Central European University - CEU (reviews)

As and when I joined CEU, I got exposed to different people from different cultures, that helped me to see the broader perspective of things. Loved the teaching method of the uni – I would recommend 100%

Having completed my undergraduate studies in the UK, I entered this MA programme with high expectations — particularly in terms of academic structure, intellectual engagement, and critical discourse. Unfortunately, I found the experience to be more reminiscent of a rigid secondary school model than a postgraduate academic environment.

The overall intellectual quality of the programme was disappointing. Classes lacked critical engagement and interactive formats. I was enrolled in as many as eight courses per term, often delivered in a uniform style regardless of whether the session was a seminar, lecture or workshop. Readings were poorly contextualised, and the lack of structured resources (such as key and supplementary readings) was a stark contrast to the support typically provided at UK institutions.

One particularly disheartening example was a course on cosmopolitanism and global justice. While addressing inequality and injustice, it failed to include any discussion of colonial legacies, systemic racism, or non-Western perspectives — an omission the lecturer justified by citing time constraints. This exclusion fundamentally undermined the course’s legitimacy. The delivery was also overly prescriptive, with students expected to mirror the lecturer’s opinions rather than critically engage with material.

The department’s broader curriculum reflects a similar lack of diversity and critical depth. A clear decolonial perspective was missing, and most courses presented a narrow, Eurocentric viewpoint. The structure of the classes — 90-minute blocks with little variation — made engagement difficult.

There were some notable exceptions. I had the opportunity to take electives from the legal and public policy departments, which were far more rigorous and rewarding. That said, cross-departmental enrolment was administratively complex.

The statistics module was particularly mismanaged. Crammed into four weeks (due to the instructor’s lack of availability) with 4-hour-long lectures once a week and no realistic preparation time, it covered an overwhelming amount of content. With help from the student representative, we were able to postpone the exam by two weeks — an essential adjustment that enabled most of us to pass.

Administratively, the university often felt disorganised. Although I passed the exemption test for the academic writing course, the credit was never formally recorded. After deferring my thesis submission due to mental health reasons, I was informed — weeks after successful submission and defence — that I was missing two credits and could not graduate. The coordination team was empathetic and helpful in resolving this, but the miscommunication caused unnecessary stress and delay.

Despite these challenges, there were positives. I met wonderful peers, my thesis supervisor was supportive, and the university regularly hosted social receptions. I also had the freedom to pursue an independent thesis topic, which, though academically isolating, was ultimately rewarding.

In summary, while there were individual highlights and supportive staff members, I cannot recommend this MA programme due to its structural flaws, lack of academic rigour, and limited critical engagement with global perspectives.

The university offers strong academic support, dedicated mentorship, and previously provided generous stipends for low-income students, fostering access and inclusion.

Since its move to Vienna, financial support has decreased, and it has shifted toward a standard private model, making it less accessible for students from low-income countries.
Would I recommend it?
Yes, but I would advise prospective students—especially those from non-EU countries and low-income backgrounds—to be prepared for the administrative hurdles of the Austrian education system, including stricter financial requirements and a complex visa process.

As a recent graduate stepping directly from my Bachelor’s degree into the Master’s program at the Central European University (CEU), I was eager but uncertain about the specific direction I wanted to pursue within the vast field of human rights. The Human Rights Program not only provided the academic rigor I sought but also became instrumental in helping me define my career path. The program offered exception faculty. The professors were leading experts in their fields, bringing both theoretical insights and practical experience to the classroom. Their mentorship and guidance helped me refine my interests and set clear goals for my future. Coming from a general undergraduate background, I was impressed by the broad array of classes offered. From exploring the philosophical foundations of human rights to learning practical advocacy skills, each course expanded my horizons. This variety allowed me to identify my passion for international human rights law. CEU’s diverse student body created a vibrant and supportive environment. Collaborating with peers from different cultural and academic backgrounds enriched my learning experience and provided a global perspective on human rights challenges. The university offered excellent resources, from its extensive library to career support services. These resources were invaluable as I transitioned from an academic to a professional setting. CEU boasts a dynamic and engaged alumni network, which has been an invaluable resource even years after graduation. The connections I made during the program and through alumni events have opened doors to professional opportunities, as well as provided a sense of belonging within a global community committed to public good. Nearly two decades later after this transformative experience, the skills, knowledge, and connections I gained continue to shape my career and commitment to making a difference.