduating with Distinction....................................................................................................... 10
XI. Master’s Thesis .................................................................................................... 10
XII. Student Conduct .................................................................................................. 11
Misconduct .................................................................................................................................. 11
XIII. General Procedures Regarding Disciplinary Action ................................... 12
Procedural Fairness.................................................................................................................... 12
Summary Powers Relating to Misconduct ................................................................................ 13
Charges of Misconduct ............................................................................................................... 13
Retention in Security of Documents .......................................................................................... 13
Procedure for Hearing Charges ................................................................................................. 14
XIV. Student Complaints Procedure ...................................................................... 16
XV. Conditions for the Award of a Degree ............................................................... 19
XVI. Master’s Degree and Student Transcript ..................................................... 19
Master of Science Degree ........................................................................................................... 19
UNU Student Transcripts ........................................................................................................... 19
XVII. Final Provisions ............................................................................................... 20
Amendments ............................................................................................................................... 20
Announcement ............................................................................................................................ 20
Unforeseen Circumstances ........................................................................................................ 20
Hardship ...................................................................................................................................... 20
Coming into Force....................................................................................................................... 20
Annex A. List of Courses ............................................................................................ 21
Semester 1 ................................................................................................................................... 21
Semester 2 ................................................................................................................................... 21
I. CITATION
1.
These Rules are made pursuant to Section 23 of the UNU Programmes and Awards Statute and may be
cited as the “United Nations University Rules for the Master of Science double degree programme in Public
Policy and Human Development at UNU-MERIT”.
II. DEFINITIONS
2.
In these Rules governing the United Nations University Master of Science double degree programme in
Public Policy and Human Development at UNU-MERIT:
2.1.
“University,” or “UNU” means the United Nations University institute, programme, office, unit, or
combination thereof involved in the functioning of this programme;
2.2.
“Office of Academic Affairs” means the Office located at the United Nations University
Headquarters in Tokyo, Japan;
2.3.
“Academic Committee” means the body established under Section 15 of the Postgraduate
Programmes and Awards Statute;
2.4.
“Board of Admissions and Exams” means a body composed of the Academic Programme Director
and at least two senior members of the academic personnel of UNU-MERIT;
2.5.
“University personnel” means the academic and administrative personnel as defined in Article VIII
of the University Charter and Article II of the UNU Personnel Policy;
2.6.
“Inquiry Committee” means a body nominated by the Rector to address a matter of misconduct or
an infraction of University rules. It shall include a Vice-Rector as Chairperson, the Academic
Programme Director and Director of UNU-MERIT, two senior members of the academic personnel
drawn from within the University and at minimum one graduate student from the Programme or if
not feasible from another UNU postgraduate programme, who shall be nominated by the
Chairperson;
2.7.
“Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs” means the Vice-Rector assigned by the Rector to manage the
Office of Academic Affairs and oversee the effective implementation of its mandate. In the absence
of a Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, the Rector shall assume these functions or, on an interim
basis, appoint a member of the University personnel to do so;
2.8.
“Instructor” means an academic responsible for a (or part of a) UNU educational course;
2.9.
“Academic Adviser” means an academic designated by the Chairperson of the Board of Admissions
and Exams to guide and support a student’s academic development during the programme. The role
of the Academic Adviser shall be considered distinct from, but complimentary to the role of the
Thesis Supervisor. However, they may be one and the same person;
2.10.
“Thesis Supervisor” means an academic, chosen by the student and approved by the Board of
Admissions and Exams, to guide and supervise the progress of the master’s thesis component of a
student’s programme of study;
2.11.
“Student” means a person enrolled in a postgraduate programme offered in whole or in part by the
University leading to the conferral of a UNU degree;
2.12.
“Enrolment” means participation by a student in a course or programme of study following
acceptance of admission to the course or programme;
2.13.
“Obligation” means any action required of students by the University such as the payment of
monies, or the return of books or pieces of equipment, arising as a consequence of the student’s
enrolment in the University and the accompanying commitments thereof;
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2.14.
“Residence” means the period of time that a student spends at the University during their enrolment
in the degree programme;
2.15.
“Academic year” means the period of academic study beginning on 1 September and ending on 31
August;
2.16.
“Semester” means a five (5) to seven (7) month division of the academic year;
2.17.
“Course” means a classroom-based educational component of a programme of study;
2.18.
“Course syllabus” means a paper or electronic document outlining the goals and content of a
particular course, describing methods of instruction, examination, learning outcomes, and
appropriate reading list of that particular course and prescribing particular rules and guidelines
applicable to the course;
2.19.
“Course period” means a temporal unit as defined in the academic year, equal to the duration of the
educational activities and subsequent examination of a course;
2.20.
“Activity” means any lecture, tutorial, seminar, demonstration class, University ceremony, social
function, briefing session, or similar activity, whether or not one that students are required to attend;
2.21.
“Credit” means one credit unit based on a study load of approximately twenty-eight (28) hours of
work;
2.22.
“Elective” means a freely chosen course, selected as part of the master’s programme from the list of
electives provided in the relevant programme of study;
2.23.
“Thesis” means an independently and individually written research paper on a particular subject,
rigorously analyzed from a theoretical and/or practical viewpoint, resulting in an original academic
contribution. The thesis is an integral and necessary element to the award of a United Nations
University Master of Science degree.
III. APPLICABILITY
3.
These Rules shall be applicable to the United Nations University Master of Science double degree
programme in Public Policy and Human Development at UNU-MERIT. All students enrolled in this
postgraduate degree programme shall be responsible for complying with these Rules as well as policies,
guidelines and other issuances which may be issued from time to time. Students shall familiarize
themselves with other general information documents including, but not limited to, the Master’s Thesis
Regulations. The University reserves the right to change Rules, policies, guidelines, and other issuances
whenever such action is deemed appropriate or necessary. Students will follow the statutes, regulations and
rules of their Home University during their period of candidature, unless they are following a course or
receiving supervision at the Host University, in which case the Host University rules shall apply. Rules
governing the examination of the master’s thesis shall follow those of the student’s Home University.
IV. AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME OF STUDY
