MOSCOW. MAY 5, 2025. PIR PRESS. «International Security MA program is of exceptional importance. Despite the difficult conditions, Vladimir Orlov not only developed it, but also consistently implements it, relying on a team of like-minded people. I am convinced that the proposed issues are of serious scientific and practical interest – subject to in-depth study», – Dr. Anatoly Antonov, MGIMO University Professor, Russian Ambassador to the United States (2017-2024).
On April 8, 2025, MGIMO University hosted an Open Day of MGIMO and PIR Center MA Program International Security. The event brought together applicants interested in studying global security issues. Participants received detailed information about the program structure, the educational process, and prospects for further employment.
The event was opened by Dr. Vladimir Orlov, PIR Center Founding Director, MGIMO Professor and the Program’s Academic Director, who presented the program. He noted that the program combines fundamental theoretical training with applied aspects of professional activity in the field of global security. Vladimir Orlov also focused on the composition of the lecturers, who are experts in the field of international relations and global security. He noted that the educational process includes studying a wide range of issues – from traditional aspects of security to new challenges and threats.
Dr. Mikhail Lysenko, a lecturer of the MA Program, associate professor of the Department of International Law at MGIMO and PIR Center Advisory Board Member spoke about his course Legal Fundametals of International Security, which is one of the key disciplines of the master’s program. The main methodological approach of his course is the analysis of current issues of international security through the prism of international law.
Mr. Igor Vishnevetskiy, a lecturer of the MA program, PIR Center Advisory Board Member, Deputy Director of the Department for Non-Proliferation and Arms Control of the Russian Foreign Ministry (2021–2023) told about his course Chemical and Biological Weapons Factor in International Relations. He spoke about the practical application of knowledge in diplomatic work. Emphasizing the scale of the Program, the lecturer noted that his course covers a wide range of issues – from Russia’s foreign policy to the principles of operation of international organizations. In his opinion, the program is especially useful for applicants who have already identified their professional interests. Igor Vishnevetskiy added that studying international security issues provides students with important practical knowledge that can be applied in various fields – from public service to scientific activity.
Dr. Alexey Ubeev, a lecturer of the MA Program, PIR Center Advisory Board Member, spoke about his course Nuclear Power in International Security Context. He noted the interdisciplinary nature of the program, combining technical and humanitarian aspects, including issues of both physical nuclear security and international cooperation. A special emphasis was paid to the practice-oriented approach of the discipline.
Of particular interest was the speech by Dr. Anatoly Antonov, MGIMO University Professor, Russian Ambassador to the United States (2017–2024), who noted the importance of the program for those who will represent Russia’s interests in the international arena. He emphasized the significance of the master’s program, noting its relevance in today’s international conditions. He also mentioned the key role of the program’s Academic Director in its creation and development, as well as the contribution of the teaching staff to the implementation of educational tasks. Anatoly Antonov paid special attention to the issue of training qualified specialists in the field of international security and arms control.
Mr. Alexey Dundich, Head of Department of Master’s Degree Preparation at MGIMO, explained the procedure for submitting documents and the specifics of the admissions campaign. The presentation on admission to the Master’s program (in Russian) can be found here.
Students of the first cohort, Mr. Herman Selyavin; winner of the Vyacheslav Trubnikov Grant Competition, Mr. Kirill Prokhorov; and Ms. Daria Morozova, shared their impressions of the program, talking about the rich academic environment, research opportunities, and the practical orientation of the program and professional training, including participation in PIR Center projects.
Herman Selyavin: “International Security MA program is a unique opportunity that opens up many routes for professional development. From the first acquaintance with it, then still at the PIR Center’s International School, before enrolling, I realized that it was my choice. The wide range of opportunities, the support of its outstanding faculty and the chance to publish analytical papers as early as in the first year make the training inspiring and promising.”
Kirill Prokhorov: “International Security MA program is a unique opportunity for those who are passionate about international security. A wide range of courses, from nuclear to food security, a customized track with a choice of dissertation topic and practical experience from leading experts make the training incredibly valuable. The program provides not only knowledge, but also an understanding of how it works in practice, and opens doors for both internships and professional development.”
Daria Morozova: “International Security MA program has opened up unique opportunities for me: from the freedom to choose my dissertation topic to a deep dive into international security issues. Lectures by leading experts, practice-oriented seminars and cooperation with colleagues from all over the world made the study incredibly useful and inspiring. This is the best choice for those who want to be useful to succeed in their professional life and be proud of themselves.”
At the end of the event, a Q&A session was held, which allowed applicants to clarify the details of the program and prospects for professional growth.
More information about the MA program International Security (in Russian) is available here
The information booklet about the MA program International Security (in Russian) is available here.
The presentation on admission to the Master’s program (in Russian) can be found here.
Interview with Kirill Prokhorov, winner of Vyacheslav Trubnikov Grant Competition,(in Russian) is available here.
Key words: Education; MGIMO University; International Security
