Universiteti i Prishtinës

Balkan studies

The Balkanistics Programme at the Faculty of Philology, University of Prishtina is a four-year, 240-credit program. The program was created to improve interlingual and intercultural communication in Kosovo and the Western Balkans, to train students and professionals in translation in the official languages of Kosovo, as well as other Balkan languages, including Croatian, Bosnian, and Macedonian, simultaneously to prepare them for intercultural teaching in local languages in their future careers.

What the program offers prospective students:

• Highly competent teaching staff with many years of experience in these fields;

• Extracurricular support through the Language Center for improving language competences in local languages in Kosovo;

• Student mobility throughout Europe and the region (one semester abroad)

• High-quality and personalized printed and online literature, and teaching resources;

• Summer schools, international seminars and other academic arrangements with local, regional and international higher education institutions.

Who can enroll: Enrollment opportunities are offered to all interested high school graduates from Kosovo, the region and abroad.

Duration: 4 years

Semesters: 8

ECTS: 240

Importance of Studies in the Balkanistics Programme: Considering the multicultural nature of Kosovo and the role that languages have in facilitating mutual communication and social inclusion, the Balkanistics Programme offers study subjects related to the linguistic and cultural features of the Balkans, with a focus on different aspects of the regional areas. Through the study of languages and dialects, literature and folklore, cultural heritage and common history of the Western Balkans, students will be able to better understand each other’s culture, using in their careers the perspectives gained from academic studies. Therefore, this study program is an ideal opportunity for anyone who wants to learn in an innovative and comprehensive way the culture and languages of the Western Balkans.

Language of instruction: Courses will be held in Albanian and one of the Balkan languages, such as: Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian, Macedonian, (elective course: Bulgarian, Romanian, Greek) and as per necessity, English.

Skills and professions studied in the Balkanistics Programme

Through this program, students will:

•acquire advanced knowledge of one of the Balkan languages (Albanian, Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian, Macedonian, Bulgarian, Romanian, Greek, etc.) and apply the same, both in their work and for further academic studies;

•communicate fluently in their native language and acquire advanced knowledge (at least level C1) in a non-native language (one of the languages in the Balkan region) and be able to translate and interpret materials in two languages;

•acquire an intermediate level of communication (at least level B2) in a foreign language (English, German, fringe, Italian or Spanish).

After completing the program, students will have employment opportunities in the following fields:

• Translation and interpretation of two or more languages in the public and private sectors;

• Teacher of official languages in Kosovo;

• Advisor and researcher on intercultural relations between people of the Balkan region for governmental and non-governmental organizations;

• Diplomacy, embassies.

• Regional communication expert for the public and private sectors

• Media

Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Balkan Studies

Study programme

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Course Syllabi of the Balkanistics Programme

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Opportunities for student and student exchange programs: In our program, we deeply value the importance of international cooperation and encourage students to broaden their horizons through exchange programs. By participating in exchange programs, students gain invaluable cross-cultural experiences, enhance their academic and professional skills, and build lasting global networks.

We are proud to provide a variety of opportunities for students to engage with partner universities worldwide, allowing them to experience different educational systems and cultures while earning academic credit. These exchanges promote mutual understanding, foster collaboration, and enrich our community.

To learn more about how you can be part of these exciting opportunities, visit our International Exchange Programs page OPEN CALLS – Universiteti I Prishtinës and Erasmus+ - Universiteti I Prishtinës. There, you will find detailed instructions on how to apply and information about the partner universities and countries involved.

Balkan Studies students are beneficiaries of merit-based scholarships offered by the government and international organizations.

Internship opportunities: In the Balkanistics Programme, we offer our students a wide range of practical work opportunities across various sectors, including companies, academic institutions, cultural institutions, government offices, ministries, schools, media, and diplomatic offices. These opportunities allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, develop essential professional skills, and make valuable contributions to the sectors they are passionate about. Whether you are interested in education, translation, culture, or diplomacy, we provide the support and connections necessary to help you secure these transformative experiences. Our programmme plays a crucial role in facilitating these placements, ensuring that students are placed in environments where they can learn, grow, and make meaningful impacts.

Extracurricular training: Balkanistics program goes beyond traditional classroom learning, offering students a variety of extracurricular training opportunities to deepen their expertise in the languages and cultures of the Balkans. One of the key highlights is students” participation in the Winter University, a unique program focused on intensive Balkan language learning, such as Bulgarian and Greek. This immersive experience allows students to gain proficiency in languages spoken across the Balkans, enhancing their academic and professional skill sets while fostering a deeper understanding of the region. Additionally, within the Language Center the programme offers specialized language courses in Albanian and Serbian, designed to help students improve their proficiency in these vital Balkan languages. Whether students are aiming to strengthen their language skills for research, career prospects, or personal growth, these courses provide an excellent opportunity to refine their abilities and gain confidence in communication.

By participating in these extracurricular language courses and training programs, students can elevate their understanding of the Balkans and significantly enrich their academic journey. These experiences are invaluable for anyone looking to pursue careers in international relations, cultural exchange, and regional studies.

Extracurricular Activities: In the Balkanistics Programme we believe in fostering a well-rounded educational experience, which is why we offer a diverse range of extracurricular activities that complement academic learning and promote personal growth. Students have the opportunity to engage in various workshops, lectures, and events, including those hosted by visiting professors who bring global expertise and unique perspectives to our campus. In addition to these enriching academic experiences, our students actively participate in study visits to countries across the Balkans, expanding their understanding of the region and its diverse cultures. These study visits provide an immersive learning experience, allowing students to interact with local communities, organizations, and institutions while broadening their academic and professional networks. Furthermore, the program hosts an annual Networking Event that brings together students from the Balkan region and Europe, offering a valuable platform for collaboration, idea exchange, and career-building connections. This event creates a unique opportunity for students to connect with peers, alumni, and industry leaders from different backgrounds and cultures.

By engaging in these extracurricular activities, students not only enrich their academic journey but also develop essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication, all of which are key to success in the global job market. We encourage all students to participate and make the most of these opportunities to grow both academically and personally. Our program is proud to organize the annual Balkanistics Conference, a premier academic event dedicated to the study of the Balkans. This conference brings together scholars, researchers, and students from around the world to engage in meaningful discussions and share the latest findings in Balkan studies. The Balkanistics Conference serves as a vital platform for deepening academic understanding of the region's history, culture, politics, and society. It provides students with the opportunity to engage with experts in the field and network with professionals who share a passion for the Balkans. This event fosters collaboration and creates lasting connections, while also contributing to the academic discourse surrounding the region.

Head of the Balkanistics Programme

Assoc. prof. dr. Seniha Krasniqi

Universiteti i Prishtinës

[email protected]

Office nr. 45-Faculty of Philology

Academic staff of the Balkanistic Programme

Asst. Prof. Dr. Agron Gashi

[email protected]

Asst. Prof. Dr. Agnesa Hasimja-Pasha

Universiteti i Prishtinës

[email protected]

Dr. Ana Sivački