4.
The United Nations University Master of Science Double Degree Programme in Public Policy and Human
Development shall contain sufficient elements beneficial to the academic growth of the student, in
particular regarding:
4.1.
4.2.
4.3.
Provision of an academic education within the context of the specific educational concept and
profile of the University;
Provision of in-depth knowledge and understanding tailored to the student’s specific academic
field of choice;
Support for independent and scientific thinking and research, evidenced by, inter alia, the
successful deposition and defence of a master’s thesis;
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4.4.
Support for the further development of academic, analytical and communication skills.
V. ADMISSIONS
5.
The Director of UNU-MERIT or his or her delegate shall appoint the members of the Board of Admissions
and Exams on a yearly basis. The Office of Academic Affairs will be notified of the composition of the
Board upon its establishment.
6.
The Board of Admissions and Exams shall decide on the admission of candidates to this programme on the
basis of mutually agreed criteria as specified in Article 6, Paragraph 3 of the Framework Agreement.
7.
The application deadlines for each admission cycle will be announced on the University website.
Responsibilities
8.
9.
The University shall be responsible for:
8.1.
Considering the merits of each application in relation to the programme;
8.2.
Responding clearly and promptly to all applications;
8.3.
Treating the information within each application as confidential.
Applicants shall, upon request, be responsible for giving the University honest and full statements of their
qualifications, prior experience and needs, which may include:
9.1.
9.2.
9.3.
9.4.
9.5.
9.6.
9.7.
Qualifications achieved through formal learning;
Relevant work experience or training;
Other evidence of relevant learning achieved through experience;
Disabilities and any specific needs students have for support in their learning;
Financial needs;
Any criminal convictions;
Other information attesting to the applicant’s record or qualifications requested by the
University.
Notification of Decision
10. The length of the application review process may vary. The Board of Admissions and Exams will notify
the applicant once a decision has been made. The official notification of the decision is the letter bearing the
signature of the Chairperson of the Board of Admissions and Exams or their designate.
11. All documents submitted by applicants who have not been admitted to this programme shall be destroyed
after twenty-four (24) months of a decision being taken.
Programme Enrolment Procedures
12. Successful applicants will have up to one month after the start of the academic year to send the following
official original documents to UNU-MERIT:
12.1.
12.2.
The original completed application form with photo and signature;
Official original copies of the academic transcripts of the student’s university courses in one
of the following languages: English, Dutch, French, or German or a certified translation
thereof;
12.3.
An official certificate of all degrees achieved so far in one of the following languages: English,
Dutch, French, or German or a certified translation thereof; and,
12.4.
Proof of payment of the university fees, if applicable.
13. To remain in the Programme, students must retain their enrolment at both UNU and UM. Loss of enrolment
at either university will result in their non-participation in the Programme.
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Deferral of Admission
14. Normally, students will not be permitted to defer their offer of admissions to the Programme.
VI. MINIMUM ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
15. Admission to this programme shall be open to applicants who have successfully obtained a bachelor’s
degree, master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field of study, and who have demonstrated basic
knowledge of statistics and mathematics, as well as basic knowledge of economics, social sciences, political
science and/or law. The requirements outlined below shall apply to all applications received by UNUMERIT for this programme of study.
16. Applicants seeking admission to this programme shall fill in and submit a standard admission form and may
be required to provide application materials in addition to those listed below.
Language Requirements
17. Applicants seeking admission to this programme must demonstrate a sufficient command of the English
language.
18. If an applicant’s native language is English, an English proficiency exam will not be required. If the
applicant has successfully completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent where the official language of
instruction was English, an English proficiency exam will not be required.
19. English proficiency will be assessed by the Board of Admissions and Exams in accordance with the
following:
19.1. The minimum TOEFL exam score required by UNU-MERIT will be 100 on the internet-based exam
(IBT), and 600 on the paper-based exam (PBT).
19.2. The minimum International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam score required by UNUMERIT will be an overall band score of 7.0.
19.3. Partial test scores are required to reflect the same level of English as the overall score.
Personal Statement
20. Applicants shall present a written statement, one (1) to two (2) pages in length, describing their motivation,
background, past work in the intended field of study, future career plans, and any other information they
feel is relevant.
Admissions Essay
21. Applicants shall present a short essay, one (1) to two (2) pages in length, responding to a question relating
to one of the programme specializations. Essays shall conform to the principles of student conduct as listed
in Section XII of these rules.
Submission of Official Transcripts
22. Applicants shall submit an official transcript from each college or university in which they were enrolled
for any period of time, showing all courses, grades and degrees received, if any.
23. UNU-MERIT will accept official transcripts by electronic submission.
Letters of Recommendation
24. Applicants shall be required to submit a minimum of two (2) letters of recommendation.
25. Letters of recommendation will be written by people who can comment from personal knowledge on the
applicant’s academic or professional qualifications for postgraduate study.
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26. Recommendations written by family members or friends will not be appropriate for the purposes of this
application.
27. Applicants must provide the name, title, address, telephone number, and e-mail where possible of each
recommender in the space provided on the application form.
28. All letters of recommendation must bear the signature of the recommender and must be issued on the
official letterhead of their institution/organization. UNU-MERIT will accept letters of recommendation by
electronic submission. If the recommender prefers, the letter may be sent directly to UNU-MERIT. In such
cases, the recommender’s signature must appear on both the letter of recommendation and across the sealed
flap.
29. Letters of recommendation will only be used for the purpose of admission to the master’s degree
programme.
Submission of the Résumé
30. A current résumé including a chronological listing of employment and other significant activities must be
submitted with any application.
Additional Requirements
31. The Board of Admissions and Exams may require applicants to report scores from standardized tests. In
such cases, applicants will be expected to take any required standardized tests well before the application
deadline(s). Official scores of any required standardized test, such as the TOEFL, or IELTS must be
directly reported to UNU-MERIT by the testing centres. Expired scores or scores older than three years will
not be accepted.
32. The Board of Admissions and Exams may also require submission of additional documents which will be
used to reach a decision on admission.
VII.
STRUCTURE OF THE PROGRAMME OF STUDY
Language of Study
33. The medium of instruction shall be in the English language.
Academic Adviser
34. An academic adviser shall be assigned to each student admitted to the study programme. The academic
adviser will meet with the student to discuss his or her background, as well as preparation for and progress
in the Programme.
Full-time Study
35. The United Nations University Master of Science Double Degree Programme in Public Policy and Human
Development shall be made up of sixty (60) ECTS credits.
36. Students shall be normally expected take an average of thirty (30) credits per semester.
37. This Programme shall be offered on a full-time basis only.
38. In order to meet the degree requirements for this Programme, students will need to select a number of
electives from the electives list published at the outset of every academic year.
Course Registration
39. Students will be required to notify the Board of Admissions and Exams of their desired courses by
completing the designated online course registration form.
