Welcome from the Head of the Department of Public Policy

Welcome to CEU’s Department of Public Policy! 

At the Department of Public Policy we embody the quintessence of CEU’s mission, committed to advanced research and teaching, with socially and morally responsible intellectual inquiry, and an emphasis on the promotion of real-world applications of established and new interdisciplinary knowledge. 

Our priority is to inspire and enrich students’ experiences in our four accredited Master’s programs - MA in Public AdministrationMA in Public PolicyErasmus Mundus Masters Program in Public Policy, and MA in International Public Affairs - as well as the Public Policy track of CEU’s Doctoral School of Political Science, Public Policy and International Relations through continued innovation in teaching and engagement with concrete policy challenges.  

We combine conceptual and practical courses along with applied policy projects to provide our students with a unique experience, enabling them to acquire core competences as well as skills for impact. Integrating practical policy experience with firm theoretical and conceptual foundations in our programs is a way to inspire and empower students to master and create authoritative knowledge as we foster evidence- and rights-based policy making to address the challenges societies face around the globe 

The Department draws on the profound expertise of its diverse, internationally renowned faculty of outstanding teachers and researchers with a track record of impactful academic and policy achievements. We are proud that according to Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) subject ranking several CEU programs rank in top 100 in the world and in Politics and “Social Policy and Administration”, to which the School of Public Policy contributes, CEU ranks 24th and top 100th in the world, respectively. 

We are proud of our amazing, diverse body of students, who unwaveringly contribute to learning at the Department by exchanging experiences and ideas, and investing endless energy, before they go on to change the world as our alumni. 

We value plurality and diversity, and are committed to further strengthening an inclusive community for students, faculty, and staff. 

We embrace the values of open society and self-reflective critical thinking. We never stop asking questions. We stand firm defending academic freedom and integrity. 

This is purpose beyond power. 

Welcome to this world of inspiration and empowerment! 

Martin Kahanec 
Head of Department