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40. Students can change their registration before the designated deadline by resubmitted the designated online
course registration form. Should multiple registrations be received only the most recent submission will be
deemed valid.
41. Course registration deadlines will be communicated at by the Board of Admissions and Exams at least four
(4) weeks before any such deadline.
42. Course registration will be confirmed by the Board of Admissions and Exams.
Tuition and Other Fees
43. Tuition fees for this Programme shall be determined annually and prior to the start of the academic year in
consultation with the Universiteit Maastricht.
44. Students shall be required to pay the full tuition fee within four weeks of the start of the academic year.
45. Students shall be required to provide proof of payment in accordance with Rule 12.4.
Tuition Refunds
46. In the event a student withdraws prior to completion of the Programme, the student may be eligible to
receive a partial refund for the portion of the programme remaining.
47. If the student is expelled from the programme of study no refund shall be made.
Equivalency and Transfer of Credit
48. The Board of Admissions and Exams is authorized to grant equivalency for a required course provided that
the student can demonstrate the successful completion of a similar course at a recognized institution of
higher education.
49. A request for recognition of course equivalency must be submitted to the Board of Admissions and Exams
along with all necessary forms and supporting documents. Along with the request, the student will need to
submit properly validated documentation proving the successful completion of a similar course and the
acquisition of the equivalent skills. Such requests must made at least four (4) weeks prior to the start of the
course for which equivalency is being sought.
50. Only courses which have been (i) successfully completed, (ii) submitted on an official transcript from a
recognized institution of higher education, and (iii) granted or assigned credit on the transcript of that
institution, may be considered for equivalency and transfer of credit. Transfer credit will be awarded at the
discretion of the Board of Admissions and Exams.
51. In instances where a substitution and transfer of credit has been granted, the student’s transcript will carry
the notation ‘XMP’ based on the Designators and Other Non-grade Symbols Approved for Use in
Reporting Course Results specified in Rule 86. This notation carries credit for the course but will not be
considered for averaging purposes.
52. A transfer of credit will not result in a reduction of the programme fees.
53. No exemption or equivalency can be granted for the thesis component.
54. No exemption or equivalency shall be granted based on exams passed by a student outside the Programme
during a period in which the student was suspended from the Programme.
Leave of Absence from the Degree Programme
55. A leave of absence may be granted by the University on a case-by-case basis, for justifiable reasons. In
order to request a leave of absence from the programme, students must submit a written notification to the
Chairperson of the Board of Admissions and Exams; the BAE shall forward a copy of the notification to the
Office of Academic Affairs (Tokyo). Students will not be permitted to resume the academic programme if
the leave of absence exceeds a twenty-four (24) month period from the time of enrolment.
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56. Students requesting a leave of absence for health reasons must also submit a certified medical certificate. A
leave of absence for health reasons is not counted towards the maximum enrolment period as specified in
Rule 200.
Withdrawal from the Degree Programme
57. In order to withdraw from this Programme, students must submit written notification to both the
Chairperson of the Board of Admissions and Exams and the Office of Academic Affairs. Any refund of fees
will follow the principle stated in Rules 46 and 47. Application for re-admission by a student who has
withdrawn will be considered in competition with all other applicants and subject to the admissions
requirements then obtaining.
VIII.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS AND EXAMINATIONS
58. The Board of Admissions and Exams shall uphold the rules and guidelines regarding proper conduct in
examinations and regarding the procedural aspects of such examinations.
59. In case of irregularities in an examination or part(s) thereof, preventing the Board of Admissions and
Exams from assessing the student’s knowledge, the Chair of the BAE shall be authorized to take action to
remedy the situation.
Consultation of Experts
60. Before reaching a decision, the Chair of the BAE may consult an expert on the matter referred to in Rule 59
above.
Rules for Academic Examinations
61. To ensure that the method of evaluation in every course reflects appropriate academic standards and
fairness to students, UNU-MERIT shall apply the following rules governing course procedures:
61.1.
61.2.
61.3.
61.4.
61.5.
Prior to the first day of a UNU course, the course instructor shall make available to the
students, and shall file with the Office of Academic Affairs, the method(s) by which student
performance shall be evaluated. This information shall describe the method(s) (including
essays, tests, examinations and presentations), the relative weight of these evaluation(s) in
relation to the overall course grade, and the timing of each major evaluation. This information
shall be embodied in a course syllabus.
Examinations shall be taken orally, in writing, or otherwise as announced in the course
syllabus, without prejudice to the competence of the Board of Admissions and Exams to
determine otherwise in exceptional cases. Any changes made to examinations by a decision of
a course instructor or the Board of Admissions and Exams shall be communicated to students
in a timely manner. The Office of Academic Affairs shall be notified of all changes to course
examinations as announced in the course syllabus.
The relative value of each part of an in-course examination shall be indicated to the student at
the time of the examination. In the case of a written examination, the value of each part shall
be indicated on the examination paper.
Grades shall be assigned by the instructor in reference to the approved grade scales and on the
basis of each student’s performance.
The Rector or an Inquiry Committee may request an explanation of any grades for a course
that appear not to be based on the approved grade scales or otherwise appear anomalous in
reference to these Rules.
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62. Presence at and participation in educational activities may be part of course examinations when announced
along with the assessment norms in the course syllabus. However, presence and participation evaluations
shall count for no more than thirty (30) percent of the evaluation total.
Examination Periods and Publication of Results
63. Examination dates, including dates for re-sit exams, shall be announced at the start of the course.
64. To the extent possible, UNU-MERIT will take into consideration religious holidays in the scheduling of
examinations.
65. Examination results shall be made available to the student within fifteen (15) working days after each
individual examination.
66. Course results shall be made available together with the last examination results of any course.
67. Course results shall be reflected on the student transcript fifteen (15) working days from the date when such
results are available.
Right of Inspection
68. Within ten (10) working days after the publication of examination results, students will be given the
opportunity to inspect:
68.1.
their assessed written examination; and,
68.2.
the questions and assignments posed and given within the framework thereof.
69. Comments and complaints regarding open and/or closed questions for written examinations or parts thereof
shall be submitted to the course instructor within three (3) working days of the examination in order for
them to be reviewed. Comments and complaints submitted after this period has expired may be considered
at the discretion of the course instructor.
70. Students who wish to appeal the results of an assessment may make use of the Student Complaints
Procedure outlined in Section XIV.
71. The announcement of written (including computer-based) examination results will specify how the right of
inspection can be obtained.
72. The student is not allowed to make any copies of their assessed examination or remove the assessed
examination from the premises.
IX. REPETITION OF EXAMINATIONS AND COURSES
73. Students may not repeat any course for which they have already obtained credit (i.e. a mark of sixty (60)
percent or higher).
74. Each course provides one repeat exam opportunity per year at a date and time determined by the Board of
Admissions and Exams. The repeat examinations take place during the regular re-examination periods
indicated in the annual academic calendar.
75. Students have to manually register for repeat examinations if they did not pass the first examination.
76. There are two options for repeat examinations. By default, one repeat examination shall be offered for each
part of a course assessment, excluding participation requirements. Students are entitled to register for the
repeat examination of all components which they have failed. Alternatively, one combined repeat
examination for all components may be offered, provided that this is specifically noted in the course
syllabus. In this case, any student who has failed the course is allowed to participate.
77. In case of unforeseen circumstances the Board of Admissions and Exams may decide on extra repeat
examinations.
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78. Students that have completed the graduation requirements with the exception of one course are entitled to
request an early repeat examination if the next regularly scheduled examination for this subject will take
place over three months after the student has completed all other requirements. This extra-ordinary repeat
examination can only be requested once per student.
79. Students who undertake a repeat examination shall not be eligible for an award of distinction, regardless of
their final overall grade.
80. The grades for all courses, whether successfully completed or not, shall appear on the transcript and be
entered into the computation of the cumulative grade, except in the case of credit transfer.
81. The Board of Admissions and Exams shall review student progress each semester and may issue a warning
if grades fall below acceptable levels.
X. GRADING SCALES
82. Grades shall be a measure of the performance of a student in individual courses and educational activities.
Each student shall be evaluated on their ability to master key concepts and skills, as well as their ability to
demonstrate critical thinking in the application of scientific analysis.
83. Grade meanings for each course shall be:
Excellent,
Good,
Adequate,
Inadequate.
84. At UNU-MERIT, grades for all examinations shall be reported on the numerical scale of marks, i.e. zero (0)
to one hundred (100) percent.
85. The grade scales are shown in the following table, which must be included in the student transcript.
Explanations of approved grade scales outside this basic scheme will also be given upon request.
Grade
Meanings
Excellent
Good
Adequate
Inadequate
Truncated
Letter Grade
Scale
Numerical
Scale of
Marks
For reference
only
A+
90–100%
A
4.0
8.9–10.0
A
85–89%
A
3.9
8.3–8.8
A-
80–84%
B
3.7
7.7–8.2
B+
77-79%
B
3.3
7.4–7.6
B
73-76%
C
3.0
7.0–7.3
B-
70-72%
C
2.7
6.6–6.9
C+
67-69%
D
2.3
6.3–6.5
C
63-66%
D
2.0
5.8–6.2
C-
60-62%
E
1.7
5.5–5.7
F
0-59%
F
0.0
1.0–5.4
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ECTS Scale
Grade Point
Value
For reference
only
Dutch Grades
For reference
only
Designators and Other Non-grade Symbols Approved for Use in Reporting Course Results
86. The following designators and other non-grade symbols shall be approved for use in reporting course
results:
XMP: Exemption granted on the basis of credit work completed elsewhere.
XMP shall be assigned by the Board of Admissions and Exams upon approval of a student’s petition. It
carries credit for the course but will not be considered for averaging purposes.
87. The universities involved in the delivery of this double degree programme shall consult one another on the
appropriate use of the designators and other non-grade symbols in Rule 86, above.
Awarding Credits
88. Credits for a course or skills training shall only be awarded in full. Partial credits will not be awarded.
Graduating with Distinction
89. If a candidate for the Master of Science double degree in Public Policy and Human Development has given
evidence of exceptional competence within the programme of study, the Board of Admissions and Exams
may decide to recommend that the candidate receive the degree classification “Graduated with Distinction”
and have this degree classification stated on the degree certificate.
90. The candidate must be recommended by the Board of Admissions and Exams to the Rector for the award of
such distinction.
91. Awards of distinction require the collective consideration of the academic personnel affiliated with the
master’s programme. In making these decisions, consideration shall be given not only to the candidate’s
grades in the programme of study, but also to the level of rigour of those courses, and to other indicators of
the candidate’s mastery of the field, such as performance on a substantial piece of independent work or on a
written or oral general examination.
92. The Board of Admissions and Exams may decide to recommend that the candidate receive the degree
classification “Graduated with Distinction” if the student achieves an overall grade ranging from eighty-two
(82) to one hundred (100) percent and has no individual grades below seventy-three (73) percent. Awards
of distinction are also subject to the provisions of Rule 79 above.
93. Any credits obtained by granted exemptions shall not be taken into account when determining an award of
distinction.
XI. MASTER’S THESIS
94. The master’s thesis shall be an independently and individually written research paper on a particular subject.
95. The subject matter shall be rigorously analyzed from a theoretical or practical view-point or both and built
on scientific analysis, resulting in an original academic contribution.
96. The thesis shall be an integral and necessary component of the award of a United Nations University Master
of Science degree.
97. The thesis component shall count for sixteen (16) ECTS credits.
98. The master’s thesis must be written in accordance with the rules and procedures provided for that purpose
in the Master’s Thesis Regulations.
99. A student’s choice of thesis supervisor must be approved by the Chairperson of the Board of Admissions
and Exams and may be different from the academic adviser assigned to the student. Once approved, the
name of the thesis supervisor and student being supervised shall be reported to the Office of Academic
Affairs.
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100. The student and the thesis supervisor shall decide on the title and the intended contents of the thesis, as well
as a plan of action.
101. The responsibility for declaring a proposed thesis subject and title will lie with the student, after
consultation with the thesis supervisor. In certain cases, the student may be offered a list of research topics
to choose from.
102. Students must submit an electronic version as well as a hard copy of their master’s thesis to their thesis
supervisor in accordance with the procedures and formatting guidelines provided in the Master’s Thesis
Regulations.
103. Students must submit one electronic version as well as one hard copy of each master’s thesis the Board of
Admissions and Exams, and an electronic version to the Office of Academic Affairs prior to the oral
defence.
104. The main thesis assessment criteria shall be included in the Master’s Thesis Regulations.
105. The thesis shall be graded individually by the thesis supervisor and one secondary examiner. The secondary
examiner shall consist of a resident academic or an independent examiner from outside UNU-MERIT. The
secondary examiner will not be involved in the supervision of the master’s thesis. The secondary examiner
shall be proposed by the student and approved by the Board of Admissions and Exams.
106. The student shall be required to make an oral defence of his or her research before the thesis supervisor and
the secondary examiner. This defence shall be public.
107. Each examiner shall supply an individual evaluation sheet for each oral defence with the grade and a short
report to the student undergoing examination and will forward a copy of the evaluation to the Board of
Admissions and Exams and the Office of Academic Affairs.
108. The individual grades assigned by each examiner shall be averaged to produce an overall thesis grade.
109. If either examiner assigns a failing grade to the master’s thesis, the student shall be offered one opportunity
to re-submit his or her work for re-evaluation in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Master’s
Thesis Regulations. The student will not be offered a third opportunity to submit his or her work for
evaluation.
110. The last overall thesis grade obtained will be considered the final grade.
XII.
STUDENT CONDUCT
111. Students shall be individually responsible for their actions whether acting alone or in a group. Students will
be obliged to make responsible decisions concerning their conduct.
112. Students will be expected to know what constitutes academic integrity, to avoid committing offences, and
to take responsibility for their actions. The concept of integrity will include, but not be limited to, probity,
impartiality, fairness, honesty and truthfulness in all matters affecting their work and status.
113. Students will be encouraged to discuss the content of a course among themselves and to help each other to
master it, but no student will be permitted to receive help in doing a course assignment that is meant to test
what he or she can do without help from others. In instances of collaboration, students will be required to
indicate that the work is a product of a collaborative effort unless given explicit permission by the course
instructor.
Misconduct
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114. In these Rules, "misconduct" means conduct on the part of a student which impairs the reasonable freedom
of other persons to pursue their studies, research, duties or lawful activities, whether or not on the premises
of the University. Misconduct extends to conduct on the part of a student which is detrimental to the proper
order or good conduct of the University or is adverse to its academic standing or standing as an institution
established under the auspices of the United Nations.
115. Without limiting the generality of Rule 114, a student shall be guilty of misconduct if the student engages in
any of the following actions:
115.1.
115.2.
115.3.
115.4.
115.5.
115.6.
115.7.
115.8.
115.9.
115.10.
115.11.
115.12.
115.13.
115.14.
115.15.
115.16.
115.17.
115.18.
115.19.
115.20.
XIII.
Plagiarism;
Misrepresenting his or her work;
Co-operation or collaboration in contravention of the rules set by the course instructor;
Unauthorized aids or assistance as defined by the course instructor;
Unauthorized resubmission of work;
Impersonating another student or entering into an arrangement with another to be
impersonated;
Obtaining, distributing, or receiving any confidential academic material without the express
consent of the instructor;
Theft of intellectual property;
Forging a signature to certify completion of a course assignment or a recommendation;
Academic or admission fraud;
Altering, falsifying or withholding a relevant document or record kept by the University;
Making unwarranted and unsubstantiated allegations concerning the conduct or reputation of
members of the University personnel;
Misconduct in research including breach of ethics in conducting research, including the
falsification of data;
Hoarding or damaging library materials;
Disruptive, dangerous, aggressive or threatening behaviour, including by electronic means;
Misuse of University resources, equipment or supplies, including, but not limited to,
computers and network, keys, records, permits, letterhead;
Disruption or obstruction of any teaching activity, examination, official meeting or other
proceeding of or within the University;
Disruption or obstruction to any University personnel in the performance of their duties;
Unauthorized use of equipment, material or a facility or service;
Entering any part of the University premises to which the student knows, or ought reasonably
to know, that entry is prohibited;
GENERAL PROCEDURES REGARDING DISCIPLINARY ACTION
116. Students who violate Section XII will be subject to a range of disciplinary actions ranging from a warning
to expulsion from the University.
117. Fairness will be fundamental when dealing with students. Students shall be informed of policies, procedures
or guidelines that may affect their academic progress or their conduct, and may question whether decisions
are consistent with those policies, procedures or guidelines.
Procedural Fairness
118. The procedures for handling offences shall reflect the University’s commitment to fairness.
119. Every student shall be entitled to:
119.1.
A presumption of innocence unless the contrary is established beyond reasonable doubt;
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119.2.
119.3.
119.4.
119.5.
119.6.
119.7.
Be made aware of the case against him or her;
Have matters addressed fairly and expeditiously;
Be accompanied by a support person to any meeting with administrators and to any hearing;
Have matters heard by those who are not sitting in judgment of their own actions or decisions;
Know, respond to and seek clarification of evidence presented by witnesses; and
Decisions based on the balance of probabilities with consideration given to consistency and
University precedent.
120. University personnel may not investigate a matter in which they have a material interest or in which any
potential conflict of interest may arise.
Summary Powers Relating to Misconduct
121. Where it appears to an instructor or to a person (whether or not a member of the University personnel)
conducting an activity on behalf of the University that a student is guilty of misconduct, the instructor or the
person in question may exclude the student from that activity for the duration of the activity only if the
student’s participation is deemed an obstruction to the proper enjoyment of the activity by other students.
122. A student shall not be excluded under the provision of Rule 121 from any activity unless the person
responsible for supervising the activity concerned considers the student's exclusion to be necessary in the
interests of the other students or the University.
123. The exclusion of a student from an activity of the University must be accompanied by a charge of student
misconduct.
Charges of Misconduct
124. An instructor or a person (whether or not a member of the University personnel) conducting an activity on
behalf of the University may charge a student with misconduct either on their own initiative or on the
complaint in writing of a third person but shall, where possible, first give the student an opportunity of
making any representation.
125. A charge of misconduct shall be:
125.1.
In writing, specifying the time and place of the alleged misconduct, giving relevant
particulars;
125.2.
Signed by the instructor or person making the charge, and dated; and
125.3.
Lodged with the Office of the Rector and the Academic Programme Director at UNU-MERIT.
126. The fact that a charge has been preferred against a student shall not be entered on any formal record kept by
the University with respect to the student until the charge has been finally disposed of in accordance with
these Rules, and then only if it results in the imposition of a penalty on the student.
127. If the student is found guilty of misconduct, the charge and the nature of the offence shall be entered on the
student’s academic record.
128. Every decision after a hearing shall be recorded in writing and shall be transmitted to the Office of the
Rector.
Retention in Security of Documents
129. Where misconduct has been alleged, the Rector may order the retention in security of any documents
considered relevant to the allegation until the matter has been finally determined.
130. If the student in a case is found not guilty by the University, all records of the case, including the reports of
all hearings, shall be expunged from the files of the University within a period of six (6) months.
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Procedure for Hearing Charges
First Hearing
131. Charges of misconduct shall be heard in the first instance by the UNU-MERIT BAE, unless the penalties
available to the BAE are inadequate, in which case, he or she may refer the case directly to the Rector.
132. In exceptional cases and after having received the lodging of a charge of misconduct in the Office of the
Rector, the Rector may decide to refer the charge directly to an ad hoc Inquiry Committee for investigation.
133. At the first hearing the following shall be present:
133.1.
133.2.
133.3.
133.4.
133.5.
A representative of the BAE;
The person who has laid the charge;
The student;
Any relevant witnesses;
A third-party independent observer.
134. The independent observer shall be a faculty member appointed by the UNU-MERIT BAE. Both the person
laying the charge and the student may also bring to the hearing an adviser.
135. At the first hearing, the person who has laid the charge shall present evidence in support of the charge
against the student. The student shall be given the opportunity to respond and, if he or she wishes, to present
evidence refuting the charge.
136. The function of the independent observer shall be to observe the proceedings impartially, and in the event
of an appeal to the judgment of the BAE, be prepared to testify as to the procedures followed.
137. After hearing the student, the BAE may either dismiss the charge or, if there is clear and convincing
evidence that the student is guilty of misconduct, find the student guilty. If the student is found guilty, the
BAE may
137.1.
137.2.
Issue a reprimand to the student and/or,
Decide that the marks awarded, in whole or in part, for any examination, essay or other
assessment be set aside and a mark of zero (0) used in its place.
138. If the student fails to attend the first hearing without a compelling excuse, the hearing may proceed in his or
her absence.
139. If the issue is not resolved to the satisfaction of both parties, either party may submit a written request to the
UNU-MERIT Director, informing him or her of the need for a further hearing.
Second Hearing
140. If the decision of the BAE in the first hearing is appealed, the charge(s) of misconduct shall be heard by the
Director of UNU-MERIT.
141. At the second hearing the following shall be present:
141.1.
UNU-MERIT Director;
141.2.
The person who has laid the charge;
141.3.
The student;
141.4.
The independent observer present at the first hearing;
141.5.
A senior member of the academic personnel of UNU-MERIT;
141.6.
Any relevant witnesses.
142. Both the person laying the charge and the student may also bring to the hearing an adviser.
143. At the second hearing, the person who has laid the charge shall present evidence in support of the charge
against the student. The student shall be given the opportunity to respond and, if he or she wishes, to present
evidence refuting the charge.
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144. The independent observer from the first hearing shall serve as the independent observer at the second
hearing. The function of the independent observer shall be to observe the proceedings impartially, and in
the event of an appeal to the judgment of the Director, be prepared to testify as to the procedures followed.
145. After hearing the student and after consultation with the appointed senior member of the academic
personnel, the Director may either dismiss the charge or, if there is clear and convincing evidence that the
student is guilty of misconduct, find the student guilty. If the student is found guilty, the Director may
impose a penalty from the list specified in Rule 157.
146. If the student fails to attend the second hearing without a compelling excuse, the hearing may proceed in his
or her absence.
147. If the issue is not resolved to the satisfaction of both parties, either party may submit a request to the Rector
informing him of the need for further inquiry. Thereupon the Rector will set up an ad hoc Inquiry
Committee to investigate the matter further. This shall be the final appeal.
Ad hoc Inquiry Committee
148. An Inquiry Committee shall determine its own rules of procedure.
149. The Inquiry Committee set up by the Rector shall include a Vice-Rector as Chairperson, the Director of
UNU-MERIT, the Academic Programme Director, and two senior academics drawn from within the
University, neither of whom is a party to the matter before the Committee.
150. The Inquiry Committee shall also include at least one postgraduate student, who shall be nominated by the
Chairperson, from a UNU postgraduate programme other than the postgraduate programmes at UNUMERIT.
151. The Inquiry Committee shall also collect written and signed statements from any previous independent
observer, if the matter referred to the Inquiry Committee had been previously considered in hearings.
152. The Chairperson will identify an independent observer to oversee the proceedings of the Inquiry Committee.
The independent observer shall be a senior academic of the University.
153. The Inquiry Committee shall provide all reasonable opportunities to the student against whom the
complaint has been made to be heard and present his or her case to the Committee.
154. The Inquiry Committee shall, upon hearing the evidence of all parties to the complaint and having reviewed
all the supporting evidence, make a recommendation to the Rector on the action to be taken to resolve the
dispute.
155. Before reaching a decision, the Inquiry Committee may consult an expert in this regard.
156. A question arising for determination by an Inquiry Committee may be decided by a majority of its members.
157. The Inquiry Committee, if it finds the complaint proved, may recommend to the Rector:
157.1.
That the student be excluded from the University either permanently or for such periods as it
shall determine;
157.2.
That the student’s enrolment be terminated;
157.3.
That the marks awarded, in whole or in part, for any examination, essay or other assessment
be set aside and a mark of zero (0) used in its place;
157.4.
That restitution be made for any property removed or damaged by the student;
157.5.
That the admission of a student to a degree of the University be withheld pending the
settlement of any outstanding obligation to the University;
157.6.
That the student be expelled from residential accommodation provided by the University;
157.7.
That the student be reprimanded; or
157.8.
That any combination of the foregoing penalties be imposed.
158. Every decision of an Inquiry Committee shall be recorded in writing and shall be transmitted to the Rector.
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The Rector to take action
159. Where the action recommended by the Inquiry Committee is one of, or a combination of the actions
indicated in Rule 157, the Rector shall take such action as is necessary to implement the recommendation of
the Committee.
XIV.
STUDENT COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE
160. The University seeks to maintain the highest standards of integrity and fairness in its relationship with
students. It recognizes that students need a clear framework within which to tackle problems they may
encounter within the University. The student complaint procedure outlined here aims to ensure that students
have accessible, consistent, and efficient procedures for the resolution of student complaints.
161. These procedures reflect the University’s devolved structure and ensure that there is appropriate local and
central responsibility for resolving student complaints.
162. Students who lodge a complaint or appeal in accordance with these procedures shall not be victimized or
discriminated against.
163. The University shall monitor and review complaints made under these procedures in order to continually
improve its processes, while respecting the confidentiality of individuals.
Scope and Applicability
164. Students enrolled in this Programme may use these procedures for courses and activities of the UNU.
165. Complaints must be made within thirty (30) days from the event’s occurrence. Complaints made outside
this period will not normally be considered unless the student can demonstrate reasonable grounds why the
complaint was not made earlier.
166. All student complaints and grievances will be handled in a serious, sensitive, confidential and timely
manner and discussed only with those persons relevant to the case or who can provide specialist advice.
167. The complaints procedure may be used for both individual and collective concerns relating to:
167.1.
167.2.
167.3.
167.4.
167.5.
Academic facilities;
Academic services;
Student support services;
Administrative services;
An alleged action or inaction by the University or a member of its personnel, including
harassment;
167.6.
Teaching and supervision; or
167.7.
Assessment of academic work.
168. Harassment is any improper and unwelcome conduct that might reasonably be expected or be perceived to
cause offence or humiliation to another person. Harassment may take the form of words, gestures or actions
which tend to annoy, alarm, abuse, demean, intimidate, belittle, humiliate or embarrass another or which
create an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. Harassment normally implies a series of incidents.
Disagreement on academic performance is normally not considered harassment.
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169. Sexual harassment is understood as any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favour, verbal or
physical conduct or gesture of a sexual nature, or any other behaviour of a sexual nature that might
reasonably be expected or be perceived to cause offence or humiliation to another, when such conduct
interferes with work/studies, is made a condition of advancement or creates an intimidating, hostile or
offensive work/study environment. While typically involving a pattern of behaviour, it can take the form of
a single incident. Sexual harassment may occur between persons of the opposite or same sex. Both males
and females can be either the victims or the offenders.
170. In the event that a charge is brought against a member of the University personnel, it will be dealt with
separately, at the discretion of the University, through the relevant University procedures. However, every
effort will be made to resolve the student's specific complaint through the student complaints procedure.
171. Students seeking advice or further information on the complaints procedure may wish to consult:
171.1.
171.2.
171.3.
171.4.
their academic adviser and/or thesis supervisor;
the Academic Programme Director;
the Board of Admissions and Exams (BAE) or,
the Office of Academic Affairs (UNU Centre, Tokyo).
Handling of Complaints
172. The student complaints procedure is divided into two stages which must be followed sequentially: the
informal stage and the formal stage.
173. For matters of a very grave nature, the student may proceed directly to the formal complaint stage.
174. The informal stage of the procedure is designed to provide students with an opportunity to resolve concerns
informally within their academic programme.
175. In general, the person who or office which is the subject of a complaint has a right to know what is being
claimed and who is making a complaint. There may be exceptions to this Rule, for instance in the initial
stages of harassment claims.
176. In the context of another type of complaint, the student is concerned to protect his or her anonymity, the
student may contact the Office of Academic Affairs which may be able to make initial enquiries on the
student’s behalf.
177. Records of all complaints, applications for the review of decisions, and the outcomes of the complaint
process will be retained for a period of five (5) years. These records will be kept strictly confidential and
filed separately from the student or personnel file. Parties to the complaint will normally be allowed
supervised access to these records.
Informal Procedure
178. Students are encouraged to raise their complaints directly with the person or office concerned. This should
be done as soon as possible and normally within a few days of the problem arising.
179. If the initial discussion does not satisfactorily resolve the matter, the student should ask to discuss it
informally with the Academic Programme Director as soon as possible and normally within a few days of
the problem arising.
180. At any time the student may seek advice from one of the following:
180.1.
180.2.
180.3.
the Academic Programme Director;
their Academic Adviser; or
the Office of Academic Affairs (UNU Centre, Tokyo).
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181. If the student is not satisfied with the response to his or her complaint, the student may proceed to the
formal complaint stage. The formal complaint procedures should be initiated as soon as possible, normally
within ten (10) days following the outcome of the informal complaint stage.
182. Subject to Rule 173, students may initiate a formal complaint procedure only when the mechanisms
provided for in the informal procedure have been exhausted.
Formal Procedure
183. In order to lodge a formal complaint, the student must complete a Student Complaint Form and
electronically submit this to the Office of Academic Affairs.
184. The complaint form is designed to ensure that the University is provided with the information necessary to
consider all aspects of the complaint. The complaint must be specific and comprehensively documented.
The student should present full details, including their name and address, any relevant documentation, and
dates, locations and witnesses as appropriate. Details of any previous unsuccessful attempts at informal
resolution should also be included.
185. Students will be asked to indicate what type of remedy is being sought. Remedies might include changes in
practice, financial compensation, disciplinary action against a student or member of the University
personnel, or a combination of these.
186. Students may expect to receive an acknowledgement from the Office of Academic Affairs of their written
complaint within five (5) working days. The University aims to resolve most complaints within thirty (30)
working days. Students will be informed if there is likely to be any delay in the process.
187. The Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs will appoint an appropriate individual, normally a senior colleague,
who has had no involvement in the informal process, to investigate the complaint. The investigating officer
will be designated as soon as possible or within ten (10) working days of receiving the formal complaint.
The student shall be notified in writing of such designation.
188. University personnel may not investigate a matter in which they have a material interest or in which any
potential conflict of interest may arise.
189. If the Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs and the investigating officer are in agreement that the matter would
be more appropriately dealt with by the Rector, they will inform the student and the matter will be referred
to the Rector for review.
190. The investigating officer may seek further information from University personnel or students identified in
the complaint. Where the investigating officer requires further clarification, the officer may decide to meet
with the relevant parties to the complaint.
191. The investigating officer will provide a written report to the Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs, including
recommendations on measures to be taken to resolve the complaint.
192. The University shall inform the student in writing of the outcome of the complaint review process and shall
state the reasons upon which it is based.
193. The Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs shall implement the recommendations, in part or in whole, in a timely
manner.
194. Either party may appeal the decision of the Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs. In such cases, the matter will
be put before the Rector for review.
Appeal to the Rector
195. The Rector may constitute an Ad hoc Inquiry Committee in accordance with the procedures outlined in
these Rules to investigate the matter further or to provide expert advice.
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196. The Rector shall take such action as is necessary to implement the recommendation of the Committee.
Retention in Security of Documents
197. The Rector may order the retention in security of any documents considered relevant to the investigation
until the matter has been finally determined.
XV. CONDITIONS FOR THE AWARD OF A DEGREE
198. A student will be deemed to have satisfied the degree requirements of the UNU Master of Science double
degree in Public Policy and Human Development when the student has passed all required courses and
skills trainings that are part of the study programme, defined as follows:
198.1.
The student will have earned 28 credits of general coursework, as defined in the programme
materials given to students at the outset of the Programme;
198.2.
The student will have earned 16 credits of specialized coursework, as defined in the
programme materials given to students at the outset of the Programme and chosen by the
student;
The student has submitted and successfully passed the evaluation of his or her master’s thesis
and oral defence; and,
198.4.
The student will be in good standing with the University with respect to its rules and
regulations.
199. Students will normally complete the degree requirements in a twelve (12) month period, or two (2)
academic semesters, subject to a maximum period of twenty-four (24) months, or four (4) academic
semesters.
198.3.
200. The Board of Admissions and Exams shall decide upon the fulfilment of the requirements as set out in Rule
198, within eight (8) weeks after a request for such a decision is submitted by the student. The request may
be submitted by the student after the last examination has been taken and the evaluation of the master’s
thesis is complete.
XVI.
MASTER’S DEGREE AND STUDENT TRANSCRIPT
Master of Science Degree
201. A United Nations University Master of Science degree certificate shall be awarded to students who have
fulfilled all the requirements of the Master of Science double degree programme in Public Policy and
Human Development as set out in Rule 198.
202. The UNU Master of Science degree certificate will include:
202.1.
202.2.
202.3.
202.4.
202.5.
202.6.
202.7.
202.8.
The University name and University seal;
The full title of the master’s programme;
The title of the degree awarded;
The name of the student upon whom the degree is conferred, as well as the student’s date and
place of birth;
The date of graduation and conferral of the UNU degree;
Honours or distinctions awarded by the University;
The signature of the Rector of the University;
The signature of the Director of UNU-MERIT.
UNU Student Transcripts
203. The UNU student transcript will state:
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The student’s name and identification number(s);
The full title of the master’s programme;
The title of the degree being pursued or awarded;
A list of the student’s courses and corresponding grades;
A guidance table for converting University grades to other common grading systems;
A table of definitions for designators and other non-grade symbols approved for use in
reporting course results;
203.7.
Honours or distinctions awarded by the University;
203.8.
The signature of an official of UNU-MERIT or the Office of the Rector.
204. Requests for transcripts may be directed to UNU-MERIT.
203.1.
203.2.
203.3.
203.4.
203.5.
203.6.
XVII. FINAL PROVISIONS
Amendments
205. Amendments to these Rules shall be made pursuant to Section 23 of the UNU Postgraduate Programmes
and Awards Statute.
206. These Rules shall be valid for the duration of this Programme of Study. In the case of an amendment to
these Rules, students will continue to adhere to the Rules in place at the time of their enrolment. Students
who wish to adopt amended Rules must first submit a signed written request to the Academic Programme
Director.
Announcement
207. The Board of Admissions and Exams shall ensure proper announcement of these Rules, as provided by the
Rector and of all amendments to these Rules and any policies, guidelines and other such issuances pursuant
thereto.
208. Up-to-date digital versions of the Rules, policies, guidelines and other such issuances will be made
available on the University website.
Unforeseen Circumstances
209. With regard to these Rules, the Rector shall decide on any matter not provided for therein.
Hardship
210. The Board of Admissions and Exams may propose to the Rector the need for varying these Rules in a
particular instance if strict adherence to these Rules would result in undue hardship for a student.
Coming into Force
211. These Rules shall take effect on 1 September 2013.
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ANNEX A. LIST OF COURSES
Semester 1

Public Policy (mandatory, 4 ECTS)

Public Economics (mandatory, 4 ECTS)

Public Policy Analysis (mandatory, 8 ECTS)

Research Design (mandatory, 2 ECTS)

Statistics Levelling (mandatory, 1 ECTS)

Introduction to Data Science (mandatory, 3 ECTS)

Econometrics (mandatory, 6 ECTS)

Econometrics Plus (optional, 2 ECTS)
Semester 2
Specialization "Social Protection Policy "

The Global Social Challenge: Beyond Poverty and Inequality (elective, 4 ECTS)

Understanding Social Protection (elective, 4 ECTS)

Quantitative Techniques for Social Protection Policy Design (elective, 4 ECTS)

Financing Social Protection (elective, 4 ECTS)
Specialization "Migration studies"

Introduction to Migration Studies (elective, 4 ECTS)

Migration and Remittances Effects (elective, 4 ECTS)

Data Collection and Analysis for Migration Studies (elective, 4 ECTS)

Comparative Migration Policy (elective, 4 ECTS)
Specialization "Innovation, Institutions & Development"

Innovation and the Global Income Distribution (elective, 4 ECTS)

Innovation and Development Patterns around the Globe (elective, 4 ECTS)

Innovation Systems in the Global Economy (elective, 4 ECTS)

Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (elective, 4 ECTS)
Specialization "Regional Integration & Multi-Level Governance"

Introduction to Regions (elective, 4 ECTS)

Comparative Regionalism (elective, 4 ECTS)

Regionalism and Multi-Level Governance (elective, 4 ECTS)

Research Seminar: Topical Issues in Comparative Regionalism (elective, 4 ECTS)
Specialization "Risk and Vulnerability"

Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (elective, 4 ECTS)

Building Resilience and Adaptive Governance (elective, 4 ECTS)

Risk Management in Crisis Situations (elective, 4 ECTS)

Risk Communication (elective, 4 ECTS)
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Specialization "Trade and Development"

International Economics (elective, 4 ECTS)

The Law and Policy of the World Trade Organization (elective, 4 ECTS)

International Intellectual Property Law and Policy (elective, 4 ECTS)

International Development Law (elective, 4 ECTS)